Alpine Railway Adventure & Dolce Vita
Switzerland & Italy in 17 Days • 15 Nights in Destination
Isabel
Travel crafter
Combine a magical train journey through the Swiss Alps with a romantic city-hopping experience in Italy.
Itinerary
Discover the natural beauty of Switzerland by train. From cosmopolitan Zurich, explore the scenery of Lucerne, take the GoldenPass Panoramic Train from Interlaken to Montreux and catch the Glacier Express railway to luxurious St. Moritz. Next, live the 'Dolce Vita' in Italy as you navigate the waterways of Venice, soak up the cultural treasure of Florence and fall in love with Rome.
Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of Switzerland? Arrive at your departure airport, ready to catch a flight to Zurich.* Night on board.
* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
Touch down in Zurich, famous for being the global center of finance on the north shore of the beautiful lake with the same name. Take a train from the airport to your hotel, which is walking distance from the train station. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Why not walk around the historic old town and enjoy a warm beverage in one of the many cafes or enjoy an international array of gastronomic offerings from restaurants across the city. Overnight stay in Zurich.
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and walk together to the train station to take a train to Lucerne. Sited on Lake Lucerne, it is embedded within an impressive mountainous panorama and majestic snow capped Alps. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of this pretty Swiss city. Discover the well-preserved medieval architecture, walking in the footsteps of many artists and royal figures who lived and passed by in the 1800s. The rest of the day is at your leisure to discover this beautiful lakeside town. We recommend an Optional Mount Rigi Excursion* for an incredible view of Lucerne and the surroundings. Overnight stay in Lucerne.
*Optional Mountain Excursion to Rigi: With breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, Mount Rigi offers a first-class mountain experience whatever the season.
Why not upgrade your trip with our package of 3 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Breakfast at the hotel. Walk to the train station with your guide to board a train to Interlaken. From there take the GoldenPass Panoramic Train to Montreux. Switzerland’s four language and cultural regions are one of the country’s best-known peculiarities. The journey with the GoldenPass links German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland, making it possible to experience the change from one culture to another as a gradual process. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of Montreux, known as the pearl of the Swiss riviera. Next, board a short train to Vevey, a quaint Swiss town on Lake Geneva, where you will check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure to explore the town, take in the breathtaking views of the Alpine panorama, enjoy some warming local delicacies in one of the many restaurants or cafes. Overnight stay in Vevey.
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, get to the train station walking accompany by your guide and leave Vevey behind as you will head back to Montreux by train. From the lake to the mountains and vineyards, the Montreux Riviera offers a postcard landscape. It’s an authentic little piece of paradise that has attracted many artists, writers and travelers in search of beauty, tranquility and inspiration. Continue your awe-inspiring Swiss adventure by train to Zermatt. Upon arrival, enjoy time at your leisure to discover this renowned mountain resort that lies at the foot of the Alpine Matterhorn. We recommend an optional afternoon excursion to Mount Gornergrat*. Overnight stay in Zermatt.
*Optional Mount Gornergrat Afternoon Excursion: Surrounded by no fewer than 29 peaks above 13,000 feet, such as the majestic Matterhorn and the Dufourspitze as well as the third-longest glacier of the Alps, Gornergrat will reward you with a unique opportunity to encounter and take in these unparalleled views over this snowy wonderland.
Why not upgrade your trip with our package of 3 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Breakfast at the hotel. Prepare for an exciting day ahead as you set off on the famous Glacier Express*, one of the most scenic train rides in the world! Journey through the inspiring landscapes of the Alps as you travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz, an unforgettable journey of around 7.5 hours. Pass through 91 tunnels, across 291 bridges and climb as high as 2033 meters as the Glacier Express crosses the Oberalp Pass. The journey includes panoramic windows to ensure ample opportunities to kick back and take in the views! Arrive in St. Moritz and coach transfer from the station to the hotel. St. Moritz is the most luxurious alpine resort in Switzerland so be sure to get out and explore the upmarket eateries and glamorous streets. Overnight stay in St. Moritz.
*The possibility to book a 3-course meal is available in the next step of the booking process. Important: it is not guaranteed that you will be able to buy lunch directly on the train as the availability is limited. We recommend to either contract the optional meal or to take your own food for the train journey.
Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the wonderful St. Moritz today at your leisure. Mostly renowned for hosting the Winter Olympics twice and one of the most prominent ski resorts in Europe, St. Moritz is a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley. Known as the ‘Top of the World’ for being almost 6,500 feet above sea level, enjoy the year-round offerings including high-end restaurants, spas and fantastic shopping. Why not head to Tirano on our optional excursion on the Bernina Express*. Overnight stay in St. Moritz.
*Optional Bernina Express Train: Bernina Express is a panoramic train from St Moritz to Tirano. Enjoy one of the most impressive scenic rail journeys Switzerland offers. Travel over circular viaducts and pass through winding tunnels before reaching Tirano in Italy which is the end of the Bernina Express rail line. You’ll have free time in Tirano to discover this Italian mountain town before heading back to St. Moritz on a regional train.
Why not upgrade your trip with our package of 3 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning take a coach transfer to the station to take a train to Chur. Upon arrival enjoy some free time in the Switzerland’s oldest city, discovering its fine mountain setting, twisting alleys and historic buildings. Make the most of your last day in Switzerland, why not do a spot of shopping in it numerous boutiques, check out the many restaurants and bars and get your cultural fill at museums and galleries in the largely traffic-free Old Town. Finally, continue your journey back to Zurich to enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Town to end your Swiss adventure on a high. Overnight stay in Zurich.
Breakfast at the hotel.* Bid farewell to the charming culture and unforgettable landscapes of Switzerland. At the indicated time, take the train to the airport to catch your flight to Venice. Arrive in the romantic city of Venice, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Built across more than 100 small islands, Venice is a pleasure to explore on foot as you get lost in the labyrinthine streets, stumbling across hidden cafes and cultural gems along the way. Get out and discover the plentiful delights on this eternal city, such as the immense Piazza San Marco. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.
* Depending on the flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast.
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a guided walking tour through Venice, through the fascinating streets and across the canals; a crossroads of culture where East meets West. Admire the Basilica and Piazza of San Marco next to Gothic-style Doge's Palace, the Campanile and the Clock Tower stand. Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Campo, a bustling square next to the Church of Santa Maria. Continue to marvel at the grand Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, uncover legendary tales of Marco Polo and finally return to St. Mark’s Square by strolling through the main Venetian shopping street, the Mercerie, and immerse yourself in the historic buzz of the city. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continue discovering this unique city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.
*Optional Gondola Ride Experience: One of the most famous characteristics of Venice is its historic gondolas and now you can be a part of this legacy yourself! Experience an unforgettable 35-minute gondola ride through the charming waterways of Venice including the iconic Grand Canal. The quintessential Venetian experience! Note: Please note that it is a shared gondola (up to five people for each one) so you might have to share it with other people.
Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see`s of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer to the station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Florence. Arrive in Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance, and self-transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city and keep enjoying the Italian cuisine in this gourmet paradise. Overnight stay in Florence.
Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the Historic Centre of Florence for a guided walking tour of Florence and discover the hidden secrets of the Tuscan capital. Start discovering Piazza Repubblica, one of the fanciest of the city, before heading to Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, a building where a local market takes place. Keep exploring the streets of Florence before arriving at the beautiful and well-known Ponte Vecchio, the most iconic bridge in the city and one of its main symbols. You will then walk through the Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Medieval Florence with the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. End the tour admiring Piazza San Giovanni, home to the impressive Florence Cathedral, with its iconic Brunelleschi cupola and the famous Giotto Belltower. Rest of the day at your leisure to continue exploring the captivating sights of Florence. Overnight stay in Florence.
Breakfast at the hotel. Full day at your leisure to enjoy your last day in the city. Florence's historical centre is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so why not take a stroll on your own to discover its hidden treasures. Overnight stay in Florence.
* Optional Half-Day Tour to Pisa & The Leaning Tower: No trip to Italy is complete without a photo at the iconic leaning tower, so don't miss your chance to take a day trip to Pisa! Enjoy a guided walking tour of Piazza dei Miracoli and its monuments and visit the spectacular Pisa Cathedral before spending time at the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, learning all about the history of this University city along the way.
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer to Florence Santa Maria Novella station to catch the train to Roma Termini station. Arrive in Rome, the Italian capital, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is free to begin exploring this romantic, historic city. The evening is the most magical time of day in Rome when the streets take on an even more charming character. Overnight stay in Rome.
Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the meeting point and enjoy a guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, three of the main archaeological sites of the Eternal City. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum, and appreciate the preserved corners of ancient Rome in the Forum and the Palatine Hill. We recommend the optional Piazzas and Fountains of Rome excursion.* The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the historic streets of Rome and dine on delicious Italian cuisine!** Overnight stay in Rome.
* Optional Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion: Take a pleasant walk through the artistic heart of Rome to visit its most symbolic piazzas and fountains! Visit Piazza Navona, the most elegant of all Rome squares and home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain. See the Church of San Luigi, the incredible Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain, an icon of the city. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, the most photogenic spot in the city!
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your leisure in Rome. Perhaps visit the Vatican, trace the footsteps of the greats in the ancient streets of the old city or simply indulge in some delicious Italian ice cream. However you choose to spend your day, Rome is sure to delight you with its old-world charm and unbeatable sights. We suggest taking the optional Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel*. Overnight stay in Rome.
* Optional Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel: Explore the priceless treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit the Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, discover the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the atmospheric St. Peter’s Square, dominated by Michelangelo’s imposing Cupola!
Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see`s of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by car from Rome to the airport for your return flight** back to Canada. Arrive in Canada and end your trip.
* Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in Canada on the next day.
17 days trip including flights*
16 days and 15 nights in destination
1
YTO - ZRH
2
YTO - ZRH
Zurich
3
Lucerne
4
Vevey
5
Zermatt
6
St. Moritz
7
St. Moritz
8
Zurich
9
Venice Mestre
10
Venice Mestre
11
Firenze
12
Firenze
13
Firenze
14
Roma
15
Roma
16
Roma
17
FCO - YTO
* It may change depending of your departure city, departure date and arrival date.
The calendar does not display internal flights, trains or other transportation included in the itinerary.
Accommodation: 15 Nights
*In case the advertised hotels are not available they will always be replaced by one of the same, or a higher category.
Included activities
Walking Tour of Lucerne
Discover the well-preserved medieval architecture, walk in the footsteps of many artists and royal figures who lived and passed by in the 1800s.
What's included: Walking tour of Lucerne Not included: Transfer, meals, drinks, tips nd any other service not mentioned in "what`s included"
GoldenPass Panoramic Train
An extraordinary journey in 3 different trains, with a panoramic view of breathtaking scenery. A never-ending spectacle of three mountain passes, the famous 4000 meter Alpine peaks, 8 lakes and unforgettable excursions.
What's included: Journey from Interlaken to Montreauk in Panoramic train 2nd class ticket. Not included: Transfer to the station, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in "waht´s included"
Walking Tour of Montreux
A proffesional guide will take you around the most important parts of the city, while you learn about the history and culture of this beautiful place.
What's included: Walking tour of Montreux with english speaking guide Not included: Transfers, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in "what's included"
Glacier Express Train
The Glacier Express route through the Alps takes just under eight hours from Zermatt to St. Moritz and boasts spectacular panoramic views, bridges and tunnels.
What's included: Train journey from Zermatt to St Moritz in the Glacier Express in 2nd Class Not included: Transfer to the station, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in "waht´s included"
Available Activities
Mountain Excursion to Rigi
With breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, Mount Rigi offers a first-class mountain experience whatever the season.
Pack of 3 Excursions - The complete experience!
Make the most of your time in Switzerland with this pack of 3 unmissable experiences: a Mountain Excursion to Rigi, an Afternoon Excursion to Mount Gornergrat & a panoramic train ride to Tirano on the Bernina Express!
What's included: A Mountain Excursion to Rigi, an Afternoon Excursion to Mount Gornergrat & a panoramic train ride to Tirano on the Bernina Express Not included: Transfer to/from the station, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in "what's included"
Mount Gornergrat Afternoon Excursion
Surrounded by no fewer than 29 peaks above 13,000 feet, Gornergrat will reward you with a unique opportunity to encounter and take in these unparalleled views over this snowy wonderland.
3 Course Menu - Glacier Express
Includes: Starter, dish of the day & dessert
The price includes
- Included in all our trips. more information
- Departures from main Canadian airports.
- International flights: Canada - Zurich, Zurich - Venice, Rome - Canada.
- Round trip train ticket from Zurich Airport to Zurich HB station. Rail tickets to travel between Switzerland cities*. Domestic High-speed train in Standard Class: Venice Mestre - Florence - Rome.*more information
- 15 nights accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.See hotels included
- 15 breakfasts.
- Round trip coach transfer from St Moritz train station to hotel. Transfer from Venice airport to the hotel, transfer from Rome train station to hotel & transfer from Rome hotel to the Airport are included.
- Golden Pass Panoramic Train and Glacier Express Panoramic Train tickets.See itinerary
- Air taxes and fuel surcharge.
- Walking tours in Zurich, Montreux, Lucerne, Florence and Venice. Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in Rome.
- English-speaking tour leader from day 3 to day 8.**more information
*The cancellation policy applicable is according to the Terms and Conditions available and agreed at the time of your purchase
Not included
Tax, meals, drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included. Airport transfers by car or coach in Switzerland.
*Transfers to/from train stations are not included, except for the ones in Rome and in St. Moritz.
** Tour leader in Italy.
About Italy:
* Transfers from the Train station to the hotels or viceversa are not included, except for the one from Rome station to Rome hotel.
**Please note: the Italy part of this itinerary is an independent tour, not a group tour. It includes accommodation, some activities and some transfers, but you will not be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire trip, nor will you be traveling in a group. As an independent tour, the dates of the excursions may differ based on the availability of the tours. The final date will be available on the voucher uploaded on your Exoticca account prior to departure.
Train tickets included in the program are in 2nd Class.
Important: please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in Venice Mestre, which is situated outside the island, approximately 15 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.
About Switzerland:
Please note We cannot guarantee seats together on the train, so you may have separate seats within your group.
New entry requirement in Switzerland: All international travelers before arriving in the country must fill the following form if they do not have a certificate from an EU or EFTA country or a third country connected to the EU Gateway: https://covidcertificate-form.
Important: Airport transfers by car/coach are not included. You will receive a train ticket from Zurich airport to Zurich HB station (central station of the city) on your platform before your trip starts. Your hotel is located 5 minutes away from the station, within walking distance.
Transfers to/from train stations are not included, except in St. Moritz where a coach will take you to your hotel and back to the station. All the hotels in Switzerland are walking distance from the stations and you will walk to/from them with your tour leader. There will be a dedicated vehicle to transfer your luggage between hotels, so you don't have to carry it with you on the trains between cities. Maximum 1 piece of luggage per person. Please note that you will have to carry any extra luggage you bring with you yourself, on the trains as well as during any tours you do upon arrival in cities prior to your hotel check-in.
Train tickets included in the program are in 2nd Class.
**A professional English-speaking tour manager will be travelling with the group in Switzerland from day 3 to day 8. City tours of Zurich, Montreux and Lucerne will be guided by a local english speaking guide.
The Glacier Express ticket does not include meals. The possibility to book a 3-course meal is available in the next step of the booking process. Important: it is not guaranteed that you will be able to buy lunch directly on the train as the availability is limited. We recommend to either contract the optional meal or to take your own food for the train journey.
- Entry requirementsValid passport required.
- VisaNo visa is required to enter the country.
- CurrencySwiss Franc.
- LanguageGerman, French and Italian.
- Electricity220 V. No adapter required.
- HealthThere are no mandatory vaccinations.
- Time zoneUTC +1
- Other useful informationThe Swiss drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Tourist Office websitewww.myswitzerland.com/
Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.
Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.
In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or canceled without prior notice.
If you have reduced mobility/require the use of a wheelchair and prefer to go at your own pace, please contact our customer service team at +1 888-488-0592 or via our contact form.
Exoticca Travel Stories
Creating unforgettable memories, one traveler at a time
A great organized tour
It was a great organized tour around Switzerland. The drivers and tour guides were very informative. Perfect hotels with friendly staff and excellent breakfast. The most important thing about Exoticca is customer service. Exoticca is a trustful company that provides services as advertised.
