Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy

4.7Based on

Natural landmarks sightseeing Guided and Escorted

Carbon neutral

11 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

44 peopleMaximum group size

1 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Zurich, Switzerland

Ends

Lucerne, Switzerland

Highlights

Enjoy stunning Alpine views on the Glacier Express train.

Soak up the mountain air with two nights in the Alpine village of Zermatt.

Explore the "Swiss Paradise on the Lake," Lucerne.

Itinerary

For travelers who dream of breathtaking landscapes and classic train journeys, the 'Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains' tour delivers an unforgettable 11-day adventure through Switzerland and Italy. Beginning in Zurich and ending in Lucerne, this easy-paced group trip features rides on legendary routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Pass Train.

Relax in exclusive resort towns such as Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Lake Maggiore, and ascend Mount Pilatus via the world’s steepest railway. Explore Lucerne’s scenic lakeside setting, enjoy a cruise on Lake Maggiore, and soak up Alpine vistas from 7,000 feet above sea level.

The USP? A perfect pairing of iconic train rides and picturesque lake cruises, offering a front-row seat to the Alps’ most spectacular views—all in sophisticated comfort.

day 1 - Overnight Flight

Breathtaking Alpine vistas await as you travel through Switzerland and Italy. Experience dramatic views aboard railways and lake cruises while enjoying cultural experiences in charming villages.

day 2 - Zurich, Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland’s largest city – Zurich. Enjoy some free time exploring its charming Old Town or one of its many museums on your own. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner.

Meals:Dinner

day 3 - Zurich - Andermatt - Zermatt

Say “good morning” to Zurich with a walking tour of the city. A local guide will teach you the city’s history and make a few sweet stops along the way. Learn the history behind the chocolate shops and taste some delicacies for yourself. Treat your taste buds to even more flavors of Zurich with free time for lunch on your own. After that, it’s all aboard! You’re off to Andermatt to experience the world-renowned Glacier Express* train. Natural backdrops of the Swiss Alps, thick forests, gurgling streams, and deep valleys bring this mountain dream to life. Complete your day in the unique, car-less village of Zermatt.

Meals:Breakfast & Dinner

day 4 - Zermatt

Start your morning with a Tour Manager-led walk to get familiar with the quaint mountain village of Zermatt. With free time for the rest of the day, let your curiosity get the best of you while uncovering history in the Matterhorn Museum. Perhaps your adventurous side will bring you on the Gornergrat Railway to experience elevated views of the Matterhorn.

Meals:Breakfast

day 5 - Zermatt - Lake Maggiore, Italy

Take on the day as you depart Zermatt and head towards Italy. Enjoy scenic mountain views on a drive through the Simplon Pass, used for centuries as a main trading route between northern Italy and Switzerland. Learn how Napoleon used the Simplon Pass to cross the Alps into Italy and gain control of Milan and Venice. Soak in spectacular views traveling through Val di’ Ossola and visit a local family-owned cow farm. Meet the owners and learn about life on the farm, and their family business before enjoying some of their home-made products over lunch. Continue to a tranquil resort area with crystal clear waters set against the backdrop of the Alps, known as Lake Maggiore. Take time this afternoon to stroll the cobbled streets of Stresa. Long-favored by European aristocracy because of its blend of elegance, Stresa has inspired artists and writers since the late 1800s. As the day draws to a close, settle in for a 3-night stay at your hotel.

Meals:Breakfast & Lunch

day 6 - Lake Maggiore

The entire day is yours. You might want to soak up the sun along the waterfront, relax in an outdoor café, or head out on the waves by boat. Perhaps you’ll take an optional tour to picture-perfect Lake Orta – a hidden gem surrounded by romantic villages and filled with quaint islands. As the evening approaches, board a private boat for a cruise to Isola dei Pescatori. On the island, toast to your Italian experiences during dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals:Breakfast & Dinner

day 7 - Lake Maggiore

Today, explore the twin towns of Verbania and Pallanza where it’s your choice! In Verbania, wander through the enchanted gardens of Villa Taranto. Among the dreamy landscapes and captivating reflections are mysterious flowers from the farthest corners of the world -OR- visit Pallanza and tour the Troubetzkoy statuary collection housed in the town’s museum, Museo del Paesaggio. This afternoon, set sail to Isola Bella – known as the “beautiful island.” With an expert guide beside you, journey into the Borromeo Palace – a lakeside Baroque beauty adorned with an exotic garden.

Meals:Breakfast

day 8 - Lake Maggiore - St. Moritz, Switzerland

Experience sweeping coastal views on your drive along the picturesque shores of Lake Como during your full morning bus transfer to Tirano. Enjoy free time and lunch in this charming town before traveling along one of the world’s most scenic railways. Take a journey through the Bernina Express en route to St. Moritz, Switzerland. Witness the striking landscapes of the Swiss Alps throughout your voyage – including the famed Morteratsch Glacier. Make your final stop in St. Moritz and enjoy the evening at leisure to relax or stroll the lakeside boulevard.

Meals:Breakfast

day 9 - St. Moritz - Lucerne

Slow and steady wins the race today. Enjoy a leisurely start in St. Moritz before heading to Lucerne, the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Follow the ancient pathways of the city on a walking tour through an Altstadt (Old Town), passing through the covered 14th-century Chapel Bridge. Along the way, see the famous Water Tower that once served as a prison. Pause at the renowned Lion Monument, carved from sandstone to commemorate heroic soldiers. The evening is yours to relax or explore.

Meals:Breakfast

day 10 - Lucerne

Today, enjoy the splendor of pure nature while gliding over a clear landscape in panoramic gondolas and spectacular cable cars. Ascend Pilatus** on a unique excursion along the steepest railway in the world. From the top, soak in the magnificent Alpine views from 7,000 ft. above sea level. Enjoy leisure time at the summit, where you can stroll the walkway for new vantage points. Venture back down the mountain by panoramic gondola for another bird’s eye view. Gather tonight for a farewell dinner featuring Swiss specialties.

Meals:Breakfast & Dinner

day 11 - Lucerne - Tour Ends

Your scenic journey comes to an end today in Lucerne.

Meals:Breakfast

Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

Hotel Krone UnterstrassResort Hotel AlexZacchera HotelsHotel SteffaniRadisson Blu Hotel

Meals

9 Breakfasts1 Lunch4 Dinners

Transport

Transport Included

Guide

Guided by Tour Manager/s

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy

4.7

based on 50 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 166+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 813 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Had a very good experience booking my tour on Bookmundi.

9 hours ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy that you might like.

Swiss Delight

4.9(8 reviews)

Switzerland’s winter magic awaits on the "Swiss Delight" tour, a nine-day getaway that’s perfect for experienced travelers eager to explore iconic cities, sparkling Christmas markets, and awe-inspiring Alpine scenery. Starting in Geneva and wrapping up in Zurich, this guided trip sweeps you across Montreux, Brienz, and other stunning destinations, all while enjoying the country’s legendary hospitality. Indulge in the flavors of Swiss cuisine, browse for treasures in festive markets, and soak in the snow-dusted charm of lakeside towns and mountain villages. From the cosmopolitan buzz of Geneva to the tranquil beauty of Brienz, every stop brings new discoveries and opportunities to shop, dine, and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. The unique highlight of this tour package is its seasonal focus—experience Switzerland at its most enchanting, with the added sparkle of holiday festivities. With accommodations, transport, and meals taken care of, you’re free to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of winter in the Alps, all at a relaxed and comfortable pace.

9 days

Scenic Europe

4.8(40 reviews)

Discover the magic of Europe on the Scenic Europe tour, a 9-day journey that artfully blends natural beauty and iconic landmarks. Starting and ending in Munich, this tour package whisks travelers through Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, weaving together the storybook landscapes of Tuscany, Como, Lauterbrunnen, and more. Immerse yourself in Munich’s vibrant culture and savor authentic Bavarian cuisine before marveling at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. The trip continues with unforgettable moments: capture photos beside the Leaning Tower of Pisa, wander the Renaissance streets of Florence, and enjoy serene free time amid the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps. The itinerary is designed for experienced explorers and senior adventurers seeking a moderate balance of sightseeing and leisure. Glide along Venice’s romantic canals, uncover Innsbruck’s historic Goldenes Dachl, and explore charming towns nestled amidst breathtaking scenery. Each day offers a thoughtful mix of guided sightseeing and opportunities for independent exploration, ensuring a rich, unhurried experience. A unique highlight of this tour package is its seamless blend of cultural immersion and access to Europe’s most captivating vistas—whether you’re drawn to world-famous art in Florence or the tranquil pace of life in the Alpine valleys. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, you can focus on soaking in each destination without a worry. Embrace the slow life as you journey through the heart of Europe, creating memories that linger long after the last sunset over Venice’s waterways.

9 days

Highlights of Switzerland in Eleven Days

5.0(2 reviews)

Switzerland’s breathtaking scenery and cultural richness unfold on this eleven-day private tour, crafted for experienced travelers with a passion for outdoor adventure and culinary discovery. Begin in Zurich and journey through Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne, and Zermatt, circling back to your starting point. Highlights include a scenic cogwheel train ascent up Eiger Mountain, the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva, and hands-on experiences like a chocolate workshop and a visit to a cheese-making facility. Optional outdoor adventures—whether hiking, cycling, or simply soaking up alpine beauty—offer flexibility for every interest and energy level. With all accommodations, meals, and transport included, this trip ensures comfort and ease throughout. The unique selling point of this tour package is its comprehensive blend of Switzerland’s outdoor wonders with immersive culinary experiences, giving you a taste—literally and figuratively—of the best the country has to offer.

11 days

Southern Italy: Amalfi Coast & Puglia

Take off on an unforgettable journey down Italy’s rarely visited heel, getting to know another side of this beautiful country. See the beauty of Amalfi, unwind in style among the sophisticates of Trani and tour the Roman ruins, baroque churches and whitewashed alleyways of Lecce. Wander among the peculiarly shaped houses of Alberobello, wander the hillside dwellings of Matera and discover the Old Town’s life surrounding Bari's Basilica di San Nicola. Head down and say ciao to Italy’s southernmost slice of the Adriatic.

10 days

Best of Switzerland

4.7(153 reviews)

Swiss sophistication meets Italian flair on the Best of Switzerland tour, a journey spanning Zurich, Lucerne, Baveno, and more over 9 memorable days. Experience the best of Switzerland’s lakes, mountains, and charming towns, complemented by a side trip into Italy’s enchanting Lake District. Savor local wines on Lake Geneva, explore Chillon Castle, and enjoy a masterclass in Swiss wood carving in Brienz. The tour includes all accommodations, transport, meals, and guided excursions, making it perfect for travelers seeking both cultural depth and scenic beauty. What sets this trip apart? Its seamless blend of Swiss and Italian gems, offering an irresistibly diverse European experience.

9 days

Treasures of Italy

4.8(95 reviews)

Italy’s treasures await on this 11-day museum and gallery visits tour, 'Treasures of Italy,' from Rome to Venice. Explore the Eternal City with a local expert, tour the Vatican Museums and Colosseum, and cruise to Capri’s Caesar Augustus Gardens. In Venice, wander St. Mark’s Square, enjoy a serenaded gondola ride, and celebrate on Burano island with local specialties. This guided group trip’s unique appeal lies in its combination of world-class art, iconic landmarks, and authentic Italian cuisine, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive Italian experience.

11 days

Ultimate Italy

5.0(34 reviews)

Discover Italy in style on this 12-day guided tour that celebrates the country’s timeless beauty, rich culture and world-renowned cuisine. From the pastel-hued villages of the Ligurian Coast to the Renaissance treasures of Florence and the grandeur of Rome, each moment is exquisitely curated. Sail to Capri and admire the dramatic Faraglioni Rocks before indulging in Michelin-starred dining overlooking the Gulf of Naples. In Assisi, view Giotto’s frescoes with a local historian. Join a hands-on cooking class in Tuscany and in Venice, unlock the secrets of the Doge’s Palace during an exclusive after-hours visit. From hilltop villages to iconic cities, this is Italy at its most indulgent, immersive and inspiring.

12 days

Keep Exploring Switzerland

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights