May 1 - May 11, 2025
Starting at
5,749
Switzerland
Switzerland in a Nutshell: Cities and Peaks by Train
Program No. 22543RSBLOG
Ride the rails through the mountain of Switzerland to discover ancient towns, idyllic lakes, pristine countryside and the legendary Matterhorn with time for independent explorations.
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800-454-5768
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May 15 - May 25, 2025
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5,749Oct 2 - Oct 12, 2025
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11 days
10 nights
19 meals
9B 5L 5D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
8
Lausanne, Lake Geneva, Free Time
Lausanne
11
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
As massive, snow-covered peaks reach towards the sky, sloping green hillsides offer shelter to medieval cities, historic cathedrals and fascinating residents. Switzerland is a country of geologic and cultural wonders — and the ideal way to discover them is by train. Join us for a Swiss adventure along the rails that begins in the metropolitan city of Zurich and rolls along mountain landscapes to the vibrant city of Basel. Along the way, learn about French and German cultural influences, cross bridges over breathtaking gorges and thrill in the sight of the “Mountain of Mountains,” the Matterhorn.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to three miles; cobblestones, stairs and extensive standing. Elevations up to 7,300 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Take in the amazing scenery as we travel along some of Switzerland's best train routes.
- Enjoy a ride, weather permitting, on a cogwheel train for panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
- Join an expert for a walk through the well-preserved medieval Old Town of Basel.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials.
Suggested Reading List
(23 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.
Switzerland in a Nutshell: Cities and Peaks by Train
Program Number: 22543
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.
Daisy Miller
A classic story of a young American woman's innocent flirtation and its misinterpretation by a sophisticated European man, set in Lac Leman and Chillon. This is James' first fictional work to gain mass popularity and one of his great American female portraits.
The Theoretical Foot
MFK Fisher's first novel, considered too racy for its time, features two unmarried American couples tramping through Europe in the late 1930s whose love affairs are tested by the rise of fascism and looming war.
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.
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.
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.
Culture Smart! Switzerland
A concise, no-nonsense guide to Switzerland's customs, etiquette and culture.
Wild Flowers of Britain & Northern Europe
A colorful field guide featuring commonly encountered species of the fields and gardens of Europe.
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.
Insight Guide Switzerland
This handsome guide gives a profusely illustrated overview of Switzerland, featuring concise essays by well-regarded authors on history, politics and culture, as well as hundreds of photos and maps and other practical information.
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.
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.
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.
Alpine Cookbook
Subtitled "Comfort Food from the Mountain," DK’s Alpine Cookbook collects 110 delicious recipes from Bavaria, Austria and Switzerland. The dishes, which combine traditional cuisine with modern trends, include schnitzel, potato pancakes, meaty main courses and savory vegetarian options.
A Tramp Abroad
Written 11 years after Innocents Abroad, this is Twain's second foray into European travel. Filled with his characteristic wit and humorous observations, it documents his journeys through Germany, Switzerland, France and Italy. Now with an introduction by Dave Eggers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Switzerland Map
A colorful, shaded relief map of Switzerland at a scale of 1:400,000.
Banner in the Sky
A suspenseful tale of a young boy determined to keep his father's mountaineering dream alive.
Asterix in Switzerland
This entry in the Asterix series of comic books features excellent drawings of the Swiss Alpine landscape.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
11 days
Program Begins
Zurich
Program Concludes
Basel
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
19
| 9B |
5L |
5D |
Activity Level
As massive, snow-covered peaks reach towards the sky, sloping green hillsides offer shelter to medieval cities, historic cathedrals and fascinating residents. Switzerland is a country of geologic and cultural wonders — and the ideal way to discover them is by train. Join us for a Swiss adventure along the rails that begins in the metropolitan city of Zurich and rolls along mountain landscapes to the vibrant city of Basel. Along the way, learn about French and German cultural influences, cross bridges over breathtaking gorges and thrill in the sight of the “Mountain of Mountains,” the Matterhorn.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Take in the amazing scenery as we travel along some of Switzerland's best train routes.
- Enjoy a ride, weather permitting, on a cogwheel train for panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
- Join an expert for a walk through the well-preserved medieval Old Town of Basel.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to three miles; cobblestones, stairs and extensive standing. Elevations up to 7,300 feet.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(23 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
11 days
10 nights
What's Included
19 meals | 9B | 5L | 5D |
5 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
9 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Zurich, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Zurich
Meals:
D
Stay:
Sorell Hotel Seefeld
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Carrying luggage on/off trains. Depending on your choice of transportation to the hotel, walking 2 - 10 minutes.
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation meeting followed by dinner. Orientation: 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. Unless otherwise noted, dinners on this program are typically a 3-course set menu and lunches on this program are typically a 2-course set menu. Breakfasts will offer a typical European-style breakfast buffet with breads, cheeses, cold cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, juice, milk, coffee, tea, and water. Please note that water is included in the program cost at all meals. 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.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have a plated welcome dinner together with a glass of wine and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
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
Introduction to Switzerland, Free Time in Zurich
Location:
Zurich
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Sorell Hotel Seefeld
Activity Note
Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; some stairs and cobblestones. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice. Getting on/off a boat; about 1.5 hours roundtrip.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Joining our Group Leader, we’ll gather for an introductory lecture on Switzerland’s history and politics. Then we’ll take an expert-led walk in the Old Town of Zurich, which will conclude at the docks where we will board a boat for a lunchtime ride on Lake Zurich. Upon boarding, the group leader will provide some information about the lake’s history.
Lunch:
Aboard the boat on Lake Zurich.
Afternoon:
Next, we will take a walk together with our Group Leader to visit the Fraumünster church to see the beautiful Chagall windows. This 11th-century cathedral features five iconic stained glass windows that were created specifically for the space by Marc Chagall in the 1970s, each of which depict a biblical story. Afterwards, take some time for independent exploration. You might like to explore the city or visit a museum.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Transfer to Chur via Appenzell & St. Gallen
Location:
Chur
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Stern
Activity Note
Getting on/off train; ride is about 115 miles (180 km) throughout the day; approximately 5 hours total. Walking about 4 miles throughout the day, periods of standing; stairs to get on/off trains. Luggage will be transported via bus directly to the hotel in Chur.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will take the tram to the train station. We will transfer by train to Appenzell, enjoying the ride through the picturesque rural area. Upon arrival, we will take a short walk in this traditional Alpine village with our Group Leader to see its painted facades. Afterwards, we will take another ride on the Appenzeller train line to St. Gallen.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in St. Gallen, we’ll enjoy a typical plated Swiss lunch.
Afternoon:
Then we’ll walk to the Baroque Abbey District of St. Gallen for an expert-led field trip. The convent is a perfect example of a great Carolingian monastery. The library is one of the richest and oldest in the world and contains precious manuscripts. In the late afternoon, we’ll take a train to Chur through the Rhine River valley. From the train station, we’ll take a short walk to the hotel and check-in.
Dinner:
Hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the afternoon.
Day
5
Chur, Transfer to Brig
Location:
Brig
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Schlosshotel
Activity Note
Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; unavoidable cobblestones; stairs on/off trains. Getting on/off train; approximately 100 miles (160 km); about 4.5 hours on the train total. Luggage will be transported via bus directly to the hotel in Brig.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Setting out from the hotel on foot, we’ll go on an expert-led visit to the Old Town of Chur, during which we will walk by the modern railway station, through the town center, and along the narrow winding streets. While in the oldest town in Switzerland, we’ll learn about its 5,000-year history. Afterwards, enjoy a bit of free time before lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Chur.
Afternoon:
We will walk to the train station to take a spectacular ride from Chur to Brig. Upon arrival in Brig, we’ll take a walk and check-in at the hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a Swiss cheese specialty: fondue.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Stockalper Castle, Free Time
Location:
Brig
Meals:
B
Stay:
Schlosshotel
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; unavoidable stairs and uneven terrain on the castle grounds. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Joined by a local expert at the hotel, we’ll attend a lecture on the Alps with a focus on their geography, culture, and challenges. After a short walk, we’ll have an expert-led visit to Stockalper Castle. Built in the 17th century by Kaspar Stockalper, the castle has an impressive courtyard, palace halls, chapel and gardens. While here, we’ll explore the amazingly preserved castle and learn about the life of its creator—a merchant, trader, and entrepreneur who wanted his home to reflect his wealth and power.
Lunch:
On your own to explore the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in the picturesque Old Town of Brig. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own to sample more of the regional cuisine.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
7
Matterhorn, Transfer to Lausanne, Wine Tasting
Location:
Lausanne
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel des Voyageurs
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; unavoidable cobblestones; stairs getting on/off trains. Getting on/off a train; about 125 miles (200 km); approximately 5 hours on the train total. Luggage will be transported via bus directly to the hotel. Getting on/off cog railway; ride is about 1/2 hour.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will take a walk to the train station and then, travel along the Glacier Express route to Zermatt, a car-free mountain village where we’ll find quaint cobbled alleyways, ancient sun browned barns, and traditional chalets. We will take the cogwheel train to Sunnegga, a small platform that offers great views of the Matterhorn, from which we will admire the breathtaking panorama of a range of snowcapped high peaks, including the famous Matterhorn.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Zermatt.
Afternoon:
We’ll then have some time for independent exploration in Zermatt before meeting at a predetermined time and place and taking the train for the ride down the Rhone Valley, into Swiss wine country, and through the vineyards of Lake Geneva to Lausanne. Upon arrival, we’ll take the metro to the hotel for check-in.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Lausanne, Lake Geneva, Free Time
Location:
Lausanne
Meals:
B
Stay:
Hotel des Voyageurs
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles total during group activities; unavoidable cobblestones and stairs in the old town. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Setting out on foot from the hotel, we’ll take an expert-led visit to the Old Town of Lausanne and its cathedral, the largest gothic cathedral in Switzerland and a place of pilgrimage during the Middle Ages. The entire city of Lausanne is built right on the shores of beautiful Lake Geneva, which we will also discuss. Back at the hotel, we’ll settle in for a lecture about French-speaking Switzerland given by a local expert.
Lunch:
On your own to explore the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time. You might like to visit a museum, or engage in some activities featuring the beautiful Lake Geneva!
Dinner:
On your own to sample more of the regional cuisine.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
9
Transfer to Basel, Jura Mountains
Location:
Basel
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Odelya
Activity Note
Getting on/off train; riding about 120 miles (190 km); approximately 3 hours on the train total. Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; unavoidable cobblestones and stairs in the old town.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will take the metro to the train station and set out on a scenic train ride to Basel along Lake Biel, Lake Neuchâtel, and through the Jura Mountains.
Lunch:
Aboard the train, we’ll have packed lunches.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Basel, we will take a short bus ride to the hotel for check-in. Once settled, we will then attend a lecture about Basel and the arts while learning from a local expert about Basel, the cultural heart of Switzerland. Afterwards, we’ll have a briefing that will introduce us to different museums one may wish to visit during free time.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Basel, Cultural Heart of Switzerland
Location:
Basel
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Odelya
Activity Note
Getting on and off public transportation; about 1/2 hour. Walking about 2 miles throughout the morning; some unavoidable cobblestones and stairs in the old town. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
A local expert will the join us at the hotel to lead a lecture and discussion on what Switzerland is like today, with topics based on group interest. Then, getting around on foot and via public transport, we’ll take an expert-led field trip to the beautiful, well-preserved Medieval Old Town of Basel. While here, we will walk past the famous Tinguely Fountain, the cathedral, Münsterplatz, City Hall, and through the winding streets and alleyways. The rest of the day will be free to explore Basel on your own.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time to continue exploring Basel on your own.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room, we’ll enjoy a plated farewell dinner together and share your favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
11
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. Getting on/off train; ride to Zurich is about 1 hour. Carrying luggage on/off train. Getting in/out taxis; driving less than 1/2 hour. See your program’s “Transportation Information” regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Hotel dining room.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will transfer back to Zurich Airport via taxi and train. This concludes our program. 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
19 Meals
9 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 16, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
- May 01, 2025 - May 11, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- May 15, 2025 - May 25, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- May 29, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Jun 19, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Aug 21, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
- Oct 16, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025 (Zurich to Basel)
Participant Reviews
Based on 42 Reviews
Sort By:
It was a great program; very well organized; wonderful tour leaders; knowledgable lecturers and very interesting and thoughtful fellow participants
— Review left October 5, 2024
Switzerland in a Nutshell was both beautiful and informative. The scenery was superb, the old towns picturesque and the program very informative. Our guides were fantastic, knowledgeable, approachable and most importantly, kind. If you are interested in Switzerland I do not think you will be disappointed if you choose this trip.
— Review left September 20, 2024
I was upset that travelers came on the trip who were sick and made many of us sick. I agree with other reviews that there was too much travel time between sites. I would have liked more excursions in the smaller towns. I don’t think we got a good feel for these areas with so much free time.
I think the tour guides were excellent and really appreciated the care and concern when I got sick.
— Review left July 12, 2024
When I previously thought about Switzerland, I thought about cheese - It is so much more and is an inspiration for other nations with their active and open democracy!
— Review left June 29, 2024
The Swiss Alps and the Matterhorn were everything I had hoped to see.
— Review left June 14, 2024
For the service and amenities on this trip, considering the extraordinary price - it was quite deplorable.
This was my first (maybe my last) Road Scholar trip.
They insist that you tell them your dietary restrictions and any medical alerts, which I notated as: low fat, low cholesterol, low carb diet (basically heart healthy) and no pork, and that i am on a blood thinner.
The first FOUR meals were pizza, followed by 3 meals consisting of merely a bowl of spaghetti and a small salad. After the 3rd carb meal, they claimed they didn't "understand" low carb and I ended up purchasing my own food because I was already sick from too many carbs.
For every meal that was served to us, we only saw one meal with a green vegetable at all, and it was broccoli (except for a few salads of lettuce).
For the bratwurst meal (which was pork) i was given - a bowl of spaghetti again.
Except at breakfast we never saw one bit of fresh fruit.
Our Group Leader advised me that he "didn't understand my dietary restrictions and since i'm on a blood thinner I wasn't allowed to eat sugar - he said he googled it. Not only was he 100% wrong about that, I felt my privacy had been violated by him (not a medical worker) googling my medicine and telling me what i could or couldn't eat.
This tour was supposed to include the Glacier Express. We did NOT get to go on the Glacier express - we were told that Road Scholar "forgot" to book our group on the train.
We went to the charming village of Appenzel - however, again due to poor planning, ALL the shops were closed, as they are every Monday. Mind you this was the only town where shopping would have been...wonderful. Everyone was disappointed at their lack of planning.
2 of the hotels were fabulous, the others definitely lower quality - one (in Brig) had construction directly outside my room from 7am till 10:30pm. I had a patio that was the roof of a garage where they were constructing a building. 2 nights of no privacy or peace. No solution was offered.
— Review left June 13, 2024
I would describe this as a rigorous trip since we saw a lot every day and moved sometimes more often than every 2 nights. But Road Scholar trucked our suitcases from hotel to hotel for us. And I enjoyed all that we saw, even in the often persistent rain.
— Review left June 12, 2024
Need to be prepared to change modes of transportation several times a day.
— Review left June 11, 2024
Wonderful introduction to Switzerland's beauty, cultures, and languages. Nina and Michael went above and beyond expectations, any truly made it a unique experience for me. Can't forget the Glacier Express, and majestic Matterhorn and Swiss chocolate.
— Review left June 5, 2024
The scenery is beautiful but be prepared to keep on the move. 5 hotels in 9 days is a lot so pack light and understand the pace before you sign up for this trip.
— Review left May 27, 2024
This program is an excellent introduction to Switzerland. The formal presentations and the local guides were outstanding. Maybe it was a result of all the fun train travel, but our group was among the most convivial I've encountered in all my Road Scholar trips.
— Review left May 24, 2024
We so enjoyed our Roads Scholar trip Switzerland in a Nutshell. Met wonderful travelers with a lot in common. I would recommend this trip for the train travel and scenery. Fun from start to finish.
— Review left May 19, 2024
It was a wonderful adventure. The group leaders did a spectacular job sharing their love for the country. I have learned much about the people, politics, art, and architecture. If you have a specific interest, the group leaders will go above and beyond in helping you to explore the sights and local options. Thank you so much for having such a great option available.
— Review left December 9, 2023
Road Scholar Swizterland tour product and services were exceptional. Depiction of required Switzerland outlet adapter was very inaccurate.
— Review left October 27, 2023
This is a trip of a lifetime. The scenery, guides, food and delightful travelling companions make it a must do for all. Lots of walking, but it was not too strenuous.
— Review left October 18, 2023
Traveling by train is Switzerland was a fantastic experience! It is a beautiful country and a superbly planned and executed adventure. Nina Wyser is among the best of RS's trip leaders!
— Review left October 3, 2023
Prior to this trip, Switzerland had not been a country on my "bucket list." Now that I have been there, I rank it as one of the best programs I've attended. Our tour guides were absolutely amazing and I will always remember both of them with fondness. I loved learning about this country. I was able to enjoy the great beauty of the Alps, see a glacier, view the Matterhorn with awe, and there was still time to visit two world class art museums and pursue that love, as well.
— Review left September 13, 2023
Just finished this trip and it was wonderful. Our group leader Nina went above and beyond for us. On our free time she took us to a glacier and another free afternoon to a boat ride on lake Geneva. She made sure we were all keeping up on our walking tours. Our luggage was transported by van to each hotel. We took trains, trams, buses, and walks to get from place to place. It was a great group of 22 who got along great and shared free time together. Only down side was 4 out of 5 hotels did not have air conditioning and we were in a heatwave. I highly recommend this trip and if you are lucky enough it will be lead by Nina.
— Review left September 12, 2023
This is the Switzerland trip you take, if you have only 12 days. Richard T. Canada.
— Review left September 12, 2023
We enjoyed traveling through Switzerland by train. Having the luggage transported separately by van gave us more freedom to focus on the trip. Dmitrij and Andrew were an excellent team whom we came to count on to get us moving as a group at exactly the right tIme. In particular,Dmitrij's insight into Swiss culture and politics added tremendously to our experience.
— Review left June 30, 2023
What a wonderful trip! We saw so many different areas of Switzerland, a beautiful and friendly country, with a long history. I enjoyed riding the trains, and our excellent leader made all the logistics go so smoothly. There was a great mix of guided walks, expert presentations, and free time to visit museums, places of interest, and lovely lakes. Did I mention the varied and good/fresh food?
— Review left June 30, 2023
We loved our trip!! Our travel guides Nina and Micheal were delightful and excellent; it was well organized and we learned a great deal about Switzerland. The guided tours of the “old towns” in the different cities were informative and so were the lectures.
— Review left June 5, 2023
Our trip leaders were extraordinary people! I wish I could take Nina and Michael home with me. They were knowledgeable, fun and patient and so organized!!! I miss them already.
— Review left May 18, 2023
Our train trips thru Switzerland were educational, rewarding and delightful. Our guides, Nina & Michael, were friendly, professional, knowledgeable and always available to us for information and to make our trip enjoyable. I miss them already! Things that Road Scholar can do for all programs: 1) go back to providing the spiral bound information packets. It’s a money saving option for RS, however, not good marketing. I loan my spiral bound note books to friends who are considering RS programs. I also keep them for personal reference. Road Scholar frequently asks for donations and then cuts corners with loyal travelers by asking us to print our own info packets…..poor customer service. I have a trip planned with RS in October/23 but sorry to say I plan to be less loyal to Road Scholar simply because I don’t think you reward those of us who have been loyal travelers over the years.
2) Road Scholar sometimes schedules the end of programs in smaller towns without an airport that has sufficient international airline access. Not customer friendly and not the way I plan personal travel. Catching an early morning train from Basel to Zurich airport to board a plane for the USA is poor planning. RS should give more thought into the logistics of our return home.
— Review left May 16, 2023
Switzerland in a Nutshell was excellent in all respects and fully worth the time and money I invested.
— Review left October 28, 2022
A well-organized program filled with interesting activities! Pleasant, helpful and efficient guides take the work and worry out of travelling!
— Review left October 4, 2022
We had a wonderful time learning about Switzerland and the ease of traveling by train. We were kept busy with visits to castles, cathedrals, lake cruise and exploring the towns and cities. Dmitrij and Laura were excellent guides and went above and beyond. I would highly recommend this trip.
— Review left September 24, 2022
this program was stimulating, varied and surprising; above all, the group leaders Dmitrij and Laura, enhanced every aspect of the program with good humor and care. Go--you'll love it.
— Review left September 14, 2022
Switzerland in a Nutshell was an excellent trip and I highly recommend it
— Review left June 26, 2022
I highly recommend this tour because there is a lot to see and do and our guide was absolutely amazing. Would love to have him again the next time we go back.
— Review left June 24, 2022
This trip captured the outstanding beauty of Switzerland and offered a knowledge of the history as well as the diverse cultures of this country. It was an outstanding tour.
— Review left June 18, 2022
This trip exceeded my expectations. We were fortunate to have perfect weather the entire trip and had picture postcard views of the Matterhorn. The ride on the Glacier Express is breathtaking & a highlight. It is an active trip with lots of walking and many steps to climb, and well worth the effort.
Our Group Leaders Nina & Dimitrij were fun, knowledgeable & went way beyond what would be expected to solve problems and help each participant!!
This is the trip of a lifetime, I'm so glad I went!
— Review left May 17, 2022
Switzerland in a Nutshell was wonderful, though could use more time, small country but a lot to see. Packing light highly recommended, but I don't know what we would have done if someone wasn't taking our luggage to each destination. Cannot imagine carrying. Changing hotels every 2 days was certainly a drag. Program Leaders very knowledgeable & a joy to be around.
— Review left November 2, 2021
The Switzerland in a Nutshell covered all the bases ... countryside, culture, mountains, cities, history ....LOVED
— Review left October 25, 2021
Interesting cities and breathtaking scenery - a perfect combination for a vacation!
— Review left October 20, 2021
Switzerland is a beautiful country, and it was good to travel around it by train. The train section of the trip was not as interesting as I expected, as there was no commentary during the travel. We had wonderful weather, and were able to see the Matterhorn, which was a highlight.
— Review left October 12, 2021
This program is interesting and you see and learn a lot of beautiful Switzerland. The activity level is very aptly described. If you can't walk fast this is not for you.
— Review left September 24, 2021
A well organized trip worth taking. Beautiful scenery. Great memories.
— Review left August 25, 2019
This trip was a great introduction to Switzerland and train travel; so much more fun and interesting than coach travel. The scenery along the way was just breathtaking. A well organized trip (of course, the Swiss are efficient and on time!) David and Paula took care of our group of 23 with ease; they were terrific. If Switzerland is on your bucket list, you would not be disappointed.
— Review left June 14, 2019
This was my first Road Scholar trip and I absolutely loved it. The itinerary was great, along with the preparation and execution. I highly recommend Road Scholar as a way to see and better understand the world around us.
— Review left June 14, 2019
This was our 3rd trip with RS and the most enjoyable yet. Switzerland is absolutely breathtaking! Our tour leaders, Dimitrij and Ursula, were wonderful - so helpful and a lot of fun. Our group consisted of such pleasant and interesting people who were not only good company, but also provided us with some great travel tips and insights. Train travel in Switzerland is the way to go—just sit back, relax, and take in the beauty!
— Review left June 6, 2019
it was a relaxing and wonderful trip, just what I was expecting to appreciate Switzerland
— Review left May 23, 2019
