Day 1: Zurich
Arrival at Zurich airport and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. Accommodation at the hotel.
Day 2: Zurich, Gruyeres, Montreux
Travel from Zurich to Montreux. On the way we stop to visit a local cheese maker in Gruyeres where you learn more about the cheese production. Then visit the Cailler Chocolate Factory with a chocolate tasting. Arrival in Montreux, which is a lovely city located on the shores of Lake Geneva. [B]
Day 3: Montreux (Lausanne)
In the morning city tour of Montreux. Later we continue to visit the wonderful Chillon Castle whose photos are present in almost each of Switzerland’s calendars. Next we go to Lausanne. Lausanne is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Geneva surrounded by vineyards. Panoramic city tour and return to Montreux. [B]
Day 4: Montreux, Zermatt
Travel to Zermatt. On our way we pass through the wine area of Sion. Then we continue through the valley of the Rodano River to Täsch. Here you board a train to Zermatt, which is located at the foot of the impressive Mount Cervin. [B]
Day 5: Zermatt
Free day to take an optional tour to the “Matterhorn Glacier Paradise”, board the cable car to the top of the 12,740 feet “little” Matterhorn to enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Cervin which is located just on the opposite side. A visit to the highest ice palace of the world is going to make this tour an extraordinary experience. [B]
Day 6: Zermatt, Lugano
After breakfast return to Täsch by train. Today the route takes you over the Nufenenpass to later arrive in Lugano, which is located in Ticino, the Italian speaking part of Switzerland. On a walking city tour you can discover this beautiful city and its historic center. Relax at the Mediterranean squares or take a stroll along the boardwalk on the shores of Lake Lugano. [B]
Day 7: Lugano, Verzasca Valley, Ascona, Lugano
Tour to the impressive Verzasca Valley, located in the mountains above Lugano. It highlights the dam of Verzasca and the picturesque bridge of “Ponte de Salti” that crosses the magical jade green waters of the river. Continue to Ascona. Stroll through the narrow streets with its old houses, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries. In the afternoon return to Lugano. [B]
Day 8: Lugano, Bellinzona, Giornico, Zurich
After breakfast travel to Bellinzona, the Ticino’s capital. This historic city is well known for its impressive medieval castles that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Visit the Castelgrande Castle. On the way back to Zurich stop in Giornico, a city with incredible cultural heritage. The tour ends at the hotel or at the airport in Zurich. [B]
Day 9: Zurich, USA
Have breakfast at your hotel and be ready for the transfer to Zurich Airport for your flight back to the USA. [B]
[B] = Breakfast
