Switzerland: The Alps to the Italian Lakes

A country where modern technology and time-honored traditions go hand in hand, Switzerland lives up to its postcard-worthy reputation for snow-capped alpine peaks, cozy chalets and cows grazing in grassy meadows. Arrive in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city and one with a well-deserved reputation for offering a high quality of life, among the best in the world. Settle into your hotel, and this evening join your fellow guests for dinner.

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Zurich this morning, taking in its alluring mix of modern and Old World architecture while strolling its wide, pedestrian-friendly avenues. Zurich is known for its churches, and your walk incorporates several noteworthy ones, including the Fraumünster, with its Marc Chagall-designed stained glass windows, and the Grossmünster, supposedly founded by Charlemagne and later playing a key part in establishing the Reformation in Switzerland. After lunch at a local bierkeller (beer cellar), gather for a sweet finish with a visit to an independent chocolate producer. Learn about the fascinating history and production of Swiss chocolate at the last manufacturer who still starts with the raw cacao beans.

Travel to Lucerne, on the shores of its beautiful lake, and stroll the streets of this medieval jewel. The city’s most famous landmark is the Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe. Its interior is decorated with vivid paintings, many of which date back to the 17th century and depict events from the city’s history. You also visit Corn Market Square and the nearby Old Town Hall, built in 1602. There is time for lunch at leisure or further exploration. Continue to Alpnachstad and board the cogwheel train for a ride on the world’s steepest railway to the top of Mt. Pilatus. Descend via cable car and alpine gondola. Continue to your hotel in Bern, named for the bears that may still be seen in Europe’s wilderness.

This morning, discover the charms of Switzerland’s intimate capital, strolling delightful old streets and stepping inside the Zytglogge for a private, guided visit of this legendary medieval clock tower. From the top, look out over Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. The rest of your day is free relaxing or exploring on your own. Tonight, dine at your elegant hotel.

Travel to the pretty mountain village of Habkern and partake in two Swiss traditions. Take part in a special class with a yodel teacher and a lesson in the history of the famous alphorn. Once, these massive horns were used by herdsmen on the mountain slopes to communicate with people in the valleys below; today, they are enjoyed as musical instruments, and your lesson includes the option to play one yourself. After lunch, visit scenic Interlaken and cruise beautiful Lake Thun, surrounded by the glory of the Alps. Return to Bern for an evening at leisure.

Journey overland to Interlaken, where you board the GoldenPass Express in Prestige class for the scenic ride to Montreux, sampling local foods en route. Proceed to Chillon Castle for a private guided tour and wine tasting. Continue by road to the mountain town of Zermatt — a popular waypoint for Alpine explorers with car-free streets ideal for a stroll among the friendly locals. Tonight, dine on traditional Swiss fondue.

Today, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities:

• Ascend to the Summit of Gornegrat Mountain by cog railroad to take in vistas of the Matterhorn and more.
• Hike in the Zermatt Mountains with an expert guide to see picturesque alpine lakes that reflect jaw-dropping scenery.
• Mountain Bike Through the Swiss Countryside, taking in spectacular views of the Matterhorn.

Enjoy the remainder of your day on your own.

A short train ride takes you out of Zermatt today. Eat lunch at a local restaurant in the spectacular Simplon Pass before arriving in northern Italy’s breathtaking Lakes District and the beautiful resort town of Stresa. Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Stresa was the setting for portions of Ernest Hemingway’s World War I novel A Farewell to Arms. Settle in to your lakeside hotel and enjoy a refreshing cocktail overlooking the glittering lake, followed by a fine dinner.

Drive to Orta San Giulio, a charming medieval town resting upon a shimmering lake. The town occupies a promontory commanding wide views over the lake and farther shore, and its shaded streets are made for wandering. Take a boat to the nearby island of San Giulio to see its Benedictine monastery and church. Legend claims the island was once infested by serpents and monsters that terrorized local villages until patron saint Julius of Novara arrived with a great storm at his back and banished them forever. Return to Stresa in the afternoon.