Magical Switzerland - Classic Group, Winter
Magical Switzerland - Classic Group, Winter
$3709
Magical Switzerland - Classic Group, Winter
7 Days Starting in Zurich and ending in Geneva
Visiting: Zürich, Lucerne, Chur, Saint Moritz, Andermatt, Grindelwald, Chillon Castle, Montreux, Geneva
Tour operator:
Tour code:
W850ZM19
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
20 - 40
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Experience the magic of Switzerland at Christmas, journeying from Lucerne to Grindelwald, and on to Geneva. Start your Swiss adventure in Lucerne, a stunning 14th century fortress city sitting on a lakeshore and surrounded by snowcapped forests. Voyage through the frosted peaks and frozen waterfalls of the Grison Alps to the Alpine ski resort of St Moritz—a retreat frequented by royalty and James Bond in the Spy Who Loved Me. Board the Glacier Express to Andermatt and adventure through the heart of the Swiss Alps in the Albula Pass tunnel, before crossing the skyscraping Landwasser Viaduct and descending through the Rhône Valley. In the Swiss capital, enjoy a sumptuous Geneva fondue dinner at Le Petit Chalet.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Zürich And Lovely Lucerne
Location: Zürich, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Welcome to Switzerland, an enchanting winter wonderland of frozen waterfalls, peaceful cozy villages, snow-laden forests, and imposing mountain ranges crowned by breathtaking peaks. Upon your arrival at Zürich airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Lucerne allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the lake and majestic mountains that frame the city. Stroll through the charming streets, where the atmosphere is filled with a sense of calm. In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow guests for a light dinner and drinks.
Day 2: Lucerne And St. Moritz Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne, Chur, Saint Moritz
Accommodation: Hotel Laudinella, St Moritz.
Accommodation Name: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day exploring Lucerne, a captivating 14th-century city still protected by medieval fortifications. Your Travel Director will detail the city's treasures, including the iconic covered wooden bridges, intricately painted gables, and the famous Lion Monument. Afterward, enjoy some free time to discover Lucerne's excellent shops or take a leisurely lakeside walk, where you can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. The bustling markets and quaint cafes offer a glimpse into local life. Later, embark on a scenic journey along the dramatic Walensee, passing through the historic town of Chur, to reach the fashionable ski resort of St. Moritz. Located in the Engadine Valley, the resort sits among the awe-inspiring Grisons Alps, offering a blend of natural beauty and sophisticated elegance.
Day 3: St. Moritz At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Saint Moritz
Accommodation: Hotel Laudinella, St Moritz.
Accommodation Name: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Meals Included: Breakfast
This day is entirely yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps start with a leisurely breakfast before exploring the chic resort's spa quarter, known for its luxurious wellness facilities and relaxing ambiance. Admire the traditional sgraffito plaster-coated facades that adorn many of the local buildings, showcasing intricate designs and rich history. If shopping is on your agenda, St. Moritz's stylish boutiques offer a range of high-end fashion and unique local crafts. The vibrant local market is perfect for finding artisanal goods and souvenirs. Alternatively, take an epic rail journey over the Bernina pass, which runs through a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the alpine landscapes, from glistening glaciers to verdant valleys, making it an unforgettable adventure.
Day 4: Aboard The Glacier Express
Location: Saint Moritz, Andermatt, Grindelwald
Accommodation: Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald.
Accommodation Name: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Board the world-famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, with lunch included. The panoramic journey descends through the tunnels of the Albula Pass and traverses the stunning Landwasser Viaduct, a marvel of engineering that soars above deep gorges. As the train joins the broad Rhine Gorge, it meanders beside rock-strewn rivers, climbing through snowy pastures and woodlands. After spiralling to the highest point of the route, the icy Oberalp Pass, you'll descend to Andermatt. Here, rejoin the coach and drive through the dramatic Schöllenen Gorge, passing the Devil's Bridge, a site steeped in local legend. Marvel at the Wetterhorn Peaks as you travel along the Grindelwald Valley, with each turn of the route revealing stunning view that capture the essence of the Swiss Alps.
Day 5: Grindelwald At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Grindelwald
Accommodation: Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald.
Accommodation Name: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore Grindelwald, a charming village nestled in the Bernese Alps. Perhaps take a cogwheel train ride to the summit of the Jungfrau mountain, where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding alpine splendour. The Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," offers stunning vistas and a chance to explore the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck. Alternatively, hike one of the many trails that wind through the lush valleys and up into the high mountains, where the diverse flora and fauna are a delight for nature enthusiasts. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, spend your day shopping in the quaint village shops or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the area.
Day 6: Chillon Castle And Geneva
Location: Grindelwald, Chillon Castle, Montreux, Geneva
Accommodation: Warwick Geneva.
Accommodation Name: Warwick, Geneva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the shores of Lake Geneva where the associations with the early European Romantic movement are very strong. Join Maud, the curator of the Chateau, to visit the beautiful Chillon Castle, former home to the Counts of Savoy, set on a rocky islet in the lake. In 1816, the castle inspired Lord Byron to write the poem ‘The Prisoner of Chillon,’ following his walk through the dungeons. Look out for his name, which he carved into a pillar. Close by is the sophisticated tiered town of Montreux, where it is delightful to stroll along the lakeside promenade. Enjoy a beautiful journey alongside the lake, passing Vevey and Lausanne, to reach the immaculate town of Geneva. On arrival, your orientation includes the United Nations Building, officially known as the Palais des Nations, the Old Town and the Jet d’Eau. Visit the Red Cross Museum for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and learn how this world-renowned organization provides vital assistance to refugees, migrants and asylum seekers. Spend your night in Geneva, rejoicing with your newfound friends at a local restaurant, as you are treated to a delicious, traditional fondue dinner complete with wine.
Day 7: Depart Geneva
Location: Geneva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your magical journey through Switzerland concludes after breakfast. Your transfer will arrive at Geneva airport, bidding you farewell as you reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences from your Swiss adventure. As you head home, you'll carry with you the sights of this beautiful country, enriched by the connections you've made and the stories you've gathered along the way.
What's Included
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Insight Experiences
Visit Chillon Castle with the Head of Collections to discover the artefacts, treasures and history of the chateau.
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Top Rated Highlights
Travel along the route of the world-famous Glacier Express, through looping tunnels and dizzying viaducts, in the scenic heart of the Swiss Alps, on a regional train fully powered by hydroelectricity.
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Authentic Dining
Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for your Welcome Dinner served with wine.
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MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Visit the fascinating Red Cross Museum. Learn how this world-renowned organization provides assistance to refugees, migrants and asylum seekers and, with your visit, support their vital work.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature, including souvenirs, laundry, and beverages, are not included.
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Optional Activities
Costs for optional activities not included in the tour itinerary are not covered.
Mode of Transport
Board the world famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride with lunch included, through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Descend through the tunnels of the Albula Pass and traverse the lofty Landwasser Viaduct. Your train then joins the broad Rhône Gorge and meanders beside rock-strewn rivers before climbing through snowy pastures and woodlands. Picturesque landscapes of ice-capped mountains and stone-built villages with chalet-style houses glide by. After a series of spirals, you will reach the highest point of the route, the icy Oberalp Pass. Modern, panoramic viewing cars ensure that you won’t miss a thing on your descent to Andermatt where you rejoin the coach. Drive through the dramatic Schollenen Gorge passing the Devil's Bridge. Marvel at the Wetterhorn Peaks as you travel along the Grindelwald Valley.
Accommodation
Stay at the following or similar: Hotel Astoria in Lucerne, Hotel Laudinella in St. Moritz, Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald in Grindelwald, Warwick Geneva in Geneva.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 6 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Lake Geneva: Visit Chillon Castle with the Head of Collections to discover the artefacts, treasures and history of the chateau.
Travel Director
- "It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."
- "One food I really love introducing my guests to is cheese or meat fondue. It's not only a great meal, but it's an experience of its own and always lots of fun. Especially when I see all our guests bonding and having a good time discovering the way we enjoy it over here."
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the tour visit?
The tour visits Switzerland.
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How many meals are included?
The tour includes 4 Dinners with Wine, 6 Breakfasts, and 1 Lunch.
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include a Welcome Dinner in Lucerne, a fondue dinner in Geneva, a visit to Chillon Castle, exploring the Red Cross Museum in Geneva, seeing the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, traveling along the route of the Glacier Express, and exploring the glacier village of Grindelwald.
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What type of transportation is used on the tour?
Transportation includes a ride on the world-famous Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps and a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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What are the accommodation options?
Accommodation options include Hotel Astoria in Lucerne, Hotel Laudinella in St. Moritz, Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald in Grindelwald, and Warwick Geneva in Geneva.
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Are there any special features or services offered on the tour?
Special features and services include hotel and restaurant tips included, personal radio headsets for tours, baggage handling, Insight Flourishes which are local specialties, complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, and transfers at scheduled times for those whose flights align with the itinerary start and end dates.
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What are the start and end locations of the tour?
The tour starts in Zurich and ends in Geneva.
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What are the pick-up and drop-off times?
Pick-up times in Zurich are at 09:30 and 13:30. Drop-off times in Geneva are at 08:00 or 10:00.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions