Switzerland, land of lakes and mountains, has a tradition of excitingly scenic train journeys and is home to more than its fair share of incredible railways. Amidst its elegant cities, there are miles of countryside to be admired, filled with fairytale forests, famous peaks and cascading waterfalls. A chocolate-box setting for sure.
Also known as Lac Léman, Lake Geneva is Western Europe's largest lake and laps the shores of Geneva against a backdrop of dramatic scenery; the Jura Mountains on the Swiss side and across the border in France, the snow-tipped peak of Mont Blanc.
A favourite destination for royals and gliterati, this winter wonderland has more to offer than glamour, designer boutiques and top-class restaurants. The natural beauty shines just as bright, with dazzling lakes, verdant forests and glistening mountain peaks. Served by best-in-class hotels and historic sights and museums, it truly is a destination which delivers both first-rate style and scenery.
Switzerland's oldest and largest city lies nestled in a beautiful mountain setting, charming visitors with its history, architecture and twisting streets. A real al fresco culture awaits you in the pedestrianised Old Town, where a mix of relaxed restaurants, arty boutiques, galleries and cafe culture vie for attention.
Set between the glacier-fed Lakes Thun and Brienz, with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains looming in the background, Interlaken is an ideal location for countless excursions. Mountain railways, cable cars and walking trails with access to sailing on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are all possible here.
A stunning Swiss city on the shores of an aqua-marine lake cradled by mountains, Lucerne boasts a medieval Altstadt (Old Town) that's sprinkle with covered bridges, sunny plazas, candy-coloured houses and waterfront promenades.
The Matterhorn and perceptions of Switzerland are inextricably linked. This majestic mountain is world-famous, it's recognisable peak inescapable from anywhere around Zermatt, whether you're exploring the traditional timber chalets, cosmopolitan cafe culture, Alpine trails or emerald forests.
Following your trip to 'the top of Europe', head to the Sphinx observatory, a further 384 feet up the mountain, for 360° views. Those with a sweet tooth should make sure not to miss Lindt's Swiss Chocolate Heaven, while at the Ice Palace you'll find an array of elaborate ice sculptures made with ice from the Aletsch Glacier. Then there's the 'Alpine Sensation', an exhibition that brings to life the history of the Jungfrau Railway.
Proudly positioned on Lake Geneva, this 13th-century fortress is a fairytale collection of towers, courtyards, medieval frescos and dungeons bursting with history, armour and artwork. The landward side is heavily fortified, but lakeside it presents a gentler face.
Venture over the historic and iconic 14th-century Kapellbrücke bridge, which spans the Reuss River in Lucerne's Old Town. Take the opportunity to marvel at the 17th-century intricacy of Heinrich Wägmann's roof panels, celebrating notable events from Swiss myths and history.
A must-see for all railway fanatics and an awe-inspiring feat of engineering, this viaduct, with its 200-foot high pillars, is as elegant as it is inspiring. Transporting trains across the babbling river be-low and into the rugged Landwasser Tunnel, it opens elevated Swiss landscapes up to visitors like never before.
Enjoy spectacular views and panoramic Alpine landscapes from the windows of your train as you journey to Jungfraujoch. Travelling through the Eiger itself, this is a Swiss experience not to miss. Feel on top of the world as you reach the viewing platform, more than 11,000 feet above sea level, and look out across seemingly endless lands from a unique vantage point.
A truly memorable experience in a magical setting, enjoy tasting wine created from grapes grown in the vineyards of the stunning medieval Spiez Castle in a private room with terrace, overlooking the beautiful Lake Thun and verdant vineyards below.
Be transported by train through a landscape of terraced vineyards in Lavaux, rising above Lake Geneva. Taste locally-produced wines in an authentic vineyard and learn about the wine, the vine and the environment in an area so scenic and significant that the region has UNESCO World-Heritage status.
A marvel of nature and not-to-be-missed attraction, this series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls, ravines and potholes were created by centuries' of spiralling water. Hidden within the mountain itself, the falls were made accessible in 1913 and are illuminated for your viewing pleasure.
We take our holidays to new heights with summit stays at hotels that have their own private funiculars and incredible mountain railway journeys.
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Switzerland offers an amazing array of holidays to explore by rail.
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By train really is the best way to soak up the sights, sounds and local life when you're travelling through Europe. Take a moment to sit back and relax with this insightful blog about the continent's most iconic railways.
Intrepid CEO, Peter Liney, went to Switzerland back in 2015 to find out first-hand what it's really like to explore this country by rail. Read all about his experiences here.
Get a glimpse into life as a Tour Manager on one of our Swiss holidays and find out about their most memorable rail experiences.
