Current as of: October 3, 2025 - 14:39
Discover Switzerland by Rail Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: ASZ
Trip Overview
Mountains, glaciers and villages: Discover the dramatic beauty of Switzerland, riding the world-renowned railways
There’s no finer way to explore Switzerland than aboard the world-renowned trains. Timetables run to the minute, and the glorious views make the journey as much of an adventure as the destination. Guided by a tour leader with unrivalled cultural insight, this adventure is your ticket to discovery, combining scenic journeys, including the famous Gotthard Panorama Express and Centovalli Express, with deep explorations into Swiss culture, cuisine and timeless mountain villages.
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 2 Premium nights (hotels), 2 Superior nights (hotels), 3 Classic nights (hotels)
- Travel by rail, boat and cable car
- Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
Highlights
- Witness the dramatic beauty of Switzerland by rail, guided by an expert tour leader
- Ride the famed Gotthard Panorama Express, a boat and rail adventure
- Gaze over the mighty Aletsch Glacier from high up on Bettmerhorn mountain
- Sample and sip the best of Swiss food and drink: chocolate, wines and raclette
- Join local guides for an insider’s view of timeless towns and villages
- Explore Chillon Castle on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Suitability: There is a reasonable amount of walking on this adventure, so you should read the itinerary carefully to ensure you are comfortable with that. We also travel by train, boat and cable car. There are luggage transfers on days 5 and 6; on other days, you’ll carry your own luggage on and off the trains, with only a short walk to the hotels.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Zurich
- End City: Montreux
Land Only Itinerary
Adventure begins in Zurich
Begin your adventure in Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland and a long-time centre for banking, art and innovation.
Around 6pm, say grüezi to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.
Your tour leader then ensures a big Swiss welcome by arranging a three-course group dinner at a local restaurant.
Want more time in Zurich? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
Accommodation: Hotel Alexander/Central Plaza (or similar)
Train to Lucerne • Master the art of making chocolate
Board the train (40 minutes) to Lucerne, a lakeside city framed by the Alps. On arrival, we drop our bags at our hotel before joining a local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town, taking in the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, and more.
After free time for lunch, hop on the train (15 minutes) to a chocolatier, where we learn the history and artistry of Swiss chocolate, taste our way through the exhibition, and even craft our own bar to take home, before returning to Lucerne by train.
Accommodation: Hotel Waldstaetterhof (or similar)
Take the Gotthard Panorama Express, a scenic boat and rail ride to Lugano
Experience an icon of Swiss travel this morning: the Gotthard Panorama Express, a unique journey that combines a boat cruise and scenic train ride.
Begin on the boat, gliding across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen, enjoying views of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. Then board the train southwards, travelling first class through mountain passes, spiralling tunnels, and dramatic valleys.
Our final stop is Lugano, where Swiss and Mediterranean cultures combine in a dramatic mountain-and-lake setting.
Accommodation: Hotel Parco Paradiso (or similar)
Discover the farming traditions of the Ticino canton
Today is dedicated to discovering the rural traditions of the region. First, we take the train (35 minutes) to Locarno, a city on the shores of Lake Maggiore, where we meet a local guide to immerse ourselves in the agricultural heritage of the Ticino canton.
Then we ride another icon of Swiss travel, the Centovalli train, to the mountain village of Intragna, where we enjoy a guided walk, before heading to Cavigliano.
From the railway station, we take a 10-minute stroll past chestnut forests, vineyards and orchards to a local farm, where we learn all about the regional traditions from a farmer.
Lunch is in the farm itself: a rustic spread of polenta, cold cuts, cheese and local wine. After, we return by train to Lugano.
Accommodation: Hotel Parco Paradiso (or similar)
To the mountain village of Bettmeralp via the Centovalli Express
Take the train to Locarno after breakfast, then ride the Centovalli Express to Domodossola in northern Italy, a spectacular journey through deep gorges, vineyards and villages.
Pause for lunch in Domodossola before continuing by train to the Swiss Alpine town of Brig, where we have free time to explore and admire the baroque Stockalper Palace.
In the afternoon, take the train and cable car up to car-free Bettmeralp, a mountain village perched at nearly 6,560ft (2,000m) with breathtaking views of the Valais Alps.
Tonight, enjoy a group dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Waldhaus (or similar)
Cable car to Bettmerhorn for views over Aletsch Glacier • Train to Montreux
We take the cable car up Bettmerhorn mountain this morning. From the viewing platform, gaze over the mighty Aletsch Glacier, formed of 11 billion tonnes of ice, and visit the Glacier World exhibition (free entry) if you wish.
Return to Bettmeralp and travel by rail (25 minutes) to Sierre, where a 15-minute stroll brings us to Château de Villa. Here, we indulge in a traditional raclette lunch, the quintessential Swiss cheese feast.
Continue by train (1hr 30min) to Montreux. The evening is free to explore this lakeside town famed for music, flowers and Riviera glamour.
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Plaza (or similar)
Explore the iconic Chillon Castle • Wine tasting in the Lavaux vineyards
Visit Chillon Castle this morning, built on a rocky islet on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva. Its history stretches to the 12th century, when it was owned by the counts of Savoy, who would charge travellers passing the castle on the Via Francigena, an ancient road and pilgrimage route.
Explore the fortress at your own pace before continuing by train (15 minutes) to Vevey, where lakeside cafes beckon for lunch.
In the afternoon, ride the train (15 minutes) to the Lavaux vineyards. Here, we visit a winery for a tasting of the region’s celebrated wines, before returning to Montreux by rail.
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Plaza (or similar)
Adventure ends in Montreux
You’ve explored Switzerland by rail, gazed over the mighty Aletsch Glacier, and stepped inside the medieval walls of Chillon Castle, but now it’s time to begin your return journey home.
Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.
Accommodation
A selection of Swiss hotels
We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.
The normal accommodations used are noted on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are a few of the standout hotels we use on this trip.
Lugano: Hotel Parco Paradiso (nights 3-4)
Parco Paradiso occupies a wonderfully scenic spot, overlooking the town to the waters of Lake Ceresio. Head to the Cuban bar, Havana Deck, to enjoy those views with an expertly concocted cocktail. Alternatively, head to the wellness and fitness suite to take advantage of the indoor swimming pool (with a lake view), sauna and Turkish bath.
Montreux: Hotel Royal Plaza (nights 6-7)
Enjoy more stunning views with our stay at the Royal Plaza, which sits on the shore of Lake Geneva, offering vistas over the waters to the Alps. It’s home to a Fait Maison-certified cafe (meaning the food is authentic and high quality), plus two bars, including the Sunset Bar, where you can sip coffee with an exceptional panorama of the lake and mountains.
Worth knowing
- Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.
- Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Food & Drink
Swiss food blends Alpine heartiness and refined European flair, influenced by the cuisines of France, Germany and Italy. Think creamy cheeses, rich chocolates, and warming fondues alongside crisp rösti and delicate pastries.
Please let us know of any dietary requirements you have at least two weeks before the trip starts. Most requirements can be catered for, but halal and kosher dishes are rarely found in this part of the world.
Transport
There’s no better way to explore Switzerland than by rail. Trains are very punctual and the scenery is outstanding. For most of this trip, we take second-class carriages. However, we ride first class on the Gotthard Panorama Express train. We also travel by boat on this journey and take a cable car to Bettmeralp.
Weather & Seasonality
In June and September, expect warm and often sunny days. October is cooler, though southern Ticino can still experience a Mediterranean climate. Pack a light jacket for evenings throughout, as nights in Bettmeralp (at 6,390ft/1,948m) can be chilly, even in summer.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Alexander (Niederdorfstrasse 40, 8001 Zürich) or Central Plaza (Central 1, 8001 Zürich)
Recommended arrival time: There is a welcome briefing around 6pm on Day 1, followed by a welcome dinner
Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Getting to the start hotel
The easiest way to reach the hotel is by taking the train from Zurich Airport to Zurich HB station. It’s then a six-minute walk to Hotel Alexander or a three-minute walk to Central Plaza.
Catching your return flight
On the final day, we recommend taking the train from Montreux to Geneva Airport (GVA), where you can catch your onward flight.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Zurich
Location end: Montreux
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small backpack for camera, water bottle etc
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Waterproofs
- Warm layers
Practical Information
Visa
Switzerland
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/switzerland
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/switzerland
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/switzerland/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Switzerland.html
Vaccinations and Health
Switzerland
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Switzerland's time zone: Europe/Zurich (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Switzerland's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and J (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Switzerland's currency: Swiss francs (CHF) − Euros (EUR) are not accepted
ATM Availability
Card payments are widely accepted throughout Switzerland – in fact, plenty of businesses have stopped accepting cash.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
For meals not included, allow 30-50 Swiss francs (US$37-US$62) for a meal, 5-6 francs (US$6.20-US$7) for a coffee, and 6-9 francs (US$7-US$11.15) for a beer or wine.
Tipping
Tipping is not necessary or expected in Switzerland, but for exceptional service you may like to give 5%-10%.
Our local staff are paid fairly for their work. Most wish to tip their tour leader in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is not compulsory and depends on the service received. As a starting point, we recommend 20-25 Swiss francs per person for the tour leader.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Important Information
Your Safe Participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
Speak to our friendly team of experts to plan your adventure:
- Check availability: our website shows real-time availability or contact our team by phone, email or live chat.
- Hold a space: You can provisionally hold a space to give you time to finalise your travel plans.
- Confirm your booking: Payment of a deposit will complete your booking and secure your place on the trip.
After booking
You will receive a confirmation document and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements. Our dedicated Customer Operations team will help you with any pre-travel questions or arrangements and can easily add extensions or extra accommodation to your booking. Final Joining Instructions will usually be sent out two to three weeks prior to departure.
Adding transfers to your booking
If you have arranged your own flights and would like to add transfers to your booking, please provide your arrival and departure details to our Customer Operations team around four to six weeks before departure.
- Where free transfers are included, they are available for any flight but can only be added to your booking once we have received your flight schedule.
- Where group arrival and departure transfers are available, these operate at fixed times. You will need to arrive in time to meet the scheduled transfer. If the timings don’t align with your travel plans, our team can arrange private transfers once they receive your flight schedule.
Trip Note validity
Trip notes may be updated after booking; if any updates significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary you will be advised in writing. A link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes will be sent out with your Final Joining Instructions before departure.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes, and occasionally it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
