Grand Train Tour of Switzerland 13 Days

Are you coming to Switzerland one day earlier?

Upon landing in Zurich, you’ll check in and rest at your comfortable airport hotel — the ideal way to recover from your international flight before your adventure begins.

For the next day (DAY 1), we’ve designed a wonderful Pre-Tour Option: a full-day excursion to Stein am Rhein & the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen.

We recommend adding this at the moment of your 13-Day Grand Train Tour booking so everything is seamlessly arranged in advance.

Accommodation: Zurich Airport Hotel Hyatt Regency or Place (or comparable lodging).

Welcome to Switzerland!

After your journey, a warm welcome awaits you in Zurich. You’re probably ready to rest, and we’ve made sure your first night will be as comfortable as possible.

For your first night, the hotel is conveniently located directly at the Zurich Airport, ensuring a quick and hassle-free check in. All necessary details and instructions will be sent to you, ensuring you can settle in effortlessly.

In Zurich Airport area, you’ll find everything you need — ATMs, restaurants, and various services — all within easy reach. Once you arrive at the hotel, take your time to check in and unwind. This is your moment to relax and acclimate, preparing yourself for the exciting Swiss adventure that lies ahead!

Accommodation: Zurich Airport Hotel Hyatt Regency or Place (or comparable lodging).

Today, your adventure begins with a warm welcome from your Guide at 9:30 am at the Zurich Airport Hotel. There will be an itinerary briefing and a Q&A session, providing a perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and clarify any questions you might have about the journey ahead.

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After the briefing, we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to Mount Rigi. Our adventure starts with a ride on a historic 140-year-old cogwheel train, taking us up to Rigi Kulm. At the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views of the majestic Alps, glistening glaciers, lush green meadows adorned with grazing cows, and the serene expanse of Lake Lucerne.

Following our exhilarating time at the peak, we will embark on yet another scenic cogwheel train ride down to the charming town of Vitznau. From there, we’ll board a boat and set sail on a serene cruise across the picturesque waters, making our way back to the enchanting city of Lucerne.

In the late afternoon we’ll take a leisurely stroll around the old town learning more about the history of Lucerne and its most important sights. We will stop at the historic Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, St. Leodegar’s Church, and other sites of interest.

Today evening, we’ll dine at one of Lucerne’s fine restaurants in the city center.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 4 hours.

Journey Mode: Train, Rigi Cogwheel Train & Cruise.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Waldstätterhof (or comparable lodging).

Today we are going to visit another famous mountain, Pilatus, where we will board the world’s steepest cogwheel train (48% gradient). On the summit we will have about 1 hour to enjoy all the activities: admire a stunning panorama on the Alps, the Lake Lucerne, do a short hike, watch a documentary movie about Mt. Pilatus or simply enjoy a cup of coffee.

To descend from the summit, we will take a breathtaking gondola ride down to Kriens. From there, we will hop on a train and then a bus, journeying through beautiful landscapes on our way to the picturesque town of Seelisberg.

At our next stop, we will visit “Aschwanden,” a charming artisanal mountain dairy that has been run by the Aschwanden family for four generations. Here, you’ll get a first-hand look at how the farm collaborates with local farmers and learn all about the intricate process of cheesemaking. To top off the experience, you’ll have the chance to sample their original “Bergkäse”, a delicious mountain cheese.

Depending on the schedule, we may have the chance to visit “Rütli,” the legendary birthplace of Switzerland in 1291. Here, you’ll be able to soak in the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps, beautifully reflected across the waters of Lake Lucerne. Following this visit, we’ll board a steamer for a charming 2-hour cruise back to the enchanting city of Lucerne.

Today evening we’ll have dinner in the city center.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 5 hours.

Journey Mode: Train, Pilatus Cogwheel Train, Gondola, Bus & Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Waldstätterhof (or comparable lodging).

Today, we’re taking the Luzern–Interlaken Express to the stunning town of Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the towering Swiss Alps. Here, you’ll dive into an immersive chocolate workshop with a professional chocolatier. You will discover the Swiss influence on the chocolate industry, learn the art of chocolate making, and how to judge its quality. By the end, you’ll create your own unique chocolate bar to bring home—if it makes it that far without being devoured!

After the workshop, we’ll enjoy a relaxing hour-and-a-half lunch break in Interlaken. Your Guide will suggest the best spots to eat, highlight the main streets for a pleasant stroll, and point out the best places where to go shopping for souvenirs.

We will then board a train to Lauterbrunnen. Here we will transfer to a postal bus en route to the mesmerising Trümmelbach Falls. This natural wonder consists of ten glacier-fed waterfalls concealed within the mountain, accessible via a tunnel-funicular complex built in 1913. These falls cascade with the force of up to 20,000 liters (5283 gallons) of glacier meltwater per second, crashing over 20,000 tons (over 40 mln pounds) of boulders, creating a continuous spectacle that resonates with the sheer magnificence of nature.

From there, we will continue our journey with one final connection on board the Bernese Oberland-Bahn, to the enchanting village of Grindelwald in the Jungfrau region, where we will arrive in the late afternoon.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 4 hours.

Journey Mode: Luzern–Interlaken Express, Bernese Oberland-Bahn & Post Bus.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Derby (or comparable lodging).

Today’s adventure kicks off with a breathtaking ascent from Grindelwald Terminal to Eiger Glacier aboard the ultra-modern panoramic Eiger Express gondola. Marvel at the stunning views as the glacier blankets the iconic “Eiger” mountain.

Next, we’ll hop on the legendary Jungfraubahn, an electric cogwheel railway that has been delighting travelers since 1912. This historic train will take us from Eiger Glacier to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.

Perched between the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, Jungfraujoch offers unbeatable views of Europe’s largest glacier, the magnificent Aletsch Glacier. Here, a world of activities awaits: explore the enchanting ice palace, ascend the Sphinx tower for panoramic vistas, and delve into the fascinating history of the Jungfrau Railway.

In the early afternoon, we’ll descend back to Kleine Scheidegg and make our way to Grindelwald. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque alpine village. Whether you choose to explore the quaint streets, enjoy a cozy café, or simply take in the stunning mountain views, Grindelwald offers the perfect setting for a peaceful and relaxing afternoon.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 3 hours.

Journey Mode: Eiger Express Gondola & Jungfrau Cogwheel.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Derby (or comparable lodging).

Today, we bid farewell to the stunning village of Grindelwald. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Switzerland as we ride one of the world’s most picturesque railways, the GoldenPass Line. Our adventure begins in Interlaken, where we’ll transfer to the enchanting GoldenPass Line, linking us to Montreux, the jewel of the Swiss Riviera.

The GoldenPass Line is celebrated for its breathtaking vistas, winding its way through quaint villages, verdant meadows, and awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. This scenic route crosses three majestic mountain passes, offering passengers unrivaled panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, tranquil lakes, and idyllic vineyards.

Before continuing to Zermatt, we’ll enjoy a delightful 1-hour stop in Montreux, the Swiss Riviera’s sparkling gem. Take a stroll along the palm-lined promenade, admire the breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, and don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the statue of Freddie Mercury, who once called this lakeside town home.

As you soak in the Alpine-meets-Riviera vibe, treat yourself to a refreshing artisanal gelato, the perfect sweet pause before heading onward to the majestic Matterhorn.

From Montreux, we’ll make our way to Zermatt, completing the final leg of the journey aboard the iconic Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 6 hours.

Journey Mode: GoldenPass Line & Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: La Ginabelle (or comparable lodging).

Experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the Alps in an excursion that combines a cogwheel train ride with an optional easy to moderate day hike.

Gornergrat Cogwheel Railway is a 125-years-old narrow gauge line that’s Europe’s second-highest railway and the highest open-air railway on the continent. It climbs up to 10,134 feet (3089 meters) and offers incredible views of the Matterhorn along the way.

At the top of Gornergrat we will have a selection of activities to do. Our group will walk up to the 360-degree platform area, providing a panoramic view of 29 alpine peaks higher than 13,123 feet (4000 meters), including the world-famous Matterhorn. Those who wish to do so, can embark on an immersive experience at Zooom the Matterhorn. Here, thanks to VR, you can experience what it’s like to glide above the Matterhorn.

For those ready for adventure, embark on a captivating 1.5-hour hike from Rotenboden to Riffelberg. This trail, weaving through an alpine nature reserve, is marked by signposts and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn reflected in crystal-clear alpine lakes—a scene that will leave you in awe.

After this invigorating hike, the plan becomes wonderfully flexible, adapting to the day’s weather. Our knowledgeable guides will recommend the best spots for a memorable lunch, whether high in the mountains or in the charming village of Zermatt.

Post-lunch, the choice is yours: delve into the enchanting streets of Zermatt, indulge in some shopping, or simply unwind and soak in the serene mountain atmosphere. Our guides will be happy to take you on a 1-hour-long guided tour of Zermatt: learn more about how people lived here more than 200 years ago and visit Zermatt’s “Old Village”.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 1 hour.

Journey Mode: Gornergrat Cogwheel.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: La Ginabelle (or comparable lodging).

Today, we say adieu to Zermatt and set off for a thrilling journey on the Glacier Express to reach our final destination of the day: Andermatt.

During this unforgettable ride, we pass through some of the most breathtaking sights of the Swiss Alps: the dramatic Kipfen Gorge, the charming village of Neubrück, and the historic terraced vineyards of Visperterminen. We glide past Brig, a picturesque town in the Rhône Valley, then wind our way through the serene landscapes of the Goms Valley. Experience the engineering marvel of the Furka Base Tunnel, a modern passage cutting through the heart of the mountains, before descending into the quaint alpine village of Zumdorf.

By the time we arrive in Andermatt, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled through the very soul of the Alps.

In the afternoon, we get on board another famous and historic train: the Furka Steam Train. This train, a marvel of Swiss engineering, originally opened in 1926, was once a crucial link between the cantons of Valais and Uri. After being closed in 1981 due to the new Furka Base Tunnel, it was lovingly restored by railway enthusiasts and reopened in the 1990s as a heritage railway.

It will be a 2-hour trip on the original cogwheel Furka railway. This exciting tour from Oberwald, traverses the second-highest rail crossing in Europe, after the Bernina Pass. As we journey through breathtaking landscapes, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the Rhone and Mutt glaciers.

We’ll arrive back in Andermatt in the late afternoon, just in time to savor a delightful dinner at a charming local restaurant.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 5.5 hours.

Journey Mode: Glacier Express & Furka Steam Train.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Sonne (or comparable lodging).

In the morning, we’ll hop aboard a vibrant yellow Postal Bus for a scenic ride up to the Gotthard Pass summit. After a quick 20-minute journey, we’ll take a brief walk to an intriguing destination—a recently declassified WWII military bunker that once protected Switzerland’s southern flank from invaders. Here, a Swiss military historian will lead us on an exciting 1-hour guided tour, unraveling the bunker’s secrets and its vital role during the war.

By afternoon, we’ll return to the charming village of Andermatt, where a variety of activities await you. Whether you choose to unwind at the hotel, stroll through the quaint streets, explore the luxurious Chedi hotel, or embark on an adventure to the famous Devil’s Bridge, there’s something for everyone.

The Devil’s Bridge, originally crafted from wood in the 13th century and later replaced by a stone structure in 1585, spans the dramatic Schöllenen Gorge. This iconic bridge, vital for traversing the Gotthard Pass, has been rebuilt and extended several times, with the current iteration dating back to 1956. Whether you walk or take the train, visiting this historic bridge is a must-see experience that seamlessly blends history with breathtaking natural beauty.

By evening, we regroup for a delicious Swiss dinner in the town.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 1 hour.

Journey Mode: Postal Bus.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Sonne (or comparable lodging).

Today we continue our Swiss adventure as we travel from Andermatt to St. Moritz on Switzerland’s efficient and scenic regular trains.

From Andermatt, we wind through the dramatic Oberalp Pass, at (2033 meters/6000 feet) where alpine meadows and sparkling lakes stretch beneath towering peaks. As we descend into the Reuss and Rhine Valleys, we marvel at the engineering wonders of the rail, including bridges, tunnels, and hairpin turns that showcase Swiss precision. The train passes through charming villages such as Disentis/Mustér, where historic monasteries and quaint streets offer a glimpse into traditional alpine life.

Next, we enter the Rhaetian Railway line, one of the world’s most scenic railways. Here, the train snakes through the Rhine Gorge, famously known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” with sheer cliffs and rushing waters below. On the approach to the Engadin Valley, you’ll see lush alpine landscapes dotted with traditional villages before the train finally arrives in St. Moritz, Switzerland’s legendary mountain resort.

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you’ll have some free time to explore this legendary Swiss resort at your own pace. Stroll along the elegant streets, browse luxury boutiques, or simply enjoy a coffee while watching the glistening lake and surrounding mountains.

Later in the afternoon, we regroup for an unforgettable experience: a ride on the famous funicular up to Muottas Muragl, perched high above the Engadin Valley.

Here, we’ll enjoy a beautiful dinner with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, watching the golden light illuminate the peaks as evening descends—a truly magical way to end the day.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 5.5 hours.

Journey Mode: Trains, Muottas Muragl Funicular (Subject to a seasonal closure).

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Hauser (or comparable lodging).

Today our group will board the famous Bernina Express to travel across the highest railway in the Alps, a route that offers spectacular views of mountain peaks, glaciers and waterfalls. These are the Alps at their most impressive. 

We will board the train early in the morning and enjoy a spectacular 2-hour ride through the Pontresina valley up to Ospizio Bernina located at a staggering 2,253 metres (7392 ft) above sea level. En route, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking sight of the majestic Morteratsch Glacier. As we gradually descend towards Poschiavo, the landscape unfolds before us, culminating in a memorable border crossing into Italy. Our journey concludes in the charming Italian town of Tirano, where you’ll cross into Italy and experience a delightful change of atmosphere.

Here we will enjoy an authentic north-Italian lunch and stroll around the picturesque old town, making sure to pass by the local must-sees such as Santuario Madonna di Tirano and Palazzo Salis.

Returning in the afternoon by train, our journey leads us back to St. Moritz after a scenic 2-hour ride. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you have time to rest and savor all the beautiful memories you’ve collected during these past days.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 6 hours.

Journey Mode: Bernina Express Train & Regular Train.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

Accommodation: Hotel Hauser (or comparable lodging).

Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey from the glamorous St. Moritz to the vibrant city of Zurich. Our morning starts with a scenic trip through the picturesque landscapes of Eastern Switzerland, making our way to St. Gallen. Here, a visit to the Abbey Library awaits—a treasure trove dating back to the 9th century, housing invaluable manuscripts from the Carolingian and Ottonian periods.

Once in Zurich, we’ll have dinner at a local restaurant in the heart of town. There is also time for your Guide to provide a walk-through of the old parts of the city. As evening approaches, we make our way to Zurich main station for a journey to our comfortable airport hotel. Once checked in, you can unwind, knowing all arrangements are taken care of. It’s a time to recollect our adventures together and prepare for your onward journey, bidding farewell to your guide.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 5 hours.

Journey Mode: Train.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Zurich Airport Hotel Hyatt Regency or Place (or comparable lodging).

Today is departure day. 

We wish you a safe onward journey to your next destination.

Meals included: Breakfast.