Italian Lakes & Swiss Mountains

Day 1: UK – Rome

Catch your flight from the UK directly to Rome. On arrival in Rome, check into your hotel for a two-night stay and set off to start exploring. Perhaps enjoy an ice-cold gelato on the Spanish steps and simply watch Roman life go by. Admire the breath-taking collection of ancient art, sculptures and statues at museums or why not take a trip to the enchanting Vatican? Overnight in Rome (Meals: No Meals)

Day 2: Rome

It’s an early start today, but all is worth it as you explore the wonders of the Vatican museums and the incredible Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michaelangelo before the crowds arrive.  Then in the afternoon perhaps walk in the footsteps of the gladiators at the imposing Colosseum and walk in the footsteps of Cesar around the Forum.  Why not mix art and nature at the lush Villa Borghese gardens or take a well-earned break with a large ice-cream sundae in the Piazza Navona and reminisce on your fantastic vacation. Overnight in Rome (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 3: Rome – Stresa

Travel from Rome to Stresa, where you can experience beautiful Lake Maggiore. Like other northern Italian lakes, Lake Maggiore is an idyllic spot that has attracted visitors since the beginning of the 18th century. Lakeside gardens bloom with a profusion of camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons. Overnight in Stresa (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 04: Stresa

On the shores of the Borromean Gulf, Stresa is ideally situated as a base to explore the lake’s villages, islands and natural beauty. A regular ferry runs from the town around the lake, and the Isola Bella, the most well-known of the Borromean Islands, is only ten minutes away by boat. Stresa itself is a lovely little lakeside town with many markets and historical churches. Overnight in Stresa (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 05: Stesa – Como

Catch a Trenitalia train from Stresa to Como via Gallarate. Once in town, take a leisurely boat tour of Lake Como on your own and enjoy the sights of grand villas, rolling hillside vineyards, historic towns, alpine peaks, and wooded islands that line the shore. In the evening, spend some time strolling along the town’s cobblestone streets to the bustling public square of Piazza Cavour or visiting a lakeside restaurant and having dinner. Overnight in Como (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 06: Como

When you finish breakfast, the rest of the day is yours to explore the beautiful scenery of Lake Como and the charming town as you wish. You’ll fall in love with the historic architecture and stunning natural beauty of this little corner of the world. The Centro Storico, or old town, is a maze of picturesque little streets, squares and cafés. Wander around the shops and boutiques or visit one of the many cultural monuments the city has to offer. Overnight in Como (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 07: Como – Milan

Board a Trenitalia train from Como to Milan, the heart of Italian style and sophistication. Take a trip to the Quadrilatero d’Oro (Golden Quad) where top designers have established their flagship stores or seek out the vintage boutiques for a fantastic bargain. Visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, home of ‘The Last Supper’, Leonardo da Vinci’s famous masterpiece. Stroll through the Brera district and enjoy the art galleries, boutique shopping opportunities and plethora of opportunities for exquisite dining. Overnight in Milan (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 08: Milan – St. Moritz

After breakfast, embark on one of the world’s most scenic train lines, The Bernina Express! You can expect a spectacular journey. The Bernina Express features awe-inspiring scenery changes so make sure your camera batteries are fully charged because you are guaranteed to capture some amazing shots from the comfort of the panoramic carriages of the train. Overnight in St. Moritz (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 09: St. Moritz – Interlaken

Enjoy the exhilarating experience of crossing Switzerland today, traveling onboard the Glacier Express line. The train passes glistening blue lakes and quaint Swiss hamlets, as well as crossing numerous high passes and mountain peaks. Take pictures of the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct as the train rolls over. You’ll experience all the “Oohs” and “Aahs” you expected before boarding. On arrival in Interlaken, make your way to your hotel and check in for two-night stay. Overnight in Interlaken (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 10: Interlaken – Jungfrau

Climb to Europe’s highest altitude railway station on Jungfrau Mountain, at a colossal 11,332 feet high. The journey takes you to Kleine Scheidegg, before reaching the station at Eigergletscher, which is well known for its mountain restaurant and Huskies. At Jungfraujoch, take in the breath-taking views of the Black Forest in Germany and the Vosges Mountains in France. Also enjoy the fascinating glacier and ice gallery at the top. After a spectacular day sightseeing, return to the hotel for the second night of your stay in Interlaken. Overnight in Interlaken (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 11: Intelaken – Zurich

Board one last train from Interlaken to Zurich with a change in Bern (maybe spend a couple hours exploring the town before continuing your journey). When you arrive, check into your hotel for an overnight stay. The evening is yours to pass the hours wandering through the metropolis as you wish. Visit the district of Altstadt—or Old Town, dine at a world-class restaurant, try some fondue or raclette, shop, relax in a charming café, and stroll alongside the lake or the cobblestone-paved streets and marvel at Renaissance-era architecture. Overnight in Zurich (Meals: Breakfast)

Day 12: Zurich – Departure

Check out of your hotel this morning and board Eurostar to Paris; Paris to London. (Meals: Breakfast)