Switzerland Encompassed - 10 days

Arrive in Zurich and settle into your hotel (or similar), where check-in is available from mid-afternoon. The remainder of your day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Meander through the enchanting cobbled streets of the Old Town, indulge in some retail therapy along the prestigious Bahnhofstrasse, or unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Zurich. As evening falls, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of Zurich’s acclaimed restaurants, setting the tone for your Swiss adventure.

Begin your day with a guided exploration of Zurich’s highlights, including the elegant Bahnhofstrasse, the peaceful Lindenhof, the stained-glass beauty of Fraumünster, the iconic Grossmünster, and the winding lanes of Niederdorf. Departing Zurich, you’ll soon witness the breathtaking power of the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. Afterward, continue to Lucerne for lunch and a walking tour featuring the medieval Chapel Bridge, the ornate Jesuit Church, and the poignant Lion Monument. As the afternoon unfolds, travel through the scenic Alps to the Interlaken region, where you’ll check in at Hotel Sailer au Lac (or similar) and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by mountain vistas.

Venture into the enchanting Lauterbrunnen Valley, famed for its dramatic cliffs and countless waterfalls. Depending on the season, marvel at the misty Staubbach and Mürrenbach Falls, ascend to the picturesque Giessbach Falls, and cross the panoramic Sigriswil Bridge. In warmer months, step inside the thundering Trümmelbach Falls, visit the legendary Reichenbach Falls, and explore the glacial Aare Gorge. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, an optional full-day journey to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, offers awe-inspiring glacier views. Return to Interlaken for a restful evening in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

After breakfast, set out for Bern, Switzerland’s captivating capital. A guided tour reveals the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its arcades, fountains, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower. Continue to the medieval hilltop town of Gruyères to discover the secrets of Swiss cheese at La Maison du Gruyère, then indulge your sweet tooth at Maison Cailler in Broc. By late afternoon, arrive in Vevey on the shores of Lake Geneva, where you’ll check in at your hotel (or similar) and enjoy a relaxing evening by the water.

Enjoy a leisurely day in the Montreux region, with the freedom to stroll the picturesque lakeside promenade, visit Chaplin’s World in Vevey, or explore Queen: The Studio Experience. Consider a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva, gliding past vineyards and castles. For those seeking adventure, an optional full-day excursion to France includes stops in the spa town of Evian-les-Bains, the medieval village of Yvoire, and the charming canals of Annecy. Alternatively, unwind in the evening at Les Bains de Lavey, where thermal waters and Alpine views offer pure relaxation before returning to Montreux.

Set off along the Swiss Riviera, arriving at the legendary Château de Chillon, a lakeside fortress steeped in history and inspiration. Continue to Montreux for a guided walk along its celebrated promenade and a visit to Queen: The Studio Experience. In Lausanne, explore the Olympic Park and Museum, tracing the evolution of the Games. The afternoon brings you to Geneva, where a city tour reveals the iconic Jet d’Eau, the United Nations district, and the atmospheric Old Town. Return to Vevey in the evening, with time to relax by the lake or dine at your leisure.

Depart Vevey and journey south through Switzerland’s breathtaking Alpine landscapes toward the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. En route, opt for an exhilarating excursion to Glacier 3000, where a cable car ride delivers you to panoramic views of 24 Alpine peaks, including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Brave the Peak Walk by Tissot, the world’s only suspension bridge connecting two mountain summits. By afternoon, arrive in Lugano, where you’ll check in at your hotel (or similar) and enjoy the blend of Swiss elegance and Mediterranean flair along the palm-lined lakeside.

Embark on a scenic journey from Lugano into the rugged Verzasca Valley, pausing in the stone-built village of Lavertezzo to admire its iconic 17th-century bridge, Ponte dei Salti. Continue to the impressive Contra Dam, famed for its cinematic leap in GoldenEye. Enjoy lunch and a stroll in the lakeside resort of Ascona, where Mediterranean charm abounds. The afternoon brings you to Bellinzona, where three majestic castles and medieval walls, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand sentinel over the town. Return to Lugano for a relaxing evening.

Savor a day at leisure in Lugano, perhaps cruising across the sparkling lake, hopping between charming lakeside villages, or hiking up Monte San Salvatore for panoramic Alpine views. Relax in the lush Parco Ciani or explore the city’s vibrant piazzas and boutiques. For those eager to venture further, an optional full-day excursion to Italy’s Lake Como awaits, with visits to the elegant towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, each offering stunning vistas and a taste of la dolce vita.

After a final breakfast in Lugano, board a scenic train journey north through the heart of Switzerland, arriving at Zurich Airport in perfect time for your onward flight. Your guide will provide all necessary tickets and instructions, ensuring a smooth and comfortable conclusion to your Swiss adventure.