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Signature: Iconic Trains Of Switzerland & Italy's Lake District
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Length
10 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Zurich
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Ends in
Lago Maggiore
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Available Tour Start Dates
MAY 9, 2027 to OCT 5, 2027
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic Signature
Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$11,599.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Traverse the majestic Swiss Alps and Italian Lakes on iconic rail journeys. Witness the marvel of mountain engineering as you glide past snow-capped peaks and secluded villages. Absorb the pioneering spirit of early mountaineers and explore the historic villas and islands dotting Lake Maggiore. Immerse yourself in the region's culture, absorbing the grand spectacle of this Alpine wonderland.
Visited During Tour
Lago Maggiore | Lucerne | St. Moritz | Zermatt (Switzerland) | Zurich
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: Iconic Trains Of Switzerland & Italy's Lake District tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code EZZINS-11227
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Day
1Zurich/Lucerne
Welcome to Switzerland. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Zurich, greeted by the fresh mountain air of the Swiss Alps. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Lucerne. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers and National Geographic Expedition Leader for an introduction to your journey along with a welcome reception and short presentation from the National Geographic Expedition Expert before dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Accommodations: Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern -
Day
2Lucerne/Zermatt
Spend the morning exploring the beautiful city of Lucerne on a walking tour, strolling the waterfront and admiring the historic and majestic architecture. Continue by train deep into the Alps to the car-free village of Zermatt, lying below the iconic and imposing peak of the Matterhorn. In the evening, discover local cuisine on a walking tapas tour and sample some of the region's delicacies like Switzerland's ubiquitous fondue, while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic alpine village.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Lucerne Walking Tour
Step through history as we visit the medieval Chapel Bridge and the storied streets of the Altstadt. We'll stop at the majestic Jesuit Church and climb the Musegg Wall towers for the city's best views-all centered around the sparkling waters of the Reuss River.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Explore Zermatt however you wish before dinner with free time this evening.
Accommodations: Hotel Zermama -
Day
3Zermatt
Gather for a discussion about the natural history of the region and how climbers have been attracted to this area since the late 1800s, then board the Gornergrat train. This electric cogwheel railway is a true marvel of engineering-ascending to the heart of the mountains at 3100m (10,171ft), offering continuous, breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. Descend the mountain by train with an option to walk part of the way then enjoy some free time in the village before regrouping in the evening for a private, after-hours visit to the Matterhorn Museum. Engage in an exclusive talk with the Museum Director, detailing the history of mountaineering and the dramatic story of the first ascent by Edward Whymper. This unique access provides deep context into the human desire to conquer these rugged peaks.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Gornergrat Train
Take this 33min train ride from the village centre in Zermatt to Gornergrat for an incredible mountain panoramic view.
Descend Riffelalp
Descend from Riffelalp either on foot or by train - whichever you prefer.
Matterhorn Museum After-Hours Visit
Join Beat Truffer, Museum Director, for an exclusive lecture followed by free time in the museum.
Accommodations: Hotel Zermama -
Day
4Zermatt
Join your Expedition Leader this morning on a short walking tour through the village of Zermatt on the way to the cable car station. Travel along the multi-stage cable car route, ascending from the valley to Glacier Paradise at the top of Klein Matterhorn, Europe's highest cable car station. At 3,883m or 12,740ft, the crisp air accentuates the magnificent views of the surrounding glacier-glazed peaks. Descend to the quaint village of Furi for lunch, savouring traditional rosti in a spectacular setting. You can choose to return to Zermatt by gondola or take a scenic hike down into the village, traversing well-maintained trails while soaking in the mountain scenery..
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Walking Tour Zermatt
Follow your Expedition Leader through the charming streets of Zermatt. Wander past sun-weathered wooden chalets, pay your respects at the poignant Mountaineers' Cemetery by the village church, and stroll the main thoroughfare as we make our way toward the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable station.
Cable Car to Furi
Take a quick, panoramic cable car flight from the valley floor to the mountain hamlet of Furi, the gateway to the Matterhorn's high-alpine wonders.
Gondola to Glacier Paradise
Ascend through the clouds and over deep glacial crevasses to arrive at Europe's highest mountain station.
Descend Furi
Descend from Furi either on foot or by cable car - whichever you prefer.
Free Time
Enjoy free time this afternoon where you can wander from designer boutiques to centuries-old wooden barns in a single, car-free stroll. It's a place where the pace is set by the surrounding peaks, inviting you to simply relax on a sun-drenched terrace while the Matterhorn looms overhead.
Accommodations: Hotel Zermama -
Day
5Zermatt/St. Moritz
Take a seat on the world-famous Glacier Express and set off on a breathtaking journey along a true marvel of rail engineering. The train gracefully traverses three high-mountain passes, across 291 bridges, and through 91 tunnels. Soak up magnificent vistas of skyscraping, glacier-glazed peaks, feeling the constant motion of this elegant rail journey into the Upper Engadin Valley. Disembark in St. Moritz, the birthplace of winter tourism, and settle into your hotel. The evening is at leisure, allowing you to explore the chic Alpine village or relax in the cosy surroundings of your hotel.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Board the Iconic Glacier Express Train and travel in first class from the shadow of the Matterhorn to the glitz of St. Moritz, relaxing in spacious comfort as you cross 291 bridges and climb through the dramatic Oberalp Pass.
Free Time
Your evening is free to soak up the legendary 'Champagne Climate' of St. Moritz.
Accommodations: Art Boutique Hotel Monopol -
Day
6St. Moritz
Stroll to the nearby Sagantini Museum for a private tour with the museum's curator to learn about and peruse the works of alpine artist Giovanni Sagantini-then take a funicular to the top of Muottas Muragl to admire the breathtaking landscapes that Segantini once painted. Back in St. Moritz, visit a local patisserie for an exclusive chocolate tasting and short demonstration, linking the famous Swiss chocolate tradition to the region's rich cultural history. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner in town.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Walking
Join your Expedition Leader on a 700m walk to the Segantini Museum.
Segantini Museum
Join curator Claudia for a private tour and lecture at the Segantini Museum, where you will gain expert insight into the life and masterpieces of Giovanni Segantini. Following the presentation, enjoy free time to explore the museum's impressive rotunda and alpine-inspired galleries at your own pace.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Muottas Muragi Funicular
Take the 10-minute funicular ride to the top of Muottas Muragl, where you will find a hotel featuring both a casual cafe and a seated restaurant. Once at the summit, you have free time to enjoy lunch on a walk-in basis or explore the various hiking trails offering panoramic views of the Upper Engadine.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Chocolate Making Demonstration
Visit the Hanselmann Confectionery for a private presentation on the history and craft of traditional chocolate making. Go behind the scenes for a guided tour of the kitchen to watch a live demonstration of the confectionery process.
Accommodations: Art Boutique Hotel Monopol -
Day
7St. Moritz/Lago Maggiore
Board the Bernina Pass train for a spectacular early-morning ride, travelling in comfort through the Alpine valleys to the town of Poschiavo, then cross into Italy by coach, to the shores of iconic Lake Como. In the early afternoon, take a private boat to the Villa del Balbianello for a tour of the beautiful terraced gardens and of the elegant villa itself, noted for its appearance in several major films. Continue by boat to scenic Bellagio for a short walking tour and some free time before transferring to your hotel on Lake Maggiore.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Local Train
Board the train to traverse the Bernina Pass, a spectacular route that reaches the highest point of the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway at over 2,200 meters above sea level. This journey showcases incredible early 20th-century engineering, taking you from high-altitude glaciers down to the palms of the Italian border.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Boat
Set sail across the shimmering waters of Lake Como on a private boat cruise toward the forested peninsula of Punta del Balbianello. As you approach, you'll enjoy a unique perspective of the villa's tiered terraced gardens and iconic loggia, which have served as a dramatic backdrop for numerous world-famous films.
Villa del Balbianello Tour
Follow a local expert through the villa's intimate rooms to learn about its storied past and the eccentric collections housed within. From the high-altitude maps in the library to the ancient sculptures in the salon, this guided walk offers a deep dive into the cultural and personal history of Lake Como's most famous residence.
Bellagio Cruise and Walk
Board a private boat from the villa for a scenic cruise to Bellagio, the "Pearl of Lake Como," where you can choose between a guided walking tour of its charming cobblestone streets or independent exploration. Afterward, continue your journey down the lake, passing iconic sights such as the historic Roman bridge at Nesso, George Clooney's villa, and the elegant shores of Cernobbio.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Hotel Splendid -
Day
8Lago Maggiore
Meet this morning for a discussion about the natural history of the Italian Lake district and how it has attracted settlers over the years, resulting in the area's lavish and elegant villas. Next, travel to Rocca di Angera castle for a unique culinary experience. Participate in a cooking class inside the historic castle, learning how to prepare fresh pasta from scratch and concluding with a special lunch, enjoying your prepared pasta with cured meats, cheeses, and local wine. You'll then have time to explore the castle's famous Doll and Toy Museum and the serene Medieval Garden before returning to the Lago Maggiore area for a free afternoon and evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Rocca di Angera Cooking Class
Travel to the historic Rocca di Angera for a hands-on culinary workshop where you will master the art of hand-rolling fresh pasta within the castle's ancient walls. Afterward, enjoy a meal featuring your creations paired with regional specialties and local wines before taking time to explore the estate's unique museum and its tranquil medieval gardens.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Hotel Splendid -
Day
9Lago Maggiore
Explore the jewels of Lake Maggiore today - the enchanting Borromean Islands. Board a private boat for a picturesque ride across the lake to Isola Madre, for a guided tour of the elegant Palazzo. Next, head to Isola dei Pescatori for some free time to discover the charming atmosphere of this small island. Tonight, the expedition culminates in an unforgettable farewell dinner on picturesque Isola Bella. You'll first take a sunset cruise to the island, enjoying an aperitif on a veranda overlooking the lake before a private dinner in the historic Villa, celebrating the end of your magnificent exploration of the Swiss Alps and Italian Lakes.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Walking Tour Isola Madre
Stroll through the lush botanical gardens of Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, renowned for its rare exotic plants and roaming peacocks. This guided walk takes you through a "green paradise" of curated landscapes, featuring the historic palazzo and one of Europe's finest collections of camellias, azaleas, and ancient cypress trees.
Free Time
Explore Isola dei Pescatori, the only Borromean Island to be inhabited year-round, to explore its narrow winding lanes and traditional fishing harbor. You can browse the local boutiques, visit the historic Church of San Vittore, or simply relax at a lakeside cafe to soak in the authentic atmosphere of this charming, timeless village.
Isola Bella Visit and Dinner
Experience the ultimate in lakeside luxury with a private visit to Isola Bella. Enjoy a personalized tour of the villa's historic halls followed by an alfresco reception on the veranda and a multi-course dinner, offering a rare opportunity to savor the island's beauty in a serene, intimate setting.
Accommodations: Hotel Splendid -
Day
10Lago Maggiore
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Transfer
You will be met at your hotel in Lake Maggiore and transferred to the Milan airport at the end of your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Iconic Trains Of Switzerland & Italy's Lake District tour:
Lake Maggiore
Hotel Splendid
Location
Str. Nazionale del Sempione, Baveno
Lake Maggiore, Switzerland-28831
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Lucerne
Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern
Location
Schweizerhofquai 3
Lucerne, Switzerland-6002
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
St. Moritz
Art Boutique Hotel Monopol
Location
Via Maistra 17
St. Moritz, Switzerland-7500
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Zermatt
Hotel Zermama
Location
Zermatt, Switzerland-3920
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Iconic Trains Of Switzerland & Italy's Lake District tour:
Group Size
Max 22.
What's Included
Signature Moment: Matterhorn Museum After-Hours Visit, ZermattSignature Moment: Segantini Museum, St. MoritzYour Foodie Moment: Chocolate Making Demonstration, St. MoritzYour Foodie Moment: Rocca di Angera Cooking Class, AngeraSignature Moment: Isola Bella Visit and Dinner, Isola Bella. Arrival and Departure Transfer. Lucerne Walking Tour. Gornergrat Visit. Expert Led Walk to Zermatt. Matterhorn Museum. Expedition Leader Walk of Zermatt. Cable Car to Furi. Gondola to Glacier Paradise. Glacier Express to St Moritz. Expert Segantini Museum. Muottas Muragi Funicular. Confectionary shop Lecture and Chocolate Making Demonstration. Bernina Pass Train Ride. Cruise to Villa del Balbianello with Tour. Expedition Leader Led Walk of Bellagio. Rocca di Angera Cooking Class. Walking Tour of Isola Madra. Walking Tour of Borremeo Villa. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Enjoy a spectacular early-morning ride through Alpine valleys travelling in comfort into the Italian-speaking area, Enjoy an exclusive post-closure talk with the Museum Director detailing the mountain's history and first ascent, Learn to prepare fresh pasta inside the historic Rocca di Angera castle followed by a wine tasting, Gain insight into Alpine art and landscapes during a curator-led tour of the Segantini Museum in St. Moritz, Take a private walking tour of the Borromeo Villa on Isola Bella followed by an exquisite farewell dinner with spectacular views of Lake Maggiore.
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (9 nts).
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
What is the group leader like?
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private vehicle, train (first class or best available seating), cable car, gondola, local bus, private boat, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a National Geographic Signature tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Checklist
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Service Level
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.