A country composed of mountain valleys carved by monumental glaciers and rushing rivers, the grandeur of Switzerland is most typified by its majestic mountain peaks. Travel from Zurich to Lucerne (or in reverse, from Lucerne to Zurich) to summit some of the country's most famous mountains and see some of the country's most jaw-dropping views with this itinerary.

Switzerland

Tops of Switzerland (by Rail)  Days

• 3 Nights Lucerne • Mt. Pilatus Excursion (self guided)

  * Make sure to check if you need a visa to enter Switzerland.

*  hike in the mountains, May, June and September are more suitable

* If you want to visit the Christmas markets, you should come in the first weeks of December.

• 2 Nights Zurich • 2nd Class Rail Travel

After arriving in Zurich by train or by plane, check-in to your hotel before taking time to explore the historic old town of Zurich. Switzerland's largest city gracefully balances modern Swiss sensibilities with its storied past and is hailed as one of the most liveable and attractive cities in the world. It's easy to see why - the diverse array of charming architecture built throughout history, its relaxing yet lively lakefront promenade, and opulent ambience evident in its world-class dining and museums. Zurich holds a special importance for the Swiss and especially for the German-speaking portions of the country, with a long history as one of the European centers of banking and finance, as well as being a deep tradition of opera and theatre that coexists alongside a cosmopolitan nightlife today. From its church spires to its chocolatiers or simply the view of the Alps across the lake, Zurich is not to be missed.(Accommodations, Zurich)

Zurich Highlights Sightseeing Tour

After breakfast, take 2nd class rail for the short ride to Interlaken. After checking into your hotel you'll take a self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch. Take the train to the Kleine Scheidegg at the foot of the famous Eiger. Change trains to get on board of the Jungfrau railway and ride via 'Eiger Gletscher' to the Jungfraujoch - the highest railway station in Europe at 3454 m with some breathtaking views of the Aletsch glacier at 22 km the longest in the Alps and an UNESCO World Heritage site. Returning to Zurich, dinner will be on your own this evening.

Day Trip to Swiss Villages (Interlaken-Grindelwald) with local from Zurich

After breakfast, board your train for a scenic ride to Lucerne. Situated on Lake Lucerne with close access to Rigi, Pilatus, and Stanserhorn mountains, Lucerne is a charming city known for its picturesque views. Due to its convenient location only one hour from Zurich, Lucerne is considered to be the gateway to central Switzerland and is affectionately called the "Heart of the Country". Best known for its highly-photographed covered wooden bridge, the city's medieval architecture and charming Altstadt (Old Town) make Lucerne truly memorable.

  Switzerland is known for its chocolate, but knowing the best spots for insight into the traditional specialty can be difficult. Learn about the art of chocolatiering on a visit to Aeschbach Chocolatier in Lucerne, exploring with a private guide for intimate insight into the process. This is a self-guided tour. You travel independent by train from Luzern to Root (11 mins) by local train to the World of Chocolate.

self-guided: Chocolate World Exhibition, Tasting and Create your own Chocolate

Today, the mountaintop excursions to Mount Pilatus. The excursion to Mount Pilatus will take you aboard the world's steepest cogwheel railway all the way to the top of the mountain, where there are restaurants, short hikes, and even hotels are available.

Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip from Lucerne

After breakfast, depart from Lucerne by rail or plane.

4 Stars * The Hotel Astoria is sat in the middle of all Lucerne has to offer, with magnificent mountains and astonishing culture. Rooms are elegantly designed and are a short walk from the lakeside promenade and Chapel Bridge. 

4 Stars * The modern Renaissance Zurich Tower Hotel offers stylish rooms, located near the high-end shopping and dining vicinity of Bahnofstrasse.

* Free internet is available at almost all train stations and airport

Swiss Travel Pass - Most popular Rail Pass of Switzerland. Buy the Swiss Travel Pass online

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Tops of Switzerland (by Rail) Days

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