Train trip Switzerland from Zurich to Lugano

This train tour of Switzerland takes you from the charming streets of Zurich to the serene shores of Lake Lugano. Discover medieval towns, impressive waterfalls and stunning Alpine scenery as you travel by train along some of the country's most scenic routes. Sample local specialties, hike through Unesco World Heritage Sites and stay in atmospheric Caractère hotels that enhance the charm of each destination. Perfect for those who want to experience Switzerland in all its versatility.

Day 1: Zurich

You will arrive in Zurich by train or plane and depart for your first stay, a charming boutique hotel in the middle of the city. Explore Niederdorf and Oberdorf with narrow streets, quaint stores and delicious restaurants. Thanks to the Swiss Travel Pass you receive before departure, you'll enjoy free use of public transportation and entrance to museums.

Day 2: Zurich

After a delicious breakfast at your Caractère hotel, you'll dive into the city with your guide. You'll pass iconic buildings like the Grossmünster Cathedral and the Swiss National Museum and learn more about the history of this amazing city. In the afternoon, opt for a pedalo or boat ride on Lake Zurich or kids and soccer fans can have a blast at the FIFA museum.

Day 3: Rheinfall and Sankt Gallen

From Zurich, take the train up to the Rheinfall, Europe's largest waterfall. This 150-meter-long waterfall is most powerful in spring and early summer, when the Rhine is fed by meltwater from the Alps. The waterfall, with Laufen Castle in the background, you visit on foot or view it from a short distance on the water via a boat ride. In the afternoon, take the train to Sankt Gallen, where you walk through the historic center and visit the abbey and Stifts library. This library is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of Switzerland's most important cultural monuments. Afterwards, you will return to Zurich for your final overnight stay in the city.

Day 4: Zurich - Lucerne

Today you leave Zurich you will continue by train to Lucerne, where you will spend the night in a four-star hotel overlooking Lake Lucerne. Once you arrive, walk across the two wooden bridges that connect the two parts of the city, the Spreuerbrücke and the Kapellbrücke.

Day 5: Lucerne

After breakfast meet your guide and learn all about the medieval Musegg wall and taste local delicacies. In the afternoon, take the ferry to one of the lakeside villages or opt for a hike in the mountains.

Day 6: Lucerne - Lugano

After a delicious breakfast, pack your valise and depart by train for the last stop of this trip, Lake Lugano. Here you will arrive at a classic and luxurious five-star hotel with pool and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Day 7: Lugano

In the morning explore the center of Lugano: visit Santa Maria degli Angioli church its beautiful frescoes by Leonardo da Vinci's student Bernardino Luini, go shopping in the Via Nassa with various luxury brands or rest on a cozy terrace. In the afternoon you can take the cable car to the top of Monte Brè, or enjoy a boat ride on the lake.