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Switzerland vacation idea
Switzerland Scenic Rail: Glacier Express & Bernina Express
A 10-day guided journey through Switzerland and northern Italy featuring the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lake Maggiore and Lucerne.
Length10 days / 9 nights
FormatGuided rail-focused tour
ActivityModerate
Route
Lake Maggiore • Zermatt • Glacier Express • St. Moritz • Bernina Express • Lucerne
Why This Trip Stands Out
This is the kind of Switzerland trip that earns its place on the Tours page because the trains are not just transportation. They are part of the experience. You get two of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys along with iconic Alpine towns, lakes and mountain scenery.
- Ride both the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
- Spend time in Zermatt with the Matterhorn nearby.
- Stay in St. Moritz and explore Lucerne.
- Include Lake Maggiore and a Borromean Island experience in northern Italy.
- Travel with a guided structure while still getting memorable rail experiences.
Sample Itinerary
Days 1–2 | Lake Maggiore
Begin in northern Italy with lakeside scenery, a cruise on Lake Maggiore and time around the Borromean Islands.
Days 3–4 | Zermatt & Glacier Express
Continue into Switzerland for a two-night stay in Zermatt and panoramic Alpine rail travel aboard the Glacier Express.
Days 5–6 | St. Moritz & Bernina Express
Experience another legendary rail route through the Bernina Pass and spend time in glamorous St. Moritz.
Days 7–10 | Lucerne & Mount Pilatus
Finish in Lucerne with lakeside sightseeing and a mountain excursion before the guided journey ends.
What You Get
What’s Included
- 9 nights of accommodations
- 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
- Glacier Express journey
- Bernina Express journey
- Two nights in Zermatt
- St. Moritz and Lucerne sightseeing
- Lake Maggiore cruise and Borromean Island visit
- Mount Pilatus excursion
- Guided transportation and Tour Manager services
Your Stay
Where You’ll Stay
Nine hotel nights are included across Lake Maggiore, Zermatt, St. Moritz and Lucerne. Exact properties can vary by departure.
Getting Around
Transportation
Rail: Glacier Express + Bernina Express
Rail is central to this itinerary, with the Glacier Express and Bernina Express complemented by motorcoach transportation, local transfers and a Lake Maggiore cruise.
Food & Dining
Meals & Dining
Eight breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners are included, including meals tied to some of the scenic rail and regional experiences.
More to Add
Optional Experiences
Optional experiences and room upgrades may be available depending on departure, including additional time on Lake Lucerne.
Stay a Little Longer
Extensions Available
Pre- and post-tour hotel nights can be added around the itinerary, subject to availability.
Make It Yours
Ways to Customize It
The core itinerary follows fixed departures, but I can coordinate airfare and extra hotel nights before or after the Tour.
Group Details
How the Group Works
This is a guided group Tour with a Tour Manager and organized rail, hotel and sightseeing logistics.
A Good Match?
Who This Trip Is Best For
Travelers who want Switzerland's scenery to be the main event and prefer iconic rail journeys with hotels and logistics already organized.
Before You Choose It
A Few Things to Know
Scenic rail schedules and exact train equipment can vary. Alpine weather changes quickly, and some sightseeing includes walking on uneven streets, station platforms and mountain terrain.
Interested in This One?
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Pricing & availability: Prices shown are starting prices from the applicable tour operator and were available when last verified. Unless noted otherwise, pricing is per person based on the occupancy shown above. Availability, taxes, fees, supplements, promotions, and supplier terms can change. Your exact price and availability will be confirmed before booking. Nothing is confirmed until payment is applied.