Italian Lakes and Swiss Alps by Luxury Train

Depart U.S.

Arrive in Verona, Italy | Lake Garda

Upon arriving to Verona Airport a 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.

Du Lac et Du Parc Grand Resort

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.

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.

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.

Hotel Walther Pontresina

 

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.

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.

Chalet Hotel Schönegg

 

 

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.

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.

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.