Discover the highlights of Switzerland and beyond on a 15-day journey from Zürich to Amsterdam. Travel on some of Europe’s most scenic railways through alpine landscapes, then cruise from Basel to Amsterdam along the Rhine and Moselle rivers, passing castles and charming riverside towns along the way.
Travel to the peak of Mount Pilatus along the world’s steepest cog-wheel railway, enjoying views of flower-filled pastures, rocky mountain ledges and snow-tipped peaks.
Journey on the iconic Jungfrau Railway. See spectacular views at two observation stops, hewn out of solid rock between the rail tunnel and the infamous north face of the Eiger.
Board the GoldenPass Express for a scenic journey to Montreux. As you travel through the Swiss countryside, enjoy breathtaking views of alpine meadows, picturesque villages, and towering peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming towns of Gstaad, famous for its glitzy appeal, Château-d’Oex, known for its hot air balloon festival, and Montbovon, a peaceful village nestled in the mountains.
Step into traditional rural life at the Black Forest Open-Air Museum, where centuries-old farmhouses, workshops and costumed demonstrations reveal local customs and craftsmanship. Afterwards, savour a tasting of the region’s famous Black Forest cake, layered with cherries, cream and chocolate, for a true taste of southern Germany.
Arrive in Zürich and transfer to your hotel. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception.
This morning, embark on an orientation tour of Zürich. Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, lined with high-end boutiques and luxury brands. Admire the Gothic splendour of the Grossmünster, traditionally associated with the city’s patron saints, Felix and Regula. Your local guide will then lead you along the charming Limmatquai, a picturesque promenade beside the Limmat River, lined with historic buildings, cafés and boutiques. Afterwards, travel through the scenic Swiss countryside to Lucerne. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at your hotel.
With its breathtaking Swiss Alps backdrop, Lucerne is a delight to explore. On a guided tour, see the Lion Monument, commemorating the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution, and wander across the historic Chapel Bridge beside the medieval Water Tower.
Insider Experience – Mount Pilatus Cogwheel Railway
Travel to the summit of Mount Pilatus aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, taking in sweeping views of flower-filled pastures, rocky ledges and snow-dusted peaks.
Enhance Your Journey – Swiss Folklore Show and Dinner
Enjoy an optional evening at a traditional Swiss folklore restaurant, where a hearty local meal is accompanied by alpine horns, yodelling and musicians in traditional costume.
This morning, after breakfast, travel by coach to Interlaken, a charming resort town nestled in the heart of the Bernese Oberland. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day to explore at your own pace before dinner this evening.
Today, travel high into the Bernese Alps to Jungfraujoch, 3,454 metres above sea level and home to Europe’s highest railway station. Known as the ‘Top of Europe’, this remarkable journey climbs through dramatic mountain scenery, with views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers and alpine valleys along the way.
At the summit, admire sweeping panoramas across the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding mountains, and explore highlights such as the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observatory, enhancing the sense of wonder at this unforgettable alpine destination.
This morning, board the GoldenPass Express for a scenic rail journey to Montreux. As the train winds through the Swiss countryside, take in sweeping views of alpine meadows, storybook chalets and soaring peaks. Pass through the resort town of Gstaad, the ballooning hub of Château-d’Oex and quiet mountain hamlets tucked among the valleys. On arrival in Montreux, continue by local train to Lausanne, where the remainder of the evening is yours to explore at leisure.
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne boasts a magnificent Alpine backdrop and a picturesque old town. With the day at leisure, you may wish join an optional tour to Vevey (additional expense). This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner.
This morning, stop in Bern, Switzerland’s capital, for a guided tour. Continue to Basel to board your river ship, then this evening meet your Cruise Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception.
Disembark in Breisach and journey into the Black Forest. Travel by coach through mountains blanketed in pine and birch to the picturesque village of Triberg.
Insider Experience – Black Forest Museum and Tasting
Visit the Black Forest Open-Air Museum, where historic farmhouses, workshops and barns relocated from across the region reveal how local communities once lived and worked, from wood-carving and clock-making to traditional cooking. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of the region’s famed Black Forest cake, layered with cherries, cream and Kirsch.
Arrive in Strasbourg, the charming Alsatian city that sits on the border of France and Germany. Fairytale houses line cobblestone streets and canals, while Strasbourg Cathedral rises above the World Heritage-listed city centre.
Insider Experience – Old Town Guided Tour and Food Tasting
Set out on a guided walk through the Old Town, discovering its medieval architecture, including the famous cathedral. Along the way, sample regional specialties, such as local cheeses and traditional sweets.
Continue your cruise through the Rhine Gorge, one of the most enchanting highlights of the journey. Widely regarded as the river’s most scenic stretch, it reveals steep vineyard-clad slopes crowned by ancient castles. Your ship then docks in Rüdesheim, a picturesque wine town along the gorge. Board the Winzerexpress mini road train for a relaxed ride to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, home to an impressive collection of automated musical instruments.
Relax and take in the scenery as you cruise along one of the Moselle River’s most picturesque stretches. In Cochem, set out on a walking tour through narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses. High above the town, visit Cochem Castle, perched on a hilltop and seemingly lifted from the pages of a fairy tale.
Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.
Insider Experience – Augustusburg Palace in Germany
Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.
With historic houses lining its banks and low bridges arching overhead, Amsterdam’s network of 17th-century canals has earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North’. Today, board a glass-top boat and glide past the city’s waterside landmarks with a local guide. Back on land, enjoy free time to explore this cosmopolitan city at your own pace, wandering its charming streets and canal-side neighbourhoods.
After breakfast, disembark and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
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