• Aarp Logo Red
    AARP Members Save $100 AARP SAVE $100 on select vacations booked with us on select vacations
    Learn More

Contrasts of Switzerland

Operated by: Trafalgar

8 Days from $3,226 per person
APR - OCT 2023
Contrasts Of Switzerland

Countries Visited

Switzerland ...more Switzerland

Locations Visited

Zürich, Saint Moritz, Zermatt, Chexbres, Geneva, Interlaken, Lucerne ...more Zürich, Saint Moritz, Zermatt, Chexbres, Geneva, Interlaken, Lucerne
  1. Day 1 Welcome to Zürich

    Zürich is our springboard to a spectacular journey through Switzerland. This afternoon, explore its mix of ancient heritage, modern verve and social solidarity during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as you embark on a social impact guided walking tour and sustainable chocolate tasting. This evening attend a Welcome Reception to launch your Swiss experience.

    meals Welcome Reception
    hotel Mövenpick Airport
  2. Day 2 Onwards by Train to St. Moritz

    Our love affair with the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland begins on a scenic train journey via Chur to the stylish resort of St. Moritz, set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake St. Moritz. Admire the inspiring natural setting and perhaps travel on one of Switzerland's most spectacular rail routes across the Bernina pass this afternoon, before enjoying St. Moritz at your leisure tonight.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Reine Victoria
  3. Day 3 Catch the Glacier Express to Zermatt

    Embrace the glamour and romance of a bygone era. Watch the epic alpine landscapes drift past as you chug along one of the world's most unforgettable rail journeys from the comfort of the Glacier Express. Cross hundreds of bridges and the Oberalp Pass at 6,700 feet (2,044 m) above sea level. Enjoy an included lunch on board as you journey past lakes and glaciers bound for the resort town of Zermatt, at the foothills of the imposing Matterhorn. Your Tour Director will take you on an Orientation of the town.

    meals Breakfast, Lunch
    hotel Ambassador
  4. Day 4 Zermatt at Leisure

    Spend a full free day soaking up Zermatt's crisp mountain air and panoramic vistas. Relax in beautiful surroundings or consider an Optional Experience to the Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain views.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ambassador
  5. Day 5 A Train Journey to Lakeside Geneva Connect with Locals

    We board a train to Vevey and Connect With Locals in Chexbres on the shores of Lake Geneva. We'll enjoy lunch at this memorable Be My Guest experience, then continue to sophisticated Geneva where your orientation will include views of the Old Town, Jet d'Eau and the Flower Clock, paying tribute to the city's centuries-old watchmaking traditions. Later, explore the sights of this lakeside city on your own. Stroll through the ancient maze of medieval streets and quiet squares or consider a cruise – enjoying views of the lakeside villages.

    meals Breakfast, Be My Guest
    hotel Warwick
  6. Day 6 Journey on the Golden and Brünig Pass to Interlaken and Lucerne

    Picture-perfect landscapes are our constant companion as we journey from Geneva along the Golden Pass route. Passing through Interlaken, enjoy superb views of the Bernese Oberland and Brünig Pass on the way to Lakeside Lucerne. See the Iconic Chapel bridge and the poignant Lion Monument, built in memory of the Swiss Guards who bravely defended Louis XVI during the French Revolution on your orientation tour. The evening is free to spend as you wish, but you could choose to show off your vocal talents and learn how to yodel during an optional fun-packed Swiss folklore show with fondue dinner.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Radisson Blu
  7. Day 7 Explore Medieval Lucerne

    Mountain peaks surround you as you spend a day at leisure in beautiful lakeside Lucerne. Consider an Optional Experience to a nearby Mountain Peak, explore the medieval streets and shop for delicious Swiss Chocolate. Before we enjoy our Farewell dinner together, you might want to enjoy an Optional Experience riding a carriage through one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain villages.

    meals Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
    hotel Radisson Blu
  8. Day 8 Journey Home

    We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and newfound friends at the end of a remarkable Swiss holiday. Your Travel Director will give you tickets for the short train journey from Lucerne to Zürich Airport, which can be used at your convenience, on the last day of the tour, for your onward journey.

    meals Breakfast
Contrasts Switzerland Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Train from Zürich to St. Moritz
  • Glacier Express Train from St. Moritz to Zermatt
  • High-speed train from Zermatt to Vevey
  • Golden Pass route train journey from Geneva to Lucerne
  • Optional Experiences and free time

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Be My Guest

  • Chexbres: Savour an exclusive Be My Guest lunch at Chexbres on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Iconic Experience

  • St Moritz: Enjoy the views of St. Moritz by travelling along the most spectacular rail routes of Switzerland.
  • Saint Moritz: Hop aboard the Glacier Express and take in the magical views of the alpine landscapes.
  • Zermatt: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Zermatt.
  • Geneva: Spend the day taking in the spectacular views of Geneva.
  • Switzerland: Marvel at the Alpine landscape as you drive past breathtakingly beautiful mountains and valleys.
  • Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • Zürich: Join Diana, a socially-engaged local guide, for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to uncover the old town of Zürich during a fun and educational walking tour. Learn about medieval history and current topics of social solidarity while tasting ethical chocolate. This tour directly supports local and women-led businesses and promotes the important work they do in Zürich.
  • : Swisstainable is Switzerland's own sustainability strategy with a mission for Swiss travel to encompass greater awareness and perspective, and more enjoyment. Swisstainable encourages travellers to enjoy nature up close and first-hand, experience the local culture in an authentic way, consume regional products, stay for longer and delve deeper. All hotels, experiences and meals on Contrasts of Switzerland are now Swisstainable.

Must-see Highlights

  • : Discover Zürich, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Geneva and Lucerne
  • : View the Matterhorn (weather permitting), the Jet d'Eau in Geneva, the Swiss Alps in Interlaken and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne
  • : Scenic Train Ride on the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt and on the Golden Pass Train from Geneva to Lucerne

Trafalgar Difference

  • Zermatt: Enjoy panoramic views of the Alps at the Hotel Ambassador in Zermatt.

Whats Included

  • : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • : Train from Zürich to St. Moritz
  • : Glacier Express Train from St. Moritz to Zermatt
  • : High-speed train from Zermatt to Vevey
  • : Golden Pass route train journey from Geneva to Lucerne
  • : Optional Experiences and free time

Dates & Prices

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.

Online Booking Process

Onlinebookingprocesssteps
April 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Apr 9 Sun
Apr 16 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,226 Save $569
GETAWAY DEALS
AARP Members Save up to $100
Apr 30 Sun
May 7 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,226 Save $569
GETAWAY DEALS
June 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jun 4 Sun
Jun 11 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jun 11 Sun
Jun 18 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jun 25 Sun
Jul 2 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,226 Save $569
GETAWAY DEALS
July 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jul 16 Sun
Jul 23 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,416 Save $380
LIMITED TIME OFFER
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jul 23 Sun
Jul 30 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,416 Save $380
LIMITED TIME OFFER
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jul 30 Sun
Aug 6 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,416 Save $380
LIMITED TIME OFFER
August 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Aug 13 Sun
Aug 20 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795
AARP Members Save up to $100
Aug 27 Sun
Sep 3 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795 $3,416 Save $380
LIMITED TIME OFFER
September 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Sep 3 Sun
Sep 10 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$3,795
Optional Add-Ons

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.

Saint Moritz

Available on Day 2

Bernina Pass Discovery

Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a truly local experience!
Adult Price: 87 CHF

Zermatt

Available on Day 4

Klein Matterhorn Excursion

A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding Europe's highest cable car to 3883m (12,740 ft) to view the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.
Adult Price: 123 CHF

Available on Day 4

Zermatt Dinner Experience

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 raclette and chocolate fondue.
Adult Price: 86 CHF

Lake Geneva

Available on Day 5

Lake Geneva Cruise

Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. Lac Leman, as it is known to the locals, is one of Western Europe’s largest lakes and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc.
Adult Price: 47 CHF

Available on Day 5

Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal

Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake Geneva. The lake is one of Western Europe’s largest and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc. A three-course meal will be served in their wood-panelled dining room while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine scenery dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.
Adult Price: 94 CHF

Lucerne

Available on Day 6

Swiss Dinner by the Lake

Tonight, we'll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue in a typical local restaurant. Its lakeside location and well-placed terrace will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu. Two drinks are included.
Adult Price: 95 CHF

Available on Day 6

Swiss Folklore Evening And Dinner

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.
Adult Price: 99 CHF
Note: Occasionally, this optional may be offered as a lunch for CHF 68.00.

Available on Day 7

Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise

Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by funicular and the world's first Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.
Adult Price: 113 CHF
Note: On certain departures, this optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise. It may also be operated without the cruise for CHF 78.

Available on Day 7

Swiss Countryside & Carriages

A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.
Adult Price: 72 CHF
Note: Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Sunday, September 18, 2022
Service
When it was necessary to change flights on the return to the US, the rescheduled flights would have taken us considerably far in the wrong direction when there were closer cities available.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We always book the most direct flights available at the time you book your trip, but when airlines make changes to their schedules it is out of our control. We do apologize for any inconvenience.
Tuesday, September 20, 2022
Vacation
Beautiful countriy and trains were fantastic! However I feltI I was herded from place to place. The tour director did not use her opportunities to provide color- history, culture and opportunities for questions and dialog. Too many extra cost - optional experiences, in lieu of included experiences.
Trusted Customer
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Service
Always prompt, friendly and professional.
Vacation
The tour by itself was good. However, the director was not very organized-often especially with the train transfers we were sometimes in pins and needles of what next to happen. Communication was not consistent and left much to be desired causing anxiety for us. Also, it would have been good if this tour is advertised with a caveat that most of the travel is done with train rides and transfers. I was not prepared to be hopping from one train to another. Also while on the train, no information was given to us about the sights we were viewing .It could have been possible since we were in the same train car/coach. ex. I felt bad for having missed the sight of Jungfrau, Monch and Eiger and we were in the Interlaken area. or other places of interest. we were left to our own.
See More Reviews
Terms & Conditions
Click here to view Terms and Conditions for this guided vacation
Back To Top