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Contrasts of Switzerland
8 Day Switzerland Rail Tour to Zurich, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Geneva and Lucerne
All aboard for one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. On this exciting Switzerland trip, you’ll travel through the stunning Swiss countryside. It’s a gem of a trip featuring life in tiny villages and sophisticated cities, not to mention St. Moritz with its jet-set appeal.
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Trip code
STGV
Contrasts of Switzerland
8 Day Switzerland Rail Tour to Zurich, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Geneva and Lucerne
All aboard for one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. On this exciting Switzerland trip, you’ll travel through the stunning Swiss countryside. It’s a gem of a trip featuring life in tiny villages and sophisticated cities, not to mention St. Moritz with its jet-set appeal.
Zürich 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 travel on one of Switzerland's most spectacular rail routes across the Bernina pass this afternoon, before enjoying St. Moritz at your leisure tonight.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Reine Victoria
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Bernina Pass Discovery
Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a truly local experience!
Adult Price: Fr.75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Catch the Glacier Express to Zermatt
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 6,700 feet (2,044 m) 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.
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 over snow-capped mountains to Europe's highest cable car station.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Zermatt Dinner Experience
Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous raclette and chocolate fondue.
Adult Price: Fr.86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Klein Matterhorn Excursion
A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding Europe's highest cable car to 3779m (12400ft) and the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.
Adult Price: Fr.119.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
A Train Journey to Lakeside Geneva
We board a train to Vevey and Connect With Locals in Chexbres on the shores of Lake Geneva. We'll enjoy lunch at this memorable Be My Guest experience, then continue 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. Later, explore the sights of this lakeside city on your own. Stroll through the ancient maze of medieval streets and quiet squares or consider a cruise – enjoying views of the lakeside villages.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Warwick
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal
Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. The lake is one of Western Europe’s largest and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc. A three-course meal will be served in their wood-panelled dining room while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine scenery dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.
Adult Price: Fr.94.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Lake Geneva Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. Lac Leman, as it is known to the locals, is one of Western Europe’s largest lakes and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc.
Adult Price: Fr.47.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Journey on the Golden and Brünig Pass to Interlaken and Lucerne
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. 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.
Tonight, we'll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue in a typical local restaurant. Its Lakeside location and well-placed terrace will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu. Two drinks are included.
Adult Price: Fr.95.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 7
Explore Medieval Lucerne
Mountain top 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 Town and shop for delicious Swiss chocolate. Tonight, we join our Travel Director and fellow travel companions for a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant.
Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by railway and Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery. (On certain departures Optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise.)
Adult Price: Fr.113.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Swiss Countryside & Carriages
A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Adult Price: Fr.67.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 8
Journey Home
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 Zürich Airport, which can be used at your convenience for the onward journey.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Bernina Pass Discovery
Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a truly local experience!
Adult Price: Fr.75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Zermatt Dinner Experience
Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous raclette and chocolate fondue.
Adult Price: Fr.86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Klein Matterhorn Excursion
A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding Europe's highest cable car to 3779m (12400ft) and the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.
Adult Price: Fr.119.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal
Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. The lake is one of Western Europe’s largest and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc. A three-course meal will be served in their wood-panelled dining room while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine scenery dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.
Adult Price: Fr.94.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Lake Geneva Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. Lac Leman, as it is known to the locals, is one of Western Europe’s largest lakes and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc.
Adult Price: Fr.47.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Swiss Dinner by the Lake
Tonight, we'll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue in a typical local restaurant. Its Lakeside location and well-placed terrace will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu. Two drinks are included.
Adult Price: Fr.95.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise
Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by railway and Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery. (On certain departures Optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise.)
Adult Price: Fr.113.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Swiss Countryside & Carriages
A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Adult Price: Fr.67.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Glacier Express Train from St. Moritz to Zermatt
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Golden Pass route train journey from Geneva to Lucerne
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High-speed train from Zermatt to Vevey
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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Optional Experiences and free time
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Train from Zürich to St. Moritz
Live, unedited & independent traveler reviews
Contrasts of Switzerland trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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Switzerland by train
Trip Rating
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5
Beautiful country and interesting. Food was great.
the itinerary was very good, well organized. the options experience were enjoyable, the hotels were very nice and the staff were very helpful and friendly
our travel director did a wonderful job showing us around Switzerland, was very friendly, informative and helpful. our well being director also did a wonderful job keeping safe.
Overall my rating is 5. There is one concern was disappointing. Our travel agent advised us NO wheeled luggage for this tour. So, we went & bought two additional duffle bags for this specific trip. Then, we saw where 6 of our travel group brought their WHEELED luggage and it was fine. I would like Trafalgar to reimburse me for my expense that was not needed for the duffle bags.
You have the option to pre-pay the gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. Please speak with your travel agent.
Shared Rooming: Room Share is not available on this trip.
Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink in all of the destinations on this trip. Please remember to bring a water bottle.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.
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Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them. What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional)
Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
