The Best of Switzerland from Zurich

The Best of Switzerland from Zurich

Details
Itinerary
Tour Vendor

12 days

Duration

Europe

Location

2/5

Physicality

Rail

Type

Enjoy the very best Switzerland has to offer in this 12-day rail holiday, which starts as soon as you step off the plane. Take in some unbelievable mountain views in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and the Pennine Alps as well as the spectacular rotating cable car to Mount Titlis. Head to the Top of Europe before experiencing the full majesty of three of the best train journeys in the world between the historic resort destinations of Montreux, Zermatt and St Moritz.

Images courtesy of Railbookers

Travel Insurance

For your protection AAA recommends Travel Insurance. Pre-existing medical conditions may be waived with proper coverage if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit only. Other conditions may apply; ask your travel advisor. AAA recommends Allianz.

Dates & Pricing

Contact a AAA Travel Advisor for available stays and pricing.

Included

Rail travel as per itinerary
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Zurich
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Lucerne
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Interlaken
1-night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Montreux
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Zermatt
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in St Moritz
15-Day Swiss Pass
Seat Reservations on the Bernina Express, Glacier Express, GoldenPass Express
Apero Plate Food Package on the GoldenPass Express
Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Lucerne
Day Trip to Mount Pilatus from Lucerne
Harder Kulm Funicular Excursion from Interlaken
Day Trip to Jungfraujoch from Interlaken
Return Boat Journey from Montreux to Château de Chillon with Admission
Day Trip to the Gornergrat from Zermatt

Highlights

Travel to the highest train station in Europe aboard the Jungfrau Railway
Enjoy the freshest Swiss air and views of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain from the highest open-air railway in Europe
The lakeside majesty of Montreux
The full length of the ‘slowest express train in the world’ The Glacier Express
The spectacular Bernina Express
The glitz and glamour of St Moritz

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Day 1: Your Journey Begins in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! Arrive in the city center and check-in for an overnight stay at your hotel. Zurich is Switzerland's most cosmopolitan and elegant city, situated on the banks of the river Limmat. Spend the evening by the lake in the old town district of Niederdorf, famous for its bars, restaurants, lounges, and fashion shops. (Overnight in Zurich)

Day 2: Zurich to Lucerne

Following breakfast, at a time of your choice board a direct train service to Lucerne. Explore Lucerne's iconic landmarks, including Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, and the medieval Old Town. In the afternoon, enjoy an amazing cruise onboard Lake Lucerne with a gourmet dinner cruise – take in breathtaking mountainous views surrounding the blue lake with incredible food. (Overnight in Lucerne) B

Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Pilatus

Today, enjoy a trip to the top of the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. First, enjoy a scenic hours' steam cruise on Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad where you then take the 30-minute ride with an average gradient of 35%. The Cogwheel Railway operates between May and November, while at other times you can reach the top via a spectacular aerial gondola and cableway. At the top, you will find the historic Pilatus Kulm Hotel and restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments, or you can enjoy one of the numerous walking trails but beware of the legendary dragon who has magical healing powers and lives in the mountain. After soaking up the wonderful views, make your way back down the mountain massif via the jaw-dropping gondola and cable car to Kriens and a short bus ride to Lucerne. (Overnight Lucerne) B

Day 4: Lucerne to Interlaken

After breakfast, make your way to the train station for a direct train service to Interlaken – the heart of the Bernese Oberland. Check-in at your hotel in Interlaken for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, enjoy a ride up the Harder Kulm funicular – a popular cogwheel railway that rides to the summit of Harder Kulm! Enjoy majestic views of the Eiger, the Monch, and the Jungfrau mountains from the viewing platform. (Overnight in Interlaken) B

Day 5: Day Trip to the Jungfraujoch

Following breakfast, take a day trip to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” Featuring stunning views of the world-famous triple mountain peaks of the Monch, Eiger, and Jungfrau, this trip to the highest train station in Europe is something you won’t soon forget! From an underground ice castle, observatory decks, a snow park, and world-class restaurants, there’s something for everyone, especially if you’re looking to have the experience of a lifetime. (Overnight in Interlaken) B

Day 6: GoldenPass Express to Montreux

Embark on a breathtaking journey aboard the GoldenPass Express from Interlaken to Montreux, where every twist and turn reveals the dramatic beauty of the Swiss Alps. Your reservation includes an Apero Food Package to enjoy as you take in the views. As the panoramic windows frame the majestic peaks, the train gracefully meanders through lush green meadows, charming alpine villages, and crystal-clear lakes. Upon arrival in Montreux, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. In the afternoon, walk over to Chillon Castle, a jaw-droppingly beautiful chateaux that floats on Lake Geneva – a must! (Overnight in Montreux) B

Day 7: Montreux to Zermatt

Today, when you are ready to depart Montreux, take a train to Zermatt via Visp. With the use of your Swiss pass – you can choose when you would like to head over to the famous chalet-style city. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. (Overnight in Zermatt) B

Day 8: Day Trip to the Gornergrat

Another spectacular mountain railway experience today, and the Gornergrat is Europe's highest climbing from 1,604 meters above sea level to 3,090 meters in just 33 minutes. From the top, the views are amazing, across to Italy and France on a clear day as well as the nearby Matterhorn mountain. Enjoy a stroll and keep an eye out for a Marmot or two before coming back down the mountain. Enjoy your evening in this car-free town. (Overnight Zermatt) B

Day 9: Glacier Express to St Moritz

Travel across Switzerland onboard the Glacier Express today, crossing numerous mountain passes and impressive viaducts. You can't escape the wonderful views from inside the famous panoramic red carriages, and your journey ends today in the glamorous lakeside town of St Moritz. (Overnight St Moritz) B

**Between mid-Oct and early Dec The Glacier Express train does not run, so the journey will be made on local trains, ask your Travel Consultant for more details

Day 10: The Berina Express Roundtrip

Head south to Italy today and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery seen from a train anywhere in the world. Cross mountain passes and admire the spectacular peaks of Piz Bernina and Piz Palu. Have your camera ready for the magical Brusio spiral viaduct before arriving at Tirano, northern Italy. Enjoy lunch before hopping back on the train and heading back to St Moritz. The varying light gives the scenery a different life, and once back in St Moritz enjoy taking stock of the amazing photos you have captured. (Overnight St Moritz) B

Day 11: St. Moritz to Zurich

This morning, head back to Zurich for a final overnight stay. Tick off any sightseeing in Zurich you have not yet had a chance to see before completing your journey. (Overnight in Zurich) B

Day 12: Your Journey Ends in Zurich

Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you would like to extend your journey to another city, just ask your Rail Expert and we can help you make all the arrangements. B

The Best of Switzerland from Zurich, Railbookers

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