Switzerland has so much to offer, but if you’ve got limited time to explore this marvelous country, our Highlights tour is the one for you. Experience the best of this beautiful country, from the elegance of Zurich to the beauty of the Lake Geneva region. It’s all yours for 9 marvelous days. Get your camera ready! You won’t want to miss a moment!

 Fly to Zurich, where you’ll be greeted by one of Europe’s most cultural cities. The largest city in Switzerland is the perfect destination for art lovers and ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in a little “retail therapy” as well. Opt for a half-day private tour or explore on your own. Whichever you choose, be sure to visit the Kunsthaus, known for its modern art exhibits, and the Rietberg Museum, offering the best in non-European art. Don’t miss the Chagall-designed stained glass windows at the Church of Our Lady and take time to enjoy the animals at the marvelous Zurich Zoo. And if you’ve got a few extra dollars to spend, head to the Bahnhofstrasse – Zurich’s answer to Rodeo Drive – where you can find some of the best shopping in Europe.

Next, the scenery changes as you head to bucolic Lucerne. Situated on a lake of the same name, Lucerne is the largest city in north-central Switzerland and its Old Town area – with its quaint shops, courtyards, old-world architecture, and pedestrian friendly streets – is what you envision when you think of Europe. Enjoy an excursion on the crystal clear Lake Lucerne or travel out of the city to the nearby mountains, where you can explore Mount Pilatus, take a hike on the groomed trails, or simply enjoy the view from up above.

After departing Lucerne, you’ll head for the capital city of Bern with its UNESCO-lauded historic Old Town area featuring stunning medieval architecture and a list of must-see sites including the Munster Cathedral, the old Town Hall, Holy Ghost Church, the Zytglogge and Käfigturm towers, and the town’s collection of handsome 16^th century fountains. Enjoy a private tour of the area and then take some time on your own to explore the remainder of the sites.

Continue to Lausanne, situated in the French-speaking section of the country, where you’ll experience the true beauty of the Lake Geneva region. Admire both the lake and the surrounding Alps as you make your way through Switzerland’s fourth-most populated city, blessed with 46 buildings or sites on the National Heritage list. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Swiss Reformed Church, the Chateaux Saint-Maire, and City Hall, and check out the collection of more than two dozen museums. In addition, you’ll enjoy a side trip to the prolific Lavaux Wine Region, known for its white varietals made from the chasselas grape. Hop aboard the wine train for a close-up look at the terraced vineyards and a chance to meet winegrowers and taste their offerings.

Trip Overview

Day 1              Arrive in Zurich

Day 2              Optional half-day tour of Zurich; leisure time

Day 3              Morning in Zurich; depart for Lucerne

Day 4              Morning lake cruise; leisure time in Lucerne

Day 5              Optional trip to Mount Pilatus; leisure time in Lucerne

Day 6              Depart for Bern; private town of the Old Town

Day 7              Morning in Bern, then depart for Lausanne; afternoon free to explore

Day 8              Morning tour to Lavaux wine region; remainder of day on your own

Day 9              Depart for home