13-Day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - The Premium Edition

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).

Your Swiss adventure begins at 9:00 am at the Zurich Airport Hotel, where your guide will warmly welcome you. After a friendly introduction, enjoy a brief itinerary overview and Q&A session—the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and become familiar with the journey ahead.

We then set off for the magnificent Mount Rigi. Board a historic cogwheel train, more than 140 years old, for the scenic ascent to Rigi Kulm. At the summit, take in 360-degree panoramic views stretching across the Swiss Alps, with towering peaks, glistening glaciers, lush alpine meadows, grazing cows, and the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne unfolding below.

Descend by cogwheel train to the charming lakeside village of Vitznau, where a scenic boat cruise awaits. Glide gently across the waters of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by an extraordinary panorama of mountains and shoreline landscapes, as you make your way toward Lucerne.

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Lucerne’s historic Old Town. Discover some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, including the iconic Chapel Bridge, the poignant Lion Monument, St. Leodegar’s Church, and other historic sights that bring Lucerne’s rich heritage to life.

In the evening, gather for a delicious dinner at one of Lucerne’s exceptional city-center restaurants, bringing a memorable first day in Switzerland to a delightful close.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 4 hours.

Journey Mode: Train, Rigi Cogwheel Train & Lake Lucerne Cruise.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel National Lucerne (or comparable lodging).

Today, we set our sights on the legendary Mount Pilatus. Experience the thrill of boarding the world’s steepest cogwheel train, ascending an incredible 48% gradient as it climbs toward the summit. Once at the top, enjoy approximately an hour to take in the dramatic Alpine panoramas and sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne stretching out below.

Back in Lucerne, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, discover the Rosengart Collection featuring works by Picasso and other modern artists, pause for coffee at one of the city’s historic cafés, or simply wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town.

In the evening, come together for a delightful dinner in the heart of Lucerne, the perfect way to reflect on a day filled with Alpine beauty, local culture, and leisurely exploration.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 2 hours.

Journey Mode: Train, Pilatus Cogwheel Train.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel National Lucerne (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.

We continue the journey deeper into the heart of the Bernese Oberland, with a scenic ride aboard the iconic Bernese Oberland-Bahn. Our destination is the enchanting Schynige Platte, a mountaintop paradise known for its sweeping vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Take a moment to pause and drink in the panorama, breathing in the crisp alpine air while capturing unforgettable photos.

After enjoying the serene beauty of Schynige Platte, we continue our journey by train to the charming village of Grindelwald, nestled in the shadow of the Jungfrau. Here, you can explore the idyllic alpine village at a gentle pace, wandering along its quaint streets, browsing local shops, or simply relaxing before a delicious, authentic Swiss dinner.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 6 hours.

Journey Mode: Luzern-Interlaken Express, Bernese Oberland-Bahn & Trains.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Kirchbühl Grindelwald (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 Kirchbühl Grindelwald (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 board the GoldenPass Line and settle into the comfort of Prestige Class. With its spacious seating, enhanced comfort, and exceptional panoramic views, Prestige Class offers an elevated way to experience one of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys.

This scenic route crosses three majestic mountain passes, offering passengers unrivaled panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, tranquil lakes, and idyllic vineyards.

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: Bernese Oberland-Bahn, GoldenPass Line & Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner.

Accommodation: La Ginabelle (or comparable lodging).

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Matterhorn and the surrounding Alps on a leisurely excursion aboard the historic Gornergrat Cogwheel Railway. This 125-year-old narrow-gauge line is Europe’s second-highest railway and the highest open-air railway on the continent, climbing to 10,134 feet (3,089 meters) while offering unforgettable views of the Matterhorn along the way.

At the summit of Gornergrat, enjoy ample time to take in the sweeping panorama of 29 alpine peaks towering over 13,123 feet (4,000 meters). For a truly unique perspective, immerse yourself in Zooom the Matterhorn, a virtual reality experience that lets you glide above the iconic peak without leaving the ground.

After soaking in the alpine vistas, your guide will suggest the best spots for a memorable lunch in Zermatt or high above the village, depending on your preference and the weather.

In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore the charming streets of Zermatt at your own pace. Browse local shops, relax in a café, or join a one-hour guided tour of the village, including Zermatt’s historic “Old Village,” and discover how locals lived over 200 years ago.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 1 hour.

Journey Mode: Gornergrat Cogwheel.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: La Ginabelle (or comparable lodging).

Today, we bid farewell to Zermatt and embark on one of Switzerland’s most iconic rail journeys: the Glacier Express. Settle into the comfort of Excellence Class, the Glacier Express’s most prestigious travel experience, and relax as the legendary train winds its way through spectacular Alpine scenery, crossing deep valleys, towering peaks, dramatic gorges, and charming mountain villages.

A highlight of the journey is a five-course lunch served at your seat, allowing you to savor exquisite cuisine while watching Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes unfold through the train’s panoramic windows. Sit back, slow down, and enjoy an unforgettable day where exceptional scenery, fine dining, and first-class comfort come together on the journey to St. Moritz.

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you’ll check into your hotel and have time to settle in before the evening. Later, enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel, reflecting on a day filled with alpine beauty, comfortable travel, and scenic highlights.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 8 hours.

Journey Mode: Glacier Express.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Schweizerhof (or comparable lodging).

Today is a relaxed day in St. Moritz, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore this elegant alpine resort at your own pace. Stroll through the charming town center, browse boutique shops, visit a local gallery, or simply enjoy a coffee while taking in the serene mountain surroundings. You may also choose to unwind along the lake and soak up the atmosphere of one of Switzerland’s most iconic resort towns.

Around midday, we come together again for an afternoon excursion into the mountains. Depending on seasonal operations, we’ll either take a short local bus ride to the Muottas Muragl funicular or travel to Diavolezza, another spectacular mountain destination in the Engadine.

When operating, the historic Muottas-Muragl-Bahn carries us high above St. Moritz to Muottas Muragl, where sweeping panoramic views open across the Engadine valley and its surrounding peaks. At the top, we’ll enjoy a memorable lunch surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.

For departures earlier in the season, when Muottas Muragl is not yet operating, our mountain excursion will instead take us to Diavolezza. Here, a spectacular cable-car journey brings us high into the mountains for equally impressive views of the Bernina Alps and surrounding glaciers.

After our mountain experience, we return to St. Moritz and have the remainder of the day to unwind, explore, and enjoy the timeless atmosphere of the resort.

Tomorrow, another beautiful day in the Swiss Alps awaits.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 1 hour.

Journey Mode: Local Bus, Muottas-Muragl funicular (Subject to a seasonal closure).

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch.

Accommodation: Hotel Schweizerhof (or comparable lodging).

Today we board the famous Bernina Express, one of the most scenic train journeys in the Alps. Sit back and relax as the train winds through breathtaking landscapes, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and cascading waterfalls—a true showcase of the Alps at their most spectacular.

Our journey takes us through the Pontresina valley up to Ospizio Bernina, 2,253 meters (7,392 ft) above sea level. Along the way, marvel at the majestic Morteratsch Glacier and the dramatic alpine scenery that surrounds it. As the train descends toward Poschiavo, the landscape gradually opens up, leading to a memorable border crossing into Italy.

We arrive in Tirano, a charming Italian town known for its historic Santuario Madonna di Tirano, before continuing our journey south to Lugano on the Bernina Express Bus. From Tirano, the bus winds through the southern Swiss Alps, offering a gentle, panoramic ride. As the journey continues, the landscape gradually unfolds to reveal the sparkling waters of Lake Lugano, framed by surrounding mountains, providing a breathtaking approach to the city. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 6 hours.

Journey Mode: Bernina Express Train & Bernina Express Bus.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch in Tirano or Dinner in Lugano.

Accommodation: Hotel Villa Sassa (or comparable lodging).

Today, enjoy a relaxed day in the sun-soaked city of Lugano, combining scenic beauty with authentic Swiss-Italian charm. We begin with a leisurely cruise on Lake Lugano, gliding across the sparkling waters while taking in the stunning backdrop of mountains, villas, and picturesque lakeside villages. This serene journey offers a perfect perspective on the natural and cultural beauty of the Ticino region.

Following the cruise, we stop for a delightful lunch at the famous Grotto San Rocco, a historic lakeside grotto renowned for its authentic regional cuisine. Savor traditional Ticinese dishes in a charming, rustic setting, enjoying the atmosphere that has made this grotto a local favorite for generations.

After lunch, there’s time to wander the streets of Lugano, explore boutique shops, or simply relax by the lake and soak up the sun before continuing your Swiss adventure.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 1.5 hours

Journey Mode: Lake Lugano Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch.

Accommodation: Hotel Villa Sassa (or comparable lodging).

Today we embark on the Gotthard Panorama Express, a historic train that follows the legendary Gotthard route, opened in 1882. A journey that perfectly combines historic rail travel with breathtaking alpine scenery. Sit back and enjoy the leisurely ride as the train winds through the picturesque Swiss landscapes, offering memorable views at every turn.

We then arrive in Flüelen, and we board a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, gliding across its tranquil waters while taking in the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages. This serene voyage provides the perfect way to experience Switzerland from a new perspective.

From Lucerne, we continue by train to Zurich Airport. Upon arrival, gather for a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing one final evening together and raising a glass to the unforgettable places, experiences, and memories made along the way. After dinner, settle in for your final night in Switzerland, with the journey drawing to a memorable close.

Scenic Journey Duration: approx. 6 hours.

Journey Mode: Gotthard Panorama Express, Lake Lucerne Cruise & 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.