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Embark on a breathtaking 10-day rail journey through the heart of Switzerland and northern Italy. Begin in the alpine city of Chur, with time to wander its medieval old town or venture to storybook Heidiland. Cross the soaring Swiss Engadin Alps aboard the legendary Bernina Express, arriving in stylish Milan to indulge in high fashion, exquisite cuisine, and world-class art. Continue to serene Lugano, where glittering lake views, panoramic peaks, and a charming Lake Como excursion await. Then, traverse the spectacular Gotthard Panorama Express, combining a scenic train ride with a historic paddle steamer cruise to enchanting Lucerne. Conclude your adventure with time to explore its cobbled streets, crystal-clear lake, and nearby mountain vistas—a perfect finale to a journey of elegance, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.
Discover two of Europe’s most enchanting countries in one seamless journey, travelling in comfort and style aboard some of the world’s most famous trains. From the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps to the glittering lakes of northern Italy, every day brings breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re exploring medieval towns, indulging in Milanese fashion, or gliding across Lake Lucerne on a paddle steamer, this journey blends elegance, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
– Iconic Rail Journeys: Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, and regional trains linking alpine villages with Italian cities.
– Switzerland’s Alpine Magic: Charming Chur, panoramic peaks, and postcard-perfect Heidiland.
– Italian Elegance: Milan’s Duomo, boutique fashion district, and world-renowned cuisine.
– Serene Lakeside Retreats: Lugano’s glittering lakefront, Lake Como’s romantic charm, and Lucerne’s crystal-clear waters.
– Seamless Connections: A carefully crafted itinerary that balances sightseeing, leisure, and scenic rail travel.
– Rail Enthusiasts who dream of travelling on the world’s most scenic trains.
– Culture Seekers eager to blend Swiss alpine heritage with Italian art, fashion, and cuisine.
– Couples & Families looking for a relaxing yet enriching holiday filled with iconic sights and memorable experiences.
– First-time Europe Travellers who want a seamless introduction to both Switzerland and Italy without the stress of organising logistics.
– Slow Travel Lovers who appreciate time at leisure to soak in lakeside beauty, wander cobblestoned towns, and enjoy authentic local dining.
Travel by rail in 1st class from Swiss border or airport/rail station to Chur. Chur is an alpine city and the capital of the Canton of Graubünden. Overnight in Chur. (B)
Your day is at leisure in Chur. This morning consider exploring the winding streets in the car -free old town leading you to the 13th century Chur Cathedral, also referred to as the Cathedral of the Asumtion of Mary The episcopal palace of the bishop of Chur is beside the church. The cathedral claims the relics of St Lucius of Britain, said to have been martyred nearby in the late 2nd century.
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Consider taking a short 30 minute train ride and travel to Maienfeld for a delightful day excursion to Heidiland. On arrival collect your self-guided walking map to the Village and start your 2 hour hiking experience (slight incline on the way to the village). Overnight in Chur (B)
After breakfast board the Bernina Express and depart for Tirano Italy. The spectacular journey and scenery takes you across the Swiss Engadin Alps to Tirano, and from Tirano by regular rail service to Milan. At the station meet with your driver and transfer by private car to your hotel. Known as the global capital of fashion and design, Milan is renowned for its high -end restaurants and shops. The Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci’s mural “The last Supper” testify to centuries of art and couture. Overnight in Milan (B)
Following a leisurely breakfast, you may consider to either shopping by hitting the Quadrilatero d’Oro (Golden rectangle) fashion district bordered by Via Senato and Via Merone to the north and south and Corso Venezia and Via Manzoni to the east and west OR go cultural and visit the famous Duomo complex to enjoy the front view of the Milan Cathedral. If you have time and do not mind waiting in the queues or consider buying a skip the line pass (everyone does it) and you are compliant to the dress code to enter (shoulders and knees to be covered) the interior does not disappoint not to mention the Cathedral Rooftop. The day is yours to enjoy and do not forget to allow time to sample the food and do not be put off if your concierge recommends a bar or a restaurant located in an off- the beaten track location it is your day to explore. Overnight in Milan. (B)
In the morning, transfer by private car to Milan rail station and board your Euros City or regional train to Lugano, on arrival at the station negotiate your way to your hotel located near the lake front by taking the 3 minute funicular service arriving to the front steps of your hotel. Overnight in Lugano. (B)
A day at leisure. Why not visit Monte San Salvatore today? Lugano’s house mountain. A funicular railway takes you from Lugano Paradiso to the top of this famous peak for a magnificent 360 degree panoramic views over the beautiful blue lake. Overnight in Lugano. (B)
This morning take the train at your leisure (rail ticket included) and travel to Lake Como. On arrival, following a short walk to the lake front, consider a funicular ride to the mountain town of Brunette or take a boat ride to the popular lake resort of Bellagio if that does not suite simply take time to walk the piazza along the lake shore to enjoy the colourful surrounds and sample the coffee and the local delicacies. In the afternoon, take the train and return to Lugano. Overnight in Lugano. (B)
After breakfast, depart on board the Gotthard Panorama Express travelling from the Mediterranean’s south to the traditional heart of Switzerland. The Gotthard route is truly mesmerising, and the lake cruise from Fluellen to Lucerne on an old paddle steamer tops off todays rail experience. Evening is at leisure. Overnight in Lucerne. (B)
Your day is at leisure. Use your free Lucerne Transport card, offering free use of buses and trains within zone 10 of the city network, as well as a range of discounts for cableways, mountain railways and museums and excursions on Lake Luzern. Explore the Old Town, walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge or enjoy the views from Mt Rigi or Visit the Transport Museum of Luzern. Overnight in Lucerne (B)
After Breakfast depart your hotel by own arrangements or alternatively extend your stay in Switzerland (B)
