Switzerland & Italy (14 Nights)

Upon your arrival in Zurich Airport, your driver will be there to assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in and settle into your room. Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey. Unwind and perhaps take a short nap, or simply enjoy the amenities of your hotel as you recover from your travels. In the evening, you might want to take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood to get a feel for your surroundings or find a nearby restaurant to enjoy your first Italian meal. Rest well and prepare for the exciting adventures that await you in the Eternal City

Start your journey early in the morning, leaving Zurich and heading towards the Black Forest, which lies across the border in Germany. It’s about a two-hour drive, so you’ll want to leave early to make the most of the day. Once you arrive in the Black Forest, you can begin by visiting one of the charming towns, such as Titisee, located on the shores of the scenic Titisee Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush forests, offering a peaceful atmosphere where you can take a leisurely walk along the water’s edge or go for a boat ride. Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant, sampling German delicacies, and of course, savoring the region’s famous Black Forest cake. You can also explore nearby villages known for their craftsmanship, such as cuckoo clocks, which are a hallmark of the area.

After spending the morning and early afternoon in the Black Forest, continue your journey to the Rhine Falls. This will be about a one-hour drive back into Switzerland, bringing you to the town of Schaffhausen, home to the magnificent Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. Upon arriving, take time to walk along the pathways that offer breathtaking views of the roaring cascades. There are several platforms where you can watch the water tumbling over the rocks, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a boat trip that brings you close to the base of the falls for a thrilling experience.

After checking out from your hotel in Zurich, board the high-speed train to Lucerne. The journey typically takes about four hours, offering beautiful views of the French and Swiss countryside. Upon arrival in Lucerne, make your way to your hotel for check-in and take some time to rest after your trip.

Upon arriving in Lucerne, you’ll have some time to explore the charming city before embarking on the lake cruise. Take a stroll along the historic Chapel Bridge or visit the Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval architecture. You might also consider having an early dinner at one of the local restaurants, enjoying Swiss specialties while overlooking the lake.

As the evening approaches, head to the pier for the highlight of your day — a cruise on Lake Lucerne. Many evening cruises offer dinner on board, or you can simply enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene waters of the lake as the sun sets. The cruise will give you a peaceful and scenic end to your day, with the reflections of the lights from the town dancing on the water.

After your lake cruise, you can return to Zurich, which is about an hour’s drive away, or choose to stay overnight in Lucerne if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The evening on the lake will be a tranquil and memorable finale to your one-day adventure.

Start your day in Lucerne, and from there, you can take a short train journey to Engelberg, the gateway to Mount Titlis. The train ride takes about 45 minutes, offering beautiful views of the Swiss countryside along the way. Arriving in Engelberg, you can take a short walk to the cable car station, where you will begin your ascent to Mount Titlis. From Engelberg, a series of cable cars will take you to the summit. The first leg of the journey is a scenic gondola ride to the Trübsee mid-station, where you can choose to stop and explore the serene lake or continue your journey. Next, you’ll switch to the famous Titlis Rotair, the world’s first revolving cable car, which provides stunning 360-degree views as you ascend to the top of the mountain.

Upon reaching the summit of Mount Titlis, which stands at over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet), you’ll have the whole day to enjoy a variety of activities. First, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, with snow-capped peaks as far as the eye can see. Visit the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge, for an exhilarating walk with unparalleled views. You can also explore the Glacier Cave, an enchanting ice tunnel carved into the glacier, which is both beautiful and fascinating.

Start your excursion early in the morning by taking a train from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost, which takes about two hours. The journey offers scenic views of lakes and mountains, making the train ride an enjoyable part of the experience. Upon arrival in Interlaken, you will transfer to a connecting train that takes you to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald. Both routes are stunning, but many travelers prefer the Grindelwald route due to its striking views of the Eiger mountain.

At either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, you’ll board the cogwheel train that will take you up through the alpine landscape to Kleine Scheidegg. From here, you will switch to the famous Jungfrau Railway for the final ascent to Jungfraujoch, which takes you through tunnels carved into the Eiger and Mönch mountains. During this ride, there are brief stops at viewing windows where you can catch a glimpse of the glacier and surrounding mountains.

Once you reach Jungfraujoch, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet), surrounded by spectacular alpine peaks. Spend your time exploring the various attractions at the top. You can begin by visiting the Sphinx Observatory, one of the highest vantage points in Europe, offering panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and the surrounding mountains. Next, head to the Ice Palace, an enchanting series of ice tunnels and sculptures inside the glacier, providing a surreal, otherworldly experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can step out onto the snow and ice at the Plateau, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the majestic landscape. For those interested in adventure, there are also seasonal activities such as sledging or snow tubing.

Start your day by having breakfast at your hotel in Lucerne. Afterward, head to the Lucerne train station, which is conveniently located and easy to access. From there, catch a morning train to Bern. The journey takes about an hour, providing you with beautiful views of the Swiss countryside along the way.

Once you arrive in Bern, the capital city, spend the morning exploring its charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin at the Zytglogge clock tower, where you can watch the animated clock show. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the beautiful medieval architecture and visiting notable landmarks such as the Federal Palace and the Bear Park. If time allows, make your way to the Rose Garden for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Aare River.

After exploring Bern, stop for lunch at a local café or restaurant, enjoying some traditional Swiss cuisine. Once you’ve finished, head back to the train station and catch a train to Interlaken. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and you’ll continue to enjoy the scenic landscapes as you travel.

Upon arriving in Interlaken, you’ll find yourself between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by magnificent mountains. Spend your afternoon wandering the town, visiting shops, or taking a leisurely walk along the lakeshores. If you have time, consider taking a short boat cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz to soak in the natural beauty from the water.

After checking out from your hotel in Lucerne, you hop on a train to Milan, enjoying the scenic views as you travel through the Swiss landscape. Once you arrive in Milan, you check in to your hotel and take a moment to refresh before heading out to explore the city. As evening descends, you stroll through the bustling streets, where the fashion capital’s energy comes alive. You visit the magnificent Duomo, its illuminated façade creating a stunning backdrop against the twilight sky. Afterward, you wander into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, savoring a gelato as you admire the elegant architecture and luxury boutiques. With the air filled with the aroma of Italian cuisine, you settle into a charming trattoria for dinner, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Milan as your evening unfolds.

Begin your day at the iconic Duomo di Milano, the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral that took nearly six centuries to complete. You can explore the intricate façade and then head inside to admire the soaring interiors, stained glass windows, and, for a panoramic view of the city, take an elevator or climb the stairs to the rooftop terrace, where the spires and statues stand against the Milanese skyline.

From the Duomo, it’s a short walk to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Here, you can marvel at the grand architecture, with its glass-domed roof and mosaic floors, while browsing luxury boutiques or enjoying a coffee at one of the elegant cafes.

Next, visit the Teatro alla Scala, Milan’s famous opera house, which has hosted some of the most renowned performances in the world since 1778. You can tour the museum to learn about the history of the opera and view costumes, sets, and musical instruments.

For lunch, enjoy a traditional Milanese meal at one of the many local trattorias, perhaps savoring risotto alla Milanese or cotoletta, paired with a glass of regional wine. After lunch, head to Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a historic fortress that now houses several of Milan’s top museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Speaking of da Vinci, no trip to Milan is complete without seeing The Last Supper, his world-famous mural housed in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as it’s one of the most sought-after attractions in the city.

In the late afternoon, stroll through the Brera District, known for its bohemian atmosphere, art galleries, and charming streets. You can visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, which features a remarkable collection of Italian Renaissance art, or simply enjoy the ambiance of this artistic neighborhood.

As evening approaches, take a walk through the Navigli area, Milan’s historic canal district, which comes alive with vibrant nightlife. The canals, designed in part by Leonardo da Vinci, are now lined with trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Enjoy an aperitivo—a Milanese tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks—at one of the canal-side cafes, and soak in the lively atmosphere as you reflect on your day of exploring Milan’s cultural and artistic treasures.

After checking out from your hotel in Milan, you board a train that whisks you away to the enchanting city of Venice, where the anticipation of exploring its canals fills the air.

Upon arrival at Venice Santa Lucia Train Station, you will be greeted by a private transfer service. They will assist you with your luggage and transport you by water taxi to your hotel. Check in, settle into your room, and take some time to relax and freshen up.

In the early evening, embark on a guided walking tour of Venice. Start your tour at St. Mark’s Square, where you can admire the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile. Explore the Doge’s Palace and walk across the Bridge of Sighs. Stroll through the narrow streets and charming canals, discovering hidden gems like the Rialto Bridge and the bustling markets nearby.

After your walking tour, enjoy a quintessential Venetian experience with a gondola ride. Relax and soak in the romantic atmosphere as you glide through the serene canals, passing under picturesque bridges and alongside historic buildings. Your gondolier will share interesting stories and facts about the city’s history and landmarks.

After the gondola ride, you may choose to have dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Venetian specialties such as risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) or sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest, ready to explore more of Venice in the coming days.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before making your way to the designated meeting point in Venice for your shared boat tour to the islands of Murano and Burano. The meeting point is usually at a central location, such as near St. Mark’s Square or the Fondamente Nove pier, so ensure you arrive on time to meet your group and guide.

The first stop on the tour is Murano, renowned worldwide for its glassmaking tradition. Upon arrival, you will visit a glass factory to see a live demonstration of glassblowing, where skilled artisans craft beautiful glass pieces. You will also have some time to explore the island, visit glass shops, and perhaps purchase some unique souvenirs.

Next, continue your journey to the picturesque island of Burano, famous for its brightly colored houses and intricate lacework. Stroll through the charming streets, admire the vibrant buildings, and watch local artisans at work making lace. You will also have the opportunity to visit shops selling handmade lace products and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the island.

After exploring Burano, the tour will return to the starting point in Venice. Enjoy the scenic boat ride back, taking in the beautiful views of the Venetian lagoon. Upon arrival in Venice, you can either return to your hotel to relax or continue exploring the city on your own. This shared tour offers a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the unique charm and craftsmanship of Murano and Burano.

After checking out from your hotel in Venice, you take a scenic train ride through the Italian countryside, arriving in the heart of Tuscany, Florence. Upon arrival, you check in to your hotel, where the charm of Renaissance art and architecture greets you. With the evening free for self-exploration, you set out to wander through the enchanting streets, passing by the Duomo’s magnificent dome and discovering cozy piazzas filled with lively cafes. As the sun sets, the Arno River sparkles under the golden light, offering the perfect backdrop for an evening stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Florence before embarking on a full-day hop-on hop-off city tour. Head to the nearest hop-on hop-off bus stop to begin your exploration of this Renaissance city. The open-top bus provides a convenient and flexible way to see Florence’s major attractions, with informative audio commentary available in multiple languages.

Begin your tour by visiting the historic center, where you can hop off at the Piazza del Duomo to admire the stunning Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery with its famous Gates of Paradise. Take some time to explore these architectural marvels and soak in the grandeur of the square.

Next, hop back on the bus and head towards Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. Here, you can visit the Palazzo Vecchio and see the replica of Michelangelo’s David, as well as other important statues and fountains. Nearby, you’ll find the Uffizi Gallery, where you have pre-booked entrance tickets. Spend a few hours marveling at the extensive collection of Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.

After your visit to the Uffizi Gallery, you might want to take a break for lunch at one of the many charming cafes or restaurants nearby. Sample traditional Tuscan dishes such as ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, or a delicious Florentine steak, paired with a glass of local Chianti wine.

In the afternoon, continue your hop-on hop-off tour and head to the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence, lined with jewelry shops. Walk across the bridge and explore the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and lively atmosphere.

Make your way to the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens, another stop on the hop-on hop-off route. The palace houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art, while the gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautiful sculptures and fountains.

As the day winds down, hop back on the bus and head towards Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city and capture some memorable photos.

Return to your hotel in the evening, either by the hop-on hop-off bus or a leisurely walk through the city. Enjoy a relaxing evening, reflecting on the rich history and stunning art you’ve experienced throughout your full day in Florence.

After checking out from your hotel in Florence, you board a train headed for Rome, the excitement of arriving in the Eternal City bubbling within you as you travel through the scenic Tuscan countryside. Upon reaching Rome, you check in to your hotel and take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. As evening approaches, you step out to explore the city’s storied streets, where history and modern life intertwine. You stroll past the majestic Colosseum, its silhouette striking against the dusky sky, and make your way to the charming Trastevere neighborhood, filled with lively cafes and bustling piazzas. The aroma of traditional Roman cuisine beckons you, and you settle in for a delightful dinner, savoring every bite as the magic of Rome envelops you in its timeless charm.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private chauffeur in the lobby. Your luxurious, air-conditioned car ensures a comfortable and seamless exploration of Rome’s rich history and stunning architecture. Begin your tour with a visit to Vatican City. Your chauffeur will drive you to the Vatican Museums, where you will have pre-booked entry tickets to avoid long lines. Inside, marvel at the vast collection of art and historical artifacts, including the stunning frescoes of the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest and most magnificent churches. Don’t miss the chance to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and the breathtaking view from the top of the dome.

After your visit to Vatican City, your chauffeur will recommend and drive you to a nearby authentic Italian restaurant for lunch. Enjoy traditional Roman dishes such as pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, or a delicious pizza, paired with a glass of local wine. Post-lunch, head to the iconic Colosseum with your pre-booked entry tickets. Step back in time as you explore the ancient amphitheater, imagining the gladiatorial combats and public spectacles that once took place here. Your tour includes access to the arena floor, the underground chambers, and the upper tiers, offering a comprehensive view of this ancient marvel.

Next, walk through the nearby Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. Your chauffeur will be ready to transport you to the entrance. Wander through the ruins of temples, government buildings, and marketplaces, and envision the bustling life of Rome thousands of years ago. After exploring the Colosseum and Roman Forum, your chauffeur will take you to Capitoline Hill. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Roman Forum and visit the Capitoline Museums, which house a wealth of ancient Roman artifacts and Renaissance art.

Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Admire Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and the stunning architecture surrounding the piazza. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and perhaps a gelato. As the day winds down, your chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel. Take some time to relax and freshen up. For dinner, either dine at your hotel’s restaurant or have your chauffeur recommend a charming local eatery where you can enjoy more of Rome’s culinary delights. This full-day tour with a private chauffeured car provides a luxurious and efficient way to experience the highlights of Rome, allowing you to cover significant historical sites comfortably and at your own pace.

On your final morning in Rome, have breakfast at your hotel and perhaps a last-minute stroll or shopping excursion before checking out. Later enjoy a private transfer to Rome airport for the flight back to homeland.