From Rome to the Alps: Best of Italy & Switzerland
Overview
The satiating fun continues as you enter the vine-clad Tuscan hills famous for their signature Chianti wine—and speed across the glittering Bay of Naples to the citrus-scented town of Sorrento renowned read more for its locally produced limoncello liqueur. You’ll have the opportunity to snap creative photos at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and admire more magnificent architecture—and savor artful cuisine—throughout this multi-tiered tour of Italy and Switzerland. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of an excursion in Rome so you can plan your day your way.
If you have dreamed of taking in storybook-setting vistas, breathing in fresh Alpine air, and tasting mouth-watering Swiss chocolates, Switzerland has you covered from A to Zurich. Bustling cities, chalet-dotted hillsides, and pastoral valleys welcome you to the land of lush green farmland, glorious fondue, and glitzy fun. Join the capricious and carefree in the posh playgrounds of swanky St. Moritz, sparkling Lake Geneva, charming car-free Zermatt, and Italy’s celebrated and celebrity-filled Lake Como.
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 Rome!
At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Spend your day your way in Rome.
Explore more of Rome with your choice of an included Globus Choice Excursion.
- Rome of the Caesars - Time travel to ancient Rome! Stand in the Colosseum and let your imagination be captured by stories of gladiator games and emperor reigns. Delve deeper into the Rome of the Caesars with a guided walk through the Roman Forum, once the beating heart of the Roman Empire; see the Palatine Hill considered to be the birthplace of Rome.
- The Papal City - Explore the Papal City for a guided visit of the extensive Vatican Museums. Lift your eyes to the heavens in the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece ceiling fresco, then continue to St. Peter's Square to see the breathtaking St. Peter's Basilica. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to admire Castel Sant'Angelo, the former Papal Fortress.
Enjoy free time later this afternoon and evening to explore more of this charismatic city. * For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.
The Tilted Tower
Stop in Pisa to visit the Square of Miracles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the location of one of the most recognizable monuments in the world – the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Later, arrive at your hotel in the Tuscan spa town of Montecatini.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - See architecture gone askew from the viewpoint of the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. Take the ultimate selfie in front of the Leaning Tower with a tilt of the head or other popular poses to commemorate your visit to this hub of European medieval art in Pisa's beautiful piazza.
Italian Beauties
Florence is one of Italy's most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for a visit of the Academy of Fine Arts, to see Michelangelo's David statue, followed by a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto's Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry's “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore more of Florence “La Bella”.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are treated to some of the world's most magnificent art. Home to a wealth of Renaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo's marble masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle in the Academy of Fine Arts. Outside, the Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments.
Voyage to Venice
Today, drive across the Apennine Mountains and River Po to reach Venice.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Today's drive to Venice takes you through a shifting tapestry of Italian landscapes. From Tuscany's soft green hills and vineyards through the wide open fields of Emilia‑Romagna and Veneto's flat countryside crossed by rivers and canals, the scenery continually changes. As you approach the Venetian Lagoon, the land gradually gives way to water. The lagoon stretches out like a calm, shimmering basin, dotted with tiny islands, fishing huts, and wooden poles rising from the surface to guide boats along the channels.
Benvenuti a Venezia
Embark on a private boat ride before meeting your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing walk. See St. Mark's Square, with its landmark columns and Basilica, and visit the ornate Doge's Palace with the Bridge of Sighs. Visit a favorite vetreria (glass factory), meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to meander along the canals and through the traditional Venetian calli and campi (alleyways and squares).
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Locals simply call Piazza San Marco “la piazza.” As paired with the smaller Piazzetta, it forms the social, religious, and political hub of Venice, which Napoleon called “the drawing room of Europe.” St. Mark's Basilica dominates the square, offering visitors a spectacular view of the great arches, marble embellishments, and the Romanesque carvings of its façade. Also gracing the square is Doge's Palace – a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. The enclosed Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace with the prison, gets its name from the prisoners sighing as they took in their last view of the Rio di Palazzo on their walk to the prison's interrogation rooms.
Medieval Marvels
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Apennine Mountains to the stunning hilltop town of Assisi, an important center for both religion and art, and birthplace of St. Francis. Meet your Local Guide for a walking tour in the medieval center which includes a visit to the Basilicas of St. Clare and St. Francis.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity and founded the Franciscan Order. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried.
Time Standing Still in Pompeii
Together with a Local Guide, visit the incredible excavations of Pompeii. As you walk along the ancient streets, hear about day-to-day life under the Roman Empire and discover what happened when Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Later, travel by jetfoil across the Bay of Naples to the captivating island of Capri. Upon disembarkation take a funicular ride from the harbor to Capri village.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - The fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii is a treasured glimpse into Roman life near the Bay of Naples. This once thriving and sophisticated Roman city was consumed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, with its residents and structures buried beneath inescapable ash and stone. See the preserved site of excavated ruins that reveal remarkable frescoes, artwork, and artifacts within its streets and the dwellings of the people who perished here.
Coves & Cliffs on the Clear Blue Sea
Join your Local Guide this morning to explore the idyllic isle of Capri. Travel to the pretty village of Anacapri perched high on the island and visit the famous Villa San Michele. Later, take the funicular to Marina Grande and board a boat for a spectacular, scenic cruise around the island (weather permitting). This afternoon and evening are at leisure to experience more of the island.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Visit stunning Villa San Michele perched high above the breathtaking Bay of Naples. Swedish physician Axel Munthe dedicated much of his life to the construction of the villa and surrounding gardens. His masterpiece, the Story of San Michele, recounts of his wish for a “house open to the sun and wind and the voice of the sea, like a Greek temple, and light, light, light everywhere!”
Arrivederci, Roma
This morning, board a jetfoil to reach the clifftop town of Sorrento. After a brief orientation, enjoy free time to browse the artisan stores, try local specialties, or just relax and watch the world go by. Return to Rome and join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Just as the sirens of Greek mythology lured sailors to the rocky shores of Sorrento, so we are drawn to its sun-drenched cliffs, where legendary authors like Byron, Goethe, Dickens, and Tolstoy soaked in the sun and local inspiration in the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Here, in the town of lemons, give in to the sweet temptations of lemon gelato and limoncello to toast the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Transfer to Zurich, Switzerland's biggest city.
*Tour Director and travel companions will change for the second part of the itinerary.
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.”
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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.
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 pastelcolored 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. Enjoy 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.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - Spend the day leisurely strolling around car-free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of ski 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. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore independently.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - The glistening waters of Lake Geneva lap against its French and Swiss shores in the serene surroundings of sublime vineyards and countryside. Belle Époque sailboats traverse the lakeshore amid castles, museums, and resort towns as they have for over a century.
Coming Up Roses in Bern
Arrive in beautiful Bern, the 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 City 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.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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 and most moving piece of rock 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.
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 stretching 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 is available in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich.
Trip Inclusions
- Globus Choice Excursion in Rome − Included in your tour with your choice of a guided sightseeing to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, plus see St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, and Castel Sant'Angelo, or a guided visit to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the hub of Imperial Rome.
- Guided walking tour in Florence, discovering the city's historic streets and treasures Visit to Florence's Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo's Davidstatue, one of the world's most celebrated Renaissance masterpieces
- Visit to Pisa's “Square of Miracles” for a photo opportunity with the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Private boat ride on Venice's canals, experiencing the city's iconic waterways from the water
- Guided walking tour in Venice features sights of St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and Bridge of Sighs
- Guided walking tour in Assisi includes St. Clare's Church and St. Francis' Basilica, two of the city's most important religious landmarksGuided walking tour of the archaeological site of Pompeii, exploring the remarkably preserved ancient Roman city
- Guided sightseeing in Capri features a visit to the famous Villa San Michele
- Funicular ride in Capri plus a [LF] scenic cruise (weather permitting) around the island for spectacular coastal views
- Visit Sorrento, the picturesque cliffside town overlooking the Bay of Naples
- Orientation walk in Zurich's Old Town, , discovering its medieval streets, historic churches, and charming riverside setting
- Visit Vaduz, St. Moritz, and Lugano, exploring Liechtenstein's capital, a world-famous Alpine resort, and a lakeside city with Mediterranean flair Scenic drive includes views of Lake Como, renowned for its sparkling waters and elegant lakeside villas
- Visit Stresa on Lake Maggiore, a picturesque resort town overlooking the Borromean Islands
- Scenic mountain train ride from Täsch to Zermatt, arriving in the iconic car-free Alpine village beneath the Matterhorn
- Scenic drive through the lower Rhône Valley en route to Lake Geneva, passing vineyards and picturesque landscapesGuided walking tour in Bern, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City and its medieval arcades [LF] Lunch at a traditional Swiss working farm, enjoying authentic regional cuisine and warm Swiss hospitalityWalking tour in Lucerne includes the Lion Monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge, exploring the city's best-loved historic landmarks
- [LF] scenic railway ride to the top of Mount Pilatus, taking in spectacular panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and surrounding lakes
- 18 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 10 Dinner
- Rome: Radisson Blu Rome (First-Class):
Radisson Blu Rome is situated just a few minutes away from Via Veneto & the city's historic center. It has 285 sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with an LED TV, Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk and a bathroom furnished with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Classic Mediterranean delicacies, an aperitivo or a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed on the stylish 7th floor roof restaurant and bar and there is also a fitness room. - Rome: NYX Roma (First-Class):
This newly refurbished hotel is situated in Rome's prestigious Prati district. It's a short walk from Castel Sant'Angelo and offers easy access to major attractions such as Vatican City and Piazza Navona. The hotel offers stylish and modern rooms with a touch of urban flair. Expect contemporary design, comfortable beds, and essential amenities. Many restaurants, bar and shops are available in the immediate vicinity. - Montecatini: Croce Di Malta (First-Class):
Located in the heart of Montecatini Terme, this 136 room property has excellent facilities including a seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pool and spa area, a lounge bar and restaurant serving local dishes. - Venice Island: Carlton on the Grand Canal (First-Class):
A plush traditional Venetian style hotel set in a majestic four story building with refined interiors such as Murano glass wall lamps and gilt-edged furniture. Perfectly placed on the Grand Canal, with a vaporetto stop right outside and close to the main train station, this property offers great transportation access with the Rialto Bridge close by. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property which has an elegant fine-dining restaurant, a lobby bar, and a lovely rooftop terrace where drinks are served with views of the spired city skyline as a backdrop. 145 air-conditioned classically styled guestrooms offer coffee/tea-making facilities. - Venice Island: NH Venezia Santa Lucia (Superior First-Class):
An elegant 4-star hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, just steps from Santa Lucia train station. It features Venetian-style rooms with modern comforts, a rich breakfast buffet, and a cozy bar. Its central location is perfect for exploring Venice on foot or by vaporetto. - Capri: Weber Ambassador (First-Class):
In an exclusive location, hotel Weber Ambassador overlooks the bay of Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni rocks on the island of Capri. It offers a free shuttle to/from the town center and free access to its three swimming pools, two hot tubs, and fitness center. All of the spacious Capri-style (ceramic tiles floors and wooden furniture) guestrooms are air-conditioned and feature an LCD TV with international channels, kettle kit, safe, and minibar. Most guestrooms come with a balcony or terrace, or alternatively offer a view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Wi-Fi is available. The property is complete with three bars and an international restaurant specializing in fresh fish dishes. The hotel also features an in-house hair salon. Via a picturesque stone stairway, it is also possible to reach the adjacent private beach. - Rome: Albani (First-Class):
Located in a quiet residential area, this 154-room colorful hotel offers Free Wi-Fi internet access throughout, a Mediterranean restaurant featuring an original crystal chandelier and an American bar serving snacks and late night drinks. - 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 (First-Class):
Enjoying a quiet location in St. Moritz-Bad, Queen Victoria of England is the namesake of this upscale Art Nouveau hotel, built in 1875. The special aura of this historic gem's charm is conveyed to guests through the stucco ceilings, high mirrors and the many chandeliers, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern comfort. The property features 141 elegant guest rooms with classic décor, Free Wi-Fi access, in-room safe and flat-screen Tv. The extensive breakfast buffet is served in a classic ambience and the Vic's Bar, steeped in history is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail, snacks and drinks are also available. - 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: 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. - 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.
- 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.
- This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or those reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
- For operational reasons, schedule changes to the Rome program cannot be excluded.
- 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).
- This is a combined itinerary of two tours; therefore, the tour director and travel companion will differ for each segment.
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Dates & Pricing
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
