Best of Switzerland
10 Days from $2,589 per person
Switzerland's indigo lakes and imposing Alpine backdrop seem to go on forever as you explore sophisticated cities, an ancient castle and the shores of Montreux. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Alps in Zermatt cross Lucerne's Chapel Bridge, and traverse the picturesque Italian countryside, boarding a train from Tirano to St. Moritz for equally spectacular views.
Overview
Switzerland's indigo lakes and imposing Alpine backdrop seem to go on forever as you explore sophisticated cities, an ancient castle and the shores of Montreux. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Alps in Zermatt cross Lucerne's Chapel Bridge, and traverse the picturesque Italian countryside, boarding a train from Tirano to St. Moritz for equally spectacular views.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Zurich
At the start of the trip, the Radisson Blu hotel is located at Zurich Airport for convenience, so guests can make their own way to the hotel from the Airport terminal. Welcome to the sophisticated Swiss city of Zurich - a flawless blend of fascinating heritage and modern spirit which you will have an opportunity to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and orientation in this beautiful lakeside setting.
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Day 3: Zurich – Berne – Chillon – Lake Geneva (Montreux)
We leave the bright lights of Zurich behind and stop in Berne with its charming Old Town, admiring its cobblestone streets, ornate fountains and arcaded walkways. Journeying to Lake Geneva, we arrive in the resort town of Montreux, set against the pristine backdrop of snow-covered peaks and vineyards. After lunch, we visit the island castle of Chillon Castle, immortalized by Lord Byron's ‘Prisoner of Chillon'. For nearly four centuries, this water fortress was the residence of the Counts of Savoy and an important stop for traders. -
Day 4: Lake Geneva (Montreux) – Zermatt (2 Nights)
Enjoy a full morning to explore Montreux at your leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience to cruise Lake Geneva, including a visit to the Charlie Chaplin museum in his former estate, Manoir de Ban. Our next stop is the 15th century vineyards of Cave Champ de Clos for an unforgettable Be My Guest lunch in charming Chexbres. Continue your journey to the resort town of Zermatt, set against the backdrop of the imposing snow-capped Matterhorn, where we'll stay the next two nights. -
Day 5: Zermatt
Spend the day soaking up the crisp mountain air and panoramic alpine vistas. You have a full day at leisure to explore the town on your terms, or simply relax in beautiful surrounds. Consider an Optional Experience to the Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain views or explore the heritage of what was once a remote mountain village. -
Day 6: Zermatt – Baveno
Departing Switzerland, we travel to the lakeside town of Baveno on Italy's picturesque Lake Maggiore. Spend the rest of the day soaking up the laidback lakeside atmosphere or consider joining an Optional Experience to Isola Bella, one of the lake's Borromean islands, with its palazzo and exquisite gardens. -
Day 7: Baveno – St. Moritz
We travel through the scenic Italian countryside, crossing the Swiss border into the scenic Upper Engadine Valley. We stop in the fortified town of Tirano where we will board our train and wind our way through spectacular alpine landscapes en route to the chic resort town of St. Moritz. This evening we dine at our hotel. -
Day 8: St. Moritz – Lucerne Orientation and Free Time (2 Nights)
Meandering through lush green landscapes, past Lake Zurich, we arrive in the fairy-tale lakeside city of Lucerne, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI at the Lion Monument and cross the iconic wooden Chapel Bridge before meandering through the city's cobblestone streets lined with colorful façades. Consider joining a cruise on the tranquil lake waters and then ride the world's first Cabrio cable car to the top of Mount Stanserhorn. -
Day 9: Brienz and Interlaken Excursion
We travel to Interlaken at the heart of Switzerland, which lies in the shadows of the Jungfrau Mountain, stopping in the village of Brienz for a Cultural Insight into the centuries-old tradition of wood carving for which this village is so famous. Spend some time at leisure and enjoy superb views of the peaks of the Bernese Oberland. This evening we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with our fellow travelers and Travel Director toasting the highlights of Switzerland we've enjoyed along the way. -
Day 10: Lucerne – Depart Zurich
As our journey through the Best of Switzerland comes to an end, we bid our newfound friends a fond farewell. The return transfer will arrive at Zurich Airport on the last day of the trip at 8 am from Lucerne. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 May 18 | 13 May 18 |
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$2,750$2,613pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 11 May 18 | 20 May 18 |
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$2,750$2,613pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 1 Jun 18 | 10 Jun 18 |
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$2,775pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 8 Jun 18 | 17 Jun 18 |
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$2,775pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 22 Jun 18 | 1 Jul 18 |
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$2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 27 Jul 18 | 5 Aug 18 |
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$2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 3 Aug 18 | 12 Aug 18 |
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$2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 10 Aug 18 | 19 Aug 18 |
|
$2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 17 Aug 18 | 26 Aug 18 |
|
$2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 24 Aug 18 | 2 Sep 18 | $2,725$2,589pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 14 Sep 18 | 23 Sep 18 | $2,775$2,636pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 21 Sep 18 | 30 Sep 18 |
|
$2,775$2,636pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 28 Sep 18 | 7 Oct 18 |
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$2,775$2,636pp | Early PaymentPay by Apr 26 | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $430 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $60 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $88 per person.
Airport transfers: At the start of the trip, the Radisson Blu hotel is located at Zurich Airport for convenience, so guests can make their own way to the hotel from the Airport terminal. Return transfers will arrive at Zurich Airport on the last day of the trip at 8:00 am from Lucerne.
Important Visa Information: This trip will visit Italy for a short period. Some passport holders may require double entry visas.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
Frequent Travelers: Save an additional 5% off the price of the vacation.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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Most Meals
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Personal Flight Options
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
12 meals: 8 Buffet Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners, all with tea and coffee.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- Explore centuries of wine tradition at the 15th century vineyards of Cave Champ de Clos during an unforgettable Be My Guest lunch in charming Chexbres
Authentic Accommodations
- Enjoy the elegance of yesteryear and sweeping lake vistas at the Grand Hotel Europe in Lucerne, where warm Swiss hospitality and a grand past spanning over a century
Cultural Insight
- Explore the wood-carving heritage of Switzerland's picture-perfect lakeside town of Brienz
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- Orientation of Zurich, Lucerne
- Visit the Federal capital Berne, the Castle of Chillon, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Interlaken and Brienz
- View the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument in Lucerne, the Jungfrau and Matterhorn mountains (weather permitting), Lake Maggiore, Lake Como
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). While the country is not part of the European Union and thus is not obliged to convert to the Euro, many prices are nonetheless indicated in euros to help travelers compare prices. Some Swiss merchants may accept euros but are not obliged to do so. Change given back will most likely be in Swiss francs. While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive in Switzerland, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Switzerland. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Swiss cuisine is a flavorful blend of German, Italian, and French influences and a wide variety of regional offerings. Specialty dishes include fondue and raclette (cheese dipping dishes), sausages and rösti (fried potato), bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) and fondue bourguigon (cubes of steak with various sauces). Swiss pastries and desserts are excellent. There are also spirits made from fruit; the most popular are Kirsch, Pflümli and Williamine. And don’t miss out on the world-class selection of Swiss chocolate.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. It is important to bring comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof jacket. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
A service charge is typically included in the bill at restaurants in Switzerland. While there is no need to leave an additional tip, you can round up to the next franc for service if you choose.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Lake Geneva
Chaplin's World and Lake Geneva Cruise
Adult Price: €65.00
Enjoy the palm trees on the shores of Lake Geneva from a romantic side-wheel paddle steamer as we cruise from Vevey to Montreaux on Lake Geneva. We’ll visit the Charlie Chaplin museum, set on the banks of the lake on his former estate, Manoir de Ban. Chaplin spent the last 23 years of his life here and you’ll discover all the facets of this incredible man's life. We'll see sets and props from his greatest movies and then finish with a peaceful walk in the gardens.
Zermatt
Zermatt Dinner Experience
Adult Price: CHf86.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous fondue.
Italian Lakes
Discover The Borromean Islands
Adult Price: €41.00
We've organised a private launch to take you to the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. Here you'll see the Isola Madre, the Isola dei Pescatori, and on the Isola Bella we visit the magnificent palace of the Borromean Princes (this optional is only operated between mid March and the end of October).
St Moritz
Rosegg Valley By Horse And Carriage
Adult Price: CHf56.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Arriving in Pontresina, you'll experience a horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque Rosegg Valley with its spectacular views.
Lucerne
Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise
Adult Price: CHf112.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by railway and Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery and enjoy some refreshments. (On certain departures Optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise.)
Swiss Folklore Evening And Dinner
Adult Price: CHf99.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue, in a typical restaurant. While enjoying dinner, you can also join in a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flag-throwing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
