The Swiss Explorer: History & Heritage Route

Welcome to Switzerland! You’ll arrive in Zurich and enjoy your first day at your leisure in Switzerland’s largest city.

Highlights (Optional): Private transfer available from the airport to your hotel.

Overnight in Zurich

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic journey to the charming, historic town of Appenzell. Famed for its stunning Alpine backdrop and rich cultural heritage, Appenzell offers you the chance to dive into one of Switzerland’s most beloved traditions – cheese-making! Visit the renowned Appenzeller Show Dairy, where you’ll learn the secrets behind crafting their famous cheese and enjoy a tasting experience.

Afterward, take some time to explore the quaint streets of Appenzell, with its beautifully painted buildings and unique local shops. Following lunch, sit back and enjoy the drive to Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, where the rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. Surrounded by mountains, Chur is the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering plenty to discover.

Highlights (Included): Entry to Appenzell Show Dairy with audio guide (self guided).

Overnight in Chur

Begin your day with breakfast before diving into the rich history of Switzerland’s oldest town, Chur. On a private guided tour, you’ll explore its medieval streets while uncovering fascinating stories about the town’s past and the canton of Graubünden, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

After an early lunch, prepare to be amazed as you head to the legendary Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. This towering stone structure, part of the Albula Railway, is an iconic feat of engineering. You’ll experience its grandeur up close from below—an absolute must-see for any traveler.

Your journey continues as you step aboard the nostalgic RhB Historical Train. With its vintage 1920s carriages and historic electric locomotive, this scenic ride to Davos is like stepping back in time. As you glide through the Swiss Alps, the breathtaking views make this an unforgettable experience. Afterward, your driver will return you to Chur for a relaxing evening.

Highlights (Included): Guided city tour of Chur (private guided), visit to Landwasser Viaduct, seat reservation on RhB Nostalgic Train in 2nd Class (Filisur – Davos).

Overnight in Chur

After breakfast, get ready for a thrilling day of history and breathtaking scenery. Your driver will take you from Chur to Realp, where you’ll board the iconic Furka Steam Railway. This historic steam train runs along a mountain route once abandoned but now beautifully restored, offering a rare opportunity to experience travel as it was in the past. As you journey through the majestic Furka Pass, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of rugged alpine landscapes—perfect for photo enthusiasts. There’s plenty of time to explore the stations along the way, where you can get up close to the magnificent steam locomotive and enjoy an early lunch.

After arriving in Oberwald, you’ll rejoin your driver and continue to Brig. Once in Brig, dive into Swiss history with a guided tour of the grand Stockalper Castle. Built by the influential entrepreneur Kaspar Stockalper, this 17th-century palace is a symbol of wealth and power, offering a glimpse into Switzerland’s fascinating past. It’s a day packed with history, stunning vistas, and unforgettable experiences.

Highlights (Included): Seat reservation on Furka Dampfbahn (Steam Railway) in 1st Class (Realp – Oberwald), tour of Stockalper Castle in Brig (privately guided).

Overnight in Brig

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before your driver picks you up for a scenic journey north to the picturesque city of Lucerne. Nestled between a sparkling lake and dramatic mountain peaks, Lucerne is a postcard-perfect destination. Upon arrival, you’ll have the afternoon at your leisure to explore this enchanting lakeside city. Stroll through its charming Old Town, visit the famous Chapel Bridge, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere. 

As evening approaches, prepare for the highlight of the day—a magical 2.5-hour sunset cruise on Lake Lucerne aboard a historic paddle steamer. As you glide across the water, the sun setting behind the surrounding mountains creates a breathtaking backdrop. For an added touch of luxury, enjoy a delightful dinner on board in the ship’s elegant restaurant. This unforgettable experience combines the romance of Switzerland’s natural beauty with the charm of a bygone era.

Highlights (Included): Sunset cruise on an Historical Paddle Steamer on Lake Lucerne in 1st Class.

Highlights (Optional): Dinner on board the paddle steamer.

Overnight in Lucerne

After breakfast, your adventure continues as your driver takes you towards the stunning Bernese Oberland region, with Interlaken as your final destination. On the way, you’ll stop at the charming lakeside town of Brienz, where you’ll embark on an extraordinary journey aboard the historic Brienzer Rothorn Railway. This unique steam-operated train takes you on a scenic climb to the 2,200-meter-high summit of Brienzer Rothorn, offering unbeatable panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Brienz below.  At the summit, take some time to enjoy a leisurely lunch while soaking in the majestic mountain vistas before descending back to Brienz. Afterward, your driver will transfer you to Interlaken, where you’ll settle in for the next two nights. Nestled between two crystal-clear lakes and surrounded by towering peaks, Interlaken is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a perfect base for your upcoming adventures.

Highlights (Included): Excursion to Brienzer Rothorn (self‐guided).

Overnight in Interlaken

After a delightful breakfast, prepare for a full day of nostalgia and scenic splendor aboard the Brünig Dampfbahn. This historic steam train will take you on a captivating journey along the modern Zentralbahn tracks to Giswil. Experience the thrill of traveling behind two different steam locomotives as you traverse the picturesque Brünig Pass, renowned for its steep gradients and stunning alpine scenery. Enjoy the rhythmic chug of the engines and the classic charm of vintage rail travel. 

The train features a bar car where you can indulge in refreshments during a scenic stop in Giswil. This leisurely turnaround offers a chance to stretch your legs and take in the beautiful surroundings before continuing your journey. The Brünig Dampfbahn promises a day filled with the romance of steam trains and breathtaking views, making it a highlight of your Swiss adventure.

Highlights (Included): Seat reservation on Brünig Dampfbahn (Steam Railway) in 2nd Class (Interlaken – Giswil – Interlaken).

Overnight in Interlaken