Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
Exploring by Train
June 22 - July 1, 2027Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
June 22 - July 1, 2027Highlights
- Experience the Glacier 3000
- Taste wines at a UNESCO Lavaux Vineyard
- Visit a Chocolate Factory
- Ride the panoramic GoldenPass Express
- Explore Mt Rigi
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 45% Easy
- 45% Moderate (Multiple walking tours and walking to/from train stations. Extensive train travel where you must be able to board quickly.)
- 10% Strenuous (Altitude can play a factor)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Tuesday, 22 June 2027: Arrive Geneva; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into Geneva no later than 3:00pm and take local transportation to the hotel. The tour begins at 6:00pm in the lobby of our hotel, where we'll make introductions and then enjoy a Welcome Dinner to get better acquainted. Overnight Geneva - 2 nights
Wednesday, 23 June 2027: Walking Tour; Chocolate Factory Visit (B)
Geneva’s lakefront is one of its greatest assets; the familiar Jet d’eau spouts a column of lake water 450 feet in the air, and on a clear day Mont Blanc is visible. The Jardin Anglais (English Garden) is famous for its flower clock, a reflection of Geneva’s preoccupation with watchmaking. Our day begins exploring this beautiful city and it's Old Town on a guided walking tour. This afternoon we gain insight into Switzerland’s long-standing chocolate-making tradition. We visit a chocolate factory and learn about their history while participating in a workshop and of course tasting some delicious chocolate. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Thursday, 24 June 2027: Chillon Castle; UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux Vineyards; Wine Tasting (B,L,D)
Today begins with a train journey to Chillon Castle, a historic fortress set on the edge of Lake Geneva. Its location and preserved interiors offer insight into centuries of regional history. We then continue by train onto the UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux vineyards where the landscapes have been shaped by generations of winemakers. Visit a local winery where we are introduced to the region’s wines alongside a light lunch of local produce. This afternoon we arrive to Vevey, set along the northern shores of Lake Geneva. Once settled, we'll enjoy dinner together. Overnight Vevey – 2 nights
Friday, 25 June 2027: Golden Pass Train to Glacier 3000; Cable Car Ride (B,L)
We're in for a treat today as we venture into the high alpine environment of Glacier 3000. Traveling by train and cable car, we ascend into a landscape of snow-covered peaks and wide-open views. At the summit there are panoramic views of more than 20 mountain peaks including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. There will be time to explore freely and admire the breathtaking scenery. Feeling adventurous? Consider a walk across the only suspension bridge in the world linking two summits! We enjoy lunch together before we return to Vevey late in the afternoon.
Saturday, 26 June 2027: Panoramic Golden Pass Journey to Lucerne; Free Time Lucerne (B,D,O)
After breakfast, we gather our luggage to be transferred to Lucerne ahead of us. We then bid farewell to Vevey and begin one of Switzerland’s most scenic rail journeys. Traveling via Montreux, we board the GoldenPass panoramic train, passing lakes, alpine meadows and traditional villages along the route. The 5-hr journey continues through Interlaken and onward to Lucerne, where the surrounding lake and mountains create a distinct change in atmosphere. Upon arrival, we get settled and regroup for dinner together. Overnight Lucerne – 3 nights
Sunday, 27 June 2027: Mount Rigi; Visit Local Cheese Dairy Farm; Cruise back to Lucerne (B)
Mount Rigi is often referred to as the "Queen of the Mountains". Our excursion to Mount Rigi begins aboard a train to Arth-Goldau where we then change to a cogwheel train that takes us to the summit. This is home to first railway dating back to 1871. This is another great day for pictures as Mount Rigi is situated between 3 different lakes. We visit a local dairy farm to sample delicious cheeses produced on the mountain. The diary farm is only accessible by a brief 15 minute walk. Once our visit is complete make our way downhill via the cogwheel train and continue to Lucerne on a leisurely boat ride. Overnight Lucerne - 2 nights
Monday, 28 June 2027: Interlaken Express & Brienzer Rothorn (B,L)
We board the Interlaken Express today and make our way to Brienz. This Swiss village is home to the Brienz Rothorn steam railway. The steam train climbs the Brienzer Rothorn, revealing expansive views over Lake Brienz and the Bernese Alps. At the summit we enjoy lunch together. We then return to the village of Brienz where there is time to explore as you wish. We return to Lucerne late this afternoon.
Tuesday, 29 June 2027: Lake Cruise to Fluelen; Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano (B,L,D)
Have your luggage packed and ready to be loaded onto the coach. It will meet us in Lugano later today. We travel south today on the Gotthard Panorama Express, combining a lake cruise and panoramic train journey. Beginning with a boat ride across Lake Lucerne, we continue by rail through the Gotthard region, an important historic passage through the Alps. Arriving in Lugano, the atmosphere shifts to a more Mediterranean feel, with palm-lined promenades and lakeside views. We check in and gather for dinner this evening. Overnight Lugano – 2 nights
Wednesday, 30 June 2027: Lugano Walking Tour; San Salvatore Funicular; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
A guided walking tour introduces Lugano’s history and lakeside setting, offering context for this Italian-influenced region of Switzerland. We take a funicular to San Salvatore, often known as Switzerland's "Sugarloaf Mountain". Consider walking a few of the hiking trails at the top, visiting the historic church or stopping in the museum. Tonight we regroup to have dinner together and recount our favorite memories of the trip.
Thursday, 01 July 2027: Return Home from Milan (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. We'll transfer as a group to the Milan airport. Schedule your flight to depart no later than 2:00pm.
Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
June 22 - July 1, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$6,829.00Single Room
$8,656.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Space Available
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- One Group Transfer to the Airport for Departure
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Arrival Airport Transfer
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
NOTE: Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip. See "Insurance Reminder" section for suggested companies who sell this insurance.
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Thursday, 24 Dec 2026: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Sunday, 14 Mar 2027: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Friday, 23 Apr 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Friday, 23 Apr 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip and is not included in the cost of the tour.
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
June 22 - July 1, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US Citizens do not need a Visa to enter Switzerland. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
New Online Registration Requirements: All US and Canadian citizens traveling to EU Schengen member countries and/or the UK are now required to register electronically prior to travel.
EU - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: GVA - Geneva, Switzerland (Geneva Airport)
Arrival Date: Tuesday, June 22. Arrive no later than 3:00 pm.
Arrival Transfer: Use local transportation. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: MXP - Milan, Italy (Milan–Malpensa Airport)
Departure Date: Thursday, July 1st. Depart no earlier than 2:00pm.
Departure Transfer: One group transfer provided from Lugano to Malpensa Airport in Milan.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Geneva: Bristol Hotel
Vevey: Astra Hotel Vevey
Lucerne: Hotel Waldstaetterhof
Lugano: Hotel Bellevue au Lac
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
- $339.00 Roomshare pp $676.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
June 22 - July 1, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 45% Easy
- 45% Moderate (Multiple walking tours and walking to/from train stations. Extensive train travel where you must be able to board quickly.)
- 10% Strenuous (Altitude can play a factor)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as [trains and small planes].
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase plus a carry-on bag.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle to make it easy for you to handle yourself.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
- Keep in mind that you will be traveling by train as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
- ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining local currency; they are found in most airports and tourist destinations. ATMs of major banks often give much better exchange rates than currency-exchange kiosks.
- If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Many travelers feel more comfortable having local currency before they depart for the tour. You may be able to order currency from your bank.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although many cards charge a foreign transaction fee. Be sure to investigate your card of choice as there are many that do not impose these fees and are better suited for international travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Hidden Treasures of Switzerland
June 22 - July 1, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.

Our Promise to You
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You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.

