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Rail journey · APT · 11 nights

Swiss and Italian Lakes

  • Scenic rail journeys through the Swiss Alps and Italian Lakes
  • Exclusive experiences like a private cruise on Lake Maggiore
  • Discover the culinary delights of Bologna on a guided food tour
From
$12,420 pp twin share
$16,320 pp solo share
11 nights
Enquire
Departs 18 April 2027 Returns 29 September 2028
Duration11 nights
OperatorAPT
StyleRail journey
HighlightDiscover the scenic landscapes, flavours and traditions of Switzerland and Italy on a small group tour with exclusive experiences
Scenic rail travel through the Swiss Alps and Italian Lakes. Lakeside stays and cultural discovery in Zurich, Lucerne, Stresa and Venice. Exclusive experiences like a private cruise on Lake Maggiore and a…

Journey from the Swiss Alps to northern Italy on small group tour that blends scenic rail travel, lakeside stays and cultural discovery. Travelling with no more than 24 guests, spend time in Zurich and Lucerne, admire alpine views and the Italian Lakes around Stresa, then continue to Milan, Bologna and romantic Venice. With exclusive experiences balanced by time to explore at your own pace, this tour offers an enriching introduction to the landscapes, flavours and traditions of Switzerland and Italy.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
18 April 2027
Returns 29 September 2028
Returns
29 September 2028
Duration
11 nights
From pp twin share
$12,420 pp
From pp solo cabin
$16,320 pp
  • 18 Apr 2027 - 29 Apr 2027
    from $13,020 pp twin share / $16,920 pp solo *
  • 27 Jun 2027 - 08 Jul 2027
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 25 Jul 2027 - 05 Aug 2027
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 27 Mar 2028 - 07 Apr 2028
    from $12,920 pp twin share / $16,820 pp solo *
  • 15 May 2028 - 26 May 2028
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 05 Jun 2028 - 16 Jun 2028
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 17 Jul 2028 - 28 Jul 2028
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 31 Jul 2028 - 11 Aug 2028
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *
  • 18 Sep 2028 - 29 Sep 2028
    from $12,420 pp twin share / $16,320 pp solo *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Arrive Zürich

    Arrive in Zürich and be transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers.

  2. 2

    Zürich, Lucerne

    Begin your Swiss adventure with a guided walking tour of Zürich led by a local English-speaking guide. Afterwards, travel by coach to Basel to collect additional guests before continuing to Lucerne. On arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of Lucerne’s charming Old Town. See landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument, and admire views across Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner.

  3. 3

    Lucerne

    This morning, cruise across Lake Lucerne to the lakeside village of Vitznau, enjoying tranquil waters and mountain scenery along the way. From Vitznau, board the historic cogwheel railway for the journey to Rigi Kulm, the summit of Mount Rigi. At the top, take in sweeping panoramic views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding peaks. You may wish to enjoy a gentle alpine walk or lunch at a mountain restaurant before returning to Lucerne (additional expense). Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

  4. 4

    Lucerne, Lake Maggiore

    After breakfast, cruise across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen, enjoying lunch on board as you take in the alpine scenery. Enjoy an Insider Experience before continuing by coach into the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore. This evening, enjoy a delicious Italian dinner.

    Insider Experience – First Class Aboard Gotthard Panorama Express

    From Flüelen, board the Gotthard Panorama Express for a First Class journey along the historic Gotthard route to Lugano, passing mountain landscapes and dramatic valleys.

  5. 5

    Lake Maggiore

    Today enjoy a special Insider Experience, with the remainder of the day at leisure in Stresa.

    Insider Experience – Lake Maggiore and Isola Bella Private Cruise

    Set out on a private cruise across Lake Maggiore, taking in views of the lakeside Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso from the water. Continue to Isola Bella to explore the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo and its terraced gardens, then enjoy free time on the island before returning to Stresa.

  6. 6

    Lake Maggiore

    Choose how to spend your day in Stresa today. Explore at your own pace or perhaps choose an optional excursion to Lake Orta.

    Enhance Your Journey – Lake Orta

    Discover the serene beauty of Lake Orta on a full-day excursion from Stresa. Wander the charming village of Orta San Giulio, cruise across the lake to the enchanting San Giulio Island, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations.

  7. 7

    Lake Maggiore, Milan

    This morning travel to Milan and join a guided walking tour with a local expert. Discover the city’s iconic landmarks while learning about its rich culture and renowned fashion heritage. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure.

  8. 8

    Milan, Bologna

    Travel by First Class rail to Bologna, Italy’s culinary capital and a city steeped in history. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy some free time to explore.

  9. 9

    Bologna

    Discover Bologna’s historic streets before a special culinary experience today.

    Insider Experience – Bologna Gastronomic Experience

    Delight in a guided journey through Bologna’s renowned food culture. Sample fresh pasta, artisanal cheeses and cured meats, taste authentic local specialties and learn why the city is celebrated as Italy’s culinary capital.

  10. 10

    Bologna, Venice

    Board your train to Venice, your final destination. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy time at leisure to soak up the beauty of the city’s canals and historic streets.

  11. 11

    Venice

    Explore the streets of Venice today, including the iconic Piazza San Marco, before venturing beyond the main sights to explore quieter corners of the city. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying your final moments in Italy with your fellow travellers.

    Insider Experience – Bacaro and Cicchetti Tour

    Experience Venice like a local as you wander through lanes and hidden alleyways on a bacaro (wine bar) and cicchetti (tapas) tour paired with regional wines. The tour concludes with a Farewell Lunch.

  12. 12

    Depart Venice

    After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your Swiss and Italian journey to a close.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • Discover Lucerne and Mount Rigi.
  • Gotthard Panorama Express.
  • Santa Caterina and Islo Bella.
  • Bologna Culinary Experience.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • 25hours Hotel Zürich West
  • Milan, Starhotels Ritz
  • Three Nights, Lake Maggiore, Regina Palace Hotel
  • Two Nights, Bologna, Starhotels Excelsior
  • Two Nights, Lucerne, Radisson Blu Hotel
  • Two nights, Venice, Hotel Saturnia & International
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 12 days and 11 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 18 Apr 2027 and 29 Sep 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Ready to lock in?

Book this rail journey

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this rail journey
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Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $12,420 pp
From (solo) $16,320 pp
Enquire