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Grand Tour of Switzerland – a road trip guide

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.10.2023

Switzerland — a destination you voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world — offers travellers a rewarding range of experiences. And there’s no better way to experience that range than on a Grand Tour of Switzerland. This unforgettable road trip route covers everything from glaciers and palm-backed lakeshores, to charming villages and buzzy cities.

Start — explore the city of Zürich

1st stage — zürich to appenzel, 2nd stage — appenzell to st moritz, 3rd stage — st moritz to lugano.

• 4th stage — Lugano to Zermatt

5th stage — Zermatt to Lausanne

6th stage — lausanne to neuchatel, 7th stage — neuchatel to bern, 8th stage — bern to zürich, grand tour of switzerland alternatives — start or end in geneva, basel or chiasso, best photo spots on the grand tour of switzerland, tips for a road trip in switzerland.

Better yet, set off with The Rough Guide to Switzerland on hand to enhance every stage of your road trip.

The Grand Tour takes in dozens of Switzerland’s top attractions — including five Alpine passes, thirteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and twenty-two lakes.

Divided into eight signposted segments, it's an awe-inspiring circuit of 1643km. Covering cosmopolitan Zürich, Italianate Lugano, and the majestic Matterhorn, it offers a unique road trip of a lifetime. And they're just a small sample of the route's attractions.

In good news for travellers who want to travel more responsibly, the Grand Tour of Switzerland is the world’s first road trip for electric vehicles .

Bern is a highlight of the Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip © 4kclips/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Switzerland, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2675 USD

Special Golden Round Trip to Switzerland (small group or private)

Stay active on Switzerland's mountains with hikes and cable cars before indulging in delicious Swiss cheese and wines around Lausanne and Geneva. Is there a better way to get a taste of Switzerland than to actually taste it? Pricing is based on a small group tour, enquire for a private tour!

11 days  / from 3531 USD

Unforgettable Switzerland

Discover Switzerland's real natural paradise. Enjoy 11 relaxed days of picturesque scenery, breathtaking views, romantic towns, eternal ice and snow, rural villages and historic buildings. Visit Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Geneva and many other highlights.

7 days  / from 2675 USD

Lakes and mountains for the whole family in Italy & Switzerland

Spend your first 3 nights at Lake Como in Italy, discovering the area by boat or foot, before heading to Zermatt in Switzerland. Zermatt with its peaceful nature is the ideal backdrop for strolls, hikes and other activities with the whole family.

Zürich is the setting for the start of this Switzerland road trip. A vibrant city that blends urban verve with waterfront beauty and Renaissance grandeur. 

Zürich’s Old Town plays host to legend-steeped medieval churches, such as the mighty Grossmünster. It's also the stunning stage for Switzerland’s highest concentrations of clubs, and world-class museums. Kunsthaus , we're looking at you.

Head to hill-framed Lake Zürich to enjoy rewarding boat excursions. With its Mediterranean-style plazas, taking a trip to Rapperswil comes especially recommended. You also won't want to miss seeing the 15,000 rose bushes that gave rise to its “City of Roses” moniker,

Best places to stay in Zürich

• Best for culture vultures:  Alma Hotel . An upmarket hotel focused on sustainability.
• Best for couples:  Hotel Kindli . One of Zürich’s most charming small hotels.
• Best for nightlife-lovers:  Pension Furdich . Backing onto a park, this is close to funky bars and clubs.

Explore more accommodation in Zürich .

Zürich's Grossmünster church © S-F/Shutterstock

From Zürich, epic natural wonders await near Schaffhausen at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall.

With  Schloss Laufen perched on a cliff directly above the falls, this top grand tour of Switzerland photo spot blazes with drama.

The Rhine Falls and Schloss Laufen — one of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots © maloff/Shutterstock

Schaffhausen itself is likely to be a highlight of your Grand Tour of Switzerland. Boasting one of the country’s most beautiful medieval town centres, its riverside Old Town is crammed with glorious guild houses.

More old-time magic can be found in tiny Stein-am-Rhein, an almost perfectly-preserved medieval village.

Best places to stay in Schaffhausen and Stein-am-Rhein

• Best for city slickers:  Vienna House zur Bleiche Schaffhausen City . A business hotel with contemporary design.
• Best for couples:  Park Villa, Schaffhausen . An atmospheric old mansion on the edge of the Old Town. 
• Best for foodies:  Garni Adler, Stein-am-Rhein . With a fine façade, this has a great Swiss restaurant.

Discover more  places to stay around Schaffhausen .

Scenic schaffhausen © Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock

No Grand Tour road trip around northeast Switzerland would be complete without spending time in relaxed St Gallen. 

Set in rolling wine country between the Appenzell hills and the Bodensee, St Gallen’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best places to stay in St Gallen

• Best for city centre style:  Einstein. A grand old hotel housed in a former textile factory.
• Best for the socially conscious:  Hotel Dom. Part of a project that trains and employs people with disabilities.
• Best for families:  Vadian . A friendly two-star on a quiet street near the cathedral.

Explore more  places to stay in St Gallen . 

The abbey of Saint Gall © Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

The last leg of this stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland takes you to Appenzell. In an area known for its traditional rural traditions, this impossibly quaint town has fairy tale allure.

Into the great outdoors? This region has lots of rewarding hiking trails to ramble in summer. Come winter, the hills are a paradise for cross-country skiers, with 200km of trails extending through the canton.  

All of which makes Appenzell a picture-perfect place to enjoy sports and outdoor activities in Switzerland . 

Best places to stay in Appenzell

• Best for foodies:  Hotel Appenzell . This gabled building on the square has a confiserie and top restaurant.
• Best for warm-hearted welcomes:  Gasthaus Hof . A friendly, old-fashioned hotel with rustic ambience.
• Best for luxury:  Romantik Hotel Säntis . This fine old hotel belongs to the prestigious Romantik group. 

Browse more  places to stay in Appenzellerland .  

Appenzell oozes traditional charm, making it one of the top grand tour of Switzerland photo spots © Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock

This stunning segment of the road trip boasts more records than any other stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland. These include Switzerland’s oldest city, and its only world monument,  Salginatobel Bridge .

The power of nature is uniquely presented at the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona UNESCO Heritage Site. Geological formations at this dramatic spot show the collision of the African and European continents. 

Meanwhile, if you’re travelling in Switzerland with children, you won’t want to miss exploring Heidi Village. Located in the Graubünden region, little ones will love following the idyllic Heidi Trail to the Heidi House. 

More charm can be found in Graubünden’s cantonal capital, Chur. Chockful of secret courtyards and cobbled alleys, Chur is Switzerland’s oldest town.

Cable car access to Brambrüesch mountain means Chur also has a host of hiking and biking trails on the doorstep. 

Best places to stay in Chur

• Best for couples:  Freieck . A comfortable hotel in sixteenth-century buildings.
• Best for foodies: Hotel Stern . Smart Old Town hotel with wood-beamed rooms and great food.
• Best for budget travellers:  Viva Hostel . This modern, lively hostel has a range of rooms.

Discover more  places to stay in Chur.  

Chur's charms are a highlight of the Grand Tour of Switzerland © Avatar_023/Shutterstock

If you fancy sampling some of Switzerland’s best outdoor experiences , you’ll want to explore the Swiss National Park in the Engadine.

For excellent hiking and scenery that’s inspired painters and poets for centuries, take a trip to Muottas Muragl mountain. Here the Panoramic Path traverses alpine hills and meadows, with views to glitzy St Moritz.

Meandering down from Alpine St. Moritz to Italianate Lugano, this stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland has the most significant change in altitude and scenery.

With 350km of pistes, and no shortage of fine places to sleep, eat and make merry, it’s little wonder that St Moritz is esteemed as one of the world’s best ski resorts. 

Interestingly, though, thanks to its mineral springs St Moritz first came to fame as a summer spa town. And, to this day, there’s plenty to keep visitors happy in summer — from hiking and biking, to sailing, kitesurfing and Alpine golf.

Best places to stay in St Moritz

• Best for luxury:  Badrutt’s Palace Hotel . This legendary five-star is one of Europe’s swankiest hotels.
• Best for families:  Chesa Languard . A friendly little hotel with some of the best rates in the centre.
• Best for romantics:  Soldanella . A family-run hotel in an Art Nouveau building.

Explore more  places to stay in St Moritz . 

Swanky St Moritz © Shutterstock

From St Moritz, nature-lovers will want to continue their road trip to  Switzerland’s largest regional nature park, Parc Ela .

This stunning UNESCO Heritage Site is traversed by the Rhätische Bahn (Rhaetian Railway). One of the world's most scenic rail networks, this is travelled by the  Glacier Express  that runs from St Moritz and Davos to Chur. It then winds west over the Alps to  Zermatt .

To the northeast of Parc Ela, the Viamala gorge presents one of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots. Carved into rocks by glacial ice, the sheer 300m cliffs are a staggering sight. 

From here, the road trip route wends south to the Italianate-speaking canton of Ticino . 

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4th stage — Lugano to Zermatt

While you could explore this stage’s top sites on the way down, we’ll kick off in Lugano. This sits at the southern end of a segment that takes in an extraordinary number of bends. These comes courtesy of the Tremola road that snakes from Airolo. 

Basking in a sun-drenched bay of Lake Lugano, Lugano is framed by wooded hills and fronted by palm tree-lined promenades. It's also criss-crossed by winding lanes packed with places to enjoy some of the best eating and drinking in Switzerland . 

To the north, Locarno sits on the curve of a Lake Maggiore bay, with the surrounding valleys offering some of the most beautiful scenery in the Ticino canton.

Where to stay in Lugano and Locarno

• Best for families:  Lugano Dante, Lugano . A quality four-star by Lugano’s funicular station.
• Best for big spenders:  Splendide Royal, Lugano . Traditional style characterises this classic.
• Best for understated style:  Giardino Lago, Locarno. A quietly opulent waterfront hotel. 

Browse more places to stay in  Lugano  and  Locarno .

Locarno viewed from Cardada mountain © Eva Bocek/Shutterstock

Other highlights along the Grand Tour of Switzerland route that runs through Ticino include Ascona and Bellinzona, the latter of which has a trio of UNESCO castles. 

From Airola, the serpentine Tremola extends to Andermatt in Central Switzerland via the Gotthard Pass, which divides northern Europe from the south. 

Hair-raising hairpin bends characterise the Via Tremola of the Gotthard Pass © Freedom_wanted/Shutterstock

While journeying south towards Zermatt — the end point of this diverse stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland — don’t miss seeing the Furka Pass on a steam train excursion. Enjoying fun train trips are among the best things to do in Switzerland with kids.

Alternatively, if you fancy finding serenity in truly sublime surroundings, the lesser-visited Goms area of the upper Rhône valley comes highly recommended.    

Presided over by (arguably) the world’s most famous mountain, the majestic Matterhorn, Zermatt is one of the world’s prettiest vacation villages.

Zermatt also offers easy access to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which includes 360 kilometres of pistes, over 400 kilometres of hiking trails, and 54 mountain railways. As such, it's a place to unleash your inner adventurer.

• Best for Matterhorn views:  Kulmhotel Gornergrat . The highest hotel in the Alps is uniquely atmospheric.
• Best for glamour:  Grand Hotel Zermatterhof . One of the finest hotels in the country.
• Best for cosy comfort:  Hotel Allalin. This boasts modern, folksy decor and a spa.

Discover more places to stay in  Zermatt .

The Matterhorn offers some of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots  © Shutterstock

The route to Lausanne will take you through sunny Sion. Capital of the canton of Valais , Sion is home to a charming old quarter and two ancient castles. 

Another major attraction along this part of the road trip is the adventure sport hotspot of Les Diablerets. This high profile ski resort village is located in the canton of Vaud, much of which sits on the northern shore of Lake Geneva .

Meanwhile, before reaching Lausanne at the end of this stage of your road trip, you'll want to visit enchanting Château de Chillon, and upmarket Montreux.

Home to an esteemed jazz festival, Montreux features in our calendar of festivals in Switzerland and run-down of the best things to do in Switzerland in summer .

Enchanting Château de Chillon, Switzerland © FenlioQ/Shutterstock

Taking in Switzerland’s renowned watchmaking region, this stage kicks off in Lausanne , a city that’s lively, cultured and scenic with it. Think steep wooden hills tiered above a lake, an alluring Old Town, with the Cathédrale Notre-Dame rivalling its Parisian counterpart. 

Lausanne’s many cultural highlights include the Olympic Museum , the  Collection de l’Art Brut, and the  Musée Historique . Then there’s the Ouchy waterfront to wander. This elegant beauty spot plays host to free festivals around the year. 

If you plan to linger in Lausanne, the train des vignes runs through the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, offering views of the Savoy and Valais Alps from above Lake Geneva. 

Best places to stay in Lausanne

• Best for couples:  Angleterre & Residence . A classy hotel on the Ouchy waterfront.
• Best for luxury-lovers: Beau-Rivage Palace . Set in waterside gardens, this is one of Switzerland’s finest hotels.
• Best for families:  Elite . Lausanne's best mid-price hotel.

Browse more of the best places to stay in Lausanne .  

The Rough Guides to Switzerland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Lausanne © Keitma/Shutterstock

The road trip route from Lausanne leads to  Jura Vaudois Nature Park — a magical landscape of forests, marshland and meadows. It also takes in the breath-taking  Creux du Van rock formation, around which a nature reserve protects animals and arctic-alpine flora. 

Southeast of Creux du Van, the route leads to Neuchâtel, home to Switzerland’s largest archaeological museum . With a charming lakefront promenade and enchanting 12th- century core, Neuchâtel inspires wonder as it transports visitors back in time.

From Lake Neuchâtel, the wateriest leg of the Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip leads you through the magnificent lake region. 

Along the way you won’t want to miss spending time in Fribourg. With its medieval Old Town set on a forested peninsula, this is one of Switzerland’s most magical spots. 

Best places to stay in Fribourg

• Best for affordability:  Hotel du Faucon . An excellent-value little hotel in the Old Town.
• Best for couples:  Hotel de la Rose . Cosy, comfortable and housed in a seventeenth-century building.
• Best for foodies:  Le Sauvage . A sixteenth-century townhouse with a fine restaurant. 

Find more  places to stay in Fribourg . 

Largely thanks to its fairy-tale castle, Gruyères is also a place of enchantment, with a strong tradition of cheese and chocolate-making.

As you route through the Bernese Oberland , opportunities for adventure present themselves. Gstaad, for example, is a mecca for celebrity winter-sports aficionados. Meanwhile, friendly outlying villages offer affordable family-oriented accommodation. 

Then there’s the mighty Jungfraujoch. The Jungfrau railway has been taking travellers to the highest station in Europe for over a century. This also happens to be one of the top grand tour of Switzerland photo spots. 

The same is true of the Lauterbrunnen valley, where a whopping 72 waterfalls rush from vertical cliff faces. 

Other highlights along the Bernese Oberland road trip route include Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Taking a paddle steamer cruise is the perfect way to soak up their splendour.  

Lake Thun © 9MOT/Shutterstock

On arrival in Bern , take an evening stroll around its UNESCO-protected Old Town to view the Zytglogge clock-tower, and find an atmospheric dinner spot. 

Of all Swiss cities, Bern is arguably the most immediately charming. Tucked into a peninsula of the River Aare and surrounded by wooded hills, the views over its Old Town roofs are spectacular. 

Alongside exploring the Old Town and Münster cathedral , art-lovers will want to visit Zentrum Paul Klee . To the east,  Bären Park  (Bear Park) is another Bern highlight. Bears have lived in a pit at this hilly beauty spot for centuries, with three of them currently residing in a new park.  

Best places to stay in Bern

• Best for history buffs:  Hotel Landhaus . The most attractive budget rooms in town.
• Best for character:  Hotel Marthahaus . A friendly, well-run hotel-pension.
• Best for budget travellers:  Bern Backpackers/Hotel Glocke . An Old Town fixture with excellent facilities.

Browse more of the best places to stay in Bern .  

Bern © Shutterstock

Further along this stage, you’ll want to stop off in Lucerne’s wondrous Wild West. Namely, the  UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch  — an unspoilt, romantic reserve of Alpine pastures, moorland and karst landscapes.

Lucerne itself is Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heart— steeped in history, and a gateway to Central Switzerland . Lucerne is also the ultimate slow travel destination .

From the city’s medieval squares, ancient guildhalls, and lakeshore, it’s easy to explore Lucerne’s magnificent regional mountains – the Pilatus and Rigi — en route to Zürich. And so our Grand Tour of Switzerland comes full circle.

Best places to stay in Lucerne

• Best for romantics:  Art Deco Hotel Montana . With its own funicular, this is among Switzerland’s best four-stars.
• Best for families:  Seehotel Kastanienbaum . In a village outside the city, this has a lakeside terrace.
• Best for budget travellers:  Backpackers . A laidback hostel on the lakeshore.

Explore more  places to stay in Lucerne .  

Pilatus, Lucerne © Swiss Tourism

One of the beauties of taking the Grand Tour of Switzerland is that it’s a circuit. This means there’s flexibility around where you start your road trip of a lifetime , with awe-inspiring access road trip routes to follow, too. 

You could choose to begin your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Geneva . Compact and cosmopolitan, the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain sits at the city's heart.

Our tip — explore Geneva's Italianate Carouge area for innovative artists’ workshops and excellent cafés. 

From Geneva, the route continues to Nyon, with its historic Old Town and easy-access to walking through wine country. It then leads to Saint-George and Neuchatal.

Alternatively, you could start your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Basel and work your way down to Neuchatal. 

Located on the Rhine, Basel boasts around 40 museums. It also has masses of medieval charm, with two Old Town squares and countless leafy courtyards overlooked by the majestic Münster cathedral.

If you’re keen to explore Switzerland’s Ticino region, consider kicking off your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Chiasso, which lies on the southern border with Italy. 

After exploring the town’s museums and taking a trip to the breath-taking Breggia Gorges, the route winds to Lugano, Locarno and Bellinzona.

Lugano in the Swiss canton of Ticino © Shutterstock

While it’s nigh impossible to pick the best photo spots on the Grand Tour of Switzerland, here are a few of our favourites.

• Best for epic nature: head to the Rhine Falls to capture the cascading, crashing waters of Europe’s largest waterfall backed by a fairy tale castle. Magic. 
• Best for adventurers: head to the  Gotthard Pass along the Tremola to snap snaking hairpin bends. 
• Best for culture vultures: Bellinzona’s Montebello Castle  is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers mighty fine views of the region.

View of Castelgrande from Montebello Castle, Bellinzona © elesi/Shutterstock

• Best for winter wonderland fans: it goes without saying that the majestic Matterhorn offers countless opportunities to take sensational scenic shots.
• Best for bookworms: fans of children’s literature (and rustic charm) will take inspiration from their photos of Heidi House . 

For more inspiration, read up on the best photo spots on the Grand Tour of Switzerland that are marked along the route.

If you’re considering going on a Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip, you’ll want to arm yourself with rules and regulations of the road. 

Switzerland’s minimum driving age is 18 and third-party insurance is compulsory. It’s also compulsory to carry a red warning triangle, and the vehicle registration documents.  

If you plan to drive on Swiss motorways, you must stick a vignette inside your windscreen. Buy it from the customs officials when you first cross the border, or at post offices and petrol stations. 

Switzerland and Liechtenstein drive on the right, seatbelts are compulsory for all, and penalties for drink driving are tough. One glass of beer has you on or over the limit. 

Speed limits are 120kph (75mph) on motorways, 80kph (50mph) on main roads, 50kph (30mph) in urban areas, and 30kph (18mph) or less on residential streets. There are dozens of cameras, radars and laser traps to catch speeders, with spot fines levied. 

Trams and buses have priority on Switzerland's roads © MrinaD_37/Shutterstock

At junctions, yellow diamonds painted on the road show who has priority. If in doubt, let trams and buses go first, and give way to traffic coming from your right. On gradients, vehicles heading uphill have priority over those coming down. 

If you hear a loud horn or klaxon sounding on country lanes or twisting mountain roads, it means a postbus is approaching. This always has priority.

In winter, signs indicate where snow-chains are necessary — practise fitting and removing them beforehand.

Switzerland's mountains make a stunning backdrop for road trips © 4kclips/Shutterstock

Want to know more before planning your Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip? Get your hands on a copy of The Rough Guide to Switzerland  and read up on things not to miss in Switzerland .

Our  Switzerland travel tips and guide to accommodation in Switzerland will also help you plan your trip.

Not a fan of planning? You could book a hassle-free tailor-made trip to Switzerland, with customisable itineraries covering the likes of  unforgettable highlights of Switzerland , and touring the Grand Circle .  

This article is brought to you in partnership with  My Switzerland .

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences .

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Travel advice for Switzerland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Switzerland

• Geneva travel guide
• Lausanne travel guide
• Zürich travel guide
• Basel Switzerland Travel Guide (2022 update)
• Bern Travel Guide
• Lucerne Travel Guide
• Lake Geneva Travel Guide
• Northeast Switzerland and Liechtenstein Travel Guide
• Sports and outdoor activities in Switzerland
• Bernese Oberland travel guide
• Jungfrau Region travel guide
• Valais travel guide
• Graubünden Travel Guide
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn travel guide
• Central Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ticino Travel Guide
• Best accommodation in Switzerland
• How to get to Switzerland
• Culture and Etiquette in Switzerland
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Grand Tour of Switzerland

The grand tour at a glance.

To the Online Route

Ecological Variants

In an electric vehicle:.

The Grand Tour of Switzerland is an exciting road trip for electric vehicles, too – for the entire 1,600 kilometer (1,000 mile) route can be covered by electric vehicles, thanks to an extensive network of 200 charging stations along the way.

The journey through Switzerland is even more ecological on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland . With a single train ticket, guests travel in comfort through the whole of Switzerland: sit back, gaze out the window, and enjoy.

Charging Stations:

In the Zurich section, the charging stations for electric vehicles are located here .

The Zurich Section

From Einsiedeln to Schaffhausen

One section of the Grand Tour of Switzerland leads through the canton of Zurich. The route between Einsiedeln and Schaffhausen along the picturesque Lake Zurich offers a host of sights and attractions.

It is well worth stopping to take a stroll over the wooden bridge between Rapperswil and Hurden, for example. Or to admire Sechseläutenplatz and the Opera House in downtown Zurich. Zurich’s famous churches, the Grossmünster and Fraumünster , are even more interesting close up. The Fotomuseum Winterthur in the former industrial town of Winterthur provides fascinating insights into photography, while the Kunsthaus enchants art lovers with the most important collection of modern art in Zurich.

Restaurants Along the Route

On the Grand Tour of Switzerland, travelers can discover the most beautiful places in Switzerland. What’s more, the official Photo Spots guarantee the best snapshots of this adventurous trip.

The ideal restaurant before or after a visit to the Opera House, featuring market-fresh cuisine.

A place steeped in history, with delicious market-fresh cuisine and exciting events.

Bar-lounge in the old boiler room in Winterthur with a wide choice of drinks and US-style cuisine.

Gasthof zur Sonne in Stäfa

Fresh fish with seasonal side dishes – directly on Lake Zurich in Stäfa.

Hirschen am See

Seasonal delicacies with lake view: a culinary oasis of relaxation.

Kronenhalle

The Kronenhalle at Bellevue is absolutely legendary. Not just for its food, but for its art, too.

More than just a kiosk: in the heart of Zurich, directly on the lake – food with a view!

Löwen Meilen

Fish restaurant with garden terrace, bar, and banqueting rooms, directly on Lake Zurich in Meilen.

Restaurant Quellenhof

Swiss-Austrian cuisine in the heart of the Town of Roses, Rapperswil.

Sonnengalerie

Outstanding gourmet cuisine and down-to-earth beer garden-feeling directly next to Lake Zurich.

tibits Seefeld bistro

Vegetarian and vegan self-service restaurant near the Opera House and the NZZ.

Wirtschaft Ziegelhütte

People wishing to relax can find this tiny oasis surrounded by nature on the outskirts of the city.

The Most Beautiful Photo Spots

From the viewing platform by the Hotel Uto Kulm, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view over Lake Zurich and the city.

Polyterrasse

From the Polyterrasse in front of the ETH Zürich, you can look out over the whole of Zurich’s Old Town.

Meilen Lakeside Promenade

In Meilen, the view extends over Lake Zurich all the way to the Alps. And if the ferry has just laid anchor, the scene could hardly be more perfect.

Lake Dam Meadow

The Photo Spot on the meadow opposite Rapperswil-Jona Tourist Information shows the most beautiful view of the picturesque Old Town and castle.

Laufen Castle

The viewing platform at Laufen Castle treats visitors to a spectacular view of the largest waterfall in Europe.

Stäfa Landing Stage

One of the oldest village scenes can be found in Stäfa on Lake Zurich. The harbor and guesthouses dating from the 17th century serve as photo motifs.

Klosterplatz

Locates slightly to the left of Klosterplatz, looking towards the abbey, the Photo Spot perfectly frames this impressive baroque building.

Hotels Along the Route

Travelers like to always be on the move, but even the most avid adventurers occasionally need to sleep. In these hotels along the Zurich section of the route, guests can be sure of getting a particularly good night’s sleep.

Seedamm Plaza Hotel

Modern amenities and thrilling entertainment with a casino, located at the upper end of Lake Zurich.

Hotel Marina Lachen

The varied designer hotel at the southernmost point of Lake Zurich.

Sorell Hotel Speer

A meeting place for people who want to explore the region ‒ whether on business or privately.

Gasthof Hirschen am See

A little piece of heaven on Lake Zurich, just 15 minutes from the city center.

Romantik Seehotel Sonne

The romantic hotel with its own sunbathing lawn, directly on Lake Zurich.

Sorell Hotel Seefeld

Relaxation and service at an international level in the beautiful Seefeld quarter.

Hotel Ameron Zurich Bellerive au Lac

Stylish and central ‒ the famous 1930s hotel combines modern comfort with the elegance of the past.

The Dolder Grand

The perfect hotel for all those who appreciate exclusivity, comfort, and Swiss luxury.

Hotel Europe

The hotel in the Seefeld quarter for a romantic stay in the heart of the city of Zurich.

Park Hyatt Zurich

Contemporary design and perfect harmony between modern concepts and personal service.

Design & Boutique Hotel Plattenhof

The stylish and quiet Design & Boutique Hotel in the heart of the city.

Sorell Hotel Rigiblick

Elegant apartments and regional specialties high above the rooftops of Zurich.

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The Grand Tour of Switzerland (#SwissGrandTour) invites you to one of the dream sections of the highlights of Switzerland – from glaciers to palm trees, from rustic mountain villages to pulsing cities, from quaint accommodations to luxury hotels.

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The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a journey of discovery, which brings together the highlights of Switzerland in one trip. The path is the goal during the Grand Tour of Switzerland. This section takes you over 1,600 kilometres through some of the most beautiful areas of Switzerland and shows you how varied, multifaceted and also spectacular our country is.

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Grand Tour of Switzerland: Discover our country

Zurich - Schaffhausen

There is far more to Zurich than its airport, banks and Bahnhofstrasse. Winterthur is also worth a visit, with its museums and rich heritage.

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Davos - St.Moritz

The canton of the "Grey League" – part of the old Roman province of Raetia – stretches from the Bünder Herrschaft to the southern Alps.

Furka - Visp

The Valais region comprises countless small valleys leading down to the Rhône Valley, sun-drenched villages on the plains and in the mountains, 45 peaks over 4,000 metres above sea level and a distinctive, bilingual culture.

Neuchâtel - Fribourg

The Pays des Trois Lacs, between the Jura and the Fribourg region, is remarkable for its lakes and for Mont Vully which lies in the middle.

Bern - Lucerne

The Emmental and the Lucerne hinterland are nestled beneath the Napf, a peak encircled by a 100- kilometre road.

Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland offers the Rhine Falls, the orchards of Thurgau, the city of the Prince-Abbots of St. Gallen and – beyond the Appenzell hills – the impressive Alpstein range, Toggenburg, the Rhine Valley and the Glaris region.

Geneva region

This region between the Jura mountains and the Savoy Alps is marked not only by its river and lake, but also by the international city of Geneva.

«Palme e neve»

Tis is to define the most Italian of Swiss cantons in a nutshell. The shores of its lakes reflect an entirely Mediterranean lifestyle and nonchalance, while life in the mountains is harsh and rural.

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Grand Tour of Switzerland

This route will lead you 1000 miles through four language regions, over five Alpine passes, to eleven UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as two biospheres and along 22 lakes. This tour provides a concentrated insight into Switzerland, with exquisite scenic views and cultural jewels. The Grand Tour of Switzerland is an individual experience by car. This tour takes you to Engadin and St. Moritz at an altitude of 1,800 m in the inspiring high valley of the Engadin at the southeastern corner of Switzerland on the southern side of the Alps. Breathtaking views, a valley of seemingly endless expanse, thrilling contrasts, and the exceptional quality of the light: all these attributes make the region an absolute paradise. Glamorous, world-famous St. Moritz is just as much an attraction as the rugged, unspoilt natural beauty of the Upper Engadin and the picturesque, traditionsteeped Engadin villages.

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From palm-lined lakeshores to sparkling glaciers, from medieval villages to buzzing cities – the Grand Tour of Switzerland packs in an incredible number of sights. The concentration of attractions is unrivalled worldwide.

All you need for unforgettable holidays

“Impressive”, “incredible”, fabulous”: descriptions of holiday experiences in the Engadin are typically full of enthusiasm. Find out for yourself – as you discover dramatic spectacles of nature, for example, such as the Cavaglia glacier garden. Or view the world from a fresh perspective – on a helicopter sightseeing flight, perhaps. Or become part of the show yourself – as a participant on a vintage car rally, for example. The wealth and extraordinary variety of activities on offer in our region guarantee unforgettable holidays, whatever your budget. Let yourself be inspired by the boundless diversity of the Engadin!

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Discover what makes Engadin and St. Moritz so unique on the Grand Tour for 40 km.

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The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a road trip of over 1,600km through the whole of Switzerland, passing by all the country’s highlights. Discover the most beautiful lakes, Alpine passes and all the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Exploring, planning and navigating the route becomes even simpler with the Grand Tour app. Choosing from the predefined route sections is very easy, or plan your own journey exactly as you please. The app helps you plan journey times and distances, tells you which highlights you can visit and guides you conveniently and easily along the route to the most beautiful spots in Switzerland. More advantages of the Grand Tour app: - Navigation to all the highlights and back to the main route - “Around Me” function with inspiring tips, accommodation opportunities and electric charging stations - Overview of all Grand Tour photo spots with best views guaranteed - Information about Switzerland’s most important highlights

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incl. 50% on mountain excursions & public transport

Grand Tour of Switzerland - Original

9 days / 8 nights.

The self-drive Grand Tour of Switzerland takes you on a 1,600 km tour through the most beautiful regions of Switzerland. Past lush green meadows and deep blue lakes, over winding pass roads and from picturesque mountain villages into the lively hustle and bustle of the city.

• Zurich - Lucerne
• Lucerne - Zurich

• 50% on mountain excursions & public transport (for foreign travellers only)
• 4 language regions
• 5 Alpine passes & 22 lakes
• 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Highest point: Furka Pass 2'429 m.a.s.l.
• Lowest point: Lago Maggiore, 193 m.a.s.l.
• Very good road infrastructure (road condition, petrol stations along the route)

«Of course a photo in front of the famous photo spot of the Grand Tour should not be missing.»

Your itinerary.

• Europe's biggest waterfall
• Discover how cheese is made in Appenzell
• Castello Montebello, Bellinzona
• Aletsch Glacier Riederalp
• Photo spot at Lake Lucerne in Brunnen

Overnight stay in Zurich.

Highlights: Museums (such as National Museum, Art Museum, Zurich’s Museum of Design, FIFA Museum), galleries, shopping paradise, Uetliberg, Grossmünster church

Zürich - St. Gallen / approx. 150 km

Drive from Zurich via the Rhine Falls to St. Gallen. Overnight stay in St. Gallen.

Highlights : Europe’s largest waterfall, the charming old town of St.Gallen, Abbey library of St. Gallen library

St. Gallen - Davos / approx. 160 km

Journey from St. Gallen through Appenzell and via Maienfeld to Davos. Overnight stay in Davos.

Highlights : rolling hills landscape in Appenzell, Heidi’s Village in Maienfeld

Davos - Lugano / approx. 290 km

Journey from Davos via the Engadin to Lugano. Overnight stay in Lugano.

Highlights : Guarda – the village of Schellenursli, Swiss National Park in Zernez, the train experience on the Bernina Express, hike on Muottas Muragl, world famous St. Moritz

Lugano - Zermatt / approx. 215 km

Journey from Lugano via Bellinzona and passes St. Gotthard and Furka to Täsch. From there take the train to Zermatt. Overnight stay in Zermatt.

Highlights : Monte Brè, Ascona, Bellinzona, alpine passes St.Gotthard and Furka, Aletsch Glacier

Zermatt - Montreux / approx. 150 km

Journey from Zermatt and Täsch along the river Rhone through the Valais via Sion and Martigny to Montreux. Overnight stay in Montreux.

Highlights : Imposing mountains around Zermatt, Gornergrat, religious gold treasures in Saint-Maurice, Castle Chillon, Lake Geneva

Montreux - Gstaad / approx. 330 km

From Montreux through the Lavaux vineyards, via Lausanne, Geneva, Fribourg and Gruyère regions to GstaadOvernight stay in Gstaad.

Highlights : Lavaux wine region, Olympic Museum, Freiburg, Greyerzer region with cheese factories, Cailler chocolate factory

Gstaad - Luzern / approx. 315 km

The journey continues from Gstaad, via Interlaken, Bern and through the Emmental and Entlebuch to Lucerne. Overnight stay in Luzern.

Highlights : chalet village of Gstaad, Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, old town of Bern, Emmental cheese factory

Luzern - Zürich / approx. 140 km 

From Lucerne it goes along Lake Lucerne and Altdorf and Schwyz to Zurich.

Highlights : On Wilhelm Tell’s traces in Altdorf, Luzern, the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, excursions mountains Rigi, Pilatus und Stanserhorn

• 8 nights with breakfast in Zurich, St. Gallen, Davos, Lugano, Zermatt, Montreux, Gstaad, Lucerne
• Swiss Half Fare Card (only for people not resident in Switzerland or Liechtenstein)
• 2nd class train ticket Täsch-Zermatt-Täsch
• "Grand Tour of Switzerland" road map from Hallwag
• "Grand Tour of Switzerland" travel guide
• Swiss Coupon Pass with "Eat and Experience" - 2 for 1 offers with a total value of up to CHF 4,500
• From price applies per person in a 3-star double room
• Booking period: all year round Travel period: 01.04. - 23.10.2024
• Price example calculated on 01.03.2024 for 29.09.2024 

Good to know

• Travel documents are sent by email if possible, in exceptional cases by post.
• Additional overnight stays in Geneva, Gstaad, Lucerne, Zermatt, Montreux, Geneva bookable
• The route only crosses motorways if it is absolutely necessary to do so
• If you use your own car, a highway vignette is required. This can be purchased directly online  as an e-vignette.
• Rental car can be booked optionally.
• Recommended travel time: May - October
• Please inform yourself about the road conditions at www.alpen-paesse.ch before you start your journey.
• Alternatives such as tunnels or car transport possible
• Would you like to make someone happy? Why not offer them the trip as a gift ?

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Grand Tour of Switzerland

Experience switzerland., from palm-lined lakes to magnificent glacier landscapes..

Want to discover the best of Switzerland, preferably on one route? Then the Grand Tour of Switzerland is perfect for you. This road trip covers 1,600 kilometres through the most beautiful areas of Switzerland. You will discover four language regions, drive over five Alpine passes to twelve UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two biospheres and along 22 lakes. We invite you on a journey of discovery through Switzerland and warmly welcome you to the Grand Tour of Switzerland in Brig.

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Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: A Detailed Guide

Dreaming of exploring Switzerland by train? So am I, which is precisely why I prepared this detailed guide to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland!

One travel pass gives you access to all the country’s trains, including those panoramic trains with massive windows that pass through surreally beautiful sceneries. The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a bucket-list travel experience that covers 1,280 kilometers of the country on an epic 11-day journey, and here’s everything else you need to know about it!

Table of Contents

8 Sections of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is divided into eight sections, according to the specific routes that are operated by panoramic trains. We’ll tell you about all the different sections and trains right here, so you can create your own personal Grand Train Tour of the Alpine country!

And if you want to check out the map before you start, I have added it below for easy reference.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

Zürich is usually the starting point for traveling through the country because it’s got the largest and busiest international airport in Switzerland. Most travelers who fly to the country arrive at this airport, so it makes perfect sense to begin your journey in this beautiful city.

The first leg of the journey takes you to three cities, and four lakes, and treats you to some fantastic scenery during the train journey. At Luzern, you board a panoramic train to Interlaken, and that ride is easily the highlight of this entire journey. The Luzern-Interlaken express train passes through beautiful mountain landscapes, featuring waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and mesmerizing scenery before it arrives at Interlaken, the beautiful town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Distance: 131 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

The second section of the train journey through Switzerland takes you from the beautiful town of Interlaken to Zweisimmen, where you can ride trains on the panoramic GoldenPass line to Montreux. The train passes next to castles, through pastures, and hills, for a wonderfully scenic journey full of marvelous sights.

You can choose to ride one of the two Golden Pass trains – the Panoramic or the Belle Epoque. The Panoramic train is the better option if you want to admire the scenery during the ride because it features huge windows, with windows on the roof in 1st class. The Belle Epoque train is decorated in Belle Epoque style and it feels like traveling back in time, and it’s great for travelers who want to discover a unique way to travel in Switzerland.

Distance: 120 kilometers

Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

When you’re done exploring the beautiful city on the shore of Lake Geneva, board a train to Visp. The train journey through southern Switzerland passes through several valleys, and it is incredibly scenic. Visp is one of the sunniest places in Switzerland, and after a quick exploration of the town, you can board the train to Zermatt.

The car-free village of Zermatt is a popular ski resort, but also just a magical Swiss destination overall. During the train ride, you’re treated to beautiful views of the Rhone River valley along the way, and when you can see the iconic Matterhorn, you’ll know that you’re getting pretty close to Zermatt.

The village is also popular among mountain climbers who wish to conquer this peak, and there’s even a museum in town dedicated to ascents on the Matterhorn.

Distance: 148 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in Switzerland takes you from the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt to cosmopolitan St. Moritz. You’ll ride the Glacier Express , a panoramic train that crosses over 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels.

The entire journey is around 8 hours long, and it’s by far the longest train journey of the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Time flies on the train if you keep your eyes peeled on the magical scenery, making the long journey easily enjoyable.

Chur is an optional stop along this route. The beautiful town is about halfway between Zermatt and St. Moritz, and it’s worth checking out if you have enough time in Switzerland.

Distance: 291 kilometers

Time: 7 hours 45 minutes

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From the glacial landscapes of St. Moritz to palm trees in Lugano – the Bernina Express panoramic train takes passengers on a ride through southern Switzerland and northern Italy, in an epic 7-hour journey.

The panoramic train takes you from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy, allowing you to discover some truly magical landscapes along the way. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountain passes, tall peaks, and mesmerizing lakes are just some of the highlights you’ll get to see during the journey.

At Tirano, you can board the Bernina Express Bus towards Lugano via Como. Situated on the shore of Lake Lugano, the beautiful city offers a plethora of fun and exciting things to do to its visitors, from decadent restaurants to fabulous hiking trails.

Distance: 154 kilometers

Time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Lugano – Bellinzona – Flüelen – Luzern

The Lugano-Luzern section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the main reason why you should plan to do this tour in the summer months if you want to experience all the highlights of the journey. The Gotthard Panorama Express operates only between April and October, and it’s another panoramic train that offers stunning views during the journey.

The panoramic train will take you from Lugano to Flüelen, where you board a boat that transports you across Lake Lucerne to the city. It’s an amazing experience and without a doubt one of the highlights of the entire tour, so it’s worth it to plan your trip around it.

Treno Gottardo is an alternative for travelers who can’t make the trip between April and October. It transports passengers between Lugano and Lucerne on the Gotthard route, and the train is in operation year-round. This train is also two hours quicker than the panoramic route, but the views along the way aren’t quite as amazing.

Distance: 182 kilometers

Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Luzern – St. Gallen

Board the Voralpen Express train from Luzern to St. Gallen to experience one of the most beautiful railway lines in Switzerland. During the two-hour train journey, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks, the Rapperswil damn and its castle, and the highest railway bridge in the country, the Sitter Viaduct.

And that’s all before you arrive at St. Gallen, the beautiful town near Lake Constance. The attractions in the town include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, an excellent museum, and breathtaking nature in the city’s immediate surroundings.

Distance: 125 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The final leg of this epic journey has travelers returning to Zürich from St. Gallen. The train ride offers travelers a glimpse of maritime Switzerland because the train travels next to a body of water for the majority of the ride. First, you’ll ride along the shore of Lake Constance for about 40 kilometers, and then the train follows the Rhine river downstream.

Schaffhausen is an optional stop along this route and is entirely worth it if you want to see the largest cascades in Europe. The Rhine Falls are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a quick detour on the final leg of your Switzerland tour.

Board the train back to Zürich at Schaffhausen and you can be in the financial metropolis in 30-50 minutes. Use the time you have left in Switzerland to explore the city – walk along Bahnhofstrasse, see Lake Zurich, and climb the Karlsturm tower at Grossmünster for fabulous panoramic views before it’s time to head to the airport.

Length: 133 kilometers

Grand Train Tour Suggested Itineraries

If the idea of traveling by train for more than 1,000 kilometers is a bit overwhelming, consider doing one of the suggested itineraries. These cover certain parts of the Grand Train Tour, so they’re shorter and more affordable than doing the entire journey. Also, you can book pre-arranged packages for each of these itineraries, which will include train tickets, accommodation, meals, and even tickets to select tourist attractions!

Original Tour

The Original Tour allows you to discover most highlights of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland during one week of traveling. Your journey starts in Lucerne and ends in St. Gallen, so it differs from the full-length tour in that it bypasses Zurich entirely.

The cities you will visit during the 8 days of the Original Tour are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and St. Gallen, and you get to ride on all the panoramic trains.

Existing packages for this itinerary start at CHF 1280, and they include accommodation with breakfast in all the cities and seat reservations for the panoramic trains.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Classic Tour

The Classic Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a 7-day itinerary that allows passengers to discover 7 different cities in the country. Your journey begins and ends in Lucerne, and during the week of traveling, you get to discover most highlights of southern Switzerland.

Zurich and St. Gallen aren’t included in this itinerary, but all the other places visited on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland are. You’ll travel to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and back to Lucerne, all the while riding on the country’s iconic panoramic trains.

The prices for pre-arranged Classic Tour packages start at CHF 1140, which includes train travel, seat reservations, accommodation with breakfast, and even a 1st class upgrade on the Gotthard Panorama Express train.

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights

Top Attractions Tour

If you can’t spare the two weeks necessary to complete the full Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, consider doing a shorter version of it. That’s exactly what the Top Attractions Tour itinerary is, which takes you to five different cities in just five days.

Your journey begins in Lucerne and it includes access to two panoramic trains – the Golden Pass train and the Glacier Express. The places visited during this five-day itinerary are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, and Chur, so you can experience all the most famous attractions in southern Switzerland.

Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 650, which includes accommodation with breakfast, seat reservations, and public transport to a place of your choosing from Chur.

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Glacier & Palm Trees Tour

The Glacier & Palm Trees Tour is the best itinerary for people who just want to ride on the panoramic trains. This four-day adventure includes two of the best panoramic trains in Switzerland – the Bernina Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express.

The itinerary begins with an overnight stay in St. Moritz, the cosmopolitan village known for luxury and glamour. On day two, you ride the Bernina Express train to Tirano and then the Bernina Express bus to Lugano, and enjoy views of beautiful lakes and palm trees.

On day three, passengers will board the Gotthard Panorama Express train to Lucerne, where they will spend the rest of their time in Switzerland. Packages with accommodation, breakfast, and seat reservations for this quick Swiss excursion start at CHF 660.

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Stunning Waters Tour

The Stunning Water Tour is a short and affordable itinerary that beings in Zurich. You’re only traveling for three days and two nights, discovering the cities on the shores of Switzerland’s most impressive lakes.

Zurich, Lucerne, and St. Gallen are included in this short itinerary. Packages for this route start at just CHF 300, and they include overnight stays in Zurich and St. Gallen. This itinerary includes a ride on the panoramic Voralpen Express train, which allows you to discover spectacular scenery and UNESCO World Heritage Sites from the comfort of your train seat.

The last day of the journey includes a ride from St. Gallen to Schaffhausen. You’re riding along the shore of Lake Constance for some 40 kilometers, and then you get to tour Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Hidden Treasures Tour

The Hidden Treasures Tour is another short three-day itinerary suitable for budget travelers. The itinerary includes visits to four cities – Interlaken, Lucerne, Domodossola, and Locarno – with overnight stays in Interlaken and Locarno.

On the third and final day of the tour, you get to ride in 1st class on the Gotthard Panorama Express train and enjoy stunning scenic views while traveling back to Lucerne. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 240, which includes two overnight stays with breakfast, train tickets, and seat reservations.

Winter Magic Tour

The Winter Magic Tour is the perfect train trip through Switzerland for people who want to discover the country in the winter. Rolling hills and turquoise lake waters give way to glaciers, frozen lakes, and snow-capped mountains in this epic 7-day journey through central Switzerland.

The tour explores four towns – Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz – with multiple overnight stays in the same locations. This allows you to thoroughly explore these beautiful towns and gives you enough time to explore all the mountains you want in the Alps.

The itinerary includes a ride on the Glacier Express train and an optional ride on the Bernina Panorama Winter train. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 940, which includes overnight stays with breakfast and a seat reservation for the Glacier Express.

The Swiss Rail Pass And Packages

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can cost you anywhere from a few hundred Swiss francs to a few thousand, depending on the type of ticket/package you purchase.

A Swiss Travel Pass is all you need to be able to travel on the Swiss trains, and the prices start at 232 CHF for a three-day pass. The longer the validity of the pass, the more it’s going to cost. Also, keep in mind that the Swiss Travel Pass only covers the cost of the train rides – accommodation, meals, and tickets to attractions are all coming out of your budget. Read this guide for more info about the Swiss Travel Pass.

That’s precisely why many people choose to book package deals, which include all of the above, as well as train travel. You can purchase a package that covers any of the suggested itineraries, and even the full Grand Train Tour that covers the entire 1280 kilometers of the route.

Additionally, you will need to spend extra money on the seat reservation for the panoramic trains. Reservations are necessary, and they’re usually around 20 CHF per seat, regardless of the class.

Finally, I would encourage you to pay extra for a 1st class travel pass, if you can afford it. The panoramic trains have windows that are either on the roof or curve over the roof in 1st class, for truly spectacular views the entire time. It will bring the train journey experience to a whole new level, and it’s worth the extra money.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

If you’re going to tour Switzerland by train, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app is a great travel companion. It contains information on all the legs of the journey, as well as the highlights and top tourist attractions of all the cities and towns that you can visit during the tour.

The travel app also offers coupons that can get you anything from free drinks to first-class upgrades on trains and boats, plus you can collect points for every new place you visit. Travelers are encouraged to visit tourist information offices in each of the cities they visit to redeem unique prizes and collect codes, which they can then use to collect stamps within the app.

The app is free and it costs nothing to install it on your phone, but it has lots of benefits. In addition to all the extra features, this app can track your location and display the nearby attractions in all towns. It’s a great way to ensure you don’t get lost while discovering Switzerland, as well as a detailed journey of your entire trip.

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Customized in-app Mapbox navigation provides Grand Tour of Switzerland with turn-by-turn directions for visitors’ personalized tours

Key benefits of building with Mapbox

• High customer satisfaction with new in-app navigation features
• Easy integration with both iOS and Android applications
• A reliable maps and navigation platform even during peak tourist times

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About Schweiz Tourismus

The Grand Tour of Switzerland is a road trip through the whole of Switzerland, showcasing all the country has to offer, from beautiful lakes and alpine passes to scenic towns and World Heritage sites. The tour is curated by Schweiz Tourismus, the tourism agency of Switzerland. It is the ultimate cross-platform tourist experience, spanning physical locations and tour routes, extensive highway signage, an immersive website, collectible NFTs, and the mobile app on iOS and Android.

The value of tailored navigation

At 1,600km and over 90 recommended stops, the tour is a lot to take in. To help guests plan their experience, Schweiz Tourismus built the Grand Tour app . The Schweiz Tourismus team realized that the app experience could do much more than route planning — the app could accompany visitors along the entire journey, like a personalized tour guide helping them navigate their planned route while on the road. The app needed not only a thoughtful route planning experience, but also a navigation experience that would feel customized and integrated within the Grand Tour app.

Mapbox Navigation products offer the performance and flexibility for personalized tour routes

For Switzerland Tourism and their developers at the Swiss digital agency JLS , Mapbox was the answer. Mapbox Navigation services are customizable enough to integrate into the Grand Tour app, with support for both iOS and Android, and flexible enough to accommodate both recommended route sections predefined by Schweiz Tourismus and any custom routes designed by guests.

The app helps plan drive time and distances, recommends highlights to visit, and guides drivers conveniently and easily along the route with a map and turn-by-turn directions all without leaving the app, thanks to the package of features within the Mapbox Navigation SDK . The app also encourages visitors to choose an electric vehicle for their journey by providing information on charging stations along the planned route.

Drivers appreciate the customized routing experience

After only 6 months, the Grand Tour app has already been downloaded 40,000 times by tourists traveling to Switzerland and secured app ratings over 4.5 stars, including placing No. 20 in the Navigation apps category of the Apple app store. Reviews by users specifically mention the navigation experience and how they appreciate that the app drives them through their route.

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Swiss Culture and History in European perspective

The grand tour of switzerland.

13 October 2021

It is not only (constitutional) history, (direct) democracy and the functioning of (autonomous) cantons that make Switzerland a special country.

The diversity of (cultural) landscapes in a relatively small area is also impressive. Switzerland’s so-called “Grand Tour” is a tour of fascinating locations. It is no longer the journey of sons (and sometimes a daughter) of (English) aristocrats in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries but a destination for everyone.

The country has more than 40 peaks with an altitude of more than four kilometres, but also many larger and smaller lakes and rivers at an altitude of only a few hundred metres.

Travellers will find glaciers and promenades with palm trees in neighbouring cantons. Large gorges, e.g. the Rheinschlucht or the Viamala (bad road in Romansh) in one canton, give way to sloping agricultural areas in cantons further on.

Mountain passes with narrow roads and numerous viaducts for train and road transport, and spacious motorways alternate. Impermeable areas and agriculture are never far from each other. The oldest abbeys are on the same Tour as places with modern architecture and museums.

The young English aristocrats were mostly on their way to Italy. The modern tourist will find everything that European nature and (cultural) history offer on this Tour.

Everything, not everything. According to the Glacier Garden (Gletschergarten) in Lucerne, it was millions of years ago that Switzerland was covered by the sea.

(further information about the Grand Tour: www.myswitserland.com ).

The first Grand Tour test and a rare team time trial – La Vuelta Femenina

Cyclingnews highlights the talking points ahead of the eight-day stage race in Spain

The Spring Classics are officially done, and the first Grand Tour on the women's international calendar is upon us as the peloton lineup at 2024 Vuelta Femenina from April 28 to May 5. 

Although there is limited time to transition between the two very different styles of racing, many of the main contenders for the Vuelta have already been preparing in between one-day races this spring at altitude training camps to help build the strength and stamina needed for the higher mountains and back-to-back race days.

Cyclingnews highlights some of the main talking points ahead of the eight-day race.

Join Cyclingnews for coverage of the  2024 La Vuelta Femenina , and check in after each race for our full report, results, gallery, news and features.

Demi Vollering's first stage racing test

Demi Vollering heads into La Vuelta Femenina as the big favourite, and it will be the first major test of her stage racing targets. She has had a slower start to the season with speculation that that may have been planned so that she is fresher for big races later in the year.

She has only competed in one-day races so far this spring, and although she hasn't won a race yet, she has finished on the podium in four major events: Strade Bianche, Brabantse Pijl, Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. 

This means that while she may not be in her best form, yet, and that she is on an upward trajectory as the peloton heads into stage racing season.

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Last year, Vollering won two stages on the uphill into Mirador de Peñas Llanas and atop Lagos de Covadonga, but she was nine seconds shy of taking the overall won by now-retired Annemiek van Vleuten.

Vollering went on to win the Tour de France Femmes last year, but she has not yet won the overall titles at the Giro d'Italia or the La Vuelta, which are undoubtedly two other Grand Tour career goals.

The longer climbs of La Vuelta Femenina will cater to her strengths, especially after her early-season altitude training camp, and with a stage in the Pyrenees, and three mountaintop summit finishes, Vollering could turn a podium into a victory this year.

A rare team time trial

La Vuelta Femenina has been increased to eight stages and will once again begin with a team time trial, this time in Valencia.

The team time trial is becoming increasingly rare in women's racing, outside of the mixed team relay at the European and World Championships.  No other event currently hosts this discipline on the Women's WorldTour, although there are a couple of late-season events that have not announced routes.

La Vuelta's opening team time trial will include a flat 16km, out-and-back, that will favour the most powerful teams, and with the event's first leader's jersey on the line, it is an important stage.

Due to the lack of team time trials throughout the season, some teams might not have placed an emphasis on training specifically for this discipline, while others will have fine-tuned their equipment, team cohesion, technique and strength.

Look for teams like Lidl-Trek, SD Worx-Protime , Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL, and last year's TTT winners Visma-Lease a Bike to be among those in contention for the stage win.

No Van Vleuten, but a lot of competition

Last year's champion, Annemiek van Vleuten , is now retired, and while her absence will have left a void in the peloton, there is more depth in the field this year than ever before.

If the Women's WorldTour racing so far is any indication, there hasn't been one dominant rider or team throughout the first four months of racing. 

There have been five wins from SD Worx-Protime between Lotte Kopecky and Lorena Wiebes, three wins from Visma-Lease a Bike between Marianne Vos and Rosita Reijnhout, three wins from Lidl-Trek between Elisa Balsamo and Elisa Longo Borghini, and a win apiece from AG Insurance-Soudal's Sarah Gigante, Canyon-Sram's Kasia Niewiadoma and FDJ-Suez 's Grace Brown.

La Vuelta Femenina offers eight stages that will suit a range of strengths and abilities, and it is unlikely that one rider or team will dominate the racing. 

Indeed, several riders are in contention to win this year's overall title at La Vuelta Femenina, and Cyclingnews highlights the riders to watch .

Living up to expectations

The growth of La Vuelta Femenina by Carrefour.es may have been slow at first, starting out as a one-day race in 2015 but organisers have gradually built upon its foundation each year.

The race moved to a multi-day format with two stages in 2018 and a three-day race in 2020. Organisers added a stage in each subsequent edition until it reached seven-day race in 2023, and many believe was Grand Tour level on the women's calendar as rivalling the Tour de France Femmes and the Giro d'Italia Women.

Organisers haven't stopped there, adding an eighth stage for its 10th edition this year, and while it will not showcase Lagos de Covadonga, the peloton will tackle the significant ascent across the final four days of racing.

Three mountaintop finishes, all previously featured in men’s events, are likely to define the overall standings: Fuerte Rapitán on stage 5, Laguna Negra de Vinuesa on stage 6, and Valdesquí. Comunidad de Madrid on stage 8.

Cyclingnews highlights the full route details of 2024 La Vuelta Femenina .

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Kirsten Frattini is the Deputy Editor of Cyclingnews , overseeing the global racing content plan.

Kirsten has a background in Kinesiology and Health Science. She has been involved in cycling from the community and grassroots level to professional cycling's biggest races, reporting on the WorldTour, Spring Classics, Tours de France, World Championships and Olympic Games.

She began her sports journalism career with Cyclingnews as a North American Correspondent in 2006. In 2018, Kirsten became Women's Editor – overseeing the content strategy, race coverage and growth of women's professional cycling – before becoming Deputy Editor in 2023.

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From tradition to modernity Unique overnight experiences along the Grand Tour of Switzerland

Discover along the Grand Tour of Switzerland a fascinating range of accommodations – from idyllic mountain chalets with traditional charm to modern urban oases. Our selection of unique lodging experiences promises not only restful sleep but also a multifaceted journey through Swiss landscape and culture. Find the perfect accommodation for your unforgettable stay.

Stage 1: Zurich - Appenzell

The dolder grand, zürich.

The renovation and new construction by the renowned London architects Foster and Partners have made the Dolder into a luxury hotel of superlatives. Like a landmark, it perches in an elevated position with views of the city, lake, and mountains. 176 spacious rooms and suites, 1 fine dining restaurant (2 Michelin stars and 19 GaultMillau points), an all-day dining restaurant, bar, and exclusive Japanese-inspired spa spanning 4000 m2.

Einstein StGallen, St. Gallen

The rich textile history left architectural traces: The "Einstein" is a classical, five-story building from 1830. It is furnished with fine fabrics from renowned St. Gallen fabric producers. Top-notch restaurants with wine and beer from the region. UNESCO World Heritage Site monastery and collegiate district within walking distance; not far from Lake Constance and Appenzell.

Stage 2: Appenzell - St. Moritz

Aparthotel muchetta, davos wiesen.

Thanks to the comfortable apartments and family rooms, the benefits of a spacious apartment can be combined with the amenities of a hotel room. Small wellness facility with children's paddling pool and massages. Childcare from 3 years old in the play paradise. Panoramic restaurant for half board and à-la-carte dishes.

Hotel Castell, Zuoz

Alpine art hotel in a magnificent panoramic location. Today, the 4-star superior Hotel combines Engadine tradition, wellness, nature, and modern architecture: Unique features include the red bar by Pipilotti Rist, the hammam, hotel cinema, the nostalgic dining room, and the wooden terrace with rock pool by Tadashi Kawamata. 68 modern rooms, kids' club. Refined gastronomy, local and seasonal cuisine. Ideal for winter sports, golf, hiking, biking.

Stage 3: St. Moritz - Bellinzona

Parkhotel delta wellbeing, ascona.

The traditional four-star hotel, surrounded by a subtropical park, is located between the inspiring cities of Ascona and Locarno. The 50 rooms and suites are elegantly furnished in a classic southern style. Ideal for those seeking relaxation, golfers, athletes, business guests, and families. Two excellent restaurants, wellness facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, mini-golf, volleyball, playground, banquet halls, transfer service from the train station, complimentary bicycles.

Swiss Diamond Hotel Lake Lugano, Vico Morcote

A traditional 5-star resort away from the hustle and bustle in the picturesque Morcote. Located directly on the waterfront. Spacious, elegant rooms with all comforts, magnificent views of the lake. Two gourmet restaurants, one with panoramic views, two bars. Three modern conference and banquet rooms for seminars and events. Spa, pools, beauty treatments. Free parking, shuttle to Lugano.

Stage 4: Bellinzona – Zermatt

Radisson blu hotel reussen, andermatt.

State-of-the-art 4-star hotel in the up-and-coming district of "Reussen" in Andermatt. Spacious, elegant design rooms in Scandinavian-Alpine style. Special room categories: Hybrid rooms with office infrastructure, residences with practical kitchens, luxurious suites for up to 7 people. Rich breakfast buffet. Steam bath, two saunas, indoor pool, spa, fitness center. Restaurant, conference and seminar rooms.

Aktiv Hotel Spa Hannigalp, Grächen

The family-friendly hotel is located in the car-free village district of Grächen on the sunny terrace in the Matterhorn Valley. All rooms have recently been renovated, and six new superior rooms also meet the needs of discerning guests. The hotel's own wellness area offers an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, solarium, and massages. Hotel Hannigalp is an active, uncomplicated holiday hotel. Guests can look forward to genuine hospitality with charm and ambiance.

Stage 5: Zermatt – Lausanne

The omnia, zermatt.

The lodge perches 45 meters above the village on a rock. Through a tunnel, the guest reaches the elevator embedded in the rock, which takes them up to the lobby, floating at nearly 1650 meters above sea level. 30 rooms, including 12 suites, a library, restaurant with open fireplaces, lounge bar, boardroom, cavern, and two sun terraces high above the roofs of Zermatt. Wellness area with a view of the Matterhorn.

Hostellerie Bon Rivage, La-Tour-de-Peilz

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, this cozy 3-star superior hotel dates back to 1864. One of its most famous guests was Richard Wagner. With tasteful interior design, spacious and stylish rooms, some with balconies. Sun terrace, park, just a few steps to the marina and beach. Excellent market cuisine featuring vegetables from the hotel garden and freshly caught fish from the lake.

Stage 6: Lausanne – Neuchâtel

Hôtel bristol genève, geneva.

An elegant 4-star city hotel full of charm in the heart of Geneva, close to the lake, offering the luxury of a 5-star hotel. Exclusive "Ladies First Suites," designed by women for women. Spacious, luxurious rooms, suites up to 100m2 equipped with Louis XV antiques and marble bathrooms. Excellent cuisine, with 16 Gault Millau points. Historic bar. SPA with fitness, hammam, saunas.

Hotel des Horlogers, Le Brassus

Located at the entrance of the Vallée de Joux, the Hôtel des Horlogers was completely renovated in 2022. The 50 rooms and suites overlooking the Risoud Forest meet the highest standards for eco-friendly tourism. The restaurant, designed by chef Emmanuel Renaut, offers dishes made with seasonal products from local producers. The Spa by Alpeor pampers guests with a wide range of customized treatments as well as a wellness area and a fitness room.

Stage 7: Neuchâtel – Bern

Grand hotel les endroits, neuchâtel.

Situated at an altitude of 1111m amidst nature and only 5 minutes from La Chaux-de-Fonds. The 4-star hotel is family-owned and operated. Its excellent cuisine has earned it 13 Gault Millau points and recommendations from the Michelin Guide. The international cuisine features regional specialties, cleverly combined. SPA, wellness center, pool. State-of-the-art seminar and banquet rooms. Lounge bar, vinotèque.

Stage 8: Bern – Zürich

Hotel baren am bundesplatz, bern.

The hotel impresses with its prime location opposite the Federal Palace in Bern and its short walking distance to the train station. A starting point for shopping trips or sightseeing. 70 modern and air-conditioned rooms with their own coffee machine. Breakfast buffet with regional products. Free use of the modern fitness room as well as bicycle rental.

Hotel Pilatus-Kulm, Kriens

Fresh mountain air, stars within reach, panoramic views to the horizon: The historic, listed mountain hotel high up on the Pilatus is worth a visit just for its location alone. Additionally, the 27 rooms and three suites in creative alpine design are captivating. Various restaurants and bars ensure culinary delights, some with nostalgic charm like the authentic "Queen Victoria". Sun terraces, seminar and event rooms, a wide range of leisure activities starting from the hotel.