Enchanting Swiss escape with Glacier Express train & Venice stay

From Zurich to Venice, embark on a spellbinding Swiss journey and experience the magic of the Glacier Express, includes flights, hotels & train travel

Day 1: Zurich, Switzerland

Step foot in the pristine city of Zurich, where striking modernity brushes with old cobblestone streets. Settle into your hotel before venturing out into the medieval charm of the old town, or perhaps browse high-end boutiques on the Bahnhofstrasse. Be sure to pass by St Peter's Church to see the largest clock face in all of Europe. You could set out on a relaxing cruise across the glass-clear Lake Zurich, or hike up the historic Lindenhof Hill for quite the view across the city. When hunger strikes be sure to indulge in a classic Swiss cheese fondue, and of course stock up on some Swiss chocolate.

With the six-night itinerary, you will stay two nights in Zurich.

Day 2: Chur, Switzerland

Today, you'll embark on a scenic train journey to Chur, a magical mountain town nestled high in the Swiss Alps.

Officially Switzerland's oldest city, Chur offers a captivating blend of ancient charm and natural alpine beauty. Check into your cosy hotel before wandering through its cobbled streets to admire the region’s beautifully-preserved architecture, and explore historic landmarks like the 800-year-old Cathedral and the Episcopal Palace. For history buffs, the Rätisches Museum also provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's past, whilst the cable-car ride up Brambrüesch mountain offers unparalleled views of the surrounding slopes. Later, step back in time as you wander through Chur's fairy tale old town, making sure to try hearty regional delights from one of the quaint, local restaurants.

Day 3: Chur - Brig (Glacier Express)

After spending the night in Chur, it’s time to board the iconic Glacier Express. Every bit as magical as it sounds, the ‘world’s slowest train’ carves its way through the breathtaking mountain scenery on roughly a four-hour journey towards southern Switzerland. Look out at idyllic mountain villages, dense forests and dramatic gorges from large panoramic windows and experience the trip of a lifetime as you wind your way through some of the most beautiful locations the country has to offer. Once you arrive in the picturesque town of Brig, you’ll have some time to explore its famed thermal baths or admire the baroque 17th-century castle of Stockalperschloss, before settling in for a relaxing evening at the hotel.

Day 4: Brig - Venice

The following day, you'll hop on the train and go via the Simplon Route to Domodossola, a charming market town in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, before changing trains and continuing your journey onwards to Venice.

Once alighted, head out into the city at your leisure and allow yourself to be swept away by the romance of the ‘The Floating City’. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets and canals, gliding through the Grand Canal on a gondola or wandering through the historic Rialto Market. History lovers won’t be able to resist iconic landmarks and architectural masterpieces like St. Mark's Square and Basilica, or the Doge's Palace, a symbol of Venice's former glory. Step back in time as you explore the Bridge of Sighs, a Gothic bridge connecting the Doge's Palace to the prison, or discover the secrets of Venetian glassmaking at the Murano Glass Museum. And, no trip to Venice would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine - think black squid ink risotto and fine Venetian wines.

On the final day, wave goodbye to the mesmerising floating city as you make your way to the airport for your home-bound flight.

With the five and six-night itineraries, you will stay two nights in Venice.