From Alps To Mediterranean Train Tour
Stroll through a city nestled underneath the iconic Matterhorn
Experience Zurich’s dynamic atmosphere
Ride the historic Gotthard rail route
Explore Lugano’s blend of Mediterranean flow and Swiss elegance
Embrace luxury and peace on the shores of Lake Geneva
Itinerary
Welcome to Zürich, Switzerland’s largest city! Known for its well-preserved mediaeval old town and vibrant cultural scene, it will serve as the starting point of your train tour. After exploring key attractions like Bahnhofstrasse and Lake Zurich, travel to Lucerne to experience its historic sites. The day ends in the heart of Switzerland, setting the stage for a journey through stunning landscapes and rich history.
Overnight in Lucerne
Dedicate your second day to Lucerne, delving deeper into its enchanting streets and picturesque views. Take a leisurely stroll through the city and visit the Swiss Museum of Transport to understand the country’s pioneering spirit in European transit. Don’t forget to stop by the Chapel Bridge and the mesmerising Lion Monument. Spend your evening strolling along the lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the beautiful backdrop of the Alps.
Overnight in Lucerne
Today, board the Gotthard Panorama Express, which combines a scenic boat trip on Lake Lucerne with a spectacular train ride through the historic Gotthard route. Experience a panoramic view of the changing landscapes from lush greenery to rugged mountains, as you learn about the engineering marvel of the Gotthard Tunnel. The day will end in Lugano, Italy, where you’ll spend the night.
Overnight in Lugano
Spend the day in Lugano, a city in southern Switzerland with Mediterranean flair. Explore its beautiful lakeside setting and Italianate Lombardy architecture. Visit Monte San Salvatore with a funicular railway or enjoy the vibrant city life with its cafes, boutiques, and museums like the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana, which showcases modern works of art.
Overnight in Lugano
Today you’ll board the Centovalli Train (officially known as Domodossola–Locarno railway line) for a mesmerising journey through the “Hundred Valleys”. This scenic rail route takes you across numerous secluded side valleys, past rugged cliffs through the Centovalli and Valle Vigezzo. You will arrive in Zermatt in the afternoon where you can explore at your own pace.
Overnight in Zermatt
Today’s timeline is up to you. You can choose to spend the morning in Zermatt and board a train to Geneva in the afternoon or head to the train station early and catch one of the hourly trains to Geneva with a quick transfer in Visp. Regardless of your time of arrival, Geneva will kindly welcome you. Known for its Red Cross headquarters and the United Nations office, it has much to offer to those looking to dive into history, and the serene Lake Geneva will ensure a relaxing evening for those who need it.
Overnight in Geneva
Depending on your onward travel plans, spend your last morning shopping for renowned Swiss chocolates and watches, or simply relax at one of the lakeside cafes reflecting on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking scenery.
Self guided
Included in price
Start planning today!
Things to know
On our tours, we want to adjust to your needs as much as possible. That’s why we use a few different accommodations with the same quality. The place of your stay depends on your preferences, budget and availability, especially if we travel during peak season. But don’t worry, we will inform you in advance of all the details!
Your accommodations mostly include breakfast. For other meals, we are aware that everyone has different preferences, which is why we have decided to give you a free hand in choosing restaurants so everyone can eat what they want. We can recommend some places to you, and if you would like to eat at a particular restaurant or try local delicacies, we can make a reservation for you – just let us know. One thing is for sure – you will not go hungry!
Our train tours include local, regional, long-distance and sleeper trains, depending on the tour. We firmly stand behind environmentally friendly travel and authentic experiences, and train travel on established routes is the perfect combination of both. Some of our tours might include special experiences, such as riding aboard a steam train where that is possible.
We strongly encourage you to arrive at the train stations at least 15-30 minutes before your departure time to avoid any potential mishaps. Some of the train tickets may be flexible, meaning the departure time is not tied to the ticket and you can hop on another train, however, that is not always possible.