Switzerland by Rail

Land Tour

Zurich → Geneva

Delve into Switzerland’s spellbinding alpine scenery by rail with extraordinary journeys aboard the Bernina Express, Glacier Express and GoldenPass Express.

Highlights

Visit Tenuta Castello di Morcote during a special Signature Experience, a farm and wine estate in Switzerland located on a promontory surrounded by Lake Lugano. View the estate’s terraced vineyards, olive groves and Morcote Castle, which was built in the 15th century. You’ll then enjoy a wine tasting experience.
On a unique Signature Experience in Switzerland, meet a local mountaineer in Zermatt, who will share stories of their conquests and what life is like living in the mountains. 
Embark on a scenic rail journey aboard the glass-domed GoldenPass Express. First, the train runs along the river Aare before passing the lush green farmland of the Simmen Valley and climbing to the line’s highest point at 1,279 metres above sea level into the heartland of the Berner Oberland.
Board the legendary Bernina Express for an unforgettable rail journey through the Swiss Alps. Travel past towering glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks, and charming alpine villages as you cross into Switzerland on one of the world’s most scenic train routes.
Board the Glacier Express to experience an extraordinary journey from the Bernina Range to the Matterhorn in Switzerland. During the ride, you’ll cross more than 200 bridges and countless tunnels as you traverse the Alps in style before arriving in Zermatt.

From price

$18,895

$18,095

Price per person, twin share

Number Of Days	13
Start Location	Zurich, Switzerland
End Location	Geneva, Switzerland
Age Range	Avg. 45+
Group Size	10 to 45
Tour Style	Luxury
Tour Themes	No specific theme
Physical Rating	Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

Price per person, twin share

Start	End	Availability	Price
04 Jun 2027	16 Jun 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
18 Jun 2027	30 Jun 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
02 Jul 2027	14 Jul 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
16 Jul 2027	28 Jul 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
30 Jul 2027	11 Aug 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
13 Aug 2027	25 Aug 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
27 Aug 2027	08 Sep 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
10 Sep 2027	22 Sep 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
24 Sep 2027	06 Oct 2027	Available	$18,895 $18,095
26 May 2028	07 Jun 2028	Available	$19,095 $18,495
09 Jun 2028	21 Jun 2028	Available	$19,095 $18,495
16 Jun 2028	28 Jun 2028	Available	$19,095 $18,495

Itinerary details

Day 1 - Arrive Zürich

Arrive before 1.30pm, and we'll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. An afternoon orientation discovery is on the cards, followed by a welcome reception. 

Day 2 - Zürich, Lucerne, Engelberg

You will be well looked after throughout your journey with a special baggage transfer service, which means we’ll take care of the heavy lifting as your bags are chauffeured from one hotel to the next. Journey to Lucerne and set out on a walking exploration of the city. You’ll then continue to your hotel in Engelberg, perched high in the mountains at the foot of Mount Titlis.

Day 3 - Engelberg, Mount Titlis

This morning, board a cable car, which takes you 3,020 metres above sea level as you ascend Mount Titlis. Visit the glacier cave, a walkway that descends ten metres below the surface of the only glacier in the region. You can then take in the breathtaking views on Europe’s highest suspension bridge. Later, enjoy free time to relax at your hotel and explore the charming village of Engelberg.

Day 4 - Engelberg, Lugano

Embark on a spectacular rail journey aboard the Gotthard Panorama Express through the Gotthard Base Tunnel to Lugano. This picturesque lakeside city is nestled amid the mountains in the Italian region of Switzerland. On arrival in Lugano, a Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Tenuta Castello di Morcote Wine Tour

Visit Tenuta Castello di Morcote, a farm and wine estate located on a promontory entirely surrounded by Lake Lugano. View the estate’s terraced vineyards, olive groves and Morcote Castle, which was built in the 15th century. You’ll then savour a wine tasting experience.

Day 5 - Lugano

Soak up the pleasant year-round climate in this beautiful city. Cruise the peaceful waters of Lake Lugano, then it’s time to ascend the peak of Monte Brè, which rewards you with sensational views over Lugano. The evening has been kept free for you to explore at your own pace.

Day 6 - Lugano, Tirano, St. Moritz

Cross the border into Italy’s Tirano by coach, where you’ll join your rail journey aboard the Bernina Express. Take in the panoramic views as you travel to St. Moritz. 

Day 7 - St. Moritz, Zermatt

Another day brings another incredible rail adventure. Board the Glacier Express to experience a journey from the Bernina Range to the Matterhorn. During the ride, you’ll cross more than 200 bridges and countless tunnels as you traverse the Alps in style before arriving in Zermatt.

Day 8 - Zermatt

Take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway for the best views of the towering Matterhorn. Later, enjoy a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Meet a Local Mountaineer

Meet a local mountaineer, who will share stories of their conquests and what life is like living in the mountains. 

Enrich Your Experience – Scenic Helicopter Flight

In the afternoon, you may like to embark on a scenic helicopter flight from Zermatt (additional expense). This unforgettable 20-minute flight offers an incredible aerial perspective of the region's spectacular mountains, including the Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, Dent Blanch, Matterhorn, Thodulpass, Breithron, and Gornergrat.

Day 9 - Zermatt, Spiez, Wengen

Farewell Zermatt as you board your train bound for Spiez. Upon arrival into Spiez, board a lake cruise and travel along the picturesque alpine Lake Thun to Interlaken. From Interlaken, you will travel by train to the idyllic Swiss resort village of Wengen.

Day 10 - Wengen, Jungfraujoch

Your rail journey today is nothing short of extraordinary as you travel to the Jungfraujoch railway station, the highest in Europe at 3,454 metres above sea level. As you take in the panoramic mountain vistas, you'll feel as though you're on top of the world.

Day 11 - Wengen, Montreux

Travel to Interlaken, where you will embark on a scenic rail journey aboard the glass-domed GoldenPass Express. First, the train runs along the Aare River before passing the lush green farmland of the Simmen Valley and climbing to the line’s highest point at 1,279 metres above sea level into the heart of the Bernese Oberland. Arrive in Montreux with time to relax before dinner.

Day 12 - Montreux, Geneva

Set out on a brief orientation tour of Montreux, then travel to Geneva. Here, you will embark on a one-hour cruise along the breathtaking shores of Lake Geneva. Take in unrivalled views of Mont-Blanc, the United Nations Office at Geneva, iconic landmarks, famous villas, and beautiful parks and gardens. Later tonight, come together for a farewell dinner.

Day 13 - Depart Geneva

Today, your incredible adventure comes to an end. Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose this tour?

This luxury tour offers a truly extraordinary way to experience Switzerland's alpine scenery through three of the world's most famous rail journeys: the Bernina Express, Glacier Express, and GoldenPass Express. You'll enjoy unique Signature Experiences, such as a wine tasting at Tenuta Castello di Morcote and a personal meeting with a local mountaineer in Zermatt, all while benefiting from a convenient baggage transfer service that handles the heavy lifting between hotels.

What type of traveller is this tour designed for, what type of traveller will enjoy this tour most?

This tour is designed for luxury travellers who appreciate scenic beauty, comfort, and curated cultural experiences. Those who love breathtaking mountain vistas, sophisticated rail travel, and a blend of guided exploration and leisure time will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.

What are the pros and cons of this tour?

The pros include the inclusion of world-renowned panoramic trains, luxury accommodations, and unique local encounters, as well as the convenience of a baggage transfer service. While the tour is comprehensive and high-end, some travellers might find the luxury price point a consideration, and certain activities, like the scenic helicopter flight in Zermatt, require an additional expense.

Is this a good option for solo travellers, couples, or families?

With its luxury style and focus on scenic rail journeys and cultural experiences, this tour is an excellent choice for couples and solo travellers seeking a sophisticated getaway. While it can be enjoyed by families, the itinerary and luxury focus are well-suited for adults who appreciate the slower pace of panoramic sightseeing.

Is this tour better for first-time visitors or experienced travellers?

This tour is ideal for both first-time visitors and experienced travellers. First-timers will love the comprehensive coverage of iconic landmarks like the Matterhorn and Jungfraujoch, while experienced visitors will appreciate the deep dives into specific regions through Signature Experiences and the luxury of the premier express trains.

Is this suitable for people with mobility concerns?

The tour is rated as 'Easy to Moderate' in terms of physicality. While much of the journey takes place on comfortable trains and cruises, there are walking explorations in cities like Lucerne and visits to mountain peaks via cable cars and railways, so guests with significant mobility concerns may wish to inquire about specific accessibility details.

Is this tour more focused on sightseeing, culture, or adventure?

This tour provides a balanced blend of sightseeing and culture. It focuses heavily on the stunning natural sightseeing of the Swiss Alps and lakes, while integrating cultural elements through wine tastings, visits to historic castles, and personal stories from local mountaineers.

What is the pace of this tour (fast-paced vs relaxed)?

The pace of this tour is generally relaxed and sophisticated. While it covers several cities and mountain ranges, the use of luxury trains and the inclusion of free time—such as the free evening in Lugano—ensure that guests can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Does the itinerary feel rushed or relaxed?

The itinerary feels relaxed, as it prioritizes the experience of the journey itself. By utilizing scenic rail routes and providing dedicated time for orientation and leisure, the tour allows guests to soak in the atmosphere of the Swiss Alps and lakeside cities at a comfortable speed.

Are key highlights and landmarks included?

Yes, the tour includes many of Switzerland's most iconic highlights. You will visit the Matterhorn in Zermatt, the highest railway station in Europe at Jungfraujoch, the breathtaking shores of Lake Geneva, and the stunning peaks of Mount Titlis and Monte Brè.

Are language barriers handled by the guide?

While the text does not explicitly mention a guide's language services, the tour is provided by a professional supplier (APT) and includes organized transfers, orientation tours, and curated experiences, which typically ensure that guests are well-supported throughout their journey.

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