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Hidden Gems of Switzerland by Train

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Operated by Globus
Tripcode: DS
Overview
Destination:
Switzerland
Duration:8 days
Type:Group tour (max 18)
Travel Period
May 2027 - September 2027
8 days from Zurich to Zurich
Small groups translate to great experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour. Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 18 guests in Europe, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours.

Discover Switzerland through a journey where the scenery is every bit as spectacular as the destinations themselves. From the elegance of Zurich and the timeless charm of Lucerne, your adventure unfolds across sparkling lakes, picturesque towns, and breathtaking Alpine landscapes. Cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Lucerne before boarding the legendary Gotthard Panorama Express, where dramatic mountain vistas give way to the Mediterranean ambiance of Lugano. The experience reaches new heights aboard the iconic Bernina Express, an unforgettable rail journey that winds through soaring glaciers, rugged peaks, and some of the most remarkable scenery in the Swiss Alps en route to Pontresina in the St. Moritz Area. Combining world-renowned train travel, stunning natural beauty, and authentic Swiss hospitality, this captivating vacation offers an enchanting introduction to the very best of Switzerland—all while enjoying the warmth, camaraderie, and personalized attention that come on a Small Group Discovery Tour.
All This. Included
Special Features Included in this Tour:
• Rail journey from Zurich to Lucerne through beautiful Swiss landscapes
• Discover Lucerne's iconic Lion Monument and historic Chapel Bridge
• Scenic cruise across stunning Lake Lucerne
• Ride the legendary Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano through spectacular Swiss Alpine scenery
• Experience the world-famous Bernina Express to St. Moritz Area crossing the dramatic Swiss Alps
• Enjoy panoramic Alpine views en route to Zurich by scenic Swiss rail

Notes:
  • This rail tour requires guests to walk between hotels and train stations. Uneven terrain and stairs in some train stations and included experiences may pose challenges for guests with physical limitations or those reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.

    High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m).

    One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 23 kg/50 lbs will be transported from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel on travelling days. As for the hand luggage, a small backpack/hand bag containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, etc.) to carry during the train journeys and daily activities is recommended.

Highlights:
Itinerary
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Day 1 - ARRIVE IN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
Your Small Group Discovery Begins!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Day 2 - ZURICH–LUCERNE
All aboard!
This morning, experience your first adventure on a Swiss train. Hop aboard and leave Zurich behind as you head for charming Lucerne. This afternoon, join an orientation walk to see Lucerne’s highlights. Admire the 14th-century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss, the iconic Lion Monument, and the charming Altstadt (Old Town) with its quaint streets and painted buildings. Enjoy free time this evening to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
See the symbol of Lucerne, the famous Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Originally built in 1365, the bridge includes the Wasserturm (water tower) that once served as a prison. Today, this world-famous timber bridge is Lucerne’s most photographed landmark.

Day 3 - LUCERNE
Leisure by the lake
A whole day to do as you please. Explore more on your own and get better acquainted with this picture-perfect town, or join an optional excursion up one of the mighty mountains that surround it. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
What better way to spend this free day than with an excursion to the top of Mt. Pilatus? Ascend via panoramic gondolas and descend via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, passing exquisite alpine meadows and dramatic rock formations. Take in spectacular views of central Switzerland. Feel on top of the world because you are! Send a yodel across the Swiss peaks in the tradition of mountaineers of old.


Day 4 - LUCERNE–LUGANO
Alpine Splendor
A real treat awaits today! Discover the perfect blend of spectacular scenery and Swiss charm on this unforgettable journey. Begin with a scenic cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Lucerne, passing the striking Schiller Stone and the beautiful Rütli Meadow as you take in the breathtaking alpine views. Reach Flüelen and embark on the Gotthard Panorama Express train for a stunning journey along the historical Gotthard route to reach the elegant lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening.(B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
The Gotthard Panorama Express boat cruises across Lake Lucerne offering a memorable experience amid some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery. As the vessel glides across the tranquil waters, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine peaks while passing iconic landmarks such as the historic Rütli Meadow, regarded as the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation, and the striking Schiller Stone, which commemorates the poet Friedrich Schiller and Switzerland’s legendary story of William Tell. Combining stunning landscapes, rich history, and the intimacy of a shared small-group experience, this scenic cruise is a truly special way to discover the heart of Switzerland.

Day 5 - LUGANO
Swiss Celebration
Take advantage of a day at leisure to explore more of Lugano; admire the buildings, browse the stores in the pedestrian center, try some local specialties, or stroll along the lakeside promenade. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to discover further afield.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
Explore more in Lugano to see its mix of Italian and Swiss style and culture reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Standing on the lake’s northern shore, the city is surrounded by mountain peaks. Lugano’s Piazza della Riforma and pastel palazzos share the ambience of this lovely Swiss city with impressive architecture and bold, innovative street art.

Day 6 - LUGANO–ST. MORITZ AREA
Mountain Magic
This morning, join the locals for a scenic coach ride to Tirano, Italy, where you will embark on the world-famous Bernina Express train (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for one of Europe’s most spectacular and breathtaking train rides. Travel across the lofty Bernina Pass via Poschiavo, witnessing an array of beautiful mountain streams, glaciers, and alpine scenery along the way to the renowned St. Moritz area.
(B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Bernina railway line dates back to 1910, however, the famous Bernina Express tourist service was only introduced in 1973 and has since become one of Switzerland's most celebrated rail journeys, carrying passengers through a breathtaking landscape of soaring mountains, sparkling glaciers, deep gorges, and charming Alpine villages.


Day 7 - ST. MORITZ AREA–ZURICH
Sweet Endings
This morning, enjoy some free time in glamorous St. Moritz before departing on a scenic rail journey back to Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant cultural and financial capital. This evening, celebrate your Swiss adventure with your fellow travelers at a special farewell dinner, sharing memories of the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes enjoyed throughout your journey. (B,D)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
St. Moritz is a world-famous mountain resort nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. More than just a picturesque holiday destination, it is celebrated as the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism, dating back to 1864, and has proudly hosted the Winter Olympics twice. The town is renowned for its elegant atmosphere, stunning mountain views, and charming chalet-style buildings, many adorned with vibrant geraniums that add to its unique beauty and appeal.


Day 8 - ZURICH
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Dates

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Travellers

Operator
Globus

At Globus, we’re not just hooked on travel as a destination, but on the way travel makes you feel. Our promise is to craft adventures you’ll want to re-live forever. Our story began more than 90 years ago, when a young Swiss Antonio Mantegazza began transporting tourists across Lake Lugano on his rowboat, sharing stories and revealing local secrets along the way. On that lake, Globus was born. Discovering a passion for tourism and a knack for business, Antonio’s services expanded beyond river transport to bus touring, from Switzerland to Europe and then, the world. After 90 years curating travel wonderment, our passion for curating the perfect trip remains. At Globus, we have the experience and local knowledge to craft immersive adventures that make you feel alive. Expect to see all the major sites, but then go deeper, to the beating heart of every new discovery. As they say, when you’re in the moment, it’s not what you know, but who you know, and you’ll quickly discover our Tour Directors know all the local secrets and insider tips. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination. It's time to tour with Globus.

Important Information
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Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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7 nights
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