Switzerland and Italy Tours and Trips
Switzerland and Italy — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
Travel Highlights
- Visit the charming Swiss city of Geneva, where you can explore famous landmarks such as the Jet d'Eau fountain, the Old Town, and the Palace of Nations.
- Explore the picturesque village of Zermatt, located at the foot of the Matterhorn, then take a cable car or cogwheel train to reach the summit for panoramic views.
- Tour Milan, known for its fashion, design, and culture, and visit its iconic sights, such as the Duomo cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the La Scala opera house.
- Take a scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps, crossing mountain passes and valleys, and admire the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lakes.
- Explore the historic city of Venice, built on a network of canals and islands, and take a gondola ride or a water taxi to see its famous landmarks.
- Go on a Tuscany tour, where you can explore its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns, and visit places such as Florence, Pisa, Siena, or San Gimignano
Travel Tips
- Both Switzerland and Italy are popular travel destinations, so expect large tourist crowds during peak season (June to August). To avoid crowds and save money on accommodations and attractions, plan your vacation during the shoulder season (April to May and September to October).
- Both countries have excellent public transportation systems, so consider purchasing a travel pass to get around. The Eurail Global Pass and Interrail Global Pass allow unlimited train travel in 33 European countries, including Switzerland and Italy. A three-day Eurail pass costs around €270, while a three-day Interrail pass can be bought for around €304.
- Be prepared for different weather conditions, especially if you plan to visit the mountainous regions of Switzerland or the coastal areas of Italy. So dress in layers, pack some warm clothes and waterproof gear.
- Learn some basic phrases in Italian and German, as these are the main languages spoken in Italy and Switzerland.
Recommended Durations for Switzerland and Italy Tours
You will need at least two weeks for a comprehensive tour of Switzerland and Italy. Within this time, you will be able to visit all major highlights of these two countries, including in Zurich, Geneva, Rome, Florence, and Venice. You will also have time for adventure and relaxing activities in the Swiss Alps and the Italian coastline.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland and Italy
The best time to go for a tour of Switzerland and Italy is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October), when the weather is mild, tourist crowds are thinner, and travel prices are lower.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season in both Switzerland and Italy. As the weather is warm and days are longer during this time, a large number of vacationers flock to these two countries, pushing up the travel and accommodation prices. Winter (December to February) is a popular time for skiing in Switzerland, but it can be cold and snowy.
To get the best deals, consider traveling during the shoulder season or booking in advance.
FAQ for Switzerland and Italy tours
1. How many hours is it from Italy to Switzerland?
The travel time between Italy and Switzerland varies depending on the cities you are traveling between and your mode of transport. For example, if you take the most popular Milan-Zurich train route, the travel time is around three and a half hours. If you take a bus, the journey between the two cities takes around four hours.
2. How much does the train ticket cost?
A train ticket price from Italy to Switzerland varies depending on the city you are boarding the train from and your seat class. As of 2023, a one-way ticket can cost between €20 and €100 or more.
3. Which other countries should you combine with the Switzerland tour?
Switzerland pairs well with other neighboring countries such as Italy, France, Germany, and Austria. It depends on your interests and travel preferences.