DETAILS
Embark on a journey through the heart of Europe, where the boundless beauty of Italy and Switzerland unfolds before your eyes. This exclusive tour offers an exceptional blend of cultural richness and natural splendor, combining the allure of historic villages with the breathtaking grandeur of the Alps. From the tranquil shores of Lake Garda to the dramatic peaks of the Matterhorn, you’ll experience a seamless fusion of adventure and relaxation. Whether it’s savoring fine wines in a centuries-old vineyard or gliding through mountain landscapes aboard iconic trains, every moment of this Alpine rail odyssey is designed to leave you spellbound.
- Pricing from
- $9,995
Please contact 866-639-0079 to reserve!
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Land & Rail Tours
- Departure Dates
-
Sep 15, 2026 - Sep 24, 2026
Optional pre-tour – Prosecco
Nestled in the northeastern part of Italy, Prosecco is a picturesque region renowned for its rolling hills, charming villages and, of course, its world-famous sparkling wine. Located in the Veneto region, just north of Venice, Prosecco offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and gastronomic excellence.
Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Day +2: Arrive in Verona, Italy | Prosecco
(L,D)
Begin your Italian escapade with a visit to Villa Valmarana ai Nani in Vicenza. This splendid property is renowned for its exquisite frescoes by the famous 18th-century painter Giambattista Tiepolo and his son, Giandomenico Tiepolo. The villa is surrounded by lush gardens offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The gardens are designed in a classical Italian style featuring manicured lawns, geometric flower beds and statues. The highlight of the garden is a series of 17 stone dwarf statues (“nani” in Italian) that give the villa its name. According to local legend, these statues represent the dwarf servants of a noble family and add a whimsical touch to the garden’s elegance.
Next gather with a trained chef for a lively, hands-on cooking class.
Later check into the property in Prosecco and enjoy some time at leisure before gathering for dinner.
Day +3: Prosecco
(B,L,D)
Prosecco is synonymous with its sparkling wine, and a visit to the region wouldn’t be complete without touring its stellar vineyards.
After breakfast set out for tours and tastings at two unique wineries. Learn about the cultivation of Glera grapes, the traditional and modern methods of winemaking and the unique characteristics that make Prosecco so special. Guided tasting sessions provide the opportunity to savor different Prosecco varietals.
There will be time to explore independently before dinner this evening.
Day +4: Prosecco | Verona | Main Program Begins
(B)
After breakfast depart for Verona to join guests arriving for the main program.
Inclusions
- 2 nights hotel accommodations
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
- 2 vineyard tours and tastings
- Transportation for included tours
- Luggage porterage
- Gratuities to local guide, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
- Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $1,999 |
| Single: | $2,699 |
Optional post-tour – Mont Blanc
Journey through Italy’s Aosta Valley—a region steeped in history and culture—for an authentic alpine experience. Discover well-preserved historical sites and Roman ruins before ascending to Pointe Helbronner by cable car for spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif.
Day 10: Aosta | Cogne
(L,D)
Depart for Aosta, capital of the small region called Valle d’Aosta (Aosta Valley). Founded by the Romans in 25 B.C., the town of Aosta features well-preserved historical sites including the Arch of Augustus, the Porta Praetoria and the Roman Theatre.
Enjoy a decadent fondue-based lunch before joining a local guide for a comprehensive walking tour. Descend into the Criptoporticus—a semi-subterranean gallery consisting of two parallel tunnels connected by a series of cross-vaulted passages. Its overall layout forms a rectangular shape that mirrors the outline of the Roman forum it once supported.
Continue to your hotel in Cogne to check in and refresh before gathering for dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Day 11: Cogne | Mont Blanc | Cogne
(B,L,D)
After breakfast set off on a scenic drive to Courmayeur situated at the base of Mont Blanc. Board the Skyway Cable Car for a breathtaking, nearly 11,000-foot ascent to Pointe Helbronner. Throughout the ride, the cable car rotates providing 360º panoramic views over the diverse terrain.
At the top a spacious terrace and multiple viewing platforms offer spectacular, unobstructed views of the Mont Blanc massif including iconic peaks Dent du Géant and the Grandes Jorasses. Hear stories of those who conquered the highest European peak plus other fascinating anecdotes related to this epic mountain.
After lunch at Kartell Bistrot Panoramic board the cable car for the returning descent to Courmayeur.
The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to take advantage of the hotel amenities. This evening meet for dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Day 12: Cogne | Milan | Depart for U.S.
(B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary group transfer to the airport for flights home.
Inclusions
- 2 nights hotel accommodations
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
- Guided panoramic walking tour of Aosta
- Cable car ride including admission
- Transportation for included tours
- Luggage porterage
- Gratuities to local guide, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
- Airport transfer for guests departing during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $2,199 |
| Single: | $2,899 |
Reservation Cancellation and Refunds. Notice of cancellation must be submitted to Orbridge in writing either via email or mailed letter. The date of receipt will be used for the effective date and the cancellation will be processed as follows:
If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge more than 90 days prior to the program’s scheduled departure date, all monies paid to Orbridge for the main program and for any pre-tour and/or post-tour will be refunded less an administrative fee of $350 per person for the main program and $200 per person for a pre-tour and/or post-tour. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 90 and 76 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 25% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 75 and 61 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 50% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge between 60 and 46 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 75% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives, and the balance will be refunded. If the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge within 45 days prior to the scheduled departure date, a 100% cancellation fee will be applied to the full cost of the program, including any pre-tour and/or post-tour, optional excursion(s) fees and optional electives.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
Depart U.S.
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day 2
Arrive in Verona, Italy | Lake Garda
Upon arriving to Verona Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to Lake Garda.
Take time to unpack and freshen up before joining the group at the hotel restaurant for a lovely welcome dinner.
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day 3
Malcesine
After breakfast embark on an extraordinary journey to the summit of Mount Baldo aboard a funicular. As you ascend the rugged mountainside, your cable car slowly rotates providing 360º panoramic views of shimmering Lake Garda below and the imposing peaks of the Dolomites at the horizon. At the top join a guide for a leisurely walk followed by a picnic lunch. Then return to Malcesine either by cable car or by hiking down the mountain path.
Enjoy time to explore Malcesine independently before returning to the hotel for a private panoramic cruise on Lake Garda.
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day 4
Trento
Meet with a local guide for a panoramic walking tour of Trento’s historic center, passing by notable landmarks including Piazza del Duomo, the Fountain of Neptune, Palazzo Pretorio and the Cathedral of San Vigilio.
Next visit a local winery that produces the acclaimed Trento DOC sparkling wine. Tour the winery before gathering for a wine tasting lunch.
The evening is at leisure to take advantage of the plentiful amenities and dining options at the hotel.
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day 5
Tirano | Bernina Pass | Engadin Valley
After breakfast take a private transfer to the colorful village of Tirano for independent exploration and lunch on your own. Stroll down the cobblestone streets to discover quaint piazzas, local artisan shops and traditional cafés offering regional specialties.
Tirano is also our gateway to the majestic Alps and the starting point for the exciting rail journey ahead.
In the early afternoon board the legendary Bernina Express—the highest mountain railway in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Experience. This iconic red train features panoramic carriages with expansive windows that stretch across the ceiling providing uninterrupted views of the passing Alpine landscapes. Wind through serene villages and lush vineyards before ascending to the dramatic heights of the Bernina Pass at 7,578 feet above sea level. The extraordinary beauty of Morteratsch Glacier comes into view as the train navigates into the pristine Engadin Valley.
Disembark the train and continue to the hotel to unpack and settle in. Later gather with fellow travel companions for dinner at the hotel restaurant.
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day 6
Muottas Muragl
This morning’s adventure includes a scenic cable car ride to the Muottas Muragl peak—a thrilling ascent to one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the Engadin Valley. The historic funicular, featuring meticulously maintained wooden carriages and large windows, dates back to 1907. A true example of Swiss ingenuity, the cable car climbs the steep slope with an impressive gradient of up to 56%.
Next journey to a local dairy farm to experience the generations-old Alpine traditions of cheese-making. Tour the property before sitting for a delicious tasting and lunch.
The remainder of the day is at leisure in Pontresina.
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day 7
Zermatt
Continue your rail adventure aboard the Glacier Express destined for Zermatt. Known as the “slowest express train,” the Glacier Express offers a well-paced ride allowing you to fully appreciate the remarkable scenery amidst the comforts of its sleek, modern carriages.
Begin the ascent through alpine meadows and dense pine forests climbing toward the Oberalp Pass, the highest point of the journey at 6,670 feet. Here the views transform into a snow-draped wonderland of rugged peaks and icy lakes. Then descend into the Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon.” Continuing westward, the train crosses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels, seamlessly connecting the remote mountain valleys and high-altitude plateaus. One of the highlights is the crossing of the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, where the train glides over a stunning curve into a rock-hewn tunnel.
Throughout the journey, be treated to impeccable onboard service including a gourmet lunch served at your seat.
Approaching Zermatt, the landscape shifts once again to reveal the Matterhorn’s awe-inspiring silhouette. This final stretch is a crescendo of alpine beauty, setting the stage for the adventures to come exploring Zermatt’s pedestrian-only village and the surrounding areas.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel for check-in and dinner at the restaurant.
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day 8
Zmutt Valley
After breakfast meet a local guide for a walking tour through Zermatt. Next join a local mountaineering Swiss guide aboard a gondola to ascend to Klein Matterhorn’s summit—known as Matterhorn Glacier Paradise—more than 12,000 feet above sea level. From the summit, step into the enchanting Glacier Palace, a hidden world carved deep within the glacier’s icy heart. Walk through illuminated tunnels with thick, crystal-clear glacial walls that sparkle in the light. Inside, intricately carved ice sculptures of mythical creatures and elegant designs create a magical atmosphere.
Ride the gondola down to Furi for lunch with spectacular views over the Zmutt Glacier Valley.
In the afternoon return to Zermatt by gondola or choose to take a tranquil hike down to the village.
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day 9
Gorner Glacier
This morning meet with a mountaineering guide before boarding the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel railway, the highest train in Europe. Ascend far above Zermatt to experience one of the best viewpoints in the Alps. Admire gorgeous vistas that includes Monte Rosa, the Matterhorn and the Gorner Glacier. Then set off on a hiking excursion offering jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn. Concluding the hike, stop for lunch on your own at a mountain hut, then return to Zermatt by train.
Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure for independent exploration. This evening gather with fellow travel companions one last time to delight in a traditional fondue farewell dinner.
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day 10
Zermatt | Zurich | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a short train ride to Täsch and then connect with a private transfer to Zurich Airport for flights home.
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