Majestic Switzerland
11 Days from $6,095 per person
Step into a world of snow-capped mountains, traditional alpine villages and warm hospitality. This idyllic journey takes you to fairy-tale
castles, breathtaking peaks and storybook meadows. Along the way you'll meet Local Experts and passionate foodies who will share local specialties, such as fondue and creamy chocolate, with you. Stay in luxurious hotels, see beautiful cities and marvel at some of the most extraordinary scenery on the planet.
Overview
Step into a world of snow-capped mountains, traditional alpine villages and warm hospitality. This idyllic journey takes you to fairy-tale
castles, breathtaking peaks and storybook meadows. Along the way you'll meet Local Experts and passionate foodies who will share local specialties, such as fondue and creamy chocolate, with you. Stay in luxurious hotels, see beautiful cities and marvel at some of the most extraordinary scenery on the planet.
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Day 1: Your Journey Begins.
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Welcome to Switzerland.
On arrival at Zürich Airport, meet your Travelling Concierge and transfer to your prestigious downtown hotel, located just steps away from the tree lined Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe's most exclusive shopping streets. Join your Travelling Concierge later for a Welcome Dinner of traditional Swiss cuisine, hosted at Brasserie Lipp.
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Day 3: Vaduz and St. Moritz.
Journey to Vaduz, the capital of the Principality of Liechtenstein. Known for being one of Europe's smallest countries, Liechtenstein is dotted with medieval castles, traditional villages and dramatic mountains. On arrival, ascend the Julier Pass until you reach the sparkling Engadine Valley and the chic, jet-set resort of St. Moritz. Dine in style at a local restaurant in the evening.
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Day 4: The Roof of Europe.
In the morning, join a nature guide for an included mountain hike, if the weather permits, or perhaps spoil yourself with a spa treatment? Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps shopping in the designer boutiques or going for a hike on one of the many breathtaking mountain trails. Alternatively, enjoy the amenities of your prestigious hotel, which boasts a selection of gourmet restaurants, a luxury spa and a tennis-and-squash center.
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Day 5: All Aboard The Glacier Express.
Step aboard the world-famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Descend through the spiral tunnels of the Albula Pass and over the lofty Landwasser Viaduct. Picturesque landscapes of ice-capped mountains and stone-built villages, with chalet-style houses, will be in sight as you ascend to the highest point of the route, 2,033 meters to the icy Oberalp Pass. The modern panorama viewing-car means you won't miss a thing on your descent to Andermatt. Arrive in Zermatt in the late afternoon where you're escorted to your hotel. As dusk descends, Zermatt offers a wealth of dining possibilities. This evening you're invited to choose from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants and authentic menus.
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Day 6: Zermatt and Gornergrat Experience.
Board the cogwheel train that winds slowly up the Gornergrat mountain, the highest open-air railway in Europe. The train crosses impressive bridges, galleries and tunnels, in the midst of aromatic forests and alpine meadows. From the summit, expect superb views of the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, Switzerland's highest mountain. In the afternoon, you are at leisure to relax or browse the shops of Zermatt. -
Day 7: Chillon Castle and The French Bank of Lake Geneva.
Journey along the Lower Rhone Valley to the shores of Lake Geneva. Marvel at the grandeur of one of Europe’s largest lakes, known for inspiring the early European Romantic movement. Visit beautiful Chillon Castle, former home to the Counts of Savoy, set on a rocky islet in the lake. Following his walk through the dungeons, Lord Byron was inspired to write the poem, ‘The Prisoner of Chillon.' Look out for his name, which he carved into a pillar. In the afternoon, drive along the French Bank of Lake Geneva passing the resort town of Évian-les-Bains, famous for its Natural Mineral Water. Once in Geneva, arrive at Hotel d'Angelterre, perfectly situated on the banks of the Lake. Voted No. 1 Hotel in Switzerland by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, the hotel blends British charm with the finest Swiss hospitality. This evening, you’re invited for a special dinner at La Ferme de l’Hospital. This former farmhouse, now a Michelin-starred restaurant led by chef Jean Jacques Noguier, offers a creative menu using only the freshest seasonal ingredients, and a large selection of local wines.
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Day 8: Highlights of Geneva
Join your Travelling Concierge for an orientation walk of Geneva with stops at the Floral Clock and the Reformation Monument, before enjoying the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps have High Tea in the afternoon at your hotel or enjoy a cocktail and live music in the Leopard Bar? Walk across the road to the banks of Lake Geneva and watch the sun dip beyond the mountains.
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Day 9: La Gruyere and on to Lucerne.
Journey through story-book Alpine scenery en route to see the dairy cattle of La Gruyère, famous for producing delicious milk and cheese. Visit Maison Cailler in the village of Broc where chocolate production has been raised to a specialized art form. Travel to the lovely medieval town of Gruyères, Switzerland's cheese manufacturing mecca. For your Highlight Lunch, savor the region's most famous culinary treat with a pot of bubbling fondue and a glass of chilled white wine. Continue on to beautiful Lucerne for your overnight stay.
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Day 10: Lovely Lucerne.
Your sightseeing shows you Lucerne's many highlights. See the stirring Lion Monument, Old Town Hall, the covered bridges and the quaint square of Weinmarkt with its Renaissance fountain. In complete contrast, join a Military Expert at the Vitznau Artillery Fortress, carved into the mountainside, to discover the munitions halls, galleries and armaments, which date back to World War II. Enjoy some leisure time in the afternoon. This evening, embark on a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn. Here, amid true Alpine majesty, your journey comes to a close with a fabulous Celebration Dinner at a panoramic rotating restaurant, offering expansive views over the Alps.
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Day 11: Farewell Lucerne
After breakfast, bid farewell to your travel companions and transfer to Zürich airport for your onward journey.
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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Aug 18 | 21 Aug 18 |
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$6,195pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 25 Aug 18 | 4 Sep 18 |
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$6,095pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 1 Sep 18 | 11 Sep 18 |
|
$6,095pp | 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 $1,230 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $107 per person.
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.
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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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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Michelin Dining
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
DELICIOUS DINING EXPERIENCES
9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), Lunch with Wine (LW) and 5 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
St Moritz:
- Join a nature guide for a mountain stroll, taking in scenic views and spectacular alpine scenery.
Glacier Express:
- Take your first-class seat aboard this world-famous train and marvel at unrivaled views of snow-covered peaks.
Gornergrat:
- Ride the cogwheel train to the summit.
Lake Geneva:
- Visit beautiful Chillon Castle, former home to the Counts of Savoy.
Liechtenstein:
- Visit Liechtenstein, known for being one of Europe's smallest countries, and dotted with medieval castles, traditional villages
and dramatic mountains.
Lucerne:
- Join a Military Expert at the Vitznau Artillery Fortress, carved into the side of a mountain, to discover the munitions halls, galleries and armaments.
- Embark on a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn. Here, amid true Alpine majesty, your journey comes
to a close with a fabulous Celebration Dinner at a panoramic rotating restaurant, offering expansive views over the Alps.
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.
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.
