• Classic Switzerland

  • Classic Switzerland

  • Classic Switzerland

  • Classic Switzerland

Discover the very best of Switzerland, working your way through Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Thun, Gstaad, Montreux and Lausanne.

Days: 12 | From: $11,355 per person

  • Enjoy accommodations at best-in-class boutique hotels.
  • Curated tours with excellent private guides. You’ll have an instant local friend with insider access!
  • Experience the best of Switzerland, enjoy quaint villages, ride the Golden Pass Express, taste world-famous cheese and local wines, and be inspired by the iconic Eiger and Jungfraujoch.

Set off on a timeless journey through the iconic landscapes of Classic Switzerland, starting in Lucerne with its enchanting lakeside charm and stunning mountain backdrop. Traverse to Le Locle, a hub of watchmaking heritage, before exploring the medieval allure of Thun. Ascend to the breathtaking Jungfraujoch, surrounded by the majestic Eiger and alpine wonderlands, and embark on light hikes in the serene countryside. Hop aboard the scenic Golden Pass Express Train, making a delightful stop in Gstaad for traditional fondue. Discover the serene elegance of Lausanne and partake in a leisurely boat ride to the fairytale-like, Chillon Castle. Immerse yourself in the rich wine culture of Lavaux, with tastings amidst the picturesque, terraced vineyards. This classic itinerary seamlessly weaves together the essence of Switzerland, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and unforgettable moments in the heart of the Alps.

*All itineraries can be adjusted to travelers' individual fitness levels and interests.

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1 (510) 954-3224

We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.

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At a glance

  • Lucerne
    3 nights: Stroll along Lucerne's iconic wooden bridges and take in picturesque lake and mountain vistas
  • Le Locle
    2 nights: Experience the quaint and historic village of Le Locle, while savoring local cheeses and learning about Switzerland's watch legacy
  • Thun
    2 nights: Visit the Swiss capital of Bern, indulge in the local chocolate, and take in awe-inspiring views of the Eiger and renown North Face
  • Lausanne
    4 nights: Ride the Golden Pass Express, sip the best Swiss wines in Lavaux, and discover castles and stunning alpine gardens

  • All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.

Customize this trip
1 (510) 954-3224

Sample itinerary

Day 1:

Grüezi!

Famous Chapel Bridge in the historic city center of Lucerne, the city's symbol and one of Switzerland's main tourist attractions and views on a sunny day in summer, Canton of Lucerne, Switzerland.

Welcome to Switzerland! Upon arrival in Zurich, transfer to the captivating, lake-side town of Lucerne. Rest, relax, and explore on your own this evening and prepare for your incredible journey through the highlights of Switzerland ahead.

Accommodations: Hotel Beau Sejour, 3 nights

The Hotel Beau Sejour Lucerne boasts 28 boutique rooms and suites with a blend of classic exterior and whimsical interior design. The bistro bar offers lake views, complemented by an outdoor terrace overlooking scenic grounds. Guests can conveniently explore attractions like the Lion Monument, Swiss Transportation Museum, and Chapel Bridge on foot, with ample local shopping and dining options nearby.

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 2:

Lake Cruising and Mountain Views

View of Lake Lucerne on a sunny day with clouds in the sky

Board your awaiting vessel in Lucerne this morning and take a scenic lake cruise to Vitznau. Transition seamlessly to the mountain railway, which will transport you to the summit of Mount Rigi, often referred to as the “Queen of the Mountains.” This route mirrors the path taken by early tourists in the mid-19th century, adding a historical touch to your experience. Revel in the breathtaking panoramic views from the top of Rigi Kulm before descending on the opposite side of the mountain, reaching Arth-Goldau. Conclude your memorable excursion by returning to Lucerne from this picturesque location.

Accommodations: Hotel Beau Sejour, 3 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 3:

Discover The Beauty of Lucerne

Scenic summer aerial panorama of the Old Town medieval architecture in Lucerne, Switzerland

Begin your day by savoring the charm of Lucerne. Explore iconic sites like the Chapel Birdge, Lion Monument, the scenic lake area, or unwind at Dreilinden Park. Later in the afternoon, venture to Eigenthal, a hidden gem nestled above Lucerne, behind the renowned Mount Pilatus. Take a leisurely stroll along the lively Rümlig river, leading you to the quaint Unerlauelen Restaurant. Wrap up your day with a delightful experience at this mountain inn, celebrated as a well-kept secret among locals in Lucerne, where you can relish a traditional dinner and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of the region.

Accommodations: Hotel Beau Sejour, 3 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 4:

Explore Basel

Laufenburg Old town on Rhine river is a popular day trip destination around Basel, Switzerland, on the swiss german border

Departing from Lucerne, your journey takes you to Basel, renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and historical significance. Situated along the Rhine River and sharing borders with Germany and France, Basel invites you to explore its charming old town with narrow alleys and offers a choice of notable museums such as the Basel Exhibition Center, Foundation Beyeler, Tingueley Museum, Swiss Architecture Museum, and Vitra Design Museum. In the afternoon, continue your adventure to the Jura Mountains and La Chaux-de-Fonds, the capital of Swiss watches and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along the way from Basel, consider visiting the medieval town of Saint-Ursanne, the ancient peat bog and pond of Etang de la Gruère, or the Fromagerie de Bellelay, where the traditional Tête de Moine cheese is produced following an 800-year-old recipe in a monastery.

Accommodations: Fleur de Lis Boutique Hotel, 2 nights

Discover the enchanting Fleur de Lis Boutique Hotel nestled in the heart of Le Locle, renowned for its watchmaking heritage. This exclusive establishment seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary architecture, offering spacious rooms adorned with high-quality interiors and art. Indulge in the luxury of the deluxe studio, complete with a free-standing bathtub. Delight your palate with a rich breakfast buffet showcasing regional specialties, and savor seasonal market cuisine in the inviting bistrot. The hotel also boasts a well-stocked wine cellar, ensuring a memorable and refined experience for guests.

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 5:

Watches and Waterfalls

Doubs Falls on the Franco-Swiss border in France

Visit La Chaux-de-Fonds and explore the Doubs River today. La Chaux-de-Fonds, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its watchmaking legacy and architectural significance, holds a special place as the birth town of both Le Corbusier and Louis Chevrolet. Explore the town to delve into its architectural wonders and immerse yourself in the world of watchmaking, either at the International Museum of Watchmaking or one of the renowned manufactories like Tissot, Cartier, and Longines. Indulge in a lunch featuring the region’s traditional sausage or a delectable Truite, prepared with the renowned local recipe. Afterward, visit Lake Brenets and take a boat ride through the picturesque Doubs River Canyon. A brief walk leads you to the awe-inspiring Saut de Doubs, a 30-meter-high (100-foot-high) waterfall.

Accommodations: Fleur de Lis Boutique Hotel, 2 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 6:

Chocolate or Cheese and Bern, The Swiss Capital

Thun cityspace with Alps mountain and lake in Switzerland

Make a delightful stop at the Camille Bloch chocolate factory,before departing the Jura mountains. Choose between a guided tour through the chocolaterie or engage in a hands-on chocolate workshop to craft your personalized chocolate masterpiece. Your next destination is Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Explore the city’s covered alleys and witness the grandeur of the Swiss Parliament House. Later, continue your journey to Thun. Alternatively, forgo the chocolate factory visit and head straight to Bern, opting to spend the afternoon discovering the secrets of Emmental cheese in the picturesque Emmental region.

Accommodations: Schloss Schadau Hotel, 2 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 7:

The Eiger and Jungfraujoch

Aerial view jungfraujoch

Today you will experience the Eiger and impressive Jungfraujoch. Embark on a scenic journey from Thun to Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg, passing beneath the impressive Eiger North Face. Ascend by train through the Eiger mountain to reach Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. Experience the breathtaking world of snow and ice before descending to Kleine Scheidegg. A leisurely walk leads to Wengeneralp and eventually to Wengen, a picturesque village in the Bernese Oberland. Conclude your adventure with a ride on the Jungfrau railways through the stunning Lauterbrunnen valley, returning to Thun.

Accommodations: Schloss Schadau Hotel, 2 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 8:

Ride the Famed Golden Pass Express and Explore Gstaad

cheese fondue swiss

Ride the captivating Golden Pass Express, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful train lines, and journey along Lake Thun to Spiez and then through the serene Simmen valley to Gstaad. Disembark and take a moment to explore glamorous Gstaad, stroll along the promenade, and savor traditional fondue. Whether at Rössli, the town’s oldest restaurant, Petit Chalet affiliated with the five-star hotel Le Grand Bellevue, or with a specially packed backpack to enjoy your fondue meal outdoors, indulge in this cheesy delicacy with a glass of Swiss white wine- you really can’t go wrong! Finally, hop back on the train and ride past the stunning, terraced vineyards of Montreux, along Lake Geneva, to Lausanne.

Accommodations: Hotel des Voyageurs Boutique, 4 nights

The Hotel des Voyageurs Boutique in Lausanne, Switzerland, exudes charm and elegance, offering a unique blend of modern luxury and historic allure. Nestled in the heart of Lausanne, this boutique hotel captivates guests with its stylish décor, seamlessly combining contemporary design elements with classic Swiss sophistication. The rooms are thoughtfully adorned with plush furnishings and cutting-edge amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. The hotel's central location provides easy access to Lausanne's cultural landmarks, scenic lakeside views, and vibrant dining scene.

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 9:

Discover Lausanne

View on a historical medieval centre and a bridge

Explore Lausanne today by starting at Sauvablin park and touring the Hermitage Foundation art museum. Continue on to the Cathedral, overlooking Lake Geneva, which provides a magnificent view. Wander through the charming old town or relax by the lakeside in Ouchy, where you can even take a refreshing dip in the lake. Don’t miss the Olympic museum, a must-visit for sports fans, located at the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee.

Accommodations: Hotel des Voyageurs Boutique, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 10:

Lake Geneva and Montreux

CHILLON CASTLE - SWITZERLAND - 18 AUGUST 2011. Chillon Castle, Switzerland. Montreaux, Lake Geneve, one of the most visited castle in Swiss, attracts more than 300,000 visitors every year.

Cruise across Lake Geneva from Lausanne to Montreux. Upon arrival, switch to the mountain train heading to Rochers-de-Naye, offering a stunning viewpoint high above Lake Geneva with a panoramic view of the lake and the Alps. Explore the alpine garden La Rambertia, boasting nearly 1000 different plant species. Visit the Chillon castle, a water fortress on Lake Geneva’s shore, and conclude with a leisurely walk along the promenade back to Montreux. Indulge in a refreshing drink at one of the coffee bars before returning to Lausanne.

Accommodations: Hotel des Voyageurs Boutique, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 11:

Savor the Wines of Lavaux

Amazing vine rows with Lake Geneva in background. Beautiful place with vineyards on the hills in Lavaux wine region, near Chexbres village, Rivaz, Canton of Vaud, Switzerland, Europe

Explore the Lavaux region, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant Swiss wine region. Wander through the vineyards with terraces dating back to the 12th century, crafted by monks. The cultivation primarily focuses on Chasselas for white wine and Pinot Noir grapes for red wine. Afterward, visit a Caveau (wine cellar) to meet a wine producer and savor various wines. Cheers! Return to Lausanne to enjoy your final evening in Switzerland.

Accommodations: Hotel des Voyageurs Boutique, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 12:

Uf Widerluege!

Head off today back to Zurich or on to Geneva for your departure home.

*Includes: Breakfast

Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary

  • Add time in the Bernese Oberland for additional alpine and gastronomic adventures.

  • Pop across the border to France and explore the French Alps or Paris.

  • Visit Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, with its beautiful lakes, villas, and amazing cuisine.

  • Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.

Call us to start planning your journey today:

1 (510) 954-3224

Request more information

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