Scenic Switzerland with Glacier Express

Welcome to join our 8-day Switzerland tour! Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, you will take a direct train from the airport's train station to Lucerne, a journey of approximately one hour. After collecting your luggage, follow the airport signs and take the elevator to the underground level to reach the train station. Please pay attention to the departure information displayed on the screen to determine the platform number and departure time for the train to Lucerne.

Once you've arrived in Lucerne and checked into your hotel, take some time to rest. Afterwards, you can take a leisurely walk to the Old Town. Noteworthy attractions include the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. The Chapel Bridge is a covered wooden footbridge spanning diagonally across the Reuss River in the city of Lucerne, an iconic symbol of the city and one of the most visited landmarks of Switzerland. The Lion Monument, or the Lion of Lucerne, is a rock relief depicting a dying lion, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution.

Service Included: With Swiss Travel Pass, you'll have unlimited train travel from Zurich Airport to Lucerne, free public transportation and complimentary entry to attractions like the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. The pass offers flexibility and convenience throughout the day.

Accommodation: CASCADA Boutique Hotel, Lucerne (4 stars) or similar

The Golden Round Trip at Mount Pilatus is a popular touristic route that lets visitors circle Mount Pilatus by using various modes of transport, all the while enjoying stunning natural views. This trip typically involves a boat ride, the world's steepest cogwheel train, and cable cars, providing a unique way to experience Mt. Pilatus and the Lake Lucerne region.

Today you will experience this popular route. The typical itinerary of the Golden Round Trip is as follows for your reference:

► Boat ride from Lucerne to Alpnachstad: You can take a boat from the Lucerne Passenger Ship Terminal, which is located near Lucerne Train Station (Luzern Bahnhof) and can be reached within a few minutes' walk from your hotel. The boat ride across Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad will allow you to appreciate the beauty of the lake and takes about an hour.

► Cogwheel train from Alpnachstad to the summit of Mount Pilatus: Upon reaching Alpnachstad, a short walk will take you to Pilatus Railway Station, where you could switch to the cogwheel train heading to the top of Pilatus. The train journey is approximately 30 minutes. This is the world's steepest cogwheel railway, offering breathtaking views of mountains and forests along the way. Please note that this railway line only operates from May to November each year.

► Exploring the summit of Pilatus: Generally speaking, it's recommended to spend at least two to three hours on the summit. This will give you ample time to soak in the panoramic views, hike some trails, and enjoy a meal at the available restaurants. Also, remember that weather conditions can change quickly at high altitudes, so it's best to check the local forecast before you go.

► Cable Car Ride from Pilatus Summit to Kriens: The cable car journey is a unique experience that offers bird's-eye views of the stunning Swiss landscape. The journey begins with a descent from the summit of Mount Pilatus to Frakmuntegg in a large cable car, which allows you to enjoy the panoramic views of the towering mountain peaks and the surroundings. Upon reaching Frakmuntegg, you switch to a smaller cable car to Kriens, which provides a more intimate experience, almost making you feel like you are floating above the tree-covered slopes and pastures. The entire cable car journey takes about 30-40 minutes.

► Bus from Kriens to Lucerne: Take a bus from Kriens back to the center of Lucerne. The journey only takes 15 minutes, and buses typically run every 10 to 15 minutes. The schedules can be found at the bus stop easily.

After returning to Lucerne, you may visit some shops or galleries in the Old Town. In the evening, you can try local Swiss cuisine, such as cheese fondue. Fondue is a classic Swiss dish that originated in the Alps during the 18th century. It is made by melting cheese in a communal pot, into which diners dip bread using long forks, making it a delightful shared dining experience.

Service Included: You'll have all transportation covered for the Golden Round Trip to Mount Pilatus, which includes the boat ride, cogwheel train, cable car rides, and the bus back to Lucerne.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: CASCADA Boutique Hotel, Lucerne (4 stars) or similar

Following the breakfast, make your way on foot to Lucerne train station. From here, you'll embark on a 2-hour train journey to Interlaken, the 1st section of the famous Golden Pass Line. This scenic train route offers breathtaking views of tranquil lakes, verdant meadows, traditional wooden Swiss chalets, and the majestic Alpine peaks.

The train arrives at Interlaken Ost station. After checking into your hotel, it's an ideal time to have lunch at a nearby restaurant before going out to discover Interlaken. A leisurely stroll through the picturesque Hohematte Park provides a perfect introduction to the town. If you prefer, opt for a boat trip on either Lake Thun (Thunersee) or Lake Brienz (Brienzersee). This relaxing journey usually lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours. At dusk, make your way to the bustling shopping district to purchase souvenirs or try Swiss chocolates.

Interlaken boasts a plenty of exciting activities and attractions. Here are some recommended activities for your afternoon time (not included in the package):

► Paragliding: Interlaken is a renowned hotspot for paragliding. During the flight, you'll appreciate the awe-inspiring views of Interlaken and its surroundings. This delightful experience is perfect for adventure seekers, as it allows you to soar through the sky and experience the thrill of free-falling. The gathering spot will be somewhere in the center of Interlaken, from where you'll be transported to the nearby launch site, usually located on a nearby mountain.

► Trummelbach Falls: A series of cascades nestle within the Lauterbrunnen Valley. These falls consist of multiple waterfalls flowing through the interior of a mountain, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. Start by taking a train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen, a journey that lasts approximately 20 minutes. Once there, switch to a bus bound for Trummelbach Falls, which should take an additional 10 minutes.

► Harder Kulm: Take a funicular to Harder Kulm, a mountain located above Interlaken, offering a panoramic view of the city. From the center of Interlaken, it's about a 10-15 minutes’ walk to the Harder Railway funicular station located near Interlaken Ost. The funicular to Harder Kulm operates every 30 minutes, with the uphill journey taking around 10 minutes. Once at the top, enjoy the stunning vistas from the viewing platform, or grab a meal or drink at the Harder Kulm restaurant.

Service Included: Today's itinerary includes a panoramic sightseeing train journey from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost, as well as the boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. If you're interested in adding extra excursions like the funicular ticket to Harder Kulm, the pass provides a 50% discount on fares.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Krebs, Interlaken (4 stars) or similar

Today, you will experience an unforgettable full-day journey to Jungfraujoch - "Top of Europe", which is the highlight of every Swiss tour. After breakfast, take a short walk to Interlaken Ost, from where you will take a train to Grindelwald Terminal. This leg of the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Then, switch to the newly opened (in 2020) Eiger Express gondola to Eigergletscher, which also takes about 20 minutes. At Eigergletscher, you'll board the Jungfrau Railway to reach the top of the Jungfraujoch. This cogwheel train ride takes approximately 30 minutes and promises a dreamy ride up to Europe's highest railway station, at an altitude of 3,454 meters (2,146 miles). The whole journey takes less than 2 hours including the transfer time.

Upon arrival, a series of exciting experiences await. Begin with a visit to the Sphinx Observatory, boasting panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier - the largest glacier in the Alps. Then, venture into the Ice Palace, where you'll be awed by a collection of intricately crafted ice sculptures. Follow this up with the Alpine Sensation round tour, which offers a captivating look at the Alpine world. Finally, take a walk on the Plateau for an up-close encounter with eternal snow. For lunch, consider dining at the Restaurant Crystal or other nearby restaurants at your own expense.

After enjoying the scenery and sightseeing, you'll begin your descent from Jungfraujoch. Retrace the same route and take the cogwheel train to Eigergletscher, then switch to the gondola lift that takes you to Grindelwald. Spend some time in Grindelwald, stroll through its streets, and soak in the stunning alpine views. At around 5pm, head to Grindelwald Terminal to catch your return train to Interlaken.

Service Included: You'll have all train journeys covered, including the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch and the gondola ride to Grindelwald. You can enjoy the attractions at Jungfraujoch and explore Grindelwald at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Krebs, Interlaken (4 stars) or similar

Zermatt is a car-free village situated at the base of the iconic pyramid-shaped Matterhorn and is regarded as a world-class ski resort. In the morning, you will take a train from Interlaken Ost to Zermatt, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. The trains are known for their cleanliness, punctuality, and panoramic windows. During the train journey, you will be treated to magnificent views of the Swiss Alps, charming valleys, and picturesque villages, all showcasing the extreme beauty of the mountains. Upon arrival and settling into your hotel, you can begin exploring the beautiful mountain resort. Whether you're seeking adventure, natural beauty, or cultural experiences, Zermatt has something for everyone.

Here are some recommended activities for your reference:

► Visit the Matterhorn Museum: Explore the museum to learn about the history, geology, and culture of Zermatt and the surrounding region. It provides fascinating insights into the development of the village and the lives of mountaineers who have conquered the Matterhorn.

► Bike Tour: Zermatt offers bike rental services, allowing you to embark on a cycling adventure along mountain trails and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Experience the freedom and beauty of the area as you explore the scenic paths on two wheels.

► Take a Cable Car to Sunnegga: Hop on a cable car and ascend to the Terrace of Sunnegga, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Zermatt and the surrounding mountain ranges. This is the perfect spot to relax, and enjoy the stunning vistas.

► Swiss Traditional Cooking Class: If you're interested in Swiss cuisine, consider participating in a local traditional cooking class. Learn how to prepare classic dishes such as cheese fondue or Swiss chocolate, and gain firsthand experience of Swiss culinary culture.

Service Included: The train journey from Interlaken to Zermatt is included in the package. The pass also includes entry to the Matterhorn Museum and the cable car ride to Sunnegga for panoramic views. Fees for optional activities, bike rentals, or cooking classes are all at your own expenses.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: SchlossHotel Zermatt Active & CBD Spa Hotel (4 stars) or similar

You will embark on an adventure to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise today. The general route to reach the summit is as follows:

Zermatt → Gornergrat Bahn Station → Take the cogwheel train to Riffelberg Station → Walk to Riffelberg Cable Car Station → Take the cable car to Klein Matterhorn

► Depart from Zermatt and make your way to the Gornergrat Bahn Station, which serves as the starting point for the cogwheel train to Klein Matterhorn. The Gornergrat Bahn Station is located on the east side of Zermatt and can be reached within a 10-minute walk from Zermatt Bahnhof train station.

► Board the cogwheel train at Gornergrat Bahn Station. The cogwheel train will traverse along a magnificent mountain route, passing through forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers. After approximately 30-40 minutes, you will arrive at Riffelberg Station.

► Once you disembark at Riffelberg Station, it's a 5-minute walk to the Riffelberg Cable Car Station, which is the station for the onward journey to Klein Matterhorn.

► Take the cable car from Riffelberg Cable Car Station and continue your ascent. After a 30-40 minute ride, you will reach the summit station of Klein Matterhorn. The cable car will take you directly to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

Upon reaching the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you could appreciate the glacier landscapes, with magnificent snow-capped peaks. You can engage in activities like skiing, sledding, and other winter sports. There is also a Viewing Platform that offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the stunning Alps. Explore the Glacier Palace, where you can marvel at impressive ice sculptures, ice walls and caves, showcasing the wonders of the frozen world. You can also enjoy a meal at the mountain restaurant or cafe while soaking in the magnificent views, providing a perfect opportunity to relax.

Service Included: The package includes the cogwheel railway ticket from Zermatt to Riffelberg station and the cable car ticket to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise). The pass also includes admission to the Glacier Palace and use of the viewing platform.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: SchlossHotel Zermatt Active & CBD Spa Hotel (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, you will embark on your Glacier Express train journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz. The Glacier Express is one of Switzerland's most famous trains, known as the "slowest express train" that traverses the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled scenery and experiences. It will take you through magnificent Alpine landscapes, passing over 90 tunnels, narrow valleys, winding tracks, and 290 bridges. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of grand glaciers, towering peaks, and lush green meadows along the way. The Glacier Express provides comfortable seating, spacious carriages and large windows, allowing you to relax and soak in the views. After approximately 8 hours on the train, you will arrive in St. Moritz, a prestigious resort town renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery.

It is already late in the afternoon, and after checking into the hotel to rest, you can go out and enjoy the nightlife. One of the recommended activities is the spa treatment. St. Moritz, known for its luxury and elegance, offers several world-class spas where visitors can indulge in relaxation. Visiting one of the exquisite spas is the perfect way to unwind after a day of long train journey.

Travel Tips:
1. There is no Glacier Express service from late October to early December.
2. Remember to dress warmly and be prepared for colder temperatures during the nighttime in the Alps.
3. The spa treatment is not included and is at your own expenses.

Service Included: The Glacier Express train journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz with seat reservation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Crystal Hotel superior, St. Moritz (4 stars) or similar

Today is the final day of your vacation, and according to your interests, you could enjoy a skiing activity in St. Moritz before taking the train back to Zurich, which is approximately a 3.5 hours journey. Upon arrival in Zurich, take advantage of the extra time before your flight to purchase Swiss delicacies like chocolates, cheeses as mementos of your journey through this breathtaking country.

Service Included: The train from St. Moritz to Zurich airport is included. In consideration of rail duration, please book your departure flight in the late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast