Venice & Taste of Switzerland STANDARD Independent Rail Tour 2025

Arrival in Venice (airport or rail station) and shared transfer by boat to Venice city centre, to reach the hotel of your stay. Rest of the day at leisure to discover Venice and its beautiful Lagoon. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel, then full day dedicated to the discovery of Venice. You can take a guided walking tour through the most famous places in the city (Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower, the Rialto Bridge, Campo Santa Maria Formosa) and others less known; or a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace, with the Doge's luxurious apartments and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Alternatively, you can go on a boat trip to the islands of the Venice lagoon: Murano, known all over the world for its famous glass craftmanship; Burano, famous not only for its lace, but also for the picturesque fishermen's houses all painted in bright colours; and Torcello, the first settlement centre in the lagoon. In the afternoon there will be a 30-minute “gondola ride” with commentary via app on your mobile phone (service included). Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): an absolutely must-try experience! Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Breakfast at your hotel. Reach Santa Lucia Rail Station on your own to get the High-Speed Train to Milan. Arrival in Milan and free time to visit the city on one’s own. You can discover the most famous symbols of Milan, such as the Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio and the Navigli, the famous canals, the very hub of the Milanese nightlife. You can continue your visit to the city with an internal visit of the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, a unique experience to visit one of the most famous theatre houses in the world. For the sports enthusiasts, a bike tour tour is also available. Overnight stay at hotel. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel and then take the regional train to reach Como. The journey takes about 40 min. Discover the city of Como and its famous lake on your own. A day ticket is included for the hop-on / hop-off public boat to discover the lake departing from Como. You can choose the best stops to get off for a walk according to the departures of the boats and the time of the train back to Milan. Enjoy some free time in Como to get to know the town and shop in the many local boutiques. Return to Milan in the evening and overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Embark on a breathtaking journey that begins in the charming Italian town of Tirano and takes you to the world-renowned alpine resort of St. Moritz in Switzerland, aboard the famous Bernina Express. Your adventure starts in Tirano, where you'll board the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage railway renowned for its scenic views. As the train ascends through the stunning landscape of the Swiss Alps, you'll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The journey crosses the Bernina Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet), offering unparalleled vistas that change with every twist and turn. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. St. Moritz, famous for its glamorous atmosphereand pristine natural beauty, offers a range of activities to suit every taste. You might choose to stroll along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, explore the upscale boutiques, or dine in one of the town’s exquisite restaurants. After a day filled with breathtaking scenery and luxury, you'll spend the night in St. Moritz, where you can relax and unwind, ready to continue your adventure the next day. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a morning departure from the glamorous alpine town of St. Moritz. You will embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This iconic train journey will take you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and over the dramatic Oberalp Pass at an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps' rugged peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages. As you arrive in Zermatt, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, you'll have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure. Stroll through the car-free streets of Zermatt, visit the quaint shops, or relax in one of the cozy cafes while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery. After a day of exploration, settle in for the night in your Zermatt hotel, ready for the adventure that awaits. (B)

The following day is dedicated to the awe-inspiring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Have breakfast at the hotel and then begin your day with a cable car ride to the highest cable car station in Europe, at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,739 feet). From here, you'll experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Explore the Glacier Palace, carved deep inside the glacier, or enjoy the panoramic views from the viewing platform. After your visit, return to Zermatt where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine or simply relaxing after your day of high-altitude adventure. You'll spend the night in Zermatt, savouring the tranquil alpine atmosphere. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a scenic train journey from the charming alpine village of Zermatt to the vibrant city of Zurich. As you depart from Zermatt, you'll leave behind the towering peaks of the Matterhorn and glide through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Alps. The route takes you through lush valleys, alongside sparkling rivers, and past quaint Swiss villages, offering a glimpse of Switzerland's stunning natural beauty. As the journey continues, the landscape gradually transforms from the rugged mountain scenery to the rolling hills and serene lakes of the Swiss countryside. Upon arriving in Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, you'll find yourself in the heart of a dynamic metropolis known for its blend of modernity and tradition. With its charming old town, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene, Zurich offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. This train journey not only connects you from one iconic destination to another but also provides a unique and relaxing way to experience the diverse beauty of Switzerland. Overnight stay at the hotel in Zurich. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel and end of services. (B)