A River Cruise through Europe is the embodiment of pure enchantment. So why not top such an experience with a proverbial cherry and make it even more magical with some immersive Alpine adventures? Imagine starting your voyage by exploring Lucerne’s tranquil beauty or capping off your European getaway amidst the monolithic grandeur of the Matterhorn in Zermatt. A carefully curated stay in Switzerland can be the ideal way to enhance a river cruise vacation, and this tailored itinerary will offer an opportunity to do just that!

• 2 Nights Lucerne
• 2 Nights Interlaken
• 2 Night Zermatt
• 2 Nights Andermatt

Day 1: Arrival in Lucerne

Upon disembarking at Basel River Cruise Port, your private driver will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel of choice in Lucerne, where you can relax and begin your Swiss adventure against the stunning backdrop of Lake Lucerne.

Day 2: Walking Tour of Lucerne

Discover Lucerne’s historic charm and striking beauty on an immersive guided walking tour. Visit the iconic Chapel Bridge, stroll through Old Town’s cobblestone streets, admire the picturesque city hall, and visit the poignant Dying Lion monument. Then enjoy some free time to explore or relax amidst Lucerne’s enchanting surroundings.

Day 3: Journey to Interlaken via Panoramic Lucerne – Interlaken Express Train

Embark on a journey through Switzerland’s mesmerizing landscapes aboard the Lucerne-Interlaken Express, a scenic train ride filled gorgeous views of lakes, mountains, and Swiss countryside. Upon arriving at Interlaken Train Station, your private driver will take you to your hotel of choice in Interlaken, where you can use the remainder of the day basking in Alpine beauty amidst the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

Day 4: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Discovery Experience

Reach the ‘Top of Europe’ with a train ride to Jungfraujoch. Experience Swiss Alpine beauty from breathtaking heights, indulge in thrilling mountain activities, and visit the iconic villages of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.  Savor panoramic views of Aletsch Glacier, shop, dine, and conclude with a guided tour of Lauterbrunnen’s stunning waterfalls, before returning to Interlaken.

Day 5: Transfer to Zermatt

Today, a private transfer will whisk you off to Zermatt, a car-free mountain resort renowned for its iconic Matterhorn views. Check into your hotel of choice and take some time revel in the glory of the Matterhorn and the cozy appeal of this Alpine village.

Day 6: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Ascend over 12,000 feet to experience the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with a summit lift ride to Europe’s highest mountain station. Rejoice in breathtaking 360º views of 38 Alpine peaks, explore the Glacier Palace, or go for a thrilling ride in Matterhorn Glacier Ride’s brand-new Crystal Ride cabins for a special thrill.

Day 7: Glacier Express to Andermatt

Travel from Zermatt to Andermatt through breathtaking Alpine landscapes aboard the famous Glacier Express. Known as the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express offers unparalleled opportunities to savour the beauty of alpine landscapes, soaring viaducts, deep valleys, and charming mountain villages that Switzerland is known for.

Day 8: Leisure Day in Andermatt

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore rustic charm with modern luxury of Andermatt. Popular for its pristine ski slopes, alpine hiking trails, and world-class golf, it’s a year-round haven for nature and adventure lovers. Andermatt’s blend of Swiss tradition and upscale amenities makes it an exceptional destination for discerning travelers.

Day 9: Departure

Your private driver will meet pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Zurich Airport for your departure flight home.

The post Extend the Adventure: Swiss Alps Escape Pre/Post-Cruise appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Itinerary:

• 3 nights in Cortina 
• 3 nights in Val Gardena or Alta Badia
• 2 nights in Verona
• Bernina Express
• 2 nights in St. Moritz
• Glacier Express
• 3 nights in Zermatt

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrive at the Venice or Innsbruck Airport, where a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to a hotel of your choice in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Day 2 – Hiking Experience Around Cortina with Hot Tub Aperitivo on Panoramic Terrace

Get to know the mighty peaks around you as an experienced Mountain Guide takes you on an enchanting hike around Cortina, showcasing the Queen of the Dolomites in all her glory. Finish your day with an Italian aperitivo in hand on the panoramic terrace of Rifugio Mietres, as you enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot-tub and admire what have often been called “the most beautiful mountains in the world”.

Day 3 – Skiing in the Dolomites Superski

Enjoy a day of skiing with your Ikon Pass at the legendary Cortina d’Ampezzo Dolomiti Superski, home to Italy’s first Olympic Games. Admire the majestic peaks that crown Queen Cortina as you explore 75 miles of slopes and embrace the resorts’ blend of sporting heritage and dolce vita essence.

Day 4 – Transfer to Val Gardena or Alta Badia

A private car will transfer you from your hotel in Cortina to your hotel of choice in Val Gardena or Alta Badia, where your adventure through the Dolomites shall continue.

Day 5 – Lake Braies & Prato Piazza Plateau Tour

Witness some of the most captivating scenery in existence as you stroll along the shores of Lake Lage di Braies and view the monumental reflection of the overlooking Dolomites in its pristine waters. Next, venture to the endless plateaus of Prato Piazza – Platzwiesen, and revel in some of nature’s finest landscapes as you walk beneath the majestic Mount Croda Rossa. End this picturesque experience with a delightful lunch at one of the charming rifugi in the area.

Day 6 – Skiing in the Dolomites Superski

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass in the Dolomites Superski. Whether you find yourself in the vast winter wonderland of Val Gardena or in the picturesque Alta Badia, you are guaranteed to be spoiled with bountiful natural beauty, crisp Alpine air, and the most scenic skiing experiences that you’ve ever had.

Day 7 – Transfer to Verona with stop in Lake Garda

Hop on a private car transfer and make your way to Verona, taking in the awe-inspiring sights of the Dolomites and the Italian Lakes’ Region along the way. Once you reach Lake Garda, enjoy some time at leisure in Sirmione or Riva del Garda before moving on to Verona, where you will check-in at your hotel of choice.

Day 8 – Verona Walk & Taste Tour

Savour Verona’s charm and culinary delights — as well as some Shakespeare — as you venture through its historical center and visit the Piazza delle Erbe, get operatic at the Arena, and recite some lines from Romeo and Juliet under Juliet’s balcony; all before sampling biscuits inspired by the “pair of star-crossed lovers” and enjoying a board with polenta, cheese, salami and a glass of wine. After finishing you tasting session with some sweet “risino pastry”, you will have a chance to visit St. Anastasia’s Basilica, one of Italy’s hidden Gothic gems.

Day 9 – Transfer to Tirano Train Station and Bernina Express to St. Moritz (Long transfer)

Your private driver will transfer you from your hotel in Verona to the train station of Tirano, where you will board the Bernina Express to St. Moritz. Connecting Italy and Switzerland, the Bernina Express invites passengers to enjoy the varied sights of natural beauty that grace both countries, as well as cross a UNESCO World Heritage as you pass through the Abula/Bernina part of the Rhaetian Railway. Once in St. Moritz, check into your hotel of choice.

Day 10 – Skiing in St. Moritz

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass at Corviglia in the sunny St. Moritz, whose winter sports legacy speaks for itself. Home to the iconic 1928 and 1948 winter Olympics, as well as one of the first ski lifts in Switzerland, this location is a must-have on your skiing/snowboarding resume.

Day 11 – Glacier Express to Zermatt

Hop on board of the Glacier Express, the slowest express train of the world and the most famous panoramic train in Europe. Revel in the 8-hour journey and become a part of the country’s scenery as you traverse areas that are as high as 6,670 feet above sea level and etch detailed vistas of the Matterhorn, the Rhone Glacier, and the Engadine Valley forever into your memories. Once in Zermatt, check into your hotel of choice.

Day 12 – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with Matterhorn Crossing

Spend a day as an independent Alpine explorer and discover the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Use the summit lift to ascend 3,883 meters to the highest mountain station in Europe for a 360º panoramic view of 38 magnificent Alpine peaks — something that is guaranteed to take your breath away; and not just because of the altitude. Find your way into the icy Glacier Palace and take a ride on the Matterhorn Glacier Ride’s brand-new Crystal Ride cabins, and if the season allows, use Matterhorn Crossing gondola and complete the world’s highest border crossing for a visit to the Italian Alpine village of Cervinia.

Day 13 – Skiing in Zermatt

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass in Zermatt and take in the colossal sight of the world-renowned Matterhorn as you explore over 220 miles of the highest lift-served terrain in Europe. Featuring one of the longest trails in the world (16 miles), this ski paradise is as glorious as the mountain that overlooks it. Once you have conquered the slopes beneath it, head over to the top of Rothorn to capture a panoramic view of the Matterhorn in all its glory.

Day 14 – Departure

A private transfer will take you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your memorable journey through Italy and Switzerland.

The post Iconic Winter Escape in the Swiss Alps & Italian Dolomites appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Itinerary:

• 3 nights in Geneva
• 4 nights in Crans-Montana
• 3 nights in Villars-sur-Ollon

(Disclaimer: Access to Crans-Montana Mountain Resort becomes available to Epic Pass Holders starting Winter 2024/25.)

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrive at the Geneva Airport, where a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to a hotel of your choice in Geneva. Take the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel or alternatively, ask your Travelive expert to suggest the best tours designed just for you.

Day 2 – Geneva Sightseeing Walking Tour

Find yourself on the serene shores of Lake Geneva, beneath the majestic Alps, and explore the history and cultural heritage of the Capital of Peace. Accompanied by an experienced guide, visit the English Park and check the time at the flower clock, then gush at the sight of the iconic Jet d’Eau. Get philosophical at the statue of Jean-Jacques Rousseau on Rousseau Island, before browsing the shops at Rhone Street and exploring Geneva’s Old Town. Conclude your day at the Reformation Wall, prior to savoring some delectable Swiss dishes at a cozy restaurant.

Day  3 – Culinary Boat Trip on Lake Geneva with Lausanne and Vineyard Visit

Experience Lausanne through a lavish combination of gorgeous views, sumptuous cuisine, and exceptional Swiss wine. Delight in the town’s quaint essence at your own pace, or opt for a classic city tour, an art excursion, or a bit of history with a visit the medieval Chateau de Chillon. Later, bask in a stunning Swiss landscape as you delight in gourmet dishes on board a cruise on Lake Geneva. Complete the day by exploring the wine cellars at Domaine Dillet in Yvorne and partaking in a tasting of four exquisite varieties.

Day 4 – Transfer to Crans-Montana

A private car will transfer you from your hotel in Geneva to your hotel of choice in Crans-Montana, where your Epic skiing adventure shall begin.

Day 5 – Skiing

Use your Epic Pass to enjoy a day of skiing in Crans-Montana. Plant your flag in the heart of the Swiss Alps at the Crans-Montana Mountain Resort, a skiing mecca that offers skiers and riders over 85 miles of top-notch skiing trails at a breathtaking altitude that ranges between 5000 to 10000 feet; not to mention stunning views of Matterhorn and Mont Blanc that will make you stop in the middle of even the most intense descents.

Day 6 – Day Trip to Glacier 3000 and Montreux with Visit of the Chillon Castle

Prepare to conquer your fear of heights with a visit to the Glacier 3000, a haven for thrill-seekers and lovers of snow-capped activities. After ascending from Les Diablerets via the Col du Pillon cableway, marvel at awe-inspiring vistas of the Eiger and Mont Blanc, before testing your courage with the Peak Walk by Tissot, a suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. End your day in Montreux, the home of the famed jazz festival, where you can croon a few lines from Bohemian Rhapsody in front of the Freddie Mercury statue and explore the Chillon Castle.

Day 7 – Skiing OR Explore the Valais Region

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Epic Pass or hop on a guided tour of the Valais region with its unmatched natural beauty. Visit the village of Zermatt, the Glacier Paradise, and the quaint town of Sion accompanied by our local driver-guide.

Day 8 – Transfer to Villars-sur-Ollon

A private car will transfer you from your hotel in Crans-Montana to your hotel of choice in Villars-sur-Ollon, where your Epic skiing adventure shall continue.

Day 9 – Day Trip to Verbier for More Skiing

Hop on a private transfer to reach Verbier, where you will have the chance to use your Epic Pass at Verbier 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest skiing area. Comprised of 6 ski resorts spanning 4 valleys, Verbier 4 Vallées offers skiers over 250 miles of runs with mesmerizing views of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn directly from its trails — so, make sure not to get too distracted by the immense beauty of the sights as you make your way down the slopes.

Day 10 – Outdoor Activity Around Villars-sur-Ollon

Based on the season of travel and your preferences, we encourage you to opt for fun outdoor experiences around Villars-sur-Olon. Expand your horizons with mountain balloon flights, test the frozen waters with some ice diving, or explore the region through mountain biking, caving, rafting and many more! Whatever you choose, your Travelive expert will guide you to an amazing adventure.

Day 11 – Transfer to Geneva for your flight home

A private transfer will take you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your memorable journey through Switzerland.

The post Epic Winter Escape in Switzerland appeared first on Blog | Travelive.