NEW YEAR SALE! Lakes and Railways of Switzerland & Italy

Day 1: Lucerne, Switzerland - Tour Begins

Breathtaking Alpine vistas await as you travel through Switzerland and Italy. Experience dramatic views whilst aboard railways and lake cruises, and enjoy cultural experiences in charming villages in the heart of Europe. Arrive in Lucerne and take some free time to explore this lakeside town on your own. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in the city.

Day 2: Lucerne

Today, explore this “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Enjoy an Altstadt (Old Town) walking tour that follows the ancient pathways of the city. See the covered Chapel Bridge (1333); the famous Water Tower that once served as a prison; the watchtower and treasury; the Renaissance-style Town Hall; the Baroque Jesuit Church; and the Lion Monument, carved from sandstone to commemorate the heroic soldiers who were protecting King Louis XVI in 1792.

Day 3: Lucerne - GoldenPass Train - Montreux - Zermatt

This morning, travel to Gstaad and climb aboard the GoldenPass panoramic train to enjoy breathtaking Alpine views along the route to Montreux. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time in this legendary town on the shores of Lake Geneva. Then continue on to the pedestrian village of Zermatt.

Day 4: Zermatt

Today, Zermatt is at your fingertips. It’s your choice! Explore on foot during a guided walking tour -OR- experience Zermatt independently before visiting the Matterhorn Museum; learn more about the triumph and tragedy behind the first ascent of this imposing peak. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 5: Zermatt - Glacier Express Train - St. Moritz

Traverse bridges and tunnels whilst aboard the world-renowned narrow gauge Glacier Express, the most charming express train in the world. Enjoy the natural beauty of this route through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Filled with forests, fragrant meadows, gurgling streams and deep valleys, it’s a mountain dream come to life. Relax and enjoy a three-course lunch whilst onboard. Arrive in St. Moritz and enjoy the evening at leisure to relax or stroll the lakeside boulevard.

Day 6: St. Moritz - Bernina Pass Train - Lake Como, Italy - Lago Maggiore

Embark on a journey through the Bernina Pass whilst Travelling along one of the most scenic railway lines in the world en route to Tirano, Italy. Take in striking views of the Swiss and Italian Alps throughout your adventure, including the famed Morteratsch Glacier. Then drive along the picturesque shores to the town of Como. You will have free time to explore this famous resort and take in the magnificent views of Lake Como before continuing to Lago Maggiore, a tranquil resort area with crystal clear waters against the backdrop of the Alps.

Day 7: Lago Maggiore

Travel to an ancient village nestled in the mountains. Stop at a family farm where you will learn about the artisan cheeses they produce. Then sample their delicious creations and learn how to pair them with the region’s local wines. Return to your hotel for a free afternoon. Your evening begins with a wine tasting before boarding a lake boat for a cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, the most beautiful of the Borromean Islands. There you savour a traditional farewell dinner.

Day 8: Lago Maggiore - Tour Ends

Your thrilling Alpine journey ends today in Lago Maggiore.

Book your holiday before 8 January 2020 and SAVE up to 15%!

Departure dates - 30 Apr 2021 :

• Was $4,249 pp twin share, NOW from $3,612 pp twin share
• Was $4,999 sole use, NOW from $4,250 sole use

Looking to travel at a different time? For prices on departures in 2020, please call our local travel team on 1300 414 198 for more details or to book your tour.

7 Nights 4 star accommodation

Tour Activity Level:

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. You feel confident walking at least 30-45 minutes at a time over a variety of terrains – from cobblestone streets to easy straightaways to a couple hills or flights of stairs. You’re comfortable walking a few city blocks at a time, but need some time to unwind and relax.

Are airport and hotel transfers available?

Passengers can purchase transfers (for the first and last day of the tour) at an additional cost starting at $120 per person, roundtrip. Some restrictions may apply. All transfers leave at prescheduled times.

What is not included in the tour price?

The land price does not include international air travel to and from Australia, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end-of-trip gratuities.

Do I need to tip on my tour?

Whilst tipping may not be expected in Australia, in most other countries you will visit it is customary to tip. This is a way of thanking and rewarding the staff that looked after you on your tour.

Can I purchase pre-paid tipping?

From the 1st of January 2020, Collette is pleased to offer a pre-paid tipping option for guests travelling after 1st May 2020. This allows guests to purchase the package up to 45 days prior to departure and know that all tipping is covered.

How much does pre-paid tipping cost?

The tipping package will vary due to tour length and inclusions. A classic style tour will cost approximately $11 per person, per day and Explorations style tour will be approximately $14 per person, per day. An additional $3 per person will be added for each additional guide that the tour may include. Please contact our reservations team to find out exactly how much the pre-paid package will cost for your tour.