Escorted Alps and Cities of Switzerland

Escorted Alps and Cities of Switzerland

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Escorted Alps and Cities of Switzerland

8 Days Starting and ending in UK/Ireland

Visiting: Zurich, Canton of Ticino, Zermatt, Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne

Tour operator:

Exoticca

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 30

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History, Rail Tours

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Switzerland with the "Escorted Alps and Cities of Switzerland" tour. This meticulously crafted experience takes you to some of the most iconic and picturesque locations in Switzerland, including the historic streets of Zurich, the charming town of Lucerne, and the breathtaking alpine landscapes of Zermatt, home to the majestic Matterhorn. From the cultural vibrancy of Montreux to the medieval allure of Bellinzona, and the serene beauty of Interlaken, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, history, and leisure. Enjoy guided tours, scenic rail journeys, and ample free time to explore at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and stunning natural beauty of Switzerland, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Montreux

  • Bellinzona

  • Bern

  • Interlaken

  • Lucerne

  • Lugano

  • Vaduz

  • Zermatt

  • Zurich

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Uk/Ireland - Zurich

Location: Zurich

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Mercure Zurich City

Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of Switzerland? Arrive at your departure airport, ready to catch a flight to Zurich*. Touch down in Zurich, famous for being the global center of finance on the north shore of the beautiful lake with the same name. Self-transfer** to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Why not walk around the historic old town and enjoy a warm beverage in one of the many cafes or enjoy an international array of gastronomic offerings from restaurants across the city? Overnight stay in Zurich.*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.**Airport transfers are not included. You will have the option to add a transfer from the airport to your hotel for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.

Day 2 : Zurich - Vaduz - Lugano - Ticino

Location: Canton of Ticino

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Coronado

Meals Included: Breakfast

After enjoying Breakfast at the hotel, meet your English-speaking guide at the lobby of your hotel to begin your tour. Make your way to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein for a tour of the city centre where you can catch a glimpse of Vaduz Castle from a distance—this is where the Prince of Liechtenstein resides today! Your next stop will be in Werdenberg, known as Switzerland’s smallest city which also happens to have the country's oldest wooden houses. From here, you will be stopping by Lugano, in the Canton of Ticino, to take part in a brief walking tour of this charming town known for its abundance of parks, flowers, villas and sacred buildings. Finally, arrive at your hotel located in the Italian-speaking Canton of Ticino and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Canton of Ticino.

Day 3 : Ticino - Bellinzona - Zermatt

Location: Zermatt

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Continental Zermatt

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Make your way to Bellinzona where you will briefly tour the city’s main attractions before visiting the courtyard of the emblematic Castelgrande. You will have some leisurely time to enjoy the city centre before heading to Tasch to board a shuttle train to car-free resort, Zermatt, home to the impressive Matterhorn, one of the highest summits in all of Europe. Zermatt is a famed mountain village that attracts thousands of tourists every year thanks to its idyllic landscapes and world-renowned ski resorts. You will arrive at your hotel by foot and then enjoy the rest of your evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Zermatt.

Day 4 : Zermatt - Montreux - Lausanne

Location: Lausanne

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Movenpick Hotel Lausanne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the first half of the day at your leisure exploring Zermatt and relish the alpine views of the Swiss Alps in all their beauty at your own pace. You will then board a shuttle train back to Tasch to head over to Veytaux. Upon arrival, we will quickly pause at Chillon Castle, an island castle located on Lake Geneva, for a picture stop. The next point in your journey will be scenic Montreux, known as a cultural hub of the country thanks to its world famous annual jazz festival. Lastly, we will make our way to Lausanne where you will enjoy the rest of the evening getting to know your surroundings. Overnight stay in Lausanne.

Day 5 : Lausanne - Bern - Interlaken

Location: Interlaken

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bernerhof Interlaken

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Your day begins with a brief drive around Lausanne, to admire the city’s most iconic sights. From here, you will be heading to the Maison Cailler chocolate factory located in the charming city of Broc; a sweet adventure awaits you! You will be exploring the story of Maison Cailler's chocolate through a series of interactive, multi-sensorial experiences and even uncover a few secrets along the way! Tour their unique museum for about an hour and learn about the history of chocolate, from Aztec cocoa ceremonies to today's innovations. Get to know how the Maison uses exquisite cocoa beans and high-quality ingredients to make the finest chocolate creations and treat your palate to an amazing variety of flavours during a chocolate tasting. Afterwards, we will head to Bern. Once there you will take part in a city tour of the capital of Switzerland where you will stop by the city's most emblematic sites before making your way to Interlaken for check-in. Overnight stay in Interlaken.

Day 6 : Interlaken

Location: Interlaken

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bernerhof Interlaken

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Your entire day will be spent as you see fit. Why not take this time for some shopping or exploring the picturesque scenery of Interlaken? We recommend an optional full day excursion to Jungfraujoch*. Overnight stay in Interlaken. *Optional Full day excursion to Jungfraujoch: One of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, Jungfraujoch offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You will be taking the Eigerexpress, a mountain cable car, to marvel at the stunning view of the Top of Europe, the highest railway station in all of the continent. You will then head back down to enjoy lunch before taking a train to make your way to Lauterbrunnen.

Day 7 : Interlaken - Lucerne - Zurich

Gilda Giorgi
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Location: Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Mercure Zurich City

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day exploring Lucerne where you will get to discover the colourful city’s old town and medieval architecture. Take part in a stunning one-hour boat cruise along Lake Lucerne and enjoy the spectacular views of this quaint city from a completely unique perspective. From here, enjoy lunch at your leisure in the city centre. Your last stop of the trip will be to Zurich. Get to know the country’s economic hub in a city tour where you will stop by its most emblematic sites and then enjoy the rest of your remaining hours at your leisure. Overnight in Zurich.

Day 8 : Zurich - Uk/Ireland

Location: Zurich

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel*. Bid farewell to the charming culture and unforgettable landscapes of Switzerland. At the indicated time, self-transfer** to the airport for your return flight back to the UK/Ireland. Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end of your trip. *Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. **Airport transfers are not included. You will have the option to add a transfer from the airport to your hotel for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.

What's Included

  • Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.

  • International flights: UK/Ireland - Zurich - UK/Ireland.

  • Round-trip 2nd class train ticket Tasch - Zermatt.

  • 7 nights accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.

  • 7 breakfasts.

  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.

  • Air taxes and fuel surcharge.

  • Visit to Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory.

  • ATOL Protection.

What's Not Included

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are not included but can be added at an additional cost.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions such as the full day trip to Jungfraujoch are not included and require an additional fee.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and guests are advised to obtain their own coverage.

  • Personal Expenses

    All personal expenses, such as additional meals, beverages, and activities, are not included.

  • Early Check-in/Late Check-out

    Early check-in and late check-out are not included and may incur additional charges.

Mode of Transport

Travelers will be whisked away on a journey through Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes via 2nd class train tickets, ensuring a scenic and comfortable ride. The tour includes round-trip train tickets from Tasch to Zermatt, highlighting the ease and efficiency of Swiss rail travel.

Accommodation

Guests will enjoy 7 nights in Charm & Superior category hotels, offering a blend of comfort and elegance. Each stay is carefully selected to enhance the travel experience, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.

Meals Included

7 breakfasts.

Check out our Q&As

  • What are the highlights of the Escorted Alps and Cities of Switzerland tour?

    The highlights of the tour include Montreux, Bellinzona, Bern, Gruyeres, Interlaken, Vaduz, Lugano, Zermatt, Zurich, and Lucerne.

  • What type of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes activities related to History, Rail Tours, Art Galleries & Museums, Sightseeing, and Walking.

  • What is the primary focus of the tour?

    The primary focus of the tour is Cultural.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, 7 breakfasts are included in the tour.

  • What kind of accommodations are provided?

    The tour provides 7 nights accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.

  • Are airport transfers included?

    No, airport transfers are not included but can be added at an additional cost.

  • Is travel insurance included?

    No, travel insurance is not included and guests are advised to obtain their own coverage.

  • Are there any optional excursions?

    Yes, optional excursions such as the full day trip to Jungfraujoch are not included and require an additional fee.

  • Where can I check the latest Travel Restrictions?

    It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. It is also the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding government embassies and/or consulates as appropriate.

  • What recommendations should I follow before traveling?

    Passport validity: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding embassies and/or consulates as appropriate. Requirements change so please check the up-to-date requirements in advance of your departure date. In many cases, countries now require that passports are valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from their borders.

  • How can I upgrade my flight?

    If you would like to make an upgrade to your flight or ask for a quotation, please contact us with all the information. Our customer success agents will answer your request as soon as possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes of flights and related services are not permitted after the booking is confirmed. If you wish to make any significant amendment affecting the flights, you will need to cancel it as per the terms & conditions applicable to your booking and make a new booking. If you require more information about your cancellations policy please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section). If you would like to proceed with the cancellation or require assistance please contact us.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The COVID-19 pandemic not only created an unparalleled impact on health and economy globally, but it has also changed fundamental behaviors with regards to traveling. In response to such changes, Exoticca provides extra peace of mind for all reservations made from 18th January, 2022 onwards by including Covid 19 Protection. Testing positive for COVID-19: If you or anyone else traveling with you on your booking cannot travel due to testing positive for COVID-19 you will be given the option to reschedule your trip or receive 100% of the trip value in Exoticca travel credit. **Proof of infection must be provided in the form of an official COVID-19 positive test result. For more information on the details of the Covid 19 Protection Policy, please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section).

  • Travelling to the USA or Canada?

    Traveling to the United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system, developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before authorizing them to board a plane or ship bound for the United States. Starting on the 12th of January 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must have an approved ESTA travel authorization. This includes travelers who travel to the United States to catch a connecting flight. An ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials determine the admissibility of travelers upon arrival. For more information click here. If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (09.11.2022, Countries: Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Syria), the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States. Traveling to Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to Canada by air. This includes travelers who travel to Canada to catch a connecting flight. An eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, depending on which of these two scenarios occurs first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. An eTA does not guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents to determine whether you are admissible to enter Canada. For more information click here. Traveling to a Schengen member country (Europe): Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) The ETIAS travel authorization will be needed to enter a Schengen member country by air, land, or sea. From November 2023, visitors that do not need a visa to enter Europe will be able to register with ETIAS. ETIAS will become a mandatory entry requirement. The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit the ETIAS countries that are all members that compose the Schengen zone. The ETIAS visa waiver has been designed for short-term stays of up to 90 days. For more information click here.

  • COVID-19 vaccination recommendations and other vaccines?

    It is the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. Check with the migration and health authorities for the country of origin, destination, and stopover to learn more about vaccination requirements.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation by email and all your travel documents will be uploaded on to your booking and the Exoticca customer account (which you'll be provided details of). These will include: transport details, hotels, itinerary, important notes, and insurance policy (if applicable).

Reviews of this operator

Nigel Curtis (Google Reviewer)  

This is the first time...

26-Mar-2023

This is the first time that we have used Exoticca and we were not disappointed. The holiday was well planned and we felt looked after at every stage of our South American adventure. The guides were knowledgeable, cheerful and friendly. They were able to answer all our questions with ease and good humour. The hotels were of a high standard and offered excellent food and comfort. Our travel group was well matched and we always had plenty of room in the vehicles selected for each stage of our journey. We will no hesitation in booking with Exoticca again in the future.

Jane S  

South America with Exoticca

04-Jun-2023

Most of the time we were travelling as a couple although we kept bumping into others in a simialr situation. Wherever we went there was someone there to welcome us and take us to our hotel, tell us about arrangements for the next few days and to generally look after us. Guides always turned up as expected and were all of a very high standard. We never felt concerned about what was due to happen the next day - it always did! Tours were always of interest. Accommodation which was charm class was perfectly acceptable and if not in the centre of town, taxis were always easy to use and safe whether a white pick up van in the Galapagos or a tuk tuk in Peru. I had a slight accident while there and I have to say that Exoticca guides etc could not have been more helpful. I would not hesitate to recommend Exoticca to anyone thinking of using them. We had an amazing experience in Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647e07eb706f837cb1f86880
Diana Gwynn  

Imperial Cities and Desert

20-May-2023

Really excellent way to see Morocco. Our first experience of Exoticca and we were impressed with all the arrangements and attention to detail. The local guides were excellent and our driver Ayoub the absolute best - helpful, kind, knowledgeable and funny. What an outstanding young man! We are definitely recommending Exoticca to our friends and are interested in exploring other countries with you. Many thanks!

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647ccf3f81ea8608ae6d5e06
sky unidentifiedstorm (Google Reviewer)  

I booked a two week...

21-Mar-2023

I booked a two week trip with Exoticca in February 2023 to Morocco and Egypt. I went solo, had a great time traveling and site seeing to planned excursions and some extra excursions as well. Stayed at several hotels from 5star to 3star standards. All where safe and comfortable. Bus tours where comfortable and I always felt safe wherever we went. Tour guides, bus operators and guards where friendly and respectful. All the sites we visited had me in awe. At one point we got stuck in the mountains due to snow and rain. The roads where cut off. We where set up in hotels for the night and the following day we where back on the road in once a road was cleared. My tickets to Cairo where reschedule and so was my excursions do to the delay. All was taken care with Exoticca I didn't have to do anything, which I greatly appreciated. Exoticca does hire tour agencies in the country you visit. I really like the agencies that where hired. There are usually one or two stops a day to go to a specific craft seller for certain goods, like rugs, paintings, ceramics etc. throughout the tours.

S A (Google Reviewer)  

Exoticca was a great experience....

11-Apr-2024

Exoticca was a great experience. Very well planned itinerary and our tour driver Leo was excellent. We were lucky to get good weather for the most parts and were given good guidance about local attractions. The hotels were well located and of a good quality. Overall a very pleasant experience. We will travel with Exoticca again.

Kimberly Penna (Google Reviewer)  

I very much enjoyed my...

10-Apr-2024

I very much enjoyed my trip to Portugal with Exoticca. I love that you're able to book the flight at the same time as the vacation booking because you won't get stuck with a bunch of layovers like other tour companies spring on you at the last minute. I felt like the trip was very organized and well-planned. I also like that I was back in my hotel room everyday prior to 6:00 p.m. so I had the whole night to myself to do whatever I wanted rather than being stuck on a bus for hours. I will definitely be booking with Exoticca again.

Yevgeniy (Google Reviewer)  

If you are planning a...

04-Jan-2025

If you are planning a trip to Morocco Book a trip with Abdelali Filali He will take care of you from Start to Finish and will accommodate you in every possible way,so you don't have to do it yourself. Trust me 100% this is the ONLY Tour Guide for Morocco. Must Try!!!

JB  

Saw most of what was on the itinerary…

04-Jun-2023

Saw most of what was on the itinerary… Saw most of what was on the itinerary but not the best guide (our Exoticca guide in Ecuador was great but ones since then less so). More free time would have been good ( we didn't even get the free time listed on the itinerary) especially at lunchtimes. Beautiful scenery ranging from the sand dunes to the snow capped mountains. Date of experien

https://uk.trustpilot.com/users/642ae4e995d55f0014af4543
Sue Linford (Google Reviewer)  

I travelled to Jordan in...

28-May-2023

I travelled to Jordan in May with a friend. Exoticca admin was very efficient and the Qatar airways flights were very good. A local representative was on hand to fast track us through the airport in Amman, arriving and departing. We booked 3* accommodation in Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum, which were all fine. The pre-arranged tours were run by a local company and the guides were extremely knowledgeable. Our only issue was with the coaches we had for our first four days which were not to the standard of others we had for the remaining time. Both Jordan and Beyond and Exoticca have acknowledged the points that we raised with them and have said this issue would be addressed so we hope that will be the case. That apart, we very much enjoyed the tour and the company of fellow travellers.

XQ Tong (Google Reviewer)  

The tour of 'Essence of...

12-Apr-2024

The tour of 'Essence of Patagonia & Cultural Capitals - Argentina & Chile' was a great experience and good value for the money. It gave us plenty of free time at most locations to explore on our own. The full day guided tours in Patagonia on both Argentina and Chile sides were great.

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exoticca allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exoticca, 0 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exoticca requires a minimum deposit of 60% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exoticca charges.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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