Grand Tour Of Switzerland by Rail

Grand Tour Of Switzerland by Rail

5,334 Views
8 Days From

$2309

Grand Tour Of Switzerland by Rail

8 Days Starting in Zurich and ending in St. Gallen

Visiting: Zurich, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lugano, Lucerne, St. Gallen

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Rail Tours

From: $2309

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

about this trip



This enchanting Swiss adventure seamlessly weaves scenic train rides with captivating destinations. The adventure begins in Zurich, where you board the train to Interlaken offering breathtaking vistas en route to the heart of Switzerland, Interlaken. The following days unfold like a dream with highlights including the celebrated GoldenPass Line to Montreux, a leisurely stay in the traffic-free village of Zermatt beneath the iconic Matterhorn and a mesmerizing journey on The Glacier Express to the elegant resort of St. Moritz. Then Bernina Express will take you through the picturesque Engadine Valley to Lugano, where you explore the vibrant city before a scenic transfer to Lucerne via the Gotthard Panorama Express. The next day, the adventure continues with the Voralpen-Express to St. Gallen, unveiling the rugged beauty of northeastern Switzerland. Your extraordinary Swiss sojourn concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks

Highlights

  • Enjoy breathtaking views along the Golden Pass Line from Interlaken to Montreux

  • Explore Zermatt and visit the traffic-free village with the iconic Matterhorn backdrop

  • Immerse in lush valleys, mountain passes and the Rhine Gorge en route to St. Moritz

  • Unveil the Panoramic views of the Engadine Valley renowned for its stunning landscapes

  • Relish the spectacular views from the panoramic car of the Gotthard Panorama Express

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Zurich (Arrival) - Lucerne - Interlaken

Location: Zurich

Accommodation Name: Onboard

Welcome to Switzerland! upon your arrival at the airport, make your way to Zurich Airport train station to board the train to Interlaken via Lucerne. Enjoy the scenic journey along the shores of crystal-clear lakes, past romantic waterfalls and over the magnificent Brunig mountain pass. Experience the iconic Chapel Bridge and witness the awe-inspiring views of Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. Once you arrive at Interlaken, make your own way to the hotel. Spend your afternoon at leisure to explore the city




Overnight in Interlaken

Day 2: Interlaken - Montreux (B/-/-)

Location: Interlaken

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Interlaken

Today after breakfast, you will make your way to the train station to board GoldenPass Express. Your journey continues through the wild and romantic landscapes of Pays d'Enhaut. Admire the charming villages of Zweisimmen, the luxurious ambiance of Gstaad and the captivating beauty of Montreux along the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. Upon arrival in Montreux, make your own way to the hotel. Spend your afternoon at leisure to explore the city




Overnight in Montreux

Day 3: Montreux – Zermatt (B/-/-)

Location: Montreux

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Montreux

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning after breakfast, make your own way to the train station as you will head towards Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn offering numerous exploration opportunities. Montreux to Zermatt offers a picturesque journey through Switzerland, showcasing the scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps and iconic Matterhorn views. Upon arrival in Zermatt, make your own way to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. You may visit Gornergrat, towering at 3,135 meters, provides a breathtaking panorama of the Swiss Alps




Overnight in Zermatt

Day 4: Zermatt - St. Moritz (B/-/-)

Location: Zermatt

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Zermatt

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, make your own way to the train station to board the world-renowned Glacier Express to St. Moritz for the incredible journey through lush valleys, mountain passes and the magnificent Rhine Gorge. Make the most of the spellbinding views from the trains large panoramic windows as you make your way to the elegant resort of St Moritz. The evening is at leisure to explore the alpine resort town, famous for its luxurious Alpine ambiance and the sparkling Lake St. Moritz




Overnight in St. Moritz

Day 5: St. Moritz – Tirano - Lugano (B/-/-)

Location: St. Moritz

Accommodation Name: Hotel in St. Moritz

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning after breakfast, make your own way to the train station and board the Bernina Express, as you travel from St. Moritz to Switzerland's Italian-speaking region, Ticino. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Engadine Valley, from towering palm trees to foaming waterfalls. Upon reaching Tirano in Italy, your adventure continues on the Bernina Express bus, traversing Italy before arriving in the Swiss city of Lugano. Take the opportunity to explore this vibrant city as you make your own way to the hotel.




Overnight in Lugano

Day 6: Lugano - Lucerne (B/-/-)

Location: Lugano

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Lugano

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today after breakfast, make your own way to the train station and board the Gotthard Panorama Express as you travel from the Mediterranean south to Fluelen via Bellinzona, relish the spectacular views from the panoramic car of the Gotthard Panorama Express. Immerse yourself in Swiss history as you traverse the renowned Gotthard Tunnel, a testament to engineering marvels and a key link in the country's transportation infrastructure. In Fluelen, step onto a historic paddle steamer cruising across the scenic Lake Lucerne for an atmospheric voyage to Lucerne. Upon arrival make your own way to the hotel. The afternoon is at leisure. Marvel at the iconic Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, a symbol of the city's rich history and architectural elegance. Stroll along this historic wooden bridge, adorned with a tower and water tower, as you soak in the charm of Lucerne's Old Town and appreciate the captivating views of the Reuss River.




Overnight in Lucerne

Day 7: Lucerne - St. Gallen (B/-/-)

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, make your own way to the train station to board the train to St. Gallen. Discover the rugged beauty of north-eastern Switzerland aboard the charming Voralpen-Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen, which connects Central and Eastern Switzerland. Today, you will experience the diverse beauty of the high moorland near Rothenthurm, the charm of Rapperswil, the scenic allure of Lake Zurich and the idyllic landscapes of Appenzellerland. Upon arrival in St. Gallen, make your own way to the hotel.




Overnight in St. Gallen

Day 8: St. Gallen – Zurich (B/-/-)

Location: St. Gallen

Accommodation Name: Hotel in St. Gallen

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today after breakfast, make your own your way to the train station and board your train to Zurich. Upon Arrival in Zurich, make your own way to the Zurich international airport for your flight back.

What's Included

  • 07 nights accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

  • Daily breakfast

  • 2nd Class train ticket from Zurich Airport Station - Lucerne Station - Interlaken Station on day - 02

  • 2nd Class train ticket from St. Gallen Station to Zurich Station on day - 09

  • GoldenPass Express train from Interlaken to Montreux

  • Glacier Express train from Zermatt to St. Moritz

  • Bernina Express train from St. Moritz to Tirano

  • Bernina Express bus from Tirano to Lugano

  • Gotthard Panorama Express train from Lugano to Lucerne (1st Class)

  • Train journey on the Voralpen-Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen

show more

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities

  • Arrival and Departure transfers

  • City taxes if applicable

  • Items not mentioned as included

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with 2nd Class train tickets for various scenic routes, including the GoldenPass Express, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Gotthard Panorama Express, along with a Bernina Express bus journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring a restful stay throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 07 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Daily breakfast is included in the tour package.

  • What kind of train tickets are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 2nd Class train tickets from Zurich Airport Station to Lucerne Station to Interlaken Station on day 2, and from St. Gallen Station to Zurich Station on day 9. Additionally, it includes tickets for the GoldenPass Express, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Bernina Express bus, Gotthard Panorama Express (1st Class), and the Voralpen-Express.

  • What are some of the scenic highlights of the train journeys?

    The train journeys offer breathtaking views along the Golden Pass Line, the scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps, the Rhine Gorge, the Engadine Valley, and the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. You will also experience the Gotthard Tunnel and a historic paddle steamer cruise across Lake Lucerne.

  • What activities are available during leisure time in the cities visited?

    During leisure time, you can explore the cities of Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lugano, Lucerne, and St. Gallen. Activities include visiting the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, exploring the alpine resort town of St. Moritz, and discovering the vibrant city of Lugano.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?

    Yes, items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities, arrival and departure transfers, city taxes if applicable, and items not mentioned as included are not covered in the tour package.

  • What is the mode of transportation between cities?

    The primary mode of transportation between cities is by train, including the GoldenPass Express, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, and Voralpen-Express.

  • Is there any special train experience included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes special train experiences such as the panoramic car of the Gotthard Panorama Express and the historic paddle steamer cruise across Lake Lucerne.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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