Switzerland by Train

I’ve always thought it would be fun to do a cross country train trip, and Switzerland offers one that is simply amazing.

Switzerland-by-Train.jpg

This stunning adventure begins in Zurich, the international capital of banking and finance and one of the liveliest cities in Europe.  With great shopping, museums filled with everything from the Dutch Masters to Medieval religious paintings to post-impressionist works, great architecture and lovely gardens, your time in Zurich can be whatever you want it to be.

From Zurich you’ll travel by train across the gorgeous countryside to one of my favorite Swiss towns, Lucerne.  Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most idyllic medieval cities. It’s nestled between the Alps on the western shore of Lake Lucerne.  Most famous for the Chapel Bridge, a 14th century covered pedestrian bridge that spans the Reuss; it is also home to the Lion of Lucerne, a beautifully carved tribute to the Swiss Guard members who died during the French Revolution.  For the best view climb the medieval fortifications that surround the old town and take a look from the towers.  

Your next adventure begins when you board the Lucerne-Interlaken Express and cross the Brunig Pass on the way to Interlaken.  You’ll have time to roam the quaint streets there before boarding the next train to Lausanne.  

From Lausanne you’ll depart for the delight Swiss mountain resort of Zermatt.  You’ll visit the town of Montreux, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva.  This area is known as the Swiss Riviera, and you’ll really appreciate your free time there.

The next item on the itinerary is the one that will knock your socks off-Gornergrat.  At 10, 138 feet the views of the Matterhorn and the Gornergletscher will take your breath away.

Did you know the Matterhorn is not the highest peak in Switzerland?  It may not be the highest, but it is certainly the most awesome.  At 14,692 feet, this pyramid shaped peak is recognizable to almost everyone.

On the next day you are going to love your train ride through the most unspoiled natural area of Switzerland, concluding in the world famous mountain resort of St. Moritz.

On the 7th day of this amazing journey you’ll thrill to some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe as you travel to Tirano and the Bernina Pass, witnessing mountain streams, glaciers, and incredible alpine scenery along the way.

On your final full day you’ll travel back to Zurich and enjoy some free time before returning home the next morning.  

If this sounds like a fantastic way to spend a vacation you’ll be glad to know the 9 day trip is offered from April-September annually.  The trip includes a professional tour director, your first class train travel, hotels in Zurich, Lucerne, Lausanne, Zermatt, St. Moritz and back in Zurich, breakfast daily, three dinners and of course the Swiss Alps.  All of that from as low as $2149 per person.  

There are of course other itineraries in Switzerland, and several that include Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Italy and more.  I prefer this one just because it’s all train travel and that would be a bucket list trip for me.

Now is the time to plan your summer 2018 vacation for best availability and pricing.  Early booking discounts apply for 2018 travel now as well, often saving you hundreds of dollars. 

The Swiss are lovely, hospitable people and their country is simply stunning.  Why not go to Switzerland in 2018 and find out for yourself?

Joy Gawf Crutchfield owns and operates The Joy of Travel.  Contact Joy at 918-339-4805