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  • Trip Excludes
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Alpine Adventure through Switzerland

Experience the Swiss Alps by Rail

Immerse yourself in the jaw-dropping natural beauty, storybook villages, and Alpine traditions of Switzerland on this 10-day luxury rail tour. Begin in Zurich, Switzerland’s cultural capital, experiencing its hip neighborhoods and lakefront energy. Then transported back in time in Bern’s exquisitely preserved medieval old town before the outdoor wonders of Interlaken and the surrounding Bernese Oberland. Finally, experience the iconic Matterhorn and endless alpine adventures surrounding Zermatt.

We’ve designed a tourthat allows you to savor the distinct pleasures of each stop. You’ll have sufficient time to explore Swiss urban culture, wander through Alpine meadows and villages, indulge in iconic cheese, chocolate and wine, take in panoramic mountain views, and truly embrace the Swiss “Gemütlichkeit” Spirit.

As you travel seamlessly between destinations aboard Switzerland’s comfortable and scenic rail system, we’ll handle all the logistics from your perfectly located hotel stays to scheduled train journeys. You’re free to fully embrace the fairy-tale landscapes and warm hospitality.

This tour is extraordinary in every part of the itinerary; an immersive journey through the magic of the Swiss Alps by rail. Prepare to fall in love with Switzerland’s incredible scenery, cherished traditions, and warm welcomes.

What your itinerary will look like:

Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrive in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! After checking into your hotel for a two-night stay, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Limmat River. Visit the iconic Grossmünster church and climb its towers for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore the trendy Zürich-West district, known for its innovative restaurants and bars housed in former industrial buildings. [Night in Zurich]

Day 2

Explore Zurich

Start your day with a visit to the Swiss National Museum to learn about Swiss history and culture. Then, take a boat trip on Lake Zurich to enjoy the stunning Alpine scenery. In the afternoon, wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and indulge in some shopping along the famous Bahnhofstrasse. End your day with a traditional Swiss dinner at a local restaurant. [Night in Zurich]

Day 3

Zurich to Bern

After breakfast, catch a train to Bern, Switzerland's capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, visiting the iconic Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and walking along the covered arcades. Don't miss the Bear Park, home to Bern's symbol, the brown bear. [Night in Bern]

Day 4

Discover Bern

Start your day with a visit to the Swiss Parliament Building (Bundeshaus). Then, explore the Einstein House, where Albert Einstein lived while developing his theory of relativity. In the afternoon, visit the Paul Klee Center to admire works by the famous Swiss-German artist. End your day with a relaxing swim in the Aare River, a popular local pastime in summer. [Night in Bern]

Day 5

Bern to Interlaken

After checking out, take a scenic train ride to Interlaken. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon taking a funicular ride up to Harder Kulm for breathtaking views of the Jungfrau region. Later, enjoy a stroll along the main street, Höheweg, and savor some Swiss chocolate at a local chocolatier. [Night in Interlaken]

Day 6

Adventure in Interlaken

Dedicate this day to outdoor activities. Consider taking a trip to Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe," or enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. For thrill-seekers, try paragliding or skydiving for unparalleled views of the Alps. End your day with a traditional Swiss fondue dinner. [Night in Interlaken]

Day 7

Interlaken to Zermatt

After breakfast, embark on a scenic train journey to Zermatt, home of the iconic Matterhorn. Check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the car-free village, visiting the Matterhorn Museum, and enjoying the mountain views from various vantage points around town. [Night in Zermatt]

Day 8

Zermatt and Gornergrat

Take the Gornergrat cog railway for spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Spend time hiking or simply enjoying the alpine scenery. In the afternoon, relax at a mountain restaurant with views of the Matterhorn, or consider visiting the Glacier Paradise for year-round snow activities. [Night in Zermatt]

Day 9

Zermatt to Zurich

After a final morning in Zermatt, take the train back to Zurich for your last night in Switzerland. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Spend your final afternoon visiting the Kunsthaus Zurich art museum or taking a food tour to sample local delicacies. End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. [Night in Zurich]

Day 10

Depart Zurich

Enjoy your last Swiss breakfast before checking out of your hotel and heading to the airport for your departure. Auf Wiedersehen!

Your rail adventure and hotel package includes: 

  • Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey. 
  • First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating. 
  • 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience. 
  • Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options. 
  • Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience. 

Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include: 

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights. 
  • Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs. 
  • Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility. 
  • Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.  
  • Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered. 
  • Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion. 
  • Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included. 

 

Important Notes 

  • Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler. 
  • Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.  
  • Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. 
  • Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package. 

All our hotel options have been carefully selected, conveniently located near the train station for your comfort.

Zurich

Our Included Favourite

Hotel Glockenhof

2 on site restaurants

Impeccable cleanliness

Popular Alternative

Townhouse Boutique Hotel

Small boutique hotel

Brand new Bar & Restaurant

Luxe Alternative

Central Plaza Hotel

Modern lifestyle and excellent service

3 on site restaurants

Bern

Our Included Favourite

NH Bern The Bristol

Historic building that was built in the 1910s

Lively bar

Popular Alternative

Hotel Savoy Bern

Family friend

Fully refurbished rooms

Luxe Alternative

Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa

The only hotel spa in the city

Rooftop bar overlooking the city of Bern

Interlaken

Our Included Favourite

Hotel Artos Interlaken

Oasis of peace

Wellness area

Popular Alternative

Carlton-Europe Vintage Adults Hotel

Hotel for grown ups

Outdoor swimming pond

Luxe Alternative

Hotel Interlaken

Family owned hotel

Consistently renovated and modernised

Zermatt

Our Included Favourite

Alpenhotel Fleurs de Zermatt

Modern, cozy, flowerfull

Indoor-outdoor pool

Popular Alternative

Hotel Alphubel Zermatt

Located in a quiet street

Most rooms have a balcony

Luxe Alternative

Hotel Simi

Small charming Spa

Special smoking room