Overview
As you near lively Lugano and the Italian border, the scenery delightfully changes from mountainous panoramas to a Mediterranean paradise complete with chestnut groves, olive and fig trees, and fruitful vineyards. Dinner at a shady and cool grotto and lunch on a traditional Swiss farm provide local, delectable dining experiences like no other.
Itinerary
Welcome to Zurich!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Swiss Chocolates & Sweet Views
This morning, join an orientation walk of Zurich's Old Town and see the Fraumünsterkirche. Admire the panorama during a scenic drive along Lake Zurich and Lake Walen into the high Alps to reach the Principality of Liechtenstein. In the capital city of Vaduz, enjoy some free time for browsing and lunching. Later, reach the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz, Enjoy free time this afternoon to discover why it is nicknamed “Top of the World.” (B/D) 174 mi / 280 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Fall in love with Zurich with a walk through the Altstadt – its Old Town, in the historic heart of the city. See the guild houses and historic squares that span both sides of the Limmat River. Gracing the shore is the famous Fraumünsterkirche, with its signature green steeple marking the skyline above stained-glass windows designed by masters Chagall and Giacometti.
Legendary Lakes of Italy & Switzerland
This morning leave St. Moritz, cross the border into Italy and enjoy a scenic drive along the sparkling waters of Lake Como. Return to Switzerland and reach the elegant lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to admire the buildings, browse the stores in the pedestrian center, try some local specialties, or stroll along the lakeside promenade. (B) 84 mi / 135 km.
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 and innovative street art.
The Heights of Beauty
This morning drive to the Italian part of Lake Maggiore and visit the charming town of Stresa. Free time to explore and stroll along the promenade before a scenic drive takes you over the Simplon Pass, one of the most important alpine routes. Reach Täsch for a panoramic mountain train ride to the world-famous resort of Zermatt. (B/D) 149 mi / 240 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Stresa is an example of Italy's splendid elegance on Lake Maggiore, overlooking the surrounding islands. With natural beauty, ornamental gardens, and grand architecture, Stresa is a study in sophistication. Luxury villas and art nouveau hotels along the shores make for a perfect place to stroll.
Peak Perfection
Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Spend the day leisurely strolling around car-free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss.
Life on the Lake
Depart Zermatt for a scenic drive through the vineyards and apricot groves of the lower Rhône Valley to reach Lake Geneva, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe. Free time this afternoon to explore independently. (B/D) 106 mi / 170km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: The glistening waters of Lake Geneva lap against its French and Swiss shores in the serene surroundings of sublime vineyards and countryside. Belle Epoque sailboats traverse the lakeshores amid castles, museums, and resort towns as they have for over a century.
Coming Up Roses in Bern
Arrive in beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland. Join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour; see some of Bern's most famous inhabitants at the Bear Park, stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city, and stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower). Later, a short drive brings you to a traditional Swiss working farm for a delicious lunch before continuing to Lucerne. (B/L) 165 mi / 265 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Explore the “City of Fountains,” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometers of arcades and animated clock tower, then indulge in lunch at a local farm.
Lion Hearted in Lucerne
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Later, prepare to have your breath taken away as you take a scenic railway ride to the top of Mount Pilatus. Receive a special souvenir cap as a memento. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Feel your heart soar as you ascend to the summit of magnificent Mount Pilatus, home to the world's steepest cogwheel railway. Look out for the legendary dragon and take in the heavenly vistas. Direct your gaze as far as the eye can see with views as far as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Down below, sparkling lakes catch the sun for a view unlike any other.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. A morning complimentary transfer to Zurich Airport in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich. (B) 42 mi / 68 km.
Trip Inclusions
- Orientation walk in Zurich's Old Town
- Visit Vaduz, St. Moritz, and Lugano
- Scenic drive includes views of Lake Como
- Visit Stresa on Lake Maggiore
- Scenic mountain train ride from Täsch to Zermatt
- Scenic drive through the lower Rhône Valley en route to Lake Geneva
- Guided walking tour in Bern
- [LF] Lunch at a traditional Swiss working farm
- Walking tour in Lucerne includes the Lion Monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge
- [LF] scenic railway ride to the top of Mount Pilatus
- 8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinner
- Zurich: Courtyard by Marriott Zurich North (First-Class):
Situated in the business district of Oerlikon, this modern hotel is just a short walk from Zurich Oerlikon Station from which downtown Zurich can easily be reached by direct train in just under 10 minutes. Combining innovative design and a fresh, contemporary style, the 152 spacious guestrooms feature plush bedding and black-out curtains to ensure a great night's sleep. All air-conditioned rooms include a lounge chair, in-room safe, mini-refrigerator, and coffee/tea-making facilities. The inviting 'Kitchen & Bar at Courtyard' restaurant offers a seasonal all-day food and beverage service, and there is a 24/7 Grab n' go Market in the lobby for snacks and drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and the fitness area is available to hotel guests 24/7. - St. Moritz: Reine Victoria By Laundinella (Tourist Class)
- Lugano: Novotel Lugano Paradiso (First-Class):
This modern mid-scale 97-room hotel is located just a short walk away from Lake Lugano with Free Wi-Fi connection and tasteful, elegant décor throughout. Soundproofed guestrooms perfectly blend comfort with technology and the restaurant is an informal setting serving fresh, tasty, healthy specialties with a bar area for simply enjoying drinks in a friendly atmosphere. The property also offers a fitness centre and an outdoor seasonal swimming pool & bar. - Zermatt: Le Mirabeau Resort and Spa (Superior First-Class):
Family run by a third generation, this charming chalet-style property is located in the heart of Zermatt's car free village. The 87 spacious guest rooms are decorated with warm colours, plush fabrics, and dark wood fllooring. All rooms are equipped with coffee/tea-making facilities,in-room safe and flat screen TV. The buffet breakfast and delicious dinners are served in the hotel's bright and airy cottage-style Restaurant Veranda while drinks can be enjoyed in the cozy all-day bar area. Recreational facilities include an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and fitness cente with Free Wi/Fi internet access available throughout. - Zermatt: La Ginabelle (Superior First-Class):
Located in central Zermatt, just a short walk away from the train station, this superior property offers a perfect blend of alpine charm with modern luxury. Guests can relax in the expansive SPA, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and an adults-only wellness area. The 40 stylish guest rooms all include flat-screen TV, minibar, safe, Free Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms. Both regional and international dining is on offer and there is also a cozy lounge bar serving signature cocktails. - Lake Geneva: Mona Montreux (First-Class):
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva with views of the Alps and strides away from the Montreux Music & Convention Center. Rooms have free Wi-Fi and a minibar. Guests can enjoy Swiss and international cuisine at the lakeside restaurant, or on the terrace, where barbecued dishes are prepared during the summer months. Other amenities include a fitness center. - Lucerne: Astoria (First-Class):
Ideally located in the heart of Lucerne, surrounded by mountains, close to its lake boasting crystal clear waters, the historic old town, and famous Chapel Bridge. All 252 contemporary rooms have a minibar and Wi-Fi. There's a plush cocktail lounge, a stylish café, and a rooftop bar affording city views. Other facilities include a full equipped modern gym. - Lucerne: Romantik Hotel Wilden Mann (First-Class):
Comprised of 7 historic town houses, this delightful property is an oasis of charm and hospitality snuggled in the picturesque old town of Lucerne. Complimentary coffee/tea making facilities are available in the public area, the spacious lounge is an inviting place to relax and the hotel's two restaurants offer a choice of local specialties and international cuisine.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m) and the ascent up Mount Pilatus takes you to an elevation of 6,982 ft (2,128m).
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Trip Reviews (3) Most Recent 'The Best of Switzerland' Reviews
Highlight? Matterhorn with beautiful weather was unbeatable, we all enjoyed every second up there. read more You did need to buy the excursions to get the best out of the tour, otherwise you were left in places where there was not much to do or see. Meals were generally good too.
We were 31 on the coach with a mix of counties - 8 Aus, 2 NZ and the rest split between USA & Canada. Can't stress enough, you need a reasonable level of fitness, 1 person in a wheel chair and some could barely make it onto the coach, but the driver and tour guide seemed to take it in their stride.
I would rate it at least 4.5 out of 5. Thanks for your help Yvonne at Global Journeys with the booking process.
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Globus Europe (2026)
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