Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

10 Views
12 Days From

$5169

$4923

Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

12 Days Starting in Neuchâtel, Switzerland and ending in Lucerne, Switzerland

Visiting: Neuchatel, Neuchâtel, Bern, Zermatt, Vevey, Montreux, Lucerne

Tour operator:

Collette

Tour code:

15486

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English , French

Interests:

Cultural, History, Rail Tours

From: $5169 $4923 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$246

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Switzerland's hidden trails and majestic peaks, where every moment is a postcard-worthy experience. Begin your adventure in the medieval city of Neuchâtel, exploring its historic quarter and the treasures of the Belle Époque period. Travel entirely by train with a Swiss Travel Pass, offering panoramic views of the Alps and the Swiss Riviera. Marvel at the iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt, and savor the splendor of the Swiss Riviera in Vevey. Discover the rich history of wine at the Château de Boudry and indulge in a chocolate tour in Bern. Enjoy a farewell dinner on Mount Rigi, and explore the charming streets of Lucerne. This tour promises a blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural discoveries, and culinary delights, making it a perfect escape for those seeking the essence of Switzerland.

Highlights

  • Visit the charming village of Zermatt and marvel at views of the Matterhorn.

  • Experience the splendor of the Swiss Riviera in Vevey.

  • Discover Neuchâtel’s historic quarter and the treasures of the Belle Époque period.

  • Visit the 13th-century Château de Boudry and tour the Museum of Vine and Wine with a tasting.

  • Explore the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a wine tasting.

  • Discover the sweetest parts of Bern during a historic chocolate tour of the old town center.

  • Dine at Mount Rigi during a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Overnight Flight

Location: Neuchatel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac

You’re on your way to a journey through the breathtaking country of Switzerland. Explore this country entirely by train, getting the most panoramic view of the Alps and the villages of the Swiss Riviera.

Day 2 : Neuchâtel, Switzerland - Tour Begins

Location: Neuchâtel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Willkkommen! Bienvenue! Climb aboard a Swiss Rail train to Neuchâtel. This medieval waterfront city stands out with its Gothic landmarks and sandstone grandeur. With Lake Neuchâtel as your backdrop, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Day 3 : Neuchâtel - Boudry - Neuchâtel

Location: Neuchâtel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Have you heard of the Belle Époque period? Learn all about it on a walking tour of Neuchâtel’s historic quarter. Your day continues at Château de Boudry. This 13th-century castle houses the Museum of Vine and Wine where an expert insider guides you as you wander its galleries. The best part: before you leave, get a taste of the local favorites.

Day 4 : Neuchâtel - Murten - Neuchâtel

Location: Neuchâtel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Alex

Take off today for the walled town of Murten, the language border between French and German. With free time to explore this medieval town, walk the rampart walls to take in views of the lake below. If you prefer, a full day at leisure in Neuchâtel is also an option.

Day 5 : Neuchâtel - Bern - Zermatt

Location: Bern

Accommodation Name: Hotel

All aboard! We’re traveling by train from Neuchâtel to the Swiss capital city of Bern. Take on the day by exploring the sweetest parts of Bern alongside your expert guide. Retrace and taste the history of chocolate makers in Bern’s old town center. Complete your day by settling into the resort village of Zermatt, nestled against the backdrop of the Matterhorn.

Day 6 : Zermatt

Location: Zermatt

Accommodation Name: Astra Hotel

Rise and shine and begin your morning getting familiar with Zermatt alongside your Tour Manager. Then, it’s your choice! Ascend more than 10,000 feet on Europe’s highest mountain railway – the Gornergrat. Maybe you’ll even decide to hike a portion of the way down -OR- visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by summit lift and discover towering peaks and glaciers as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 7 : Zermatt - Vevey

Location: Vevey

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Head to the north shore of Lake Geneva to Vevey, known as one of the “Pearls of the Swiss Riviera,” with awe-inspiring views of the Alps. Take in a breath of fresh mountain air on a walking tour before exploring nature independently during an afternoon at leisure.

Day 8 : Vevey - Lavaux - Vevey

Location: Vevey

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch

A relaxing morning in Vevey before traveling to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux is a perfect start to the day. Enjoy a local lunch at a family-owned restaurant before visiting with our friends, Jacques and Aurelia, for a wine tasting. Wander the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO) on foot before enjoying a second round of tastings from the region’s finest varieties.

Day 9 : Vevey

Location: Montreux

Accommodation Name: Hotel Astoria

Meals Included: Dinner

Today, head to Montreux with your Tour Manager and visit the legendary Château de Chillon for a guided tour. This princely residence faces the lake and portrays the image of an imposing fortress from the mountains. Enjoy free time taking in Montreux’s postcard landscapes and lively promenade. If you’re looking to see more with your Swiss Travel Pass, maybe an afternoon discovering the Olympic Museum is more your style. Tonight, join your travel companions for dinner and conversation.

Day 10 : Vevey - Lucerne

meeta

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Board the train to Lucerne to find out why this destination is called the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Make your way through Altstadt (Old Town) with your Tour Manager, uncovering the town’s 800-year-old secrets and history. Stroll along the famous covered Chapel Bridge, built in the early 14th century and stretching its way across the River Reuss. The remainder of the day is yours to explore however you’d like.

Day 11 : Lucerne

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Enjoy the first half of your day at leisure to explore Lucerne on your own. Depart for Rigi — also known as Queen of the Mountains — on an afternoon cruise through Lake Lucerne. All aboard the cogwheel train for a journey from Vitznau to Rigi Klum. On your ascent, a local guide will teach you why Rigi is one of the most sustainable mountains in Switzerland during an Impact Moment. End the day with smiles and say “cheese” for a group photo at the scenic overlook before heading to your private farewell dinner on Mount Rigi.

Day 12 : Lucerne - Tour Ends

Gilda Giorgi

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Depart for home, dreaming of snowy Alps and captivating cultures.

What's Included

  • Swiss Travel Pass

    Travel entirely by train with a Swiss Travel Pass, providing access to panoramic views of the Alps and the Swiss Riviera.

  • Museum of Vine and Wine Tour

    Visit the 13th-century Château de Boudry and tour the Museum of Vine and Wine with a tasting.

  • Family-Owned Restaurant Lunch

    Savor lunch at a family-owned restaurant followed by a wine tasting at a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Farewell Dinner at Mount Rigi

    Dine at Mount Rigi during a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

  • Historic Chocolate Tour in Bern

    Discover the sweetest parts of Bern during a historic chocolate tour of the old town center.

  • Guided Tour of Château de Chillon

    Visit the legendary Château de Chillon for a guided tour.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Switzerland are not included in the tour package.

Experiences

Discover Neuchâtel’s historic quarter and the treasures of the Belle Époque period.Visit the 13th-century Château de Boudry, where you’ll tour the Museum of Vine and Wine with a tasting.Equipped with a Swiss Travel Pass, travel entirely by train.

Culinaries

Savor lunch at a family-owned restaurant followed by a wine tasting at a UNESCO World Heritage site.Dine at Mount Rigi during a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.Discover the sweetest parts of Bern during a historic chocolate tour of the old town center.

Must See

Visit the charming village of Zermatt and marvel at views of the Matterhorn.Experience the splendor of the Swiss Riviera in Vevey.Soak in the best views of the Alps and the Swiss Riviera.

Choice Highlights

Swiss Travel Pass Use your Swiss Travel Pass as an all-access entrée to museums and more.

Neuchatel Experience the Gothic landmarks and sandstone grandeur of Neuchatel, a medieval waterfront city.

Walking Tour of Neuchâtel’s Historic Quarter Walk the cobblestone streets and admire the Belle Époque style of Neuchâtel’s Old Town. Stroll through this historic quarter and take in the Medieval sandstone buildings, delicious Swiss eateries and a resplendent lakeside promenade. If you happen to visit during the summer months, look out for the bustling local market at the Place de Halles.

Museum of Vine and Wine Discover the history of wine at the Museum of Vine and Wine. Explore 2,000 years’ worth of historical artifacts and peruse rooms filled with items used in wine production like barrels, winepresses, and carafes. During your visit, you can also enjoy spectacular views of the sprawling vineyards.

Bern Bern, the capital of the Swiss Confederation, has a population of about 660,000 in the metro area. It is located in west central Switzerland, in a bend of the Aare River. Legend says that the city got its name from the first animal the founder, Berchtold V, Duke of Zahringen, saw when he was hunting: a bear. In honor of this legend, bears are kept in an enclosure in the city center. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its beautifully preserved medieval buildings, and the major sights are the bear pit, the Cathedral and the Zytglogge (medieval clock tower).

Zermatt This town is located in southwest Switzerland in the canton of Valais, and is best known by the nearby 14,000ft (4267m) Matterhorn. The town began as an agricultural area and in the 19th century became famous as a ski and mountaineering resort. Most of the town now depends on tourism, and in ski season the town of 5,000 swells several times over. To keep the air clean, all vehicles are now electric and mostly silent, with only emergency access by gas-powered vehicles such as firetrucks. The famous Glacier Express train which begins in far eastern Switzerland near St. Moritz ends in Zermatt.

Choice on Tour: Gornergrot Railway or Glacier Paradise In Zermatt, it’s your choice! The first choice will take you more than 10,000 feet on Europe’s highest eco-friendly mountain railway – the Gornergrat. This is a bucket-list destination that everyone should check off in their lifetime. Between the scenic railway commute and the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, this journey is truly unforgettable. Searching for a different adventure today? Your second choice is to take a journey by summit lift to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Take in real-life backdrops from the 360-degree viewing platform and witness 38 giant peaks along with 14 incredible glaciers. A visit to the world’s highest glacier palace is always worth the experience.



Gornergrot Railway: Best View of the Matterhorn - NEO Day 5

Activity Level: 4

On this choice you will reach 3,100 meters above sea level.



Glacier Paradise: Europe's Highest Mountain Station - NEO Day 5

Activity Level: 4

On this choice you will reach 3,883 meters above sea level.

Lake Geneva View the crystalline waters and picturesque shores of Lake Geneva, the beginning of the region known as the “Swiss Wine Route.”

Vevey Soak in the awe-inspiring views of the Alpine panorama in the city of Vevey, a “Pearl of the Swiss Riviera.”

Lavaux Terraced Vineyards Relax and sample the wares of the terraced vineyards of Lavaux during a wine tasting nestled amongst the vines.

Wine Tastings Discover why these regions of Switzerland are world-renown for their wines during three tastings, one in Auvenier and two in Lavaux.

Chateau de Chillon This castle is located in southwest Switzerland on an island in the eastern end of Lac Leman (Lake Geneva), and it dates from the early 11th century. It was made famous by Lord Byron in his poem “The Prisoner of Chillon”; Byron even carved his name on a pillar in the dungeon. It was home to the Counts of Savoy, including Peter II, who was uncle to one of Henry VIII’s wives, Eleanor of Provence. Today’s castle began as about 100 smaller buildings that were gradually connected to form what we see now.

Lucerne This city of 80,000 people is in north-central Switzerland in the canton of Lucerne and sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne. The town began with a Benedictine monastery in the 8th century and gained importance from its location on trade routes. The most famous sights in Lucerne are the wooden Kapellbrucke (Chapel Bridge) across the Reuss River, the Hofkirche (Church of St. Leodegar) and the Swiss Museum of Transport. The city celebrates Carnival every year beginning the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. Mt Pilatus, with the world’s steepest cog railway, is visible from Lucerne.

Mount Rigi

Mode of Transport

Travel entirely by train with a Swiss Travel Pass, offering panoramic views of the Alps and Swiss Riviera, and enjoy a cogwheel train journey from Vitznau to Rigi Klum.

Accommodation

Stay at the Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac in Neuchâtel, Hotel Alex, Astra Hotel in Zermatt, and Hotel Astoria in Vevey, offering comfort and convenience throughout your Swiss adventure.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used throughout the tour?

    The tour is conducted entirely by train, utilizing the Swiss Travel Pass for seamless travel across Switzerland.

  • What unique experience is offered in Bern?

    In Bern, you will explore the sweetest parts of the city with a historic chocolate tour in the old town center, retracing and tasting the history of chocolate makers.

  • What options are available for exploring Zermatt?

    In Zermatt, you have the choice to ascend more than 10,000 feet on Europe's highest mountain railway, the Gornergrat, or visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by summit lift to discover towering peaks and glaciers.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Lavaux?

    In Lavaux, you will enjoy a local lunch at a family-owned restaurant followed by a wine tasting. You will also have the opportunity to wander the UNESCO World Heritage terraced vineyards and enjoy additional tastings of the region's finest wines.

  • What is the highlight of the farewell dinner?

    The farewell dinner takes place on Mount Rigi, where you will enjoy a private dinner with your fellow travelers, accompanied by stunning views from the scenic overlook.

  • Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?

    Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.

  • Can my children travel on tour?

    Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.

  • What is the difference between a twin room and double room?

    In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.

  • Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?

    Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.

  • Do I need a passport?

    Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.

  • Is there a lot of walking on tour?

    We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Tuesday

May 02, 2025 - May 13, 2025
$6199 $5905 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$294 (USD)

Saturday - Wednesday

May 03, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$5169 $4923 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$246 (USD)

Friday - Tuesday

May 09, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$6199 $5905 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$294 (USD)

Saturday - Wednesday

May 10, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$5169 $4923 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$246 (USD)

Friday - Tuesday

May 16, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$6199 $5905 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$294 (USD)

Saturday - Wednesday

May 17, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$5169 $4923 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$246 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

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