16 Nights / 17 Days
Hear that train coming? That’s because you are about to embark on the most epic locomotive adventure of your life! Prepare to discover Switzerland in the most comprehensive and luxurious of ways as you traverse its picturesque Alpine landscapes via its legendary railways. From the shimmering waters of Lake Lucerne and the Alpine grandeur of Zermatt and St. Moritz to the Mediterranean vibrancy of Lugano (and much more!) this itinerary is your ultimate ticket to conquering Switzerland and all it wonders!
- 3 Nights Lucerne
- 3 Nights Interlaken
- 2 Nights Montreux
- 2 Nights Zermatt
- 2 Nights St. Moritz
- 2 Nights Lugano
- 2 Nights Zurich
- 5 Famous Panoramic Trains
- Private Touring
- Luggage Delivery Between Locations (optional)
- Private Transportation
Day 1 — Arrival
Welcome aboard your journey through Switzerland! Upon arrival in Zurich Airport a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your accommodation of choice in Lucerne, a quaint haven of Alpine scenery and refined Swiss charm. Once checked-in, relax, and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying your first glimpse into Switzerland’s splendor, before putting your adventure into scenic locomotion.
Day 2 — Lucerne & Mount Pilatus
Today, you will see the medieval allure and traditional Swiss atmosphere of Lucerne complimented the panoramic scenes of its famous neighboring peak. Embrace the city’s storybook appeal through its most iconic sights, including the illustrious Chapel Bridge and the eternally magical Old Town. Beyond its streets, watch Swiss postcard views come to life as the thrilling Dragon Ride cable car takes you to the apex of Mt. Pilatus, where the entire canton awaits your gaze. A blend of charm and breathtaking excitement, this tour paints a quintessential picture of Switzerland’s essence.
Day 3 — Lucerne Farms & Cheese Tasting Journey
Following a scrumptious breakfast, prepare to feast on stunning views of Lake Lucerne and the Central Swiss Alps, as your private guide leads you on a joyous funicular ride to Sonnenberg, a paradise of picturesque delights. Experience an organic connection with the country’s wondrous plains as you enjoy a serene walk through picturesque meadows, traditional Swiss farms, and quaint hamlets, all while learning about the region’s captivating history. Along the way, venture to a local farm to savor authentic Swiss cheese, before returning to your hotel immersed in the canton’s culture.
Day 4 — Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Interlaken
Today, a private driver will transfer you to Lucerne Train Station, where you will board the Lucerne-Interlaken Express, Switzerland’s shortest, but by no means least scenic railway journey. Savor a lifetime of panoramic views in just under 2 hours as you witness renowned Swiss beauty unfold through 60 miles of effervescent mountain lakes, boundless valleys, and majestic mountain-backed landscapes. Upon arrival at Interlaken Train Station, a private driver will take you to your hotel of choice in Interlaken, where you can spend the rest of the day basking in the region’s divine Alpine brilliance.
Day 5 — Alpine Landscape Panoramic Tour
Speaking of Alpine brilliance, today you will venture on an unforgettable journey through the celebrated beauty of the Swiss Alps. Make your way through Interlaken, a gem nestled between the serene Lakes Thun and Brienz, where panoramic views unfold at every turn. Glide across Lake Brienz by boat, soaking in the untouched scenery. Board the historic Brienz Rothorn Railway and ascend to breathtaking vistas of over 693 mountain peaks, opening a window into the untamed beauty of the Swiss mountains and majesty of its heartland. Return to your hotel with memories to treasure for a lifetime.
Day 6 — Day at Leisure
Wake up surrounded by shimmering lakes, lush greenery, and majestic peaks of the Bernese Alps, and enjoy this day at leisure, either indulging in the lovely amenities of your hotel, or taking to some independent exploration of the region’s natural splendor. Alternatively, ask your Travel Advisor for suggestions on how to make the most of you time in this alpine paradise.
Day 7 — Goldenpass Express to Montreux
After a leisurely breakfast, your private driver will take you to the Interlaken Train Station, where you will board the Goldenpass Express to Montreux. 100 years in the making, the Goldenpass Express is a marvel of Swiss engineering that goes above and beyond to offer a seamless and luxurious transition across three picturesque regions. Once in Montreux, check into your hotel of choice and explore this vibrant city with an immersive walking tour of its most iconic sights, including the Chillon Castle and the statue of Freddy Mercury.
Day 8 — Lake Geneva Gourmet Cruise & Vineyard Visit
Today, you will set sail on the tranquil waters of Lake Geneva for a luxurious gourmet cruise, where exceptional cuisine meets breathtaking scenery. Indulge in a delightful fusion of local and international flavors amid the beauty and serenity of the accompanying landscapes, before stepping off and heading to an esteemed winery in Yvorne, where a guided tasting of the region’s finest wines awaits. For more exploration, opt for a private tour of Lausanne before returning to your hotel.
Day 9 —Journey to Zermatt
After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the jazzy charms of Montreux as a private transfer carries you off to Montreux train station, where you will board a direct train to Zermatt. Upon arriving, your hotel of choice will arrange travel to your accommodation, where you can spend the rest of the day exploring the quaint village with its car-free streets in presence of the stately Matterhorn.
Day 10 — Day at Leisure or Zermatt & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Private Hiking Tour
Today is yours to spend at leisure amidst the fairytale ambiance of Zermatt, surrounded by alpine pastures and pristine glaciers. Alternatively, you may opt for a breathtaking hike through the stunning Zermatt region and ascend to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise — Europe’s highest cable car station, soaring to 12,740 feet — for awe-inspiring panoramic views and unforgettable high-altitude experiences.
Day 11 — Glacier Express to St. Moritz
After breakfast, your private driver will take you to the Zermatt Train Station, where you will board “the world’s slowest express train”. The embodiment of the term ‘glacier slow,’ this sweeping 8-hour voyage is an opportunity to experience Switzerland in all its glory, filling your memories with unforgettable vistas of the Matterhorn, the Rhone Glacier, and the Engadine Valley. Upon arriving, a private driver will transfer you to your hotel in St. Moritz, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing amid the town’s blend of pristine alpine beauty and sophisticated charm.
(Glacier Express will not operate between March 24 – April 11, 2025. Excellence Class will also not be available from Oct 12 – Dec 5, 2025.)
Day 12 — Day at Leisure or Private Hiking Tour of St. Moritz
Take advantage of this day at leisure to soak up the unique blend of natural splendor and cosmopolitan appeal that makes St. Moritz such an inspiring retreat. Alternatively, watch the divine beauty of the Engadine Valley unfold with a leisurely hiking tour, along which you will uncover the region’s oldest funicular to Muottas Muragl and the scenic Pontresina Valley, surrounded by the towering, ice-capped peaks of the Bernina Alps.
Day 13 — Bernina Express to Lugano
After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to St. Moritz Train station, where the Bernina Express will be waiting to take you to Tirano in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking part. Connecting the North and South of the country, the Bernina Express invites passengers to sample the country’s varied essence as well as be part of something special, as a section of the route is in itself a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon completing the journey via the Bernina Bus at Lugano Bus Station, a private transfer will take you to your hotel of Choice in the heart of Lugano.
Day 14 — Lugano Walking Tour
Experience a blend of Mediterranean aesthetics and Swiss elegance as you follow your private guide on a walking tour to discover the wonders of Lugano. Stroll through historic colorful alleys and the lively Piazza della Riforma. Take in stunning views along the Lakeside Promenade. Visit Villa Ciani’s serene gardens and explore the cultural hub of LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura. Admire Luini’s Renaissance fresco at Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli before browsing the stylish boutiques of Via Nassa. The perfect fusion of remarkable culture, this city was born to enchant its visitors.
Day 15 — Gotthard Panorama Express to Lucerne
After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to Lugano Train Station, where you will board the famed Gotthard Panorama Express. Traversing 9.3-miles of Alps via the legendary Gotthard Tunnel, this journey weaves together the Mediterranean flair of the country’s Italian-speaking enclaves and the Alpine grandeur of its central regions, symbolizing Switzerland’s enduring multicultural solidarity. At Flüelen, a “Diamant” motor vessel (or nostalgic steamboat) will replace the locomotive and bring you to Lucerne across the waters of its eponymous lake. Once in Lucerne, a private transfer will take you to your hotel of choice in Zurich
Day 16 — Zurich City Discovery Tour
Today, you will uncover the dynamic essence of Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, as a private guide leads you on a riveting tour though its cultural heart. Soak up its class and heritage as you stroll along the luxurious Bahnhofstrasse, meander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, and bask in the stately atmosphere of Paradeplatz. Embarking on a scenic ferry ride across Lake Zurich before letting the Adliswil-Felsenegg cable car treat you to sweeping views of the city, creating for a perfect last day of your scenic journey.
Day 17 — Departure
Having reached your destination, it’s time to head back home. Following a leisurely breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel and whisk you off to Zurich Airport, where you will trade the rails for wings as you catch your departure flight home.