Switzerland's Scenic Railways and Alpine Winter Wonders

Day 2 Golden Pass and Bern

Following breakfast at the hotel, we will travel on the legendary Golden Pass panoramic train to Zweisimmen, where we will have some free time to stroll through the village centre with its pretty chalets and shops. It is then time to board a train to Bern where we meet with our knowledgeable local guide who'll lead us through one of Europe's most beautifully preserved medieval cities – so remarkable that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage site in 1983. You'll love strolling through the charming covered arcades, known locally as 'Lauben'. These historic walkways are home to an array of independent shops, cosy wine bars and artisan workshops tucked away in the atmospheric vaulted cellars.

Meals included: B

Day 3 Interlaken Express and Lucerne

After breakfast we’ll embark on one of Europe’s most spectacular rail journeys - the Interlaken Express. As we travel on a panoramic train to Lucerne, you’ll be treated to ever-changing views including five crystal clear mountain lakes and the famous Brünig Pass, which has been carrying travellers since 1888. On arrival in Lucerne, we’ll meet our local guide for a walking tour of the city. Lucerne is an unmissable city to visit, and we’ll see the iconic Chapel Bridge and enjoy a walk in the historic old town. In the afternoon we’ll board a cruise on Lake Lucerne's crystal-clear waters and watch the city's spires recede as we head towards Vitznau, and its mountain railway. This cogwheel train, a marvel of Victorian engineering, takes us up to Rigi Kulm's summit. From this magnificent viewpoint, weather permitting, we'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Alps and no fewer than 13 lakes! We then travel back to Interlaken, where you're free to spend the evening as you wish. Meals included: B

Day 4 Interlaken - At Leisure

You can explore Interlaken today with a free day today. Or perhaps join our optional excursion to Jungfraujoch, known as the 'Top of Europe'. We’ll head to Grindelwald to take the the Eiger Express Cable car to Eigergletscher. Here we'll then board the Jungfrau Railway, that tunnels through the mountain. The train makes two fascinating stops where you can step out onto viewing galleries made from the mountain itself. At 3,454 metres (11,332 feet) above sea level, Jungfraujoch station is Europe's highest railway station. Here, you'll step out into a pristine realm of perpetual snow and ice. The viewing platforms offer absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views of the mighty Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks, and on clear days, you can even see as far as France's Vosges Mountains and Germany's Black Forest.
Meals included: B

Day 5 Glacier Express

Today we’re on the “go slow” with a panoramic journey on the world's slowest express train, the Glacier Express. While other express trains rush to their destinations, this remarkable journey is all about savouring every moment. Settle into your comfortable seat on this journey from Brig to Chur, as the train winds its way through some of Switzerland's most dramatic landscapes. As you enjoy a leisurely lunch served at your seat, you'll be treated to an ever-changing tableau of Swiss splendour through the panoramic windows. The train meanders past deep gorges, crosses hundreds of bridges and viaducts, and threads its way through pristine mountain valleys that have changed little since Victorian travellers first discovered them. It's a beautiful reminder that sometimes the slower pace of life offers the richest rewards. We’ll return to Interlaken, where the evening is yours to spend as you please. Meals included: B,L

Day 6 Interlaken - At Leisure

Today is kept free you to further explore and enjoy Interlaken. At the hotel this evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals included: B,D

Day 7 Departure

Today it is time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end. Meals included: B