Contrasts of Switzerland

Zurich is our springboard to a spectacular journey through Switzerland. Explore its mix of ancient heritage and modern verve during your orientation tour before joining your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception to launch your Swiss experience.

Our love affair with the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland begins on a scenic train journey via Chur to the stylish resort of St. Moritz, set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake St. Moritz. Admire the inspiring natural setting and perhaps take a mountain pass train ride this afternoon, before dining at your hotel tonight.

Embrace the glamour and romance of a bygone era. Watch the epic Alpine landscapes drift past as you chug along one of the world's most unforgettable rail journeys from the comfort of the Glacier Express. Cross hundreds of bridges and the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level. Enjoy an included lunch on board as you journey past lakes and glaciers bound for the resort town of Zermatt, at the foothills of the imposing Matterhorn. Enjoy views of the Alps at the Ambassador Hotel, one of Trafalgar's 'Stays With Stories'.

Join your Travel Director for an orientation walk around this car-free resort before spending the rest of the day on your own, indulging in the tranquil mountain atmosphere. Consider an Optional Experience to the Klein Matterhorn, ascending by cable car to the snow-capped top of the world.

We board a train to sophisticated Geneva where your orientation will include views of the Old Town, Jet d'Eau and the Flower Clock, paying tribute to the city's centuries-old watchmaking traditions. This evening, explore the sights of this lakeside city on your own. Stroll through the ancient maze of medieval streets and quiet squares or consider a dinner cruise - enjoying views of the lakeside villages.

Picture-perfect landscapes are our constant companion as we journey from Geneva along the Golden Pass route. We stop at Interlaken in the heart of the Swiss Alps, located at the foot of a trio of famous peaks - the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Spend some time at leisure and enjoy superb views of the peaks of the Bernese Oberland, a beloved retreat of Queen Victoria, who often stayed at Interlaken. We follow the Brünig Pass to the lakeside town of Lucerne in central Switzerland, where we will stay for the next two nights. The evening is free to spend as you wish, but you could choose to show off your vocal talents and learn how to yodel during an optional fun-packed Swiss folklore show with fondue dinner.

Snow-capped peaks surround you as you wander through the medieval streets of Lucerne on an orientation walk. Visit the poignant Lion Monument, built in memory of the Swiss Guard who bravely defended Louis XVI during the French Revolution. View the covered wooden Chapel Bridge spanning the Reuss with its decorated wooden panels, which chronicle the history of Lucerne. Later consider an Optional Experience to a nearby mountain peak, or explore the old city and shop for delicious Swiss chocolate. Tonight, we join our Travel Director and fellow travel companions for a Farewell Dinner with wine in a local restaurant.

We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and newfound friends at the end of a remarkable Swiss holiday. Your Travel Director will give you tickets for the short train journey from Lucerne to Zurich Airport, which can be used at your convenience for the onward journey.