Switzerland
Splendors of Switzerland by Rail
Program No. 15879RJ
Discover museums, villages, waterways and culture as you explore the Swiss Alps by rail, winding through some of Europe's most iconic and photograph-worthy landscapes.
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DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
May 21 - Jun 5, 2025
Starting at
7,749Jun 4 - Jun 19, 2025
Starting at
7,749DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
May 21 - Jun 5, 2025
Starting at
8,379Sep 3 - Sep 18, 2025
Starting at
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
16 days
15 nights
34 meals
14B 12L 8D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
5
Luzern-Interlaken Express, Interlaken
Interlaken
7
Bern, Clock Tower, Free Time
Interlaken
11
Locarno, Free Time
Locarno
12
Verzasca Valley
Locarno
14
Village of Poschiavo
St. Moritz
15
Transfer to Zurich
Zurich
16
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
Switzerland’s rail network winds through 3,000 miles of meadows and mountains, making it the densest railroad system in the world. Travel classic routes through the Swiss Alps, ride along the famed Glacier Express route and experience the picturesque Swiss-Italian narrow gauge line. Hear German spoken in central Switzerland, Italian in Locarno and Romansh in St. Moritz as you compare the history and culture of these diverse areas.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to three miles daily, sometimes on uneven, hilly terrain. Must carry your own luggage on and off trains. Elevations up to 7,690 feet.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Ascend Mount Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains,” aboard Europe’s oldest cog railway.
- Take a train to Zermatt and see Switzerland's most famous mountain, the Matterhorn.
- Walk underneath the medieval arcades in Bern, the capital of Switzerland.
Suggested Reading List
(22 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Splendors of Switzerland by Rail
Program Number: 15879
Culture Smart! Switzerland
A concise, no-nonsense guide to Switzerland's customs, etiquette and culture.
Europe, A True Book
Part of the True Book series, this illustrated, readable volume geared toward ages 9 to 12 introduces children to the geography and diverse cultures of Europe.
The Walk
In this classic novella by the Swiss modernist, freshly translated, Walser writes that "it is on walks that the lore of nature and the lore of the country are revealed, charming and graceful, to the sense and eyes of the observant walker."
Switzerland Adventure Map
A waterproof, tear-resistant map of Switzerland at a scale of 1:500,000. Includes detailed elevations and the locations of natural attractions.
The Gilded Chalet, Off-Piste in Literary Switzerland
In this amusing guide, a grand tour of literary Switzerland, Rooney profiles 200 years of outstanding works and their strong Swiss influences. He argues that the land of luxury hotels, fresh air and fresh milk deserves wide renown as a literary hub.
Banner in the Sky
A suspenseful tale of a young boy determined to keep his father's mountaineering dream alive.
Eyewitness Guide Switzerland
A compact, thoroughly illustrated guide, featuring over 900 photographs, good maps, and plenty of information on hiking in the Swiss Alps, natural and tourist attractions and the history and arts of Switzerland.
Killing Dragons, The Conquest of the Alps
Fleming spins lively tales of man against nature in this entertaining history of the eccentrics, adventurers and publicity-hounds who sought to conquer the Alps, including Whymper and his first ascent of the Matterhorn 150 years ago.
Eiger Dreams, Ventures Among Men and Mountains
A collection of some of Krakauer's (Into Thin Air) best journalism, these stories and essays focus on the mindset and determination of world-class mountaineers, including Alpine and Himalayan climbers.
Asterix in Switzerland
This entry in the Asterix series of comic books features excellent drawings of the Swiss Alpine landscape.
A Farewell to Arms
Set in snowy Switzerland and the rainy Italian Lake Country during WWI, this semi-autobiographical novel chronicles the romance between a British nurse and an American ambulance driver. This edition collects all of the alternate endings, along with early drafts of other essential passages
The Alps, A Human History from Hannibal to Heidi and Beyond
In an entertaining narrative, O'Shea drives, hikes and climbs through 500 miles of the Alps while musing on the historic personalities who braved the forbidding range, including Napoleon, Hitler and James Bond. A thoughtful introduction to the Alps.
La Place de la Concorde Suisse
McPhee deploys his usual insight and wonderful prose on the phenomenon of the Swiss army, presenting an irreverent portrait of Switzerland and the Swiss mindset.
Scrambles Amongst the Alps: In the Years 1860-69
Edward Wymper's classic account of Victorian-era mountaineering captures the geography, beauty and allure of the Alps.
Heidi
The beloved tale of a little girl who is sent to live with her curmudgeonly grandfather in a remote Alpine village. This handsome hardback edition retains the quaint prose and buoyant disposition of Johanna Spyri's 1880 original.
Slow Train to Switzerland, One Tour, Two Trips, 150 Years -- and a World of Change Apart
Bestselling author Diccon Bewes (Swiss Watching SWZ73) follows in the footsteps of an 1863 tour group who traveled from London to Lucerne, Switzerland. In his trademark breezy, intelligent prose, Bewes traces how tourism and time have caused a sea change in Switzerland.
William Tell: One Against an Empire, A Swiss Legend
The classic tale of a Swiss hunter facing a terrible choice, as a graphic novel for ages 9-11.
Birds of Europe
Featuring 3,500 glorious paintings by Killian Mullarney and Dan Zetterstrom, the second edition of this exquisite guide features updated text and maps.
Coming Out Swiss, In Search of Heidi, Chocolate and My Other Life
Part memoir, part history, part travelogue, Anne Hermann’s passionate celebration of what it means to be Swiss intertwines personal revelation with cultural fact.
Hotel du Lac
Funny, stylish and spellbinding, Brookner's novel tracks the story of a romance novelist seeking evasive peace and quiet at the luxurious Hotel du Lac in Switzerland. Winner of the Man Booker Prize.
Swiss Watching, Inside Europe's Landlocked Island
An international bestseller. Diccon Bewees, a neutral Brit, covers cheese, chocolate, William Tell, bureaucracy and banks, all with humor and thorough research. His cultural portrait of the one-of-a-kind nation includes tips on local customs, greetings and etiquette. Second edition.
The Apple and the Arrow
Families will enjoy this spirited retelling of the famous legend of William Tell and his 12-year-old son, Walter, which won the 1952 Newbery Medal.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
16 days
Program Begins
Lucerne
Program Concludes
Zurich
Meals
34
| 14B |
12L |
8D |
Activity Level
Switzerland’s rail network winds through 3,000 miles of meadows and mountains, making it the densest railroad system in the world. Travel classic routes through the Swiss Alps, ride along the famed Glacier Express route and experience the picturesque Swiss-Italian narrow gauge line. Hear German spoken in central Switzerland, Italian in Locarno and Romansh in St. Moritz as you compare the history and culture of these diverse areas.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Ascend Mount Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains,” aboard Europe’s oldest cog railway.
- Take a train to Zermatt and see Switzerland's most famous mountain, the Matterhorn.
- Walk underneath the medieval arcades in Bern, the capital of Switzerland.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to three miles daily, sometimes on uneven, hilly terrain. Must carry your own luggage on and off trains. Elevations up to 7,690 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(22 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
16 days
15 nights
What's Included
34 meals | 14B | 12L | 8D |
7 expert-led lectures
18 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
14 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Lucerne, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Lucerne
Meals:
L,D
Stay:
Hotel Waldstätterhof Luzern
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Carrying luggage on/off train, and to hotel from train station. Two minute walk to hotel from train station.
Lunch:
At the hotel for those who arrive in time.
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: 4:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Our experienced and knowledgeable Group Leader will give lectures and lead field trips. Travel and transfers will be as noted below. Unless otherwise noted, dinners on this program will typically be a three-course set menu. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Before dinner, we will gather for a welcome drink.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Intro. to Switzerland, Transportation, Transport Museum
Location:
Lucerne
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Waldstätterhof Luzern
Activity Note
Getting on/off a public bus; driving about 3 miles (5 km), approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking up to 2 miles and standing up to 1.5 hours at a time; indoors, pavement, grounds.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will gather with a local expert for an introduction to Switzerland’s geography and cultural regions. After a coffee break, we’ll have a presentation on the Swiss transportation system. We’ll then board a public bus and ride to the Swiss Museum of Transport.
Lunch:
At the museum restaurant.
Afternoon:
The Swiss Museum of Transport, the most diverse museum in Europe focusing on transportation and communication, houses more than 3,000 items. Led by a member of the museum’s professional staff, our exploration will focus mainly on historic trains and the new trans-Alpine railway through the Gotthard. We will return to the hotel by public bus. Those who wish to stay out, explore, and return independently are welcome to do so.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
Optional: We will gather together to watch the movie adaptation of one of the most iconic stories originating from Switzerland, “Heidi”. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
4
Lucerne, Mount Rigi, Lake Lucerne Paddle Steamer
Location:
Lucerne
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Waldstätterhof Luzern
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train, cogwheel train, boat. Driving about 28 miles (45 km), approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking about 3 miles (5 km); pavement, cobble stones, gravel path.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will gather for a presentation by a local expert on Swiss history and politics. Stone implements have been found that date back more than 250,000 years. The territories that comprise modern Switzerland came together more recently! In 1815, the Congress of Vienna confirmed Switzerland’s status in international law of permanent armed neutrality. After our coffee break, we’ll have another presentation on Switzerland today. We’ll then set out on a walking field trip in the old town of Lucerne. We will see some of the most significant sights and landmarks such as the chapel bridge, the famous Jesuit Church, and the old town on both banks of the Reuss River.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, we will walk to the train station and set out on a field trip via train and cog railway to Mount Rigi. The Vitznau-Rigi cog railway is the oldest in Europe, well-maintained and equipped with beautiful modern cars. It was constructed by the same Swiss engineer who built the cog railway up to Mount Washington in New Hampshire. At the summit, we will have great panoramic views as we walk. We will return via cog railway and ride to Vitznau. There, we’ll board a historic Lake Lucerne paddle wheeler and glide across the lake back to Lucerne.
Dinner:
Hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Luzern-Interlaken Express, Interlaken
Location:
Interlaken
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Artos
Activity Note
Getting on/off a public bus, on/off a train; driving about 45 miles (70 km) throughout the day, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Getting on/off a boat. Walking about 1 mile (1.5 km); pavement. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice. Luggage transfer will be provided on this day, and you will not have access to your main luggage until you reach the next hotel.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel, board a public bus, and set out on a field trip to the Lion Monument in Lucerne. We’ll then walk to the train station and take the Luzern-Interlaken Express train to Brienz, then board a boat to Interlaken via Bruenig Pass and Lake Brienz.
Lunch:
Aboard the boat on Lake Brienz.
Afternoon:
Upon our arrival in Interlaken, we will walk to the hotel and check in. The remainder of the afternoon is free. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
Hotel dining room.
Evening:
We will have an opportunity to watch a movie about the Alps. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Day
6
Jungfrau, Grindelwald, Kleine Scheidegg, Lauterbrunnen
Location:
Interlaken
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Artos
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train and cogwheel train; riding about 30 miles (50 km)m approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking about 2 miles (3 km); pavement, uphill inclines; high altitude at Jungfraujoch.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will walk to the station, board the train, and ride to Grindelwald in the Jungfrau Region. Upon arrival, we will set out on a walking field trip to the local Grindelwald museum for an expert-led exploration. We will learn about life in a mountain village today and in former times.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Grindelwald.
Afternoon:
We will walk to the station, board the Jungfrau Railway, and ride to Kleine Scheidegg at the foot of the famous north face of the Eiger Mountain in the Bernes Alps that rises more than 13,000 feet (nearly 4,000 meters). We will have opportunities to admire the mountains during a walk through the alpine meadows. There will an opportunity for an elective visit to the Jungfraujoch observation deck at the top, at an altitude of 11,332 feet (3,454 meters). The Group Leader can assist in purchasing tickets. Or, relax with coffee on one of the restaurant terraces. We’ll then regroup at an announced time and place and take the Jungfrau Railway down to Lauterbrunnen in what has been called the “Swiss Yosemite Valley.” We will be able to see numerous waterfalls during our ride. In Lauterbrunnen, we will change trains and ride back to Interlaken.
Dinner:
On your own to explore regional cuisine.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Bern, Clock Tower, Free Time
Location:
Interlaken
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Artos
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train; riding about 75 miles (120 km), approximately 2 hour riding time. Walking about 1.2 miles (2 km); cobblestones, pavement. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will take the bus to the train station and board the Intercity train for a full-day field trip to Bern, Switzerland’s capital city. Even though Bern is the capital, it is small. The old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is built into a bend of the Aare River and is well preserved. It still gives the impression of a town in the 17th century. A local expert will lead our exploration into the old part of the city, where we will see the Parliament building, the famous clock tower, and explore the Muenster (cathedral), one of the finest examples of Gothic art. We’ll then have some independent time to see more of Bern and stroll under the arcades.
Lunch:
On your own to have what you like in Bern. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities, which can be found in the first Information Packet. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. We will regroup at an announced time and place for the train ride back to Interlaken.
Dinner:
Hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
Golden Pass Express, Alpine Cheese Dairy, Breathtaking Views
Location:
Brig
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Schlosshotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train and van; riding about 150 miles (240 km), approximately 5.5 hours riding time. Walking about 1.3 miles (2km); curving road, pavement. Luggage will be transported to the hotel in Brig.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel and take the bus to the train station to board the Golden Pass Express. As we ride to Zweisimmen, we’ll have opportunities to see delightful vistas of the Simmental and surrounding mountains. The train will stop and give us time for a field trip by van to an Alpine cheese dairy. We’ll see and learn how tasty Bernese Alpine cheese is made on a mountain farm.
Lunch:
At the Alp dairy, we’ll have some raclette, a Swiss cheese specialty.
Afternoon:
Back aboard the Golden Pass Express, we’ll ride from Zweisimmen to Montreux. This route offers great views of mountains, over the Rhone valley and Lake Geneva. It ends in Montreux on the banks of Lake Geneva where we will change to the Intercity-train. We’ll then ride through the lush Rhone Valley and Swiss wine country, passing the towns of Sion and Sierre to Brig. Upon arrival in Brig, we will walk to our hotel and check in.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Brig, Zermatt, Matterhorn
Location:
Brig
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Schlosshotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train and underground funicular; riding about 55 miles (90 km), approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles (2.5 km); pavement.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We’ll gather with a local expert for a lecture on the Alps and their history, culture, and challenges. We’ll then set out on an expert-led walking field trip to Stockalper Castle. Built in the 17th century by Kaspar Stockalper, the castle has an impressive courtyard, palace halls, chapel, and gardens. In the late morning, we will walk to the station, board a train, and begin our journey to Zermatt along the Glacier Express Route.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Zermatt.
Afternoon:
We will explore the car-free mountain village of Zermatt on foot, walking down streets and quaint cobbled alleyways where we will see ancient, sun-browned barns and traditional chalets. On a beautiful day, we will take the underground funicular from which you can admire the breathtaking panorama of a range of snowcapped high peaks, including the famous Matterhorn. If there is bad weather, we will continue our walking field trip in Zermatt. In late afternoon, we’ll take the train back to Brig and walk to our hotel.
Dinner:
On your own to sample local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
10
Bellinzona Castles, Ticino History
Location:
Locarno
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Geranio au Lac
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train; riding about 4 hours. Walking about 2.1 miles (3.5 km); cobblestones, pavement, grass. Luggage will be transported by bus to the hotel in Locarno.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will walk to the station and board the train to Bellinzona, capital of the Canton Ticino, the southernmost in Switzerland. Due to its geographical position, the town has been a strategic outpost since the Romans. In addition to its ancient history and heritage, Bellinzona is now a gateway to Italy from the north and to the Alps from the south.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will go on an expert-led walking field trip through Castelgrande — the big castle — and the Old Town. The three castles in Bellinzona are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The medieval town is very picturesque. In the late afternoon, we’ll board the train to Locarno and check in to our hotel upon arrival. Before dinner, we will get together for a lecture by a local expert on Ticino, the Italian speaking part of Switzerland.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Locarno, Free Time
Location:
Locarno
Meals:
B
Stay:
Hotel Geranio au Lac
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles (3.2 km); cobblestones, stairs; Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will set off on foot for an expert-led walking field trip in the old town of Locarno, we will see significant sites such as the Visconti castle, the main church San Antonio, and Piazza Grande, the large town square where the famed Locarno film festival takes place every year in early August.
Lunch:
On your own to have what you like in Locarno. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Locarno. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities, which can be found in the first Information Packet. The Group Leader will be happy to offer.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy the cuisine of your choice. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Verzasca Valley
Location:
Locarno
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Geranio au Lac
Activity Note
Getting on/off a public bus, postal bus; driving about 40 miles (65 km), approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking about 1 mile (1.6 km); cobblestones, stairs, pavement.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will walk with our Group Leader to the bus stop, board the postal bus — a modern public coach service — and ride into the Verzasca Valley, a remote and very typical mountain valley of Ticino. We will explore Sonogno, the highest village in the valley with archaic stone architecture. Next, we will explore the local museum of Verzasca Valley to learn about the history and culture of the valley and region. We will then take the postal bus back to Locarno.
Lunch:
At a typical Ticino restaurant in Sonogno.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will board a motorcoach and ride back to Locarno. You may opt in to watch a movie about the Gotthard Base Tunnel, or take this time to relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
13
Gotthard Tunnel, Oberalp Pass, Spiral Tunnels
Location:
St. Moritz
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Soldanella
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train and cogwheel train; riding about 170 miles (270 km), approximately 5.5 total riding time. Walking about 1.3 mile (2 km); pavement. Our luggage will be transported for us.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Early this morning after checking out of the hotel, we will walk to the station and board the Inter-Regional train that will take us from Locarno along the Leventina Valley towards the Gotthard massif. This famous railroad line is 130 years old and includes the 9-mile-long Gotthardtunnel and astonishing ramps with spiral tunnels to gain height on both sides. We will pass four of these “loops” near Biasca and the Piotta Canyon before passing through the old Gotthard-tunnel. Arriving at the northern tunnel portal in Goeschenen, we’ll leave the train and change to the narrow-gauge cog railway that climbs up the Schoellenen-gorge to Andermatt. There, we’ll board a first-class train that will take us along the Glacier Express route over Oberalp-Pass, along the Rhine, and through the Rhine Canyon. In Reichenau-Tamins, we will change to a beautiful dining car.
Lunch:
In the elegant dining car on the Rhaetische Bahn.
Afternoon:
The train will take us up to Berguen on the northern side of the Albula Pass. After the Albula tunnel, the view suddenly opens up to the wide Upper Engadine Valley. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, we will take a short walk along the fancy shopping street and check in to the hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free.
Dinner:
On your own to have what you like in St. Moritz.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
14
Village of Poschiavo
Location:
St. Moritz
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Soldanella
Activity Note
Getting on/off a train; riding about 50 miles (80 km), approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking about 3.5 miles (5.5 km); pavement.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will gather for our final lecture of the program to learn about the canton of Grisons, its fourth official language — Romansh — and more about Switzerland in general with Q&A. Next, we’ll take the train from St. Moritz to the village of Poschiavo in the Italian speaking part of the Grisons.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Poschiavo.
Afternoon:
We’ll set out on an expert-led walking field trip in Poschiavo. We will see the main piazza in Italian style with the medieval old town hall, the oratory Sant’Anna with its ossuary, and the Palazzi, a picturesque mid-19th century street of patrician villas. We’ll then take the scenic Bernina route back to St. Moritz. The Bernina route travels along the highest and one of the most scenic railroad lines in the world. It passes the Morteratsch Glacier very closely. The railroad masters gradients up to 70% without a rack-and-pinion system. We’ll have countless breathtaking vistas of high mountains, glaciers, and the Italian Alps.
Dinner:
Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner in the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
15
Transfer to Zurich
Location:
Zurich
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Welcome Inn
Activity Note
Getting on/off trains, local bus; driving about 130 miles (210 km), approximately 4 hours riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles (2.5 km). You will be responsible for transporting your own luggage on this day.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will walk to the station and board the train for our transfer to Zurich. with the Rhaetische Bahn, taking us back again on the Albula line — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — with its spiral tunnels and spectacular turns over two 295-foot high viaducts and through gorges down to Chur. In Chur, we’ll change to the Intercity train to Zurich.
Lunch:
On the train, we’ll have packed lunches.
Afternoon:
We will take a local train to Zurich-Kloten. Upon arrival, we will walk to our hotel and check in. The remainder of the afternoon is free to see and do more of what interests you in Zurich.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
16
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 12:00 p.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
34 Meals
14 Breakfasts
12 Lunches
8 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025
- Apr 23, 2025 - May 08, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- May 07, 2025 - May 22, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- May 21, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- Jun 04, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- Aug 20, 2025 - Sep 04, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
- Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025 (Lucerne to Zurich)
Participant Reviews
Based on 48 Reviews
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It exceeded my expectations for an informative, enjoyable and fulfilling travel experience.
— Review left October 21, 2024
If you are looking for an adventure that includes train rides through an absolutely breathtaking country, this is for you! This is a fast paced journey, with a variety of activities. I am a solo traveler, who enjoys interacting with others, but I also enjoy having the opportunity to spend free time away from the group. This itinerary provides a good balance. Be prepared that weather might prevent you from seeing everything, but it did not ruin the experience. One of my favorite pictures is me in front of what would have been the Matterhorn, if it were not socked in by fog. I absolutely loved Luzern, Bern and Locarno.
— Review left October 20, 2024
The Splendors of Switzerland by Rail was a wonderful trip . We learned so much the country, its people and customs. It was an outstanding trip.
— Review left October 14, 2024
Switzerland by Rail is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the country and to visit as many regions as possible within the time frame. I learned so much about the Swiss because of the lectures and overviews offered, as well as the variety of experiences chosen for us. The guides were a constant source of information, and the variety was so appreciated - the types of lodging, the restaurants chosen (including a beautiful dining car on a memorable train trip and lunch at an alpine cheese-making farm, and the locations we visited: from gorgeous, serene Lucerne to the magnificent Zermatt in the Alps to the warm southern border near Italy . It was a fantastic experience.
— Review left September 29, 2024
This was my first Road Scholar adventure and it was wonderful. Beautiful country, great group leaders and a terrific group of people. Got to see all the highlights that Switzerland has to offer!
— Review left September 29, 2024
This is the way to see Switzerland! Such a beautiful country and to see it by rail is amazing. I learned so much about the country and got to explore out of the way places like Bellinzona and Poschiavo. Our guides were wonderful, funny and informative.
— Review left September 26, 2024
My wife and were on this trip from 5 Jun to 20 Jun 2024. This was our second trip to Switzerland with Road Scholar. We had two excellent group leaders, Ursula and Lea. They both went out of their ways to make the trip comfortable. We enjoyed all the sites. We were looking forward to seeing the Matterhorn clearly on this trip - and we did get a nice day up there. The hotels were excellent, as were the meals. We particularly enjoyed Lucerne and Locarno. We also found Interlachen to be a nice town. Overall, it wa a great trip. Be prepared for a lot of train rides and beautiful scenery
— Review left September 24, 2024
Switzerland is absolutely beautiful and travel by train was very nice.
— Review left September 15, 2024
This is a great tour with amazing scenery, and interesting destinations. Everybody needs to visit Switzerland and learn about this amazing country. Switzerland can be rather warm during the peak of summer, so understand that air conditioning is not available in most hotels
— Review left September 15, 2024
Loved this trip though it was somewhat tiring. It covered a lot of the country.
The trains are wonderful & exactly ON TIME! If you plan to exchange US dollars for Swiss francs, you will need to go to a bank--hotels only exchange francs for francs. That was a hassle. There are ATMs you can use, tho.
— Review left September 6, 2024
I just finished the Roads Scholar train tour of Switzerland. This is one country I had not visited in depth. It covers a large part of the country but does require some long train rides. Hotels were three stars, clean, and in a good location. Food was not to my standards, and I am not very fussy. A group of 30 is larger than I am used to, but the guide kept us together quite well. The group leader, who was very nice and personable, tended to our needs but did not enforce the 5 day mask rule as covid began to spread among our group. Dress for all kinds of weather- warm to cold and rainy.
— Review left July 13, 2024
This is a great trip for anyone who would like to learn more about a beautiful and unique country. The lectures and activities give you a great general overview of Switzerland. It's also a great trip for anyone who loves train travel and train technology. Switzerland has the most sophisticated and modern train system anywhere on earth, it seems. We traveled on 35 trains in two weeks, all of which were electric, and many of which were designed to travel over challenging terrain.
— Review left July 7, 2024
We wanted to go back to Switzerland for some time. We were elated by our experience. The program was jammed pack but we saw and learned a lot. The sceneries were absolutely beautiful thanks to an astute choice of locations. We truly appreciated the ingeniosity, the discipline for efficiency and precision and the warmth of the Swiss people. We were also impressed to witness how three constituencies, heritages and cultures are able to cohabitate together very well. All the accommodations were top notch except the hotel in Brig which was sub par. The food was always excellent. Our tour Director, Ursula expertly ran a tight ship. She has the right personality and acumen to manage a group of older travelers. She did a wonderful job. She was well supported by her assistant Ronia.
All in all, it was a fantastic journey. Highly recommended.
This trip deserves 5 stars.
— Review left June 27, 2024
Very informative and interesting trip through Switzerland, well worth the time and money spent.
— Review left June 25, 2024
Switzerland is a most amazing and beautiful country. It is a place you dont want to miss if you love mountains, waterfalls, trains and lovely people
— Review left June 16, 2024
This splendors of Switzerland by the Rails was one of the best trips we have ever taken because it was so well
Planned and executed brilliantly. I will promote his trip to many people. Well done Road Scholar.
— Review left June 12, 2024
This is such a terrific program if you love or even like trains, and if you're interested in the 3 non-French-speaking parts of Switzerland. Not only is the scenery beautiful, but each day is packed with distinct experiences and activities (including 2 lake cruises). Sergio was a fantastic guide, and we were taken care of beautifully. I've been on 2 other RS trips I enjoyed, but this one was even better -- just about perfect. Highly, highly recommended.
— Review left June 10, 2024
This was a magical two-week tour of Switzerland where we learned about the uniqueness of the country. The exceptional group leaders helped to make this a seamless journey through the Swiss Alps, charming villages, and make many train connections. I have great gratitude to the guides for their expertise and passion, making this tour an exceptional experience.
— Review left June 8, 2024
This was an opportunity to experience almost all of Switzerland with folks I enjoyed and utilizing all types of transportation. It was a great trip.
— Review left June 8, 2024
Our tour of Switzerland was terrific. There was so much diversity in our tour, from the mode of transportation (trains, buses, paddle wheel boat, gondola) to the environment (mountains, lakes, rivers, impossibly steep green slopes dotted with farmhouses and cows, sheer rock canyons) and the languages and cultures from the German, French, Italian, and Romansh areas that we visited. My favorite memories are of walking through old town in Lucerne at night looking at buildings and bridges several hundreds of years old, and sleeping a few hundred feet away from a Castle in Brig that was softly illuminated and glowed like the most marvelous night light ever. This was definitely the trip of a lifetime for me.
— Review left May 25, 2024
This was a wonderful trip and the guides, Rita and Ursela were absolutely amazing
I made many new friends, my first solo trip and I was not disappointed. I truly recommend this trip if you want to see Switzerland.
— Review left December 6, 2023
This program schedule and concept was brilliantly planned and executed. The tour directors were first rate, however, having said that, I am never going to travel with Road Scholar again for the following reasons:
1. The group was too big for a program of this type or any type. This was not a "small group experience" and you should cease advertising your programs as such;
2. The lecturers were not experts of any kind; in some cases they were ill-organized; in some cases they were simply run over by people in the group asking questions to which answers had already been given, if the questioner had only been listening; like any classroom, there were lots of participants who only wanted to hear the sound of their own voices;
3. Unfortunately, a large number of people on this tour--around 8 or 10--were among the whiniest, unhappiest, complaining-est people with whom I have ever had the misfortune to travel. They ignored the health issues of some people on the tour, pushed others around for seating etc. and generally must have been unhappy--or prepared to be so--since the day they left home.
These people complained continuously about the hotels and the food. I know that the info makes it clear that these are typical European tourist hotels (which were charming and perfect, in my experience, if lacking in the numbers and efficiency of American-style elevators) and the lack of certain amenities is to be expected but that seems not to have been taken on board by a number of participants and frankly, it ruined the charm of the accommodations, at least for me.
So, after two trips, the first of which was perfect in every detail, including especially my traveling companions, I will say au revoir, buona fortuna and I will try to find other, more compatible types of companions in other groups.
Pat Nocero
— Review left September 26, 2023
The itinerary for Splendors Of Switzerland By Rail was very thorough. I saw so many interesting things. The lectures and city guides were great. Be aware that the amount of walking most days was about 5 miles, easy walks for the most part but there are a lot of cobblestone streets in Switzerland. I'm VERY happy I did this tour!!
— Review left September 24, 2023
Wonderful, fun, and educational trip. Loved it and will do many more International and Domestic trips with Road Scholar.
— Review left September 8, 2023
Great trip. Great leaders. So many mountains. So little time.
— Review left July 5, 2023
Excellent trip! Great people, great scenery, great learning experience, terrific group leaders.
— Review left July 2, 2023
I just came home from "Spendors of Switzerland by Rail" and it was fabulous. We saw so much of Switzerland. The trains were comfortable and easy to use and clean. I would highly recommend this trip. It was just so enjoyable and the views were amazing!
— Review left June 19, 2023
This was one of the very best tours that I have taken, whether the other 10 by Road Scholar or those with other providers. I had a wonderful time and am thoroughly pleased with the program.
— Review left June 18, 2023
Switzerland by Rail was a beautiful program filled with sights that amazed and dazzled my vision. The natural wonders of Switzerland are impossible to describe. I am thankful for the knowledge I gained from our fascinating guides and speakers who shared their love of everything Suisse.
— Review left June 17, 2023
Informative. Educational. Easy. I will be doing more Road Scholar programs in the future
— Review left October 23, 2022
This was a wonderful program. I love train travel and Switzerland has Train Travel at its best. Definitely the trip of a lifetime.
— Review left October 11, 2022
Switzerland not only met all my expectations but also provided some surprises!
— Review left October 9, 2022
This is a very worthwhile tour seeing a beautiful country in a different way for most people. I highly recommend this tour!
— Review left September 28, 2022
Seeing Switzerland by rail allowed us to really enjoy the scenery ....and took us off the highway and through the geography you wouldn't see from the regular roads. And, appreciating how efficient the train system is in Switzerland. Highly recommend this tour!
— Review left September 28, 2022
If you like trains, cog railways, Cable cars, and funiculars, then the "Spleanders of Switzerland by Rail" Program is the perfect way to meet your dreams.
— Review left September 9, 2022
If you love trains and mountains, and want to learn more about Switzerland, this program is for you! Susan, from Virgina, June 2022 participant
— Review left June 28, 2022
Riding trains is a great way to see the spectacular Swiss scenery, and opened my eyes to how clean, efficient, and dependable transportation by rail can be. On one day we rode 5 trains, and each arrival perfectly dovetailed with the next departure. Narrow gauge or regular gauge, cogwheel or cable car, through mountains or over passes, each ride offered engineering marvels. I've participated in 14 Road Scholar programs and have always had great leaders, but Ursula set a new standard for organization, openness, and honesty.
— Review left June 27, 2022
What a beautiful country! It was so nice to be traveling again and this trip did not disappoint. Hearing about the history of the rail system, visiting the Swiss Transportation Museum and riding on the trains that took us through the Engadin Alps , as well riding on the World Heritage Site known as the Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes.
Seeing the Eiger, Jungfrau and the Matterhorn, visiting and traveling through 15 of the 26 canton’s. Visited 5 UNESCO sites, tours of castles, enjoying Raclette at a farm in the Alp.
— Review left May 28, 2022
The best Road Scholar trip we have participated in !
— Review left May 13, 2022
Go on this trip....luscious food, gorgeous scenery, welcoming people and lots of wonderful train rides.
— Review left October 25, 2021
"Splendors of Switzerland by Rail" is a thorough introduction to the trains, to the rural scenery, and to some of the attractive cities of this clean, efficient, and healthy alpine nation. We loved this tour! Because of this good introduction, we plan.to visit Switzerland again.
— Review left October 22, 2021
This program is a Must Do for everyone! It is Spectatular!
— Review left October 21, 2019
Splendors of Switzerland was a beautiful trip led by amazing guides, fellow travelers and spectacular scenery. A highly recommended adventure.
— Review left September 27, 2019
One of the best Road Scholar trips we have been on. Great guides, great fellow travelers and a wonderful itinerary.
— Review left September 23, 2019
The program was outstanding and more than met my expectations. The dollar value was excellent.
— Review left September 22, 2019
Outstanding introduction to this unique country. The use of the trains and other transport very special and a great experience.
— Review left July 7, 2019
This is a fantastic trip. Traveling by train is certainly the best way to see Switzerland. The train system is so much a part of the Swiss experience. Our excellent leader, Ursula, kept us on the move and was always cheerful. She made the trip run smoothly even though we had lots of trains to catch. The scenery is beautiful. the accommodations clean and well located , food good and the lecturers very knowledgeable. I'd recommend this trip as a fun way to get to know Switzerland.
— Review left June 20, 2019
This is a terrific trip. The scenery is beautiful, of course. The places we went, the lectures we had were all very good. The group leader, Ursula Heckendorn, is one of the very best. She kept us organized and with all the different train schedules, that was not easy. And she did it all in such a friendly way. Her delightful facial expressions will be long remembered. It helped that the group of 15 was always early to our meeting point. The weather was variable—snow one day, temps in the 70s another. We had sun, clouds, and even some rain but nothing stopped us. The $500 Swiss Rail Pass that we were given included all the trains, buses, boats, and even gave us a discount on some museums and other attractions. Don’t be worried about the description telling about the need to lift your suitcases onto the train. Ursula had that organized too and there was talk that next year the luggage would all be transferred from location to location. The food is good but very heavy, as is typical of the region. Pay attention to the rating of the trip and be sure that you are in good physical condition, able to do a lot of walking, sometimes dragging your luggage, going up and down steps. One day there were six different trains. Six different hotels means that you never settle into one location. It is a tiring trip because you are going all day long but well worth it and I highly recommend the trip.
— Review left June 6, 2019
