Beyond the Alps – Zurich to Bern

Arrive in Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant gateway, where old-world charm meets contemporary elegance.

This afternoon, begin your journey with a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate—a delight for all the senses. Discover the story of Swiss chocolate through immersive exhibits before enjoying tastings and time to browse the beautifully curated boutique.

Later, enjoy time at leisure to explore Zurich’s enchanting Old Town (Altstadt), with its cobbled streets, boutique shops, and lakeside atmosphere.

Overnight: Zurich

This morning, travel by rail to Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque towns.

Your day unfolds with an unforgettable excursion to Mt Rigi, known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” Begin with a scenic boat cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, followed by a historic cogwheel railway ascent to the summit. Take in sweeping panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and shimmering lakes before descending via Rigi Kaltbad and Weggis.

Return to Lucerne for time at leisure—perhaps a stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge or along the lake promenade.

This evening, enjoy a dinner reservation at the charming Hotel Wilden Mann, known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and warm hospitality.

Overnight: Lucerne

Today combines scenic travel with authentic Swiss craftsmanship.

Your luggage will be transferred directly to Interlaken, allowing you to travel comfortably with just a day bag.

Travel by rail to the lakeside village of Brienz, renowned for its wood carving heritage where you will have the opportunity to explore this long-standing Alpine tradition.

Depending on the day, you may see artisans at work or browse local workshops showcasing handcrafted pieces created using techniques passed down through generations. You will also have time to browse specialty chocolate shops.

Continue your journey with a scenic cruise on Lake Brienz, gliding across turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, arriving in Interlaken. The Lake Brienz cruise operates from April to October. During winter months (November to March), this journey is completed by scenic rail.

In the late afternoon, ascend to Harder Kulm, where breathtaking views over Lakes Thun and Brienz provide a perfect introduction to the Bernese Oberland.

Overnight: Interlaken

Today you will experience one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine journeys with an excursion to the legendary Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 metres.

Travel by scenic rail through picturesque mountain villages and dramatic alpine landscapes, ascending via the famous cogwheel railway to the high mountain pass. Along the way, enjoy ever-changing views of snow-covered peaks and rugged cliffs.

At the summit, step into a world of ice and snow. Take in breathtaking views from the Sphinx Observation Terrace, overlooking the vast Aletsch Glacier, and explore the enchanting Ice Palace, where tunnels and sculptures are carved deep within the glacier itself.

This unforgettable experience offers a true sense of the scale and beauty of the Swiss Alps—an inspiring highlight of your journey.

Overnight: Interlaken

Your luggage will again be transferred ahead to Montreux as you travel one of Switzerland’s most scenic rail routes.

Board the GoldenPass panoramic train, travelling from Interlaken through mountain passes and pastoral landscapes toward the French-speaking region of Switzerland.

En route, stop in the medieval village of Gruyères, where time seems to stand still. Wander cobbled streets, explore artisan boutiques, and enjoy lunch at leisure (by own arrangements), surrounded by centuries-old architecture and sweeping countryside views.

Continue your journey to Montreux, set along the shores of Lake Geneva and framed by vineyard-covered hills.

Scenic Rail Journey
Today’s journey forms part of the renowned GoldenPass route, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful rail experiences. Travel through alpine valleys, mountain villages, and rolling countryside as you make your way toward Lake Geneva. En route, you will disembark at Montbovon and continue a short distance by regional train to the medieval village of Gruyères before later continuing onward by regional train to Montreux

Total travel time with stop: approx. 5–6 hours including exploration

Overnight: Montreux

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Château de Chillon, beautifully set on the shores of Lake Geneva. Steeped in history, this iconic lakeside castle invites you to explore its grand halls, medieval chambers, and atmospheric courtyards at your own pace.

Later, travel to nearby Geneva, a city renowned for its elegance and watchmaking heritage (approx. 1 hour by train).

Enjoy time at leisure to explore the lakeside promenade or Old Town before your afternoon visit to the celebrated:

Patek Philippe Museum

In the afternoon, discover one of the world’s most important collections of timepieces at the Patek Philippe Museum. Spanning over 500 years of horological history, the museum showcases exquisite watches, intricate craftsmanship, and the evolution of timekeeping in a beautifully curated and accessible setting.

The museum is open:

• Tuesday to Friday: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
  (Closed Mondays; Sunday hours may vary seasonally)
• Entrance fees are payable locally (children under 18 years receive complimentary entry). Adult entrance approximately CH15

This experience is designed to be engaging for all—whether you have a casual interest or a deeper appreciation for fine craftsmanship.

Return to Montreux in the early evening and enjoy a relaxed evening by the lake.

Overnight: Montreux

Today, travel to Switzerland’s charming capital, Bern.

Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where medieval architecture, sandstone arcades, and historic fountains create a uniquely preserved cityscape.

Visit the famous Zytglogge Clock Tower, a remarkable example of early Swiss engineering and design.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore artisan shops, galleries, and local markets.

Evening at Leisure in Bern

Bern offers a variety of relaxed evening experiences:

• Stroll along the Aare River or through the illuminated Old Town
• Enjoy a casual dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant (by own arrangements)
• Visit the Rose Garden for panoramic sunset views
• Explore local wine bars or cafés tucked within historic arcades

Overnight: Bern

After breakfast, rail to Zurich or Swiss Border for your onward journey, taking with you, memories of Switzerland’s landscapes, flavours, and timeless traditions.