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| BRIEF |
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The popularized image of Switzerland is almost too perfect and timeless: spectacular Alpine scenery, cozy mountain chalets, dazzling ski runs, window boxes spilling over with red geraniums, tidy cities set on serene lakes, elegant grand hotels. Though you'll undoubtedly encounter these along the way, they don't present a complete picture of this modern country. Switzerland may guard its neutrality and assert its independence, but it is very much an active participant in the world. If you're going for the scenery or for the skiing, there are few places that can equal it (in quality or high prices). And there are few places as clean, safe and orderly as Switzerland. Likewise, few countries have such diversity in terms of culture and language: German is prevalent in Zurich and the northern, central and eastern regions; |
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French in Geneva and the western region; Italian in Lugano and the southern region; and Romansh in St. Moritz and the southeastern region. Despite its varied cultures and linguistic traditions, Switzerland is one of the most politically and economically stable countries in the world. Sunview Travel and Tours includes visits to picturesque Lucerne, the delightful Alpine village of Grindelwald, and trendy Montreux, with many opportunities for hiking or other activities. This trip features travel by train from city to city as well an excursion aboard the popular “Chocolate Train,” with accommodations in charming first class hotels throughout.
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SWITZERLAND ITINERARY
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| Switzerland tour |
Duration
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7 Nights/ 8 Days |
| Places Covered |
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Zirich-Switzerland-Lucerne-Mount Pilatus-Grindelwald-Jungfraujoch-Montreux
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Day 01 : Zurich, Switzerland – Lucerne
Arrive Zurich International Airpor and transfer to your hotel in Lucerne, where the balance of the day is at leisure.
Day 02 : Lucerne
Half-day walking tour of Lucerne. The Old Town has many interesting sites, which you can easily see on foot. Reflect on the history of Lucerne as you walk across the 14th century Chapel Bridge with its paintings of heroic town events. Then cross Mill Bridge to see the "Dance of Death" paintings. Musegg Town Wall, the old city ramparts and the stately Town Hall, displaying suits of armours, remind you of the Middle Ages. Continue on to the Lion Monument memorializing the Swiss Guards who defended the Royal Palace in Versailles during the French Revolution. The afternoon is free for additional sightseeing on your own or shopping in Lucerne.
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Day 03 : Lucerne – Mount Pilatus – Lucerne
Please note that today’s suggested excursion to Mount Pilatus is self-guided. A detailed program and map will be provided for you, along with tickets for this excursion. A private guide may be arranged at an additional charge. This morning, board a first class boat for a leisurely cruise on Lake Lucerne to Alpnachstad. From there, ascend by the steepest cogwheel railway in the world to Mount Pilatus, 7000ft high. On top you have time to walk up to the vista
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point and to admire the magnificent view over the Swiss Alps and Lucerne. Then descend by aerial cable car to Fraekmuentegg, where you change to smaller cable cars that carry you over pine forests and mountain meadows to the village of Kriens. Return to Lucerne by a convenient public bus.
Day 04 : Lucerne – Grindelwald
Transfer by pre-arranged taxi to the Lucerne train station. First Class train from Lucerne to Grindelwald. The hotel bus will meet you in Grindelwald for the transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure.
Day 5 : Grindelwald – Jungfraujoch – Grindelwald
Please note that today’s suggested excursion to Jungfraujoch is self-guided. A detailed program and map will be provided for you, along with tickets for this excursion. A private guide may be arranged at an additional charge. Today, enjoy a full day excursion to Jungfraujoch. Some of Switzerland's most magnificent views are found around the snow-capped peaks of the Jungfrau (13,643 ft/ 4158m), Mönch (13,449 ft/ 4099m) and Eiger (13,026 ft/ 3970m), their rugged flanks made even more awe-inspiring by the greens and golds of nearby hills and valleys. The highest railway in Europe cuts through both the Eiger and the Mönch before terminating at the tip of the majestic Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch station is the highest railway station in Europe. On clear days you can see as far as the Vosges Mountains in
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France and the Black Forest in Germany from the Sphinx observation terrace. The Great Aletsch Glacier begins near the station. One of the many tourist amenities is the Ice Palace, which has several ice sculptures carved in the glacier. There are also a ski and snowboard park, sled rides and restaurants. |
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Day 6 : Grindelwald – Montreux
Transfer by hotel bus to the Grindelwald train station. First Class train from Grindelwald to Montreux via Zweisimmen. You will be met at the Montreux train station by your local guide for a tour of the winelands area. Enjoy the afternoon hiking through the vineyards with a stop for wine tasting along the way. |
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Day 7 : Montreux – Gruyeres – Broc – Montreux
Today, enjoy a fascinating excursion aboard the famous “Chocolate Train.” Ride in first-class comfort in a nostalgic “Belle-Epoque" Pullman car, vintage 1915, and/or the modern panorama car offering stunning views of the vineyards surrounding Montreux and medieval Gruyères. Coffee and a croissant will be served on board. Stopping in Gruyeres, visit the cheese factory where Gruyère cheese is made. You will then have some time to visit Gruyères Castle and take a stroll around town. There is also time for lunch (not included). Re-board the train and continue to Broc, home of the Nestlé Chocolate Factory. View a film presentation about chocolate making and take a brief tour of the factory – then enjoy a chocolate tasting! Return by train to Montreux this afternoon.
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Day 8 : Montreux – Geneva – Depart
Today, transfer by pre-arranged taxi from your hotel to the Montreux train station. First Class train from Montreux direct to Geneva Airport to connect with your departing flight.
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