21 Day Swiss Scenic Trains, Italy & Deluxe Ocean Cruise
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
✓ Incredible sightseeing! Tour Switzerland by world-famous rail journeys, experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station, explore the incredible sights of Italy’s Northern Lakes, and look forward to breathtaking Greece and Croatia on a luxurious Mediterranean cruise
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel with all arrangements made for you
✓ 13 nights in handpicked, quality 3-star accommodation
✓ 7 nights on board the stunning MSC Sinfonia, one of Europe’s most popular cruise ships
✓ Arrival airport train transfers included on the first day
✓ Breakfast daily, plus 6 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express
✓ Entry to Lindt Home of Chocolate
✓ Panoramic cruise on Yacht MS Saphir in Lucerne
✓ Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains
✓ Lake Como and Bellagio full day tour
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Grüezi! Welcome to Switzerland. Enjoy your first day at leisure. As a lakeside "metropolis of experiences", with a magnificent view of the snow‐capped Alps on the horizon, Zurich offers a unique mixture of attractions.
Start with the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings. If you feel like getting a better view, take the train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain. From the station, it’s a short walk to the peak and the scenery is incredible over Zurich, the lake and the Alps. Or if you’re in the Old Town and fancy a vantage point, you can walk up Lindenhof Hill for sweeping views over the city.
Special Information:
Arrival airport train transfers are included as part of your package. Your train ticket includes the rail transfer from Zurich airport.
Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Marktgasse Hotel or similar.
Wake up to a delicious Swiss breakfast, then take a stroll along the famous Bahnhofstrasse — Zurich's shopping paradise. A quick detour will lead you to the narrower cobbled streets of Zurich's Old Town and its smaller, independent artisan shops. Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate (self-guided), and take the opportunity to use your included 24-hour Zurich Card for local transport and various discounts across the city. Be sure to not miss the picturesque waterfront promenades!
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Marktgasse Hotel or similar.
After breakfast, transfer by rail to Lucerne in Central Switzerland, situated in an enviable location surrounded by a stunning lake and mountain panorama. The historic town of Lucerne attracts visitors globally with its well-preserved old town, countless shops and restaurants. A visit to Chapel Bridge, which has stood the test of time as a traditional crossing for locals, is one of many highlights that are sure to impress.
Special Information:
Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23 kg due to train compartment restrictions.
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Hotel Des Balances or similar.
This morning, the Gotthard Panorama Express takes you from the heart of Switzerland, with a journey through Lake Lucerne on Yacht MS Saphir. From Flüelen, travel by first-class panoramic train to Lugano, a picturesque lakeside town in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region.
Use the provided guest card to take full advantage of local transport and explore nearby villages, such as the pretty village of Morcote.
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Luganodante Hotel or similar.
Board the Bernina Express bus after breakfast, and enjoy a scenic drive to Italy-based Tirano where you join the Bernina Express panoramic train across the border back to Switzerland. You will travel over circular viaducts and pass through winding tunnels, with highlights including the Brusio Circular Viaduct and a photo stop at Alp Grüm.
Arrive in St. Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley, and spend the rest of the day at leisure. This luxury alpine resort town, a favourite for celebrities and royals, is surely one of the world’s most famous winter sports resorts. This was the first mountain village in the country to have a ski school, a tram and electric lighting. The Winter Olympics have been held here twice. It’s a renowned ski destination.
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Schweizerhof Hotel or similar.
A full day awaits to explore St. Moritz, where guests from all over the world appreciate the modern Alpine lifestyle. Take advantage of your included guest card to visit the local area. We suggest the nearby mountains of Muottas Murgal or Diavolezza for incredible views that are not to be missed. Various sights including the leaning tower, a remnant of the Mauritius Church from around 1500, or the Segantini Museum, offer unique insight into the city’s fascinating history.
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Schweizerhof Hotel or similar.
Ride the world‐famous Glacier Express to Zermatt today, a gorgeous village near the Italian border. Be enthralled by Switzerland’s spectacular scenery, thanks to oversized, panoramic windows that make for an unforgettable experience. Along the deep Rhone valley, the Glacier Express travels through an incredibly fascinating part of the Alps. The route famously takes you through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, offering unrivalled views. Make sure to have your camera handy! Optionally, you may wish to dine at your seat with a delicious 3-course meal served on your table (additional charges apply).
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Hotel Aristella or similar.
Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is arguably the world's most famous mountain. This car‐free resort offers guests an abundance of activities such as visits to the local mountains of Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It is also home to the highest open-air cog railway in Europe.
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Hotel Aristella or similar.
Continue by train to Montreux, nestled between steep hills and the lakeside of Lake Geneva. The town's promenade is lined with flowers, sculptures, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque buildings. Nearby attractions include the medieval island castle, Chateau de Chillon and the vineyards of the Lavaux region.
Special Information:
If the 4 Star Hotel Upgrade is booked, the hotel will be Eurotel Montreux or similar.
Your journey continues by train on the GoldenPass Express through the wild and romantic Pays d'Enhaut, complete with scenic villages and crystal-clear lakes at every corner.
Interlaken is a laidback resort town, presided over by three mighty mountains, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It makes a great base from which to explore the Bernese Oberland. Unprecedented views of the Swiss Alps give an impression of what is to come during your stay.
Höheweg, the main promenade of Interlaken, is lovely for a stroll. It runs from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun, with flower gardens and parks on one side allowing for a view of the Bernese Alps. On the other side you’ll find high-end hotels, boutiques, cafes and the casino.
Special Information:
Note: if you have selected the 4* hotel upgrade, you will be staying at Interlaken instead of Wilderswil (Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel or similar).
Your penultimate day in Switzerland packs another highlight! This morning you will embark on a self-guided excursion to the Jungfraujoch, also known as the highest railway station in Europe. You may choose to go via Grindelwald Terminal on the technical marvel that is Eiger Express cable car, or take the traditional route by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg. Highlights include the world’s highest Lindt Chocolate Shop and the Ice Palace with its impressive ice sculptures.
Special Information:
Note: if you have selected the 4* hotel upgrade, you will be staying at Interlaken instead of Wilderswil (Metropole Swiss Quality Hotel or similar).
Embark on a delightful journey from the vibrant city of Milan! As you board the comfortable train, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the picturesque Swiss countryside passing by. Feel the excitement build as you cross the border and venture into Italy's scenic landscapes, surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages.
Experience the wonders of Lake Como and the charming town of Bellagio on this full-day excursion from Milan, after making your own way to the tour departure point. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring alpine landscape and discover the renowned silk production that characterises the region. Our shared coach tour encompasses visits to Como's historical gems, a delightful cruise on the lake, offering mesmerising views of elegant villas, and leisure time in the iconic town of Bellagio. Delve into the beauty and allure of one of Italy's most sought-after lake destinations on this unforgettable 10-hour journey.
Hop aboard a train bound for the captivating city of Venice, and once you arrive, chart your own course to the cruise terminal, where the magnificent MSC Sinfonia awaits. As one of Europe's most beloved cruise ships, the MSC Sinfonia promises an unforgettable voyage, filled with extraordinary experiences and cherished memories. Your cruise will set sail at 4pm.
The Italian port town of Brindisi boasts a characterful ancient centre, home to a vast array of treasures.
Sites such as the 11th-century Duomo and Alfonsino Castle are architectural jewels just waiting to be discovered. The perfect starting point for visiting other destinations, namely Lecce, Ostuni, and Alberobello, Brindisi delivers culture, colour and Italian romance along its palm-fringed streets and seafront promenade.
Relish in a full day of serenity and relaxation as you enjoy a day at sea. Embrace the tranquil atmosphere and indulge in the leisurely activities and amenities provided onboard. Whether you choose to bask in the sun by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, partake in engaging entertainment options, or savour exquisite cuisine, the day is yours to unwind and rejuvenate.
Appreciate the vastness of the ocean, take in the fresh sea breeze, and let the soothing rhythm of the waves transport you to a state of bliss. Seize this opportunity to create cherished memories and embrace the tranquillity of your day at sea.
During the 18th-century, Mykonos’ maze of tangled lanes would confuse even the most well-travelled pirates. Nowadays pretending to get lost in these winding alleys makes for a day of entertainment! This destination is known for its romantic Greek Island glamour. See brilliant beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque whitewashed villages.
Piraeus has been the port of Athens since ancient times. It’s a city filled with incredible wonders including Mikrolimano Bay, Agia Triada (Church of the Holy Trinity), and the Archaeological Museum. Nowadays, Piraeus is a bustling centre with attractive waterfront cafés and restaurants, making it an ideal stop in the Mediterranean. Use it as a stepping stone to see the Acropolis and greater Athens.
Embrace yet another day of tranquillity and boundless possibilities as you enjoy another delightful day at sea. This day is yours to revel in the abundance of onboard activities and amenities.
The captivating port of Split, located on the Dalmatian coast, is one of Croatia’s star-attraction cities and a major cruise destination. Immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of its old centre, admire Diocletian buildings, or wander the city’s spectacular waterfront and shade yourself under the palm trees.
Arrive in Venice this morning, marking the end of your unforgettable journey. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and allure of Venice one last time before making your way to the airport and embarking on your onward journey. Though your adventure comes to a close, the memories and moments shared will continue to inspire and stay with you.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirement
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,999.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Luggage requirements
Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23kg due to train compartment restrictions.
Venice has implemented an access fee charged to day trip visitors who are not staying overnight in the municipality of Venice, during specific high season dates. The calendar of dates is available here.
If you are staying in an accommodation in the municipality of Venice, then you are exempt from this fee. However, to avoid paying the fee you must register for an exemption by filling out an exemption request here. The exemption form will provide you with a QR code you can show on your phone.
If required for your travel dates, you may pre-book once you have received your final documents confirming your hotel. The exemption must be completed before entering the city, but can be done while traveling.
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
1st Class Rail (Switzerland Only)
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors, including seat reservation on the scenic trains. Upgrade for $413 per person. First Class has dedicated carriages offering a higher level of comfort with spacious seats and less passengers per carriage. Some trains will have larger windows in First Class.
Golden Pass Prestige Class + 1st class rail supplement (Switzerland Only)
The Prestige class is characterised by its very comfortable, heated seats which enable the passenger to face in the direction of travel. The Prestige area is raised by 40 centimetres to allow the passengers to be fully immersed in the landscape. The passenger feels like sitting in the landscape. Upgrade for $515 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary.
Glacier Express 3-Course Lunch (Switzerland Only)
As you gaze out at the stunning alpine panorama, enjoy a freshly prepared 3-course meal on board and served at your seat. Upgrade for $102 per person.
Glacier Express Excellence Class + 1st class rail supplement (Switzerland Only)
A panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express is now even more spectacular with guaranteed window seats and panoramic views. The new Excellence Class sets standards that are as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route. Along the way you will be served a refined regional 5-course menu with accompanying wines. For an aperitif, some delicious cocktail or to exchange with fellow travellers the Glacier Bar is the perfect place to visit. Thanks to the compass on the ceiling none of the many turns will be missed.
During the entire journey, you will be taken care of by a concierge. Be it with culinary delights, answers to personal concerns or exciting anecdotes and information about nature, culture and people along the journey. Upgrade for $1,394 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary.
Complementary Services
As this service is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has a rich history rooted in a deep love for the sea, spanning across multiple generations. The company is committed to sharing this passion with future generations, making each cruise a remarkable journey of exploration and unforgettable experiences for every guest. With a focus on enrichment and immersion, MSC Cruises provides a safe and enjoyable cruise experience. Guests can indulge in international dining options, delight in world-class entertainment, partake in award-winning family programs, and experience the latest user-friendly technology available onboard. MSC Cruises strives to create cherished memories and ensure that each guest's voyage is filled with discovery, excitement, and lasting emotions.
MSC Sinfonia Cabin Inclusions & Upgrades
Please note, MSC will assign your cabin number. Cabin will be attributed 40 days before your cruise and can change at any time up until embarkation .
Interior Bella (IB) - Included
Junior Interior on decks 7-8 (13 sqm) - from $55 per person. Single price on application.
Junior Ocean View on decks 7-8 (13 sqm) - from $330 per person. Single price on application.
Junior Ocean View on decks 9-10 (13 sqm) - from $363 per person. Single price on application.
Junior Balcony on decks 9-10 (13 sqm, balcony 3-4 sqm) - from $836 per person. Single price on application.
Please note your upgrade request in the 'Special Request' field whilst making your booking. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
Chocolate, watches, art and more – the ‘Little Big City’ has so much to offer visitors, before and after your tour 1. For art The largest art museum in Switzerland, Zurich’s Kunsthaus boasts a collection from the 13th century to the present. There are rooms dedicated to Swiss artist and sculptor, Alberto Giacometti,...
Wine, jazz, culture and – of course – pristine swimming spots, Lake Geneva has it all Crystal-clear, shimmering Lake Geneva – or Lac Léman as it’s known to the locals – gives life to the villages, towns and cities that are dotted along its shores. As a source of entertainment, culture, health, food and even wine (we’ll...
Switzerland is so much more than fondue and chocolate. Join us on a journey through some of the nation’s finest – and often overlooked – culinary delights With culinary powerhouses France and Italy on its doorstep, it’s no surprise that Swiss cuisine often fails to emerge from the shadows cast by its more illustrious n...
It’s not all cuckoo clocks and sound financial advice: from fine wine and Alpine views to parading cattle and the discovery of the illusive ‘God Particle’, here are 10 things you (probably) didn’t know about one of Europe’s most picture-perfect nations 1. It has four official languages Spend even the shortest amount of...
‘Come for the views and stay for the wine’, should be your motto as your travel through one of Switzerland’s most picturesque lake-side spots, discovering some of its most iconic vintages along the way Though a mere stone’s throw from some of the most famous wine-making regions in the world – think Burgundy, Champagne,...
There’s a whole lot more to an Alpine adventure than photo ops and skiing. Here are seven quintessentially Swiss experiences you can only find in the Alps From celebrating cows in a town famous for its cheese and soaking in thermal baths, to hiking with St Bernards (yes, the dogs) and crossing the world’s largest suspe...
New Zealand
United States
Canada
India
