Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Glacier Express and Bernina Express

A route of dramatic mountain peaks and memorable alpine rail journeys lies ahead as your adventure begins today in Switzerland's largest city and financial center, Zürich. As your plane touches down, make your way to the airport's rail station for a quick and efficient transfer to Zürich's city center. If there is free time upon checking in, you can begin to get to know the contemporary and historical sides of Zürich.

The skyline here is a tapestry reflecting centuries of occupation and growth, with modern skyscrapers within reach of well-preserved structures from centuries past. You might like to head to Old Town to get a look at this history, with the oldest building being the 9th-century St. Peter's Church, or simply peruse the countless storefronts of the Bahnhofstrasse, the city's main shopping street.

After a leisurely breakfast you will, take the train to the alpine town of Visp. Here, the train starts to climb up into the mountains along the Matter Valley, revealing views of the mighty Matterhorn on approach to the car-free village of Zermatt. Stepping off the train in Zermatt, transfer to your hotel. Choose between one of our handpicked hotels, either 4-Star or 5-Star, on a B&B basis.

The charming village of Zermatt is explored today, a traditional alpine resort where the Matterhorn is rarely out of view.

Your day begins with a journey on the heritage Gornergrat Mountain Railroad. Follow in the footsteps of travelers who've been enjoying this spectacular excursion since 1898 as you're transported from Zermatt to an altitude of more than 10,000 feet. This captivating route crosses bridges, passes through tunnels and forests, winds over gorges and beside mountain lakes. On reaching the Gornergrat platform, the panoramic vistas are breathtaking - but the focus is drawn by some of the best Matterhorn views.

On your return to Zermatt, the village has plenty to offer, with many restaurants, cafés and bars dotting its pretty center.

Boarding the magnificent Glacier Express today, a panoramic journey carries you the full length of this beloved route all the way to St Moritz.

The experience aboard the 'slowest express train in the world' begins with a steady descent towards Visp, before climbing steadily back into the snow-capped mountains. The route's highest point is the incredible Oberalp Pass, at an altitude of 6,700 feet. The scenic descent takes in the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' before passing Chur. On the UNESCO-listed Albula Line, the train spirals up into the mountains, crossing the curved Landwasser Viaduct and burrowing through tunnels on the way to St Moritz.

After your journey, you'll walk to your hotel for the night. Choose from one of our 4-Star or 5-Star hotels.

Enjoying a free day in St Moritz, you delve into the playground of the rich and famous. However, this glamorous resort is also a great location for walking trails and getting closer to nature. The nearby lakes and mountainous landscapes make this famous town a beautiful place for a wander. Alternatively, choose one of our excursions at a supplement.

Journey south on this 100-year-old route that has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Meandering through tunnels and bridges, above deep ravines and past stunning waterfalls, you'll travel through the rugged landscape of the Engadine Valley, and then over the Bernina Pass. Look out for the ethereal Palü Glacier as the train passes the remote station at Alp Grüm. After spiraling round the corkscrew viaduct at Brusion, you cross into Italy, passing by pretty pastel villages on the way to Tirano. From here, you'll travel on to Milan in First Class and onwards to Venice, where you'll transfer to your hotel for two nights..

Today you will explore Venice on a private orientation tour. Your local guide will show you around their city on this personal walking tour. Get to know Venice like a local as you visit the Bridge of Sighs and spend some time in attractive squares, or 'campis', before concluding the tour at the Rialto Bridge. Your guide can suggest places for you to continue exploring by yourself, or take one of our optional excursions (available at a supplement).

Your time in Venice comes to an end in glorious fashion as you board the Venice Simplon Orient Express. Settling in to your historic cabin, watch as the 'floating city' fades into the distance as you being this sensational journey. The sense of opulence and sophistication is immediate on boarding this iconic train. With carriages dating from the 1920s and 1930s, the Art Deco details have been thoughtfully restored, while every carriage has a personal steward who's on hand to deliver a top-quality service. Every detail of this luxurious train has been lovingly thought through. Relax in your luxury cabin before heading to the restored restaurant car for a four-course dinner. Later, get to know your fellow passengers while live music from the pianist adds to the atmosphere in the bar car. At the end of the evening, settle into your cozy cabin for a night aboard the world's most famous luxury train.

As you gently awaken aboard the iconic Orient Express, start your morning with pastries and coffee in your cabin, or take your seat in one of the restaurant cars for smoked salmon and eggs, and maybe a bellini. After breakfast, take some time to unwind, watching the world go by from your window, before arriving in Paris at around 1pm.

Disembarking in the French capital, transfer to your hotel in the Latin quarter.

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, you have some free time to soak in the final moments of your vacation. When you're ready, a private transfer will escort you to the airport, marking the close of an unforgettable trip. As you depart, you'll carry with you cherished memories of a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Europe aboard the world's most famed train.