Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Your vacation begins today in the largest city in Switzerland, Zürich. As you arrive, make your own way to your hotel to check in for the night, and then the rest of your day is free to spend as you wish, either relaxing or getting your first taste of Switzerland.

With a history dating back more than 2,000 years, Zürich is home to many impressive attractions, from the peaceful Lindenhof with its Roman origins to the 13th-century Fraumünster church boasting stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall. If art piques your interest, the Kunsthaus displays major works of fine art, modern and Constructivist pieces can be found in Museum Haus Konstruktiv (a former power station), and Cabaret Voltaire is the home of the Dada art movement.

Of course, you could also wander along the world-famous shopping mile, the Bahnhofstrasse, or stroll along the banks of Lake Zürich. Overnight Zürich.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before transferring to the railway station independently to board the train bound for the breathtaking Bernese Oberland.

Your railway journey takes you through the beautiful medieval town of Lucerne and climbs the Brünig Pass, before winding alongside Lake Brienz to Interlaken. From here, the route continues to your destination, Grindelwald or Wengen*, where you can walk to your hotel to check in for a two-night stay.

The village of Grindelwald is tucked in a green hollow, surrounded by a commanding mountainscape, featuring a postcard-perfect view of the north face of the Eiger and the Wetterhorn. Wengen is a car-free resort on a wind-protected sun terrace at the foot of the Jungfrau, 1,300 feet above the Lauterbrunnen Valley at an altitude of nearly 4,200 feet. Both settings offer a remarkable backdrop for your free afternoon and evening. Overnight Grindelwald or Wengen.

*Please note: April, May and October departures stay in Grindelwald, while departures from June to September stay in Wengen.

• Breakfast

A highlight of your Swiss grand tour awaits after breakfast today as you journey to Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest train station. Your climb begins with a cog railway ride to Kleine Scheidegg. Here, you switch rail lines and continue on the 112-year-old Jungfrau Express. This Swiss mountain railroad delves into tunnels cut through the mighty Eiger to a height of more than 11,000 feet above sea level.

The station at Jungfraujoch is inside the mountain, and you ascend via an elevator to the surface, the "Top of Europe." Spellbinding panoramic views of a year-round winter wonderland greet you, and there is free time to explore its attractions. From the Sphinx Observation Deck, you can soak in endless vistas of the Aletsch Glacier and countless snow-capped mountains. Or you could stay inside the station to visit the Lindt chocolate shop or the magical Ice Palace.

After some time to soak up all these wonders, a return rail journey takes you back to your alpine resort base, where the remainder of your day is at leisure. Overnight Grindelwald.

• Breakfast

Your journey through Switzerland continues today after breakfast, as you transfer on your own to the train station to travel to Interlaken, nestled between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Here, you switch trains and continue aboard the GoldenPass Express panoramic train.

Even more incredible views lie ahead as you travel through the wild and romantic Pays d'Enhaut Highlands, with the scenic villages of Château-d'Oex and Montbovon dotting the landscape. The train ventures through the mountain resort of Gstaad before passing through a tunnel with a view of Lake Geneva visible through the vineyards as you exit.

Arriving in Montreux, you can check in to your hotel before enjoying the evening in the "Pearl of the Swiss Riviera." You might like to wander along the shores of Lake Geneva, perhaps seeking out the Freddy Mercury statue on the lakeside promenade, or stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Town. Overnight Montreux*.

*Please note: during the Montreux Jazz Festival, you will instead stay in nearby Lausanne.

• Breakfast

Admire beautiful views of the Swiss Riviera as you make your way back to the train station this morning. Your destination is Zermatt in the southern tip of Switzerland. The scenic rail journey ventures deeper into stunning mountains, with the Matter Valley's lush wildflower meadows, thundering waterfalls and rugged mountains guiding your route.

On arrival in this iconic car-free town, the remainder of the day is at leisure after settling into your hotel. Dominating the views is the mighty Matterhorn, and its pyramidal peak can be seen from most parts of Zermatt. You may wish to learn more about Switzerland's symbolic mountain at the Matterhorn Museum, or you could explore the historic Old Village, home to more than 30 traditional wooden Walser houses and ancient barns and stables, with the peak in the distance.

Zermatt also features numerous restaurants where you can get an authentic taste of Switzerland's flavors. Overnight Zermatt.

• Breakfast

With a free day amongst the low-pitched roofs of Zermatt, you can wander between the 17th-century wooden chalets or book a horse-drawn carriage (payable locally) for a nostalgic way to absorb the scenic surroundings.

Zermatt has several well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty that you could set out on to witness the surrounding lakes and peaks, and with your Swiss Half Fare Card providing a reduced rate on rail travel, you have the freedom to travel by rail to nearby resort towns or cities. Alternatively, you could join an optional excursion for an unforgettable perspective.

However you choose to spend your day, you can continue by exploring Zermatt's restaurants for dinner this evening. After a day of sightseeing, there is no better way to refresh yourself than with some traditional Swiss cheese fondue or a glass of local wine. Overnight Zermatt.

Optional Excursion

Gornergrat Mountain Railway - Walk to the Gornergrat Mountain Railway station, located opposite Zermatt's train station, to step aboard Europe's highest open-air cogwheel train. This 125-year-old heritage train climbs over picturesque valleys and through lush alpine forests to an altitude of more than 10,000 feet above sea level. Arriving at the top, the views are jaw-dropping, with an astonishing 29 mountaintops visible, including the best view of the majestic Matterhorn.

• Breakfast

A jewel in the crown of Switzerland's railways, the Glacier Express is your guide to awe-inspiring views today.

Departing from your hotel after breakfast, board this classic train at Zermatt's station. The Matterhorn fades into the distance, and some of the region's other peaks come into view before the train passes through steep valleys. Making its way across the Furka Pass, the "slowest express train in the world" enters a nine-mile-long tunnel en route to Andermatt. Marvel at the scenery from your panoramic window as you venture across the Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the train ride, before descending through what is called the "Swiss Grand Canyon" - one of the most dramatic points along this scenic route. Lunch is served onboard before arrival in Chur*, Switzerland's oldest town.

Transfer on your own from the station to your hotel for the night, and then you are free to soak up Chur's mountain setting, twisting alleys and historic buildings. Overnight Chur.

*Please note: passengers traveling in Excellence Class will continue to St. Moritz for the night.

• Breakfast, Lunch

One of the most impressive rail journeys Switzerland has to offer lies ahead today as you depart Chur on the Bernina Express. Known as Switzerland's best-kept secret by rail experts, this astonishing train ride follows the highest route in the Alps, highlighting the country's unique regions.

Traveling high into the mountains, you can gaze upon snow-covered peaks and mighty glaciers before gliding down the mountainside toward the palm trees of Switzerland's Italian-speaking region. During its route, the Bernina Express travels over the impressive Brusio Spiral Viaduct and the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, crosses through 55 tunnels, and passes over 196 bridges. Because the train is equipped with panoramic rail cars, you can take in all the glory at every turn as you approach Tirano in Italy.

Upon arrival in Tirano, board the Bernina Express Bus, which takes you onward to Lugano, southern Switzerland's largest town. You can make your way to your hotel and then find dinner locally in this stunning lakeside locale. Overnight Lugano.

• Breakfast

Called "Little Italy" for its distinct ambiance and Italian-speaking heritage, Lugano is awash in natural beauty and incredible views. The city's historic center is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets that stretch inland from the lakeside promenade, and the buildings lining them blend Italianate Baroque grandeur and alpine charm.

After having breakfast at your hotel, you might like to take a stroll through the Parco Ciani, located on the shore of Lake Lugano, just minutes from the city center. You could enter the Cathedral of St. Lawrence to view its ornate statues and beautiful frescoes, or find a seat outside the cathedral in Piazza Cioccaro, overlooking the Palazzo Riva. You also have the choice to book an optional excursion today to better explore the area.

Dining independently this evening, there are plenty of restaurants serving local specialties, such as saffron risotto and lake fish. Overnight Lugano.

Optional Excursions

Monte Brè Funicular - Travel to the summit of Switzerland's sunniest mountain by funicular railway. This 100-year-old line climbs to an altitude of more than 3,000 feet in just 10 minutes. The views become increasingly dramatic as the ride progresses. At the top, you can admire sprawling vistas of Lake Lugano and the surrounding peaks, hike one of the trails or visit the village of Brè before returning to Lugano.

Cruising to Gandria - Experience the region's beauty from another perspective as you cruise across the turquoise waters of Lake Lugano to Gandria. Gandria is a picturesque fishing village at the base of Monte Brè, famous for its romantic atmosphere. The tranquil town's center is closed to traffic and features narrow streets and stairways that open to gorgeous views. Soak up the postcard scenery at your own pace before cruising back to Lugano.

• Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before transferring to the station independently to join the final rail journey of this magnificent vacation: the Gotthard Panorama Express.

Step aboard your First Class panoramic train car, and admire vistas of castles, palm trees and vineyards as the route begins. The train journey takes you from the Mediterranean south into the heart of Switzerland via the Gotthard Tunnel, which was built in 1882. Beautiful scenes of the Ruess Valley guide the final stretch to Flüelen.

Here, board a historic paddle steamer and enjoy a relaxing cruise across Lake Lucerne. Sheer beauty abounds during the three-hour boat ride, with views of the snow-capped peaks of Gotthard Pass and high rock walls cradling both sides of the lake. Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus come into view on the approach to Lucerne - the perfect scenic ending to this idyllic journey.

After disembarking, head to your hotel for the night. Upon checking in, the remainder of your evening is free beside romantic Lake Lucerne. Overnight Lucerne.

• Breakfast

From iconic lakeside cities to tucked-away mountain resorts, Switzerland is a wonderland of magnificent locations - many of which you witnessed during this immersive expedition. You traveled into the staggering Swiss Alps and to lakes Geneva, Lugano and Lucerne. Best of all, the seamless itinerary was stitched together by some of Switzerland's most notable rail lines, including the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express.

Your journey comes to a close this morning after breakfast at your hotel. Upon checking out, make your own way to the station and use your included ticket to travel back to Zürich for your flight home. Should you wish to see even more of Switzerland, speak with a Rail Specialist about adding additional nights.

• Breakfast