The Best of Switzerland
Switzerland
Nine days round-trip from Zürich that thread the Alps: Vaduz and St. Moritz, Lake Como and Lugano, Stresa on Lake Maggiore, the Simplon Pass and the mountain train into car-free Zermatt (with a free day there), Lake Geneva, Bern's old town, lunch at a working Swiss farm, Lucerne and the railway to the top of Mount Pilatus. Eight breakfasts, a lunch and five dinners, and a transfer to Zürich airport on the last morning.
From $4,749 pp
Per person, two sharing · land only — flights from home not included · 9 days
- Next departure
- May 29, 2027 · $5,899
- Departures open
- 18
- Meals
- 8 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 5 dinners
- Operator
- Globus / Cosmos
Or call / text 954-698-4438
Itinerary, hotels and inclusions checked against Globus / Cosmos's own page on Sep 3, 2026. Dates and prices are read live from the operator's feed.
Our take
Switzerland is expensive and fiddly to route on your own — trains, passes, three languages — and this tour is the neatest loop we have seen of the parts that matter, with a free day in Zermatt as the pause. Five dinners and the farm lunch are worth real money here. Altitude is mild by Alpine standards (Pilatus is just under 7,000 ft) but Globus flags it, and the scenery days are coach days: four of them run 106 to 174 miles.
Highlights
- 1 UNESCO World Heritage site on the route: Old City of Bern
- Walking tour in Lucerne includes the Lion Monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge
- Scenic drive through the lower Rhône Valley en route to Lake Geneva
- 8 nights in listed hotels, 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners, Tour Director throughout
- 18 departures currently open across 2027, from $4,749 per person, land only — flights from home not included
Who this trip suits
- Scenery-first travelers — lakes, passes, the Matterhorn from Zermatt, Pilatus by rail
- People who want dinners included in a high-cost country
- Couples and older travelers who like a mix of guided walks and free time
- Anyone who wants Italy's lakes as a bonus without a second trip
Who should look elsewhere
- Travelers who want to hike seriously — this is a touring itinerary with a single free day in Zermatt
- Anyone bothered by altitude around 6,000–7,000 ft (Globus notes it)
- People who dislike coach days through mountains
- Those who want city time in Zürich or Geneva — both are brief
Day by day
Globus / Cosmos's published itinerary, checked Sep 3, 2026
1Welcome to Zurich!Arrive in Zurich, SwitzerlandDinner
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Meals: Dinner
2Swiss Chocolates & Sweet ViewsZurich–Vaduz, Liechtenstein–St. Moritz, SwitzerlandBreakfastDinner
This morning, join an orientation walk of Zurich’s Old Town and see the Fraumünsterkirche. Admire the panorama during a scenic drive along Lake Zurich and Lake Walen into the high Alps to reach the Principality of Liechtenstein. In the capital city of Vaduz, enjoy some free time for browsing and lunching. Later, reach the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz, Enjoy free time this afternoon to discover why it is nicknamed “Top of the World.”
Highlight · Fall in love with Zurich with a walk through the Altstadt – its Old Town, in the historic heart of the city. See the guild houses and historic squares that span both sides of the Limmat River. Gracing the shore is the famous Fraumünsterkirche, with its signature green steeple marking the skyline above stained-glass windows designed by masters Chagall and Giacometti.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner · 174 mi / 280 km
3Legendary Lakes of Italy & SwitzerlandSt. Moritz–Lake Como, Italy–Lugano, SwitzerlandBreakfast
This morning leave St. Moritz, cross the border into Italy and enjoy a scenic drive along the sparkling waters of Lake Como. Return to Switzerland and reach the elegant lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to admire the buildings, browse the stores in the pedestrian center, try some local specialties, or stroll along the lakeside promenade.
Meals: Breakfast · 84 mi / 135 km
4The Heights of BeautyLugano–Stresa, Italy–Täsch, Switzerland–ZermattBreakfastDinner
This morning drive to the Italian part of Lake Maggiore and visit the charming town of Stresa. Free time to explore and stroll along the promenade before a scenic drive takes you over the Simplon Pass, one of the most important alpine routes. Reach Täsch for a panoramic mountain train ride to the world-famous resort of Zermatt.
Highlight · Stresa is an example of Italy’s splendid elegance on Lake Maggiore, overlooking the surrounding islands. With natural beauty, ornamental gardens, and grand architecture, Stresa is a study in sophistication. Luxury villas and art nouveau hotels along the shores make for a perfect place to stroll.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner · 149 mi / 240 km
5Peak PerfectionZermattBreakfast
Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
6Life on the LakeZermatt–Lake GenevaBreakfastDinner
Depart Zermatt for a scenic drive through the vineyards and apricot groves of the lower Rhône Valley to reach Lake Geneva, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe. Free time this afternoon to explore independently.
Highlight · The glistening waters of Lake Geneva lap against its French and Swiss shores in the serene surroundings of sublime vineyards and countryside. Belle Epoque sailboats traverse the lakeshores amid castles, museums, and resort towns as they have for over a century.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner · 106 mi / 170 km
7Coming Up Roses in BernLake Geneva–Bern–LucerneBreakfastLunch
Arrive in beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland. Join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour; see some of Bern’s most famous inhabitants at the Bear Park, stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city, and stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower). Later, a short drive brings you to a traditional Swiss working farm for a delicious lunch before continuing to Lucerne.
Highlight · Explore the “City of Fountains,” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometers of arcades and animated clock tower, then indulge in lunch at a local farm.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch · 165 mi / 265 km
8Lion Hearted in LucerneLucerneBreakfastDinner
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Later, prepare to have your breath taken away as you take a scenic railway ride to the top of Mount Pilatus. Receive a special souvenir cap as a memento. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.
Local favorite · Feel your heart soar as you ascend to the summit of magnificent Mount Pilatus, home to the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Look out for the legendary dragon and take in the heavenly vistas. Direct your gaze as far as the eye can see with views as far as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Down below, sparkling lakes catch the sun for a view unlike any other.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
9Safe travels until we meet again!Lucerne–Zurich AirportBreakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. A morning complimentary transfer to Zurich Airport in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich.
Meals: Breakfast · 42 mi / 68 km
Dates & prices
Read from Globus / Cosmos's departures feed · per person, two sharing · land only — flights from home not included
| Departs | Returns | Group | Price pp | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 22, 2027 | May 30 | Standard | $4,989 | Sold out |
| May 29, 2027small group | Jun 6 | Small group | $5,899 | Few seats left |
| Jun 5, 2027 | Jun 13 | Standard | $5,019 | Few seats left |
| Jun 12, 2027 | Jun 20 | Standard | $5,019 | Available |
| Jun 19, 2027 | Jun 27 | Standard | $4,869$5,019 | Available |
| Jun 26, 2027 | Jul 4 | Standard | $5,019 | Available |
| Jul 3, 2027 | Jul 11 | Standard | $5,549 | Available |
| Jul 10, 2027small group | Jul 18 | Small group | $5,849 | Available |
| Jul 17, 2027 | Jul 25 | Standard | $4,749 | Sold out |
| Jul 24, 2027 | Aug 1 | Standard | $5,549 | Available |
| Jul 31, 2027 | Aug 8 | Standard | $5,549 | Available |
| Aug 7, 2027small group | Aug 15 | Small group | $6,329 | Available |
| Aug 21, 2027 | Aug 29 | Standard | $5,019 | Available |
| Aug 28, 2027 | Sep 5 | Standard | $4,749 | Available |
6 more departures scheduled — ask us for the full calendar. Prices are the operator's current published rates and can change until a deposit is paid; we reconfirm on enquiry.
Where you stay
Hotels as listed by Globus / Cosmos, “as shown or similar.” Tap a hotel name to see it on Google Maps.
Zurich
Courtyard by Marriott Zurich NorthFirst-Class
Situated in the business district of Oerlikon, this modern hotel is just a short walk from Zurich Oerlikon Station from which downtown Zurich can easily be reached by direct train in just under 10…
St. Moritz
Reine Victoria By LaundinellaFirst-Class
Enjoying a quiet location in St. Moritz-Bad, Queen Victoria of England is the namesake of this upscale Art Nouveau hotel, built in 1875. The special aura of this historic gem's charm is conveyed to…
Lugano
Novotel Lugano ParadisoFirst-Class
This modern mid-scale 97-room hotel is located just a short walk away from Lake Lugano with Free Wi-Fi connection and tasteful, elegant décor throughout. Soundproofed guestrooms perfectly blend…
Zermatt
Le Mirabeau Resort and SpaSuperior First-Class
Family run by a third generation, this charming chalet-style property is located in the heart of Zermatt's car free village. The 87 spacious guest rooms are decorated with warm colours, plush…
or La Ginabelle (Superior First-Class)
Lake Geneva
Mona MontreuxFirst-Class
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva with views of the Alps and strides away from the Montreux Music & Convention Center. Rooms have free Wi-Fi and a minibar. Guests can enjoy Swiss and international…
Lucerne
Romantik Hotel Wilden MannFirst-Class
Comprised of 7 historic town houses, this delightful property is an oasis of charm and hospitality snuggled in the picturesque old town of Lucerne. Complimentary coffee/tea making facilities are…
or Astoria (First-Class)
What's included
- Tour Director for the whole trip, plus Local Guides at the major sites
- 8 nights in the hotels listed below ("as shown or similar")
- 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners — see the day-by-day for which days
- Coach travel between cities as shown, with luggage handled hotel to hotel
- Orientation walk in Zurich’s Old Town
- Visit Vaduz, St. Moritz, and Lugano
- Scenic drive includes views of Lake Como
- Visit Stresa on Lake Maggiore
- Scenic mountain train ride from Täsch to Zermatt
- Scenic drive through the lower Rhône Valley en route to Lake Geneva
- Guided walking tour in Bern
- Lunch at a traditional Swiss working farm
- Walking tour in Lucerne includes the Lion Monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge
- scenic railway ride to the top of Mount Pilatus
What's not included
- International airfare — every price on this page is land-only; we quote flights from South Florida with your dates
- Airport transfers at the start and end unless stated in the itinerary (Globus adds them when air is booked through them)
- Meals not listed: about 8 lunches and 3 dinners, plus drinks with meals
- Gratuities for the Tour Director, driver and Local Guides (Globus offers a prepaid option for the first two)
- Optional excursions, bookable from 90 days before departure
- Travel protection — recommended, and we will price it alongside the tour
- Single supplement for solo travelers — quoted on request
The real cost of this trip
The “from” price is the operator's land-only rate. This is what sits on top of it, so the number you budget is the number you pay.
| Flights from South Florida | Not included. We price them with your dates; arriving a day early is worth it when the tour starts with an evening meet-up. |
| Airport transfers | Not included on the standard tour. Globus adds them when air is booked through them; otherwise a taxi or pre-booked car. |
| Meals not covered | 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners are in. Budget for the rest, plus drinks. |
| Gratuities | Tour Director, driver and Local Guide tips are extra. Globus offers a prepaid option for the Tour Director and driver. |
| Optional excursions | Offered from 90 days before departure and on tour. Not required to enjoy the itinerary. |
| Travel protection | Not included. We recommend it for a trip at this price point and quote it with the tour. |
| Solo travelers | A single supplement applies. We quote it per departure. |
Good to know
- Walking & altitude
- High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m) and the ascent up Mount Pilatus takes you to an elevation of 6,982 ft (2,128m).
- Coach days
- 4 of the 9 days include 100+ miles of driving (Day 2: 174 mi, Day 4: 149 mi, Day 6: 106 mi, Day 7: 165 mi), broken up by stops.
- Group size
- Standard departures travel by full-size coach. Departures marked Small Group on the dates table are Globus Small Group Discoveries, capped at a smaller group and priced higher.
- Price basis
- Per person, based on two sharing a room, land only — flights from home not included. Hotels are as listed or similar.
- Start and finish
- 9 days from Zürich to Zürich.
Group minimums
Group rates and amenities unlock at these tiers. Negotiated through Travel Connects' supplier relationships.
| Tier | What you get |
|---|---|
| 8+ guests | Group pricing starts here — Globus quotes group rates from 8 travelers. Ask us for a group quote. |
| 20+ guests | Custom itinerary available — Globus can build a tailor-made version of this tour. |
Gallery
Questions we get about this trip
Is airfare included?
No. Every price on this page is land-only. We quote flights from Fort Lauderdale or Miami with your dates, and Globus can add airport transfers when the air is on their booking.
Is the Matterhorn included?
You spend two nights in Zermatt, the village at its foot, with a full free day. The Gornergrat or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lifts are optional and worth planning around the weather.
Does the tour end at the airport?
Yes — Day 9 includes a complimentary morning transfer to Zürich Airport for flights leaving no earlier than 10 am, and Globus offers extra nights in Zürich.
How much walking is there?
Globus's own note: High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m) and the ascent up Mount Pilatus takes you to an elevation of 6,982 ft (2,128m). If that is a concern, tell us before you commit and we will talk it through rather than hope for the best.
Which dates are cheapest?
Prices vary by departure — the dates table on this page is read from Globus's own feed, so what you see is current. Shoulder-season departures are usually the lower-priced ones; any Small Group departures cost more.
What if we need to cancel?
Globus's published terms apply and the fee schedule depends on the departure and whether air is booked through them. We link the terms rather than restate them, and we walk you through the exact figures on your reservation before you pay a deposit.
Cancellation policy
Globus' published Travel Terms & Conditions apply. Deposit amounts, final payment dates and the cancellation fee schedule vary by product and departure date, and differ again for air booked through Globus; the exact figures are confirmed on your reservation. Full terms: globusjourneys.com/terms
