- 4.9/5 366 Latest reviews
- Destination: Switzerland
- Duration: 7 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Experience the ultimate Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour, a 7-day journey combining scenic train rides with Switzerland’s finest culinary delights. Travel from the stunning shores of Lake Geneva to the historic streets of Bern and Lucerne, exploring iconic landmarks like Chillon Castle and the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards. Along the way, savor exquisite Swiss wines, taste world-famous cheeses in Gruyeres, and indulge in rich chocolate at Maison Cailler.
On this Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour, journey through Ticino aboard the panoramic Centovalli Railway, participate in hands-on cooking workshops such as preparing authentic risotto, and immerse yourself in Swiss culture, history, and gastronomy. Perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable combination of scenic landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and guided experiences that showcase the very best of Switzerland.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 2
Montreux
Chillon Castle, Wine Tasting, Chocolate and Cheese Excursion
3
Montreux - Lugano
Grotto San Rocco, Risotto Cooking
4
Lugano - Lucerne
Guided City Tour of Lugano
5
Lucerne - Bern
Walking Tour of Lucerne, Cheese Factory Visit and Taste Cheese
6
Bern
Bern's Old Town
7
Bern - Zurich
Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Geneva – Montreux & Chillon Castle
Start your Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour in Geneva, a cosmopolitan city known for its lakeside charm and international flair. Board a scenic train to Montreux along Lake Geneva, enjoying panoramic views of the sparkling waters and mountains. In Montreux, explore Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky islet, rich with tales of Swiss nobility, dungeons, and hidden chambers.
In the afternoon, stroll through the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and participate in a wine tasting session led by expert sommeliers. Sample the region’s finest Chasselas wines while learning about centuries-old Swiss winemaking traditions. This immersive start blends history, scenery, and culinary indulgence, setting the tone for your Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour.
Highlights: Scenic train ride along Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle tour, Lavaux vineyards wine tasting
- Geneva
- Day 2: Montreux – Gruyeres Chocolate and Cheese Excursion
Travel to the storybook town of Gruyeres, a true gem in the Swiss Alps. At La Maison Gruyeres, experience an interactive cheesemaking demonstration: watch curds transform into the world-famous Gruyere cheese and sample fresh, aromatic pieces directly from the dairy.
Next, indulge your sweet tooth at Maison Cailler, Switzerland’s oldest chocolate factory. Learn about the art of chocolate-making, from cocoa bean selection to handcrafting delicate pralines, and enjoy a tasting of signature Swiss chocolates. The day ends with a leisurely stroll through Gruyeres’ medieval streets, taking in local architecture and artisanal shops. This culinary and cultural immersion makes Day 2 a highlight of the Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour.
Highlights: Gruyeres cheesemaking demonstration, Maison Cailler chocolate tasting, Medieval Gruyeres streets exploration
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- Geneva
- Day 3: Montreux – Ticino via Centovalli Railway & Risotto Workshop
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Alps on the Centovalli Railway, winding through deep valleys, waterfalls, and traditional villages. Cross the Italian border to Domodossola, Italy, then return to Switzerland’s Ticino region, arriving in the charming city of Lugano.
In the evening, enjoy a hands-on risotto workshop at Grotto San Rocco. Under expert guidance, learn to create a traditional “Grotto Risotto” using fresh local ingredients. Dine al fresco on the terrace, savoring your culinary creation while enjoying twinkling lights reflecting on Lake Lugano. This day seamlessly blends scenic rail travel, Italian-Swiss gastronomy, and hands-on culinary experiences, making it an unmissable part of the Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour.
Highlights: Centovalli Railway scenic ride, Lugano city exploration, Grotto risotto cooking experience
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- Lugano
- Day 4: Lugano – Lucerne Guided City Tour & Regional Specialties
Begin the day with a guided exploration of Lugano, sampling local Ticino delicacies such as white Merlot wine, olive oils, and handmade pastries. Learn about Lugano’s rich history, including its Swiss-Italian cultural influences and lakeside heritage.
After lunch, board a train to Lucerne. Arrive in this picturesque city and explore its iconic Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, and historic Old Town. Optional experiences include a serene boat cruise on Lake Lucerne with sweeping views of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. Day 4 of your Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour blends urban charm, Alpine scenery, and culinary discovery, offering the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Highlights: Guided Lugano city tour, Ticino specialties tasting, Chapel Bridge & Lake Lucerne cruise
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- Lucerne
- Day 5: Lucerne – Bern via Emmental Cheese Factory
Morning walking tour in Lucerne brings the city’s cobbled streets, medieval fountains, and charming squares to life. Visit local markets or artisan shops to sample regional specialties, including Swiss pastries and cheese.
Travel to Affoltern im Emmental, home of the iconic Swiss Emmental cheese. At the Emmental Show Dairy, enjoy an interactive and entertaining tour led by cheesemakers. Learn the history, production secrets, and traditional techniques, and taste fresh Emmental cheese paired with local breads and beverages. In the evening, continue to Bern, where you can stroll the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admire the Bear Pit, and enjoy a local dinner in a historic tavern. This day highlights Swiss cheese mastery, culture, and authentic local experiences.
Highlights: Lucerne walking tour, Emmental Show Dairy cheesemaking, Bern Old Town exploration
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- Bern
- Day 6: Bern Old Town Guided Walk & Local Experiences
Embark on a guided walking tour of Bern’s Old Town, discovering its medieval streets, historic fountains, and clock tower. Hear stories of local legends and Swiss history, including Bern’s founding and heritage of craft guilds.
In the afternoon, explore at your leisure: enjoy panoramic views from the Rose Garden, visit local artisan shops, or sample Bernese beers at outdoor cafés. Optional activities include riverfront walks or visiting the Zentrum Paul Klee for modern art. Day 6 of your Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, allowing travelers to savor Bern’s charm at their own pace.
Highlights: Bern Old Town guided tour, Rose Garden panoramic views, Bernese beer tasting
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- Bern
- Day 7: Bern – Zurich Departure
Conclude your Switzerland Train and Culinary Tour with a scenic train journey to Zurich for departure. Reflect on a 7-day adventure filled with spectacular Alpine landscapes, historic cities, gourmet delights, scenic train rides, and immersive cultural experiences. This final day marks the end of an unforgettable Swiss journey, leaving lasting memories of food, scenery, and tradition.
Highlights: Scenic train journey to Zurich, Swiss culinary and cultural experiences reflection
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