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Premium Switzerland by Rail: A Grand Tour

 
You are viewing the 2027 itinerary. Select your departure year
20272028
Duration
11 days
From per person
$11,999
Tour code
PGT27
Mobility Rating 3
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Curated for travelers seeking an indulgent and extensive Swiss vacation, this grand tour explores in style with premium rail journeys, five-star hotels and exclusive excursions
Uncover Switzerland's majesty on a luxurious small-group vacation.
Experience premium seating on three panoramic trains - Excellence Class on the Glacier Express, Prestige Class on the GoldenPass Express and First Class on the Bernina Express - and five-star accommodations in charming towns and historic cities, including Zürich, Zermatt, and Lucerne.
Enjoy an elegant five-course dinner while cruising Lake Lucerne and private access to the Ice Bar at Jungfraujoch, carved inside the Aletsch Glacier. Summit Mt. Pilatus on Europe's steepest railway, and view the iconic Matterhorn from the heritage Gornergrat Railway.

Unforgettable Experiences

Experiencing Excellence Class on the Glacier Express
Experiencing Excellence Class on the Glacier Express
Relax in a privately chartered train car in Excellence Class, called “the most sought-after seats in Switzerland,” with guaranteed window seats, welcome Champagne, and a five-course menu with wine pairings throughout the meal.
Savoring a premium dinner cruise across Lake Lucerne
Savoring a premium dinner cruise across Lake Lucerne
Embark on an immersive five-hour steamboat cruise along the azure waters of Lake Lucerne, indulging in a five-course dinner with champagne, accompanied by local storytellers who bring the history of the lake to life.
Traveling on the GoldenPass Express in Prestige Class
Traveling on the GoldenPass Express in Prestige Class
Unwind in heated, leather seats in private sections of Prestige Class train cars aboard the panoramic GoldenPass Express, enjoying ultimate comfort on an unforgettable journey through alpine landscapes to the idyllic mountain resort of Interlaken.
Admiring Matterhorn views on the Gornergrat Railway
Admiring Matterhorn views on the Gornergrat Railway
Experience unbeatable views of the distinctive Matterhorn from the second-highest railway in Europe on a six-mile cogwheel journey to a superb vantage point.
Riding the Bernina Express, Swiss rail’s “best-kept secret”
Riding the Bernina Express, Swiss rail’s “best-kept secret”
Embark on a First Class journey to Italy on the Bernina Express – lesser known than the Glacier Express, this panoramic train follows a UNESCO-listed route with a spectacular view of Palü Glacier at Alp Grüm.

What’s included on the tour?

Landmark Vacations - An Elevated Take on Travel

The journey itself is an integral part of your vacation, and with this, we have created our most luxurious range of products yet, Landmark Vacations. Travel in comfort and style as you explore alongside a group of no more than 25 guests, enjoying one-of-a-kind experiences and unique accommodations not available to larger groups.

Itinerary

DAY1Arrival in Zürich

Your premium Swiss vacation begins as you land at Zürich Airport, making your own way by rail or taxi to our five-star hotel in the city center. With your personal First Class Swiss Pass, your train and bus journeys are included.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring independently. Zürich is Switzerland's largest city and sits at the northern edge of a beautiful lake that shares its name. With a history stretching back to the Romans, there are many attractions to seek out here. The city is also an art-lovers' paradise. The Kunsthaus displays major works of fine art, modern and Constructivist pieces can be found in Museum Haus Konstruktiv (located inside a former power station) and Cabaret Voltaire is the spiritual home of Dadaism, an early 20th-century avant-garde movement.

This evening, return to your hotel to meet the Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a group welcome dinner. Overnight Zürich.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Embarking on the Legends of Lake Lucerne cruise

Our first morning in Switzerland begins with a guided tour of Zürich after breakfast. We enjoy a walking tour of the city's remarkable Old Town, as an expert guide shares hidden details, historic anecdotes and insider insight revealing its rich past. We wander down the famous Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, enjoy views across the city from Lindenhof Park and admire the towering Romanesque Grossmünster church.

After free time for lunch, we make our way to the station to board a train to Lucerne, where you can explore at leisure before we embark on a highlight of the vacation.

Boarding the historic Gallia, Europe's fastest steamboat, we set out on a five-hour dinner cruise of the glacial Lake Lucerne. As we sail along the azure waters of this fjord-like lake, we enjoy a regional five-course meal accompanied by a selection of beverages, including champagne and wine. Be transported into the past by the on-board storyteller, bringing the life of Casimir Friederich Knörr, a pioneer of steam navigation, to life. After disembarking, we transfer to our five-star hotel in Lucerne. Overnight Lucerne.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3Riding Europe’s steepest cogwheel railway to Mt. Pilatus

This morning, we set out on an excursion to the stunning alpine peak of Mt. Pilatus, overlooking Lake Lucerne.

We catch a train to Alpnachstad, where we board the steepest cogwheel railway in Europe to marvel at breathtaking views from Mount Pilatus. Reaching a gradient of 48%, the half-hour ascent travels past alpine meadows and rocky outcrops to a land above the clouds. At the summit, nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, spectacular alpine scenes stretch out in every direction. Take a short walk to the Oberhaupt viewpoint for the best vantage, before we descend the peak via scenic cable car.

Your afternoon is free to explore Lucerne at leisure. Wander the cobbled streets and picturesque squares adorned with colorful medieval buildings in the Old Town. Visit the famous Kapellbrücke, Europe's oldest covered bridge and one of Switzerland's most beloved landmarks, and stroll along the 14th-century Musegg Wall, the well-preserved defensive walls. Dining independently this evening, you could try some Swiss specialties, such as fondue, Rösti or freshwater fish from the lake. Overnight Lucerne.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY4Exploring Switzerland’s oldest town

Leaving Lucerne after breakfast, we transfer by deluxe motorcoach to Switzerland's oldest town, Chur.

Backed by mountains and with an Old Town boasting many colorful buildings, Chur is both a fascinating historic destination and a gateway to the central alps. The focal point of the Old Town is Martinsplatz, dominated by the tower of St. Martin's Church. There is also an array of museums, from the Bündner Art Museum and Cathedral Treasury Museum to the Rätisches Museum, which documents the region's history. Chur is renowned for traditional cuisine; try dishes like raclette or capuns for a Swiss-style lunch.

This afternoon, we board a First Class train to the stylish resort town of St. Moritz, our base for the next two nights. As we travel further into the Swiss Alps, the route reveals breathtaking views, passing alpine meadows, sparkling lakes and endless mountain peaks. Arriving in St. Moritz in the idyllic Engadin Valley, we check into our five-star hotel. There is some time to settle in or explore the local area before we sit down to dinner at the hotel. Overnight St. Moritz.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY5Riding the Bernina Express to northern Italy

Our first journey onboard one of Switzerland's famous panoramic trains awaits with a trip on the Bernina Express.

Regarded as the rail experts' best-kept secret, the Bernina Express crosses the Alps into Italy on a UNESCO-listed route. From our First Class panoramic train cars, the alpine scenery continuously impresses as we wind ever higher. Reaching the summit at more than 7,300 feet above sea level, we pass the turquoise waters of Lago Bianco before enjoying a truly memorable moment. Stepping off the train at Alp Grüm, we admire jaw-dropping views of the Palü Glacier. The stunning route then twists down the mountains, spiraling round the corkscrew viaduct at Brusio to Italy.

Arriving in Tirano, free time allows you to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and character-filled piazzas of this charming Italian valley town or enjoy local delicacies in one of the town's trattorias. Returning to St. Moritz by rail, you are free to dine independently this evening. Overnight St. Moritz.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY6Private Excellence Class car on the Glacier Express

Today brings another highlight, as we embark on a full-day journey on the Glacier Express in luxurious Excellence class.

The entire train car is chartered for our travel group for an exclusive experience, with a dedicated concierge providing five-star service. Relax in reclining window seats as you admire the scenery through the panoramic windows. Indulge in a five-course lunch featuring fresh local ingredients, complete with wine pairings for each course, and enjoy the private Glacier Bar.

Your journey begins with a climb up to the winter ski resort of Andermatt and continues up into the snow-capped mountains. The train reaches the route's highest point before descending along the beautiful Rhône Valley at a slow and steady pace. Known as "the Slowest Express Train in the World", the Glacier Express carries us through classic Swiss scenes of meadows and turquoise river gorges, before arriving in the car-free resort of Zermatt in the early evening. After checking in to our central hotel, your evening is free to dine locally. Overnight Zermatt.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY7Matterhorn views from the Gornergrat Mountain Railway

Waking up in Zermatt, we have breakfast before setting out on a walking tour of the village. Amongst the low-pitched roofs of timbered chalets, an expert guide reveals the history of Zermatt with local color.

After time to lunch independently in Zermatt, we set off on a heritage train ride in the afternoon. More than 125 years old, the charming Gornergrat Mountain Railway is Switzerland's original electric rack railway and first carried travelers the six miles up the mountain in August 1898. We trace their journey, climbing over picturesque valleys and through lush alpine forests to an altitude of more than 10,000 feet above sea level. The views from the top are jaw-dropping, with up to 29 mountaintops visible on a clear day. We have time to soak up these vistas, including the best view of the Matterhorn's pyramidal peak. This famous mountain is an iconic symbol of Switzerland, and its shape inspired the design of Toblerone.

Returning to Zermatt, you are at leisure to enjoy the evening at your own pace. Overnight Zermatt.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY8To Grindelwald via idyllic Interlaken

We leave Zermatt this morning and head to the station to board a train to Visp, traveling through the dramatic Mattertal Valley. In Visp, we change trains to Spiez, then continue on a short ride along the shores of glacial Lake Thun.

Our destination is Interlaken, an idyllic town picturesquely located between two turquoise lakes - Thun and Brienz - and surrounded by impressive alpine peaks. You have time here to explore and find lunch - for spectacular views, take the funicular to Harder Kulm, a viewpoint overlooking the lakes and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains.

In the afternoon, we board a deluxe motorcoach to Grindelwald, one of the oldest and most scenic alpine resorts in Switzerland. Our journey takes us through the breathtaking Lauterbrunnen Valley, meaning "loud springs" due to the 72 waterfalls located here. The deepest valley in the Alps, Lauterbrunnen epitomizes the region - sheer rock face borders the valley, waterfalls thunder from staggering heights, and idyllic meadows dotted with chalet-style houses stretch out before us. Arriving in Grindelwald, we check into our family-run hotel in time for dinner. Overnight Grindelwald.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9To the Top of Europe on the Jungfrau Railway

An unforgettable journey to Europe's highest train station awaits after breakfast. From Grindelwald, we board the Eiger Express, a high-speed cable car that rises 4,544 feet in 15 minutes to the Eiger Glacier station. With a knowledgeable guide, we join the cogwheel Jungfrau Railway for a spectacular journey to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe." Our route takes us through a tunnel dug into the rocks of the Eiger mountain before arriving at a wintry world of snow, whatever the season.

On arrival, we enjoy the panoramic vistas over the Alps and the ancient Aletsch Glacier stretching to the horizon. We then head down to the spectacular Ice Palace, a network of transparent ice tunnels carved into the glacier, featuring beautiful ice sculptures. After, we enjoy exclusive access to the Ice Bar, sampling an aperitif at a unique bar made entirely from ice. For lunch, we visit a restaurant at the summit to enjoy a meal with an unbeatable backdrop.

Returning to Grindelwald, your afternoon is free to explore the charming streets and dine independently. Overnight Grindelwald.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY10Prestige Class on the GoldenPass Express

A fantastic journey lies ahead as we board the GoldenPass Express, a hidden gem of Switzerland's panoramic trains.

Unwind in heated leather seats for ultimate comfort on a private chartered train car in Prestige class. The seats are raised higher in this car and can be rotated to offer an even more immersive experience. Indulge in a platter of local meats and cheeses with a drink while admiring the Bernese Oberland and the Pays-d'Enhaut Highlands, passing Lake Geneva as we wind downhill to French-speaking Montreux.

On arrival in Montreux, we transfer to Lausanne by deluxe motorcoach, stopping along the way at Lavaux Vinorama. The UNESCO-listed Lavaux Vineyards, first cultivated by monks in the 11th century, serves as both a museum and a tasting center. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Geneva while learning the history of winemaking in Switzerland on a guided tour, before a wine tasting with local snacks. Only a very small amount of Swiss wine is exported, making this an especially memorable experience. Arriving in Lausanne, we check into our hotel in time for dinner. Overnight Lausanne.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY11Traveling home

On this premium Swiss vacation, we have experienced exclusive journeys on three panoramic trains, including Excellence class on the Glacier Express. A luxurious dinner cruise across Lake Lucerne introduced us to the heritage and beauty of central Switzerland, and we soaked up iconic Matterhorn views from the Gornergrat Mountain Railway. We savored unique experiences at the glacial Ice Bar at Jungfraujoch and the scenic vineyards of Lavaux, where we sampled rare wines, rounding out this unforgettable vacation.

Your grand tour concludes after breakfast this morning, as you travel home independently. Geneva Airport and Zürich Airport can be reached by direct rail using your included Swiss Pass.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Hotels

Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof
Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
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Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, St Moritz
Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, St Moritz
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Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern, Lucerne
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern, Lucerne
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Riffelalp Resort 2222m, Zermatt
Riffelalp Resort 2222m, Zermatt
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Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa, Lausanne
Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa, Lausanne
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Trains

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Bernina Express arriving in Tirano
Bernina Express

Following a UNESCO World Heritage route on the  Rhaetian Railway between Chur, Switzerland, and Tirano, Italy, the Bernina Express is one of the most beloved rail lines in the Swiss Alps. Mountains, lakes, spiral loops, and the iconic Landwasser Viaduct are all featured on the 76-mile course. Steep grades are negotiated with ease, and the train passes through 55 tunnels and crosses 196 bridges in pursuit of the Mediterranean landscapes of Northern Italy. Travelers soak in the sights from panoramic train cars during the 4-hour expedition.

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Glacier Express
The Glacier Express

Undoubtedly Switzerland's best-known train, the Glacier Express winds its way through some of Europe's most dramatic and beautiful scenery. Called 'the slowest express train in the world', the panoramic carriages allow us to soak in the spectacular views as we traverse incredible mountain passes, picturesque villages and valleys between the popular alpine resorts of St Moritz and Zermatt. Enroute, the train clings to the mountainsides on the Albula Line, zigzags and spirals its way round mountains and over bridges, and delves into the Rhine Valley - also known as the 'Swiss Grand Canyon'.

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Glacier Express Excellence Class
Glacier Express Excellence Class

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Swiss Alpine scenery aboard the Glacier Express, whose breathtaking views are now accompanied by the unparalleled luxury of the new Excellence Class. Seated in an exclusive carriage where every seat is a window seat, savor the changing views while traveling between Zermatt and St. Moritz on the "World's Slowest Express Train."

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GoldenPass Line
The GoldenPass Line

Journeys on the GoldenPass Express are a wonderful introduction to Switzerland and provide the opportunity to see the country at its very best. Traveling on ultra-modern panoramic trains, you experience unparalleled views of some of Switzerland's finest scenery from weathered timbered chalets sat in peaceful sunlit valleys to dramatic peaks, glittering lakes and remote, untouched forest. The GoldenPass Express' picturesque route stretches between Montreux on the Swiss Riviera and lakeside Interlaken in the historic heart of Switzerland, passing through the popular mountain resort of Gstaad along the way.

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Enhance your holiday

Extend your stay

Many of our guests choose to spend additional nights before or after their trip. Vacations By Rail would be happy to make hotel arrangements for you.