Switzerland by Rail with Magnificent Europe

Delve into Switzerland’s alpine scenery by rail with journeys aboard the Bernina Express, Glacier Express and the GoldenPass. Then, you’re off on a luxury river cruise through Europe’s heartland.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Zurich

Be welcomed into Zurich in the heart of Switzerland, where we’ll meet you on arrival before 1.30pm and transfer you to your hotel. Discover the city on an afternoon orientation discovery and admire the well-preserved old town with the contrast of hectic modern life. Zurich is one of the most important finance districts in the world. Later, meet your fellow travellers at a welcome reception.

Stay: Zurich Marriott Hotel

Day 2: Zurich, Lucerne, Engelberg

Today, your bags will be well looked after as they are chauffeured from one hotel to the next with APT’s special baggage transfer service. Journey to Lucerne and set out on a walking exploration of the city. Delight in its stunning lake views and sites including the famous medieval Chapel Bridge, erected in the medieval times. You’ll then continue to your hotel in Engelberg, perched high in the idyllic mountains at the foot of Mt Titlis.

Stay: Two Nights, Kempinski Palace Engelberg

Day 3: Engelberg, Mt Titlis

This morning board the world’s first revolving cable car and ascend to Mt Titlis. Visit the glacier cave, an ethereal walkway that descends ten metres below the surface of the only glacier in the region. Marvel at the icy surroundings as you walk through the unique path. After, take in the breathtaking views on Europe’s highest suspension bridge, located 3,000 metres above sea level. Soak in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding mountainscape. Later, enjoy free time to relax at your hotel and enjoy the charming alpine village of Engelberg.

Day 4: Engelberg, Lugano

Embark on an exciting rail journey through the Gotthard Base Tunnel to Lugano, gliding straight through the Alps in Switzerland. Reaching a depth of 2,300 metres, it holds the title of the deepest traffic tunnel in the world. Upon arrival into Lugano, enjoy a special experience.

Signature Experience – Tenuta Castello di Morcote Visit 

Visit Tenuta Castello di Morcote, a beautiful farm and wine estate, family-owned for four generations. Located on a promontory surrounded by the idyllic Lake Lugano, admire the estate’s cascade of terraced vineyards, wild thyme, olive groves and the medieval Morcote Castle, built in the 15th century. Then, savour a wine tasting experience. The estate produces an array of varieties including Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Semillon.

Stay: Two Nights, Lugano, Hotel Swiss Diamond

Day 5: Lugano

Today, you’ll explore the spectacular city of Lugano, a hybrid of Switzerland and Mediterranean cultures due to its proximity to Italy’s Lombardy region. From a mix of architecture and cuisine, it offers a unique blend of influences. Soak up the pleasant year-round climate in this holiday resort town. Cruise through the peaceful waters of Lake Lugano, a glacial lake situated between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Then, it’s time to ascend the peak of Monte Bre, considered one of Switzerland's sunniest points. After reaching the lookout point, take in the sensational views over Lugano. The evening has been kept free for you to explore at your own pace.

Day 6: Lugano, Tirano, St Moritz

Cross the border into Italy’s Tirano by coach, where you’ll embark on your unforgettable rail journey aboard the renowned Bernina Express. This popular train route winds its way across the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rhaetian Railway. As you settle into your seat, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking panoramic views of Alpine landscapes and the pristine beauty of ancient glaciers. As you travel to St Moritz, your train will cross soaring viaducts and pass through tunnels, offering you an unparalleled vantage point to witness the grander of the surrounding mountain ranges. Arrive in the elegant resort town of St Moritz, nestled amid the Swiss Alps.

Stay: St Moritz, Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains 

Day 7: St Moritz, Zermatt

Enjoy another day of incredible rail adventure as you board the legendary Glacier Express. This exceptional journey takes you from the majestic Bernina Range to the grand Matterhorn, allowing you to witness an exceptional passage through some of the most extraordinary landscapes of the Swiss Alps. During the comfortable ride, you’ll navigate through more than 200 bridges and countless tunnels as you traverse the Alps in style. Admire the ever-changing scenery outside your panoramic windows. Along the way you’ll glide past unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, charming alpine villages and lush wilderness before arriving in the enchanting mountain resort town of Zermatt.

Stay: Two Nights, Zermatt, Hotel Monte Rosa or similar

Day 8: Zermatt

Board the Gornergrat Railway for a stunning journey and embrace sweeping vistas of verdant forests and deep valleys on the way to see an ideal view of the Matterhorn. Witness an unobstructed view of the towering mountain, renowned for its almost perfect pyramid shape.

Signature Experience – Meet a Local Mountaineer

Take the opportunity to meet a friendly local mountaineer, who will share their stories with you of conquests and what life is like living in the mountains. Listen as they divulge their insights and be captivated by the tales and tribulations of their mountaineering adventures. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the majestic beauty and complexities of local life in this region.

Day 9: Zermatt, Spiez, Wengen

Bid farewell to the enchanting village of Zermatt as you board your train, setting off on a striking journey bound for Spiez. Traverse the serene Swiss countryside, enjoy scenes of rolling hills and distant landscapes of mountains. Upon your arrival into Spiez, head out on a delightful lake cruise that will take you along the tranquil waters of Lake Thun to Interlaken. Soak in postcard perfect views of the surrounding peaks as you travel again by train from Interlaken to the quintessential Swiss resort village of Wengen. The charming village is known for its stunning alpine scenery and a gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring trails and natural attractions in the region.

Stay: Two Nights, Wengen, Grand Hotel Belvedere in a guaranteed Superior Jungfrau View Room

Day 10: Wengen, Jungfraujoch

 Your rail journey today promises to be nothing short of epic as you journey to the top of Jungfraujoch, home to the highest railway station in Europe. Enjoy exceptional views as you ascend to the heart of the Swiss Alps. The journey itself is a love letter to the engineering and vision it takes to reach such significant heights. There’s nowhere better to feel like you’re on top of the world with otherworldly scenery of ice fields stretching out before you. Be sure to have your camera at the ready to capture these magical landscapes.

Day 11: Wengen, Montreux

Travel to Interlaken to board your scenic glass-dome journey aboard the GoldenPass. As your journey begins, the train glides gracefully along the serene River Aare, presenting you with tranquil views of the waterway as it winds through lush, picturesque surroundings. Travel past stunning green valley farmland and fairy-tale landscapes of the Simmen Valley. Then, the railway climbs to the line’s highest point at 1,279 metres above sea level as you enter the heartland of the Berner Oberland known for its rugged beauty. After arriving at your desintation, the pretty lakeside town of Montreux, relish time to unwind and relax before dinner.

Stay: Montreux, Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic in a guaranteed Lake View Room or similar

Day 12: Montreux, Geneva

Begin your day by setting out on a brief orientation tour of Montreux, nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva. As you explore, be captivated by the stunning backdrop of the Alps and the shimmering waters of the lake. Later, travel to the cosmopolitan city of Geneva. Tonight, gather with your fellow travellers for a delicious farewell dinner and celebrate your indepth journey through the Swiss Alps.

Stay: Geneva, Hotel President Wilson

Day 13: Geneva, Amsterdam, Embark Ship

This morning, transfer to the airport where you’ll join an included flight to the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Board your new-generation river ship docked in the heart of the city and spend the rest of the day settling into your home for the next two weeks.

Stay:14 Nights, APT Solara or APT Ostara

Day 14: Amsterdam

Spend today on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a gala welcome dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.

Freedom of Choice – Old Amsterdam Cheese Store Visit

Visit the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store for a cheese tasting matched with wine.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum. 

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in spring

Guests travelling on select spring departures visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

Gala Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a multi-course meal with an enhanced menu.

Day 15: Andernach

This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Spend time on board. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment, relax on the sun deck and read a book. Disembark in Andernach and enjoy a Signature Experience here.

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.

Day 16: Rudesheim

Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Dock in Rudesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in the late 1880s.

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, an eccentric and unique museum which is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

Day 17: Miltenberg

This morning, enjoy a relaxing sail along the Main River. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Featuring remarkably preserved buildings and lively town squares, this is a beautiful example of Germany’s history. Set out on a guided exploration of the town before time at leisure to explore.

Day 18: Wurzburg

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Wurzburg Residence

The immense architectural beauty of Wurzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Wurzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Wurzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestoned streets and admire the pretty coloured-fronted houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Kathe Wolfhart’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of Germany Christmas decorations in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress

Enjoy a hike to Wurzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Day 19: Bamberg

This morning your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the River Regnitz. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal.

Day 20: Nuremberg

This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. This afternoon, continue cruising on the Main-Danube Canal. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 21: Regensburg

Discover Regensburg on your choice of activities today.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-listed City Centre

In Regensburg, set out on a guided tour to explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial

Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past. 

Day 22: Passau, Salzburg, Linz

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornblaser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

Day 23: Melk, Durnstein

Visit the statuary-adorned Melk Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. Then, it’s up to you how you get to the next port of call. In Durnstein, perhaps view the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley

Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Durnstein, where you’ll roam its cobblestoned lanes at your leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Durnstein

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Durnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of Wachau Valley along the way.

Day 24: Vienna

Arrive in Vienna and set out on a city tour. Take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore. This evening is set aside for your magical Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital.

Day 25: Budapest

Head out on your choice of tours, then set sail for Hungary.  This evening, enjoy a Captain’s farewell dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Schonbrunn Palace Visit

Tour inside Schonbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under Communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

Day 26: Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. The afternoon is yours at leisure to further explore.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour

Enjoy a city tour of Budapest taking in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Cathedral before a visit to the Great Market Hall for some tastings of local produce.

Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride

Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion.

Freedom of Choice – Thermal Baths Visit

You may wish to relax in the thermal water pools.

Day 27: Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.