Railbookers · Independent rail vacation

Lake Como via the Alps

Geneva to Lake Como by rail across the Simplon Pass

Illustration of Lake Como via the Alps

Railbookers operates this 6-day independent rail vacation from Geneva to Lake Como, built around a single scenic train day across the Simplon Pass. The trip opens with two nights in Geneva, where the evening suggestion is a meal at a lakeside restaurant or a relaxing boat trip on Lake Geneva, plus a second day free to see the Jet d'Eau fountain and the Red Cross Museum. Day 3 is the journey itself: a train following the shores of Lake Leman and crossing Swiss vineyards, changing trains in Milan before crossing into Italy and arriving in Como. Three nights in Como follow, with an included two-hour boat tour past lakeside villas and an optional funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views. With only two overnight stops and no guided walking tours beyond the boat cruise, the pace is relaxed and largely left to the traveler. This suits independent-minded couples who want one scenic Alpine train crossing bookended by unhurried lakeside time.

What to know before you look closer

  • All hotels are drawn from 12 accommodation options across Geneva and Como; the final hotel depends on the tier and city you select.
  • The operator does not list current departure dates for this package; confirm availability with Railbookers before booking.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Geneva

    Your Journey Begins in Geneva

    Your journey begins in Geneva, where you will check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Make the most of your time in Geneva - spend the evening enjoying a tasty meal at a local lakeside restaurant or take a relaxing boat trip out on the lake.

  2. Day 2overnight: Geneva

    Geneva

    After breakfast this morning, enjoy an additional day discovering Geneva. Not to be missed are the world's highest fountain, the Jet d'Eau, and the Museum of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Como

    Geneva to Lake Como

    Enjoy breakfast in the hotel this morning and then make your way to the train station for your train to Como. This journey takes you along the spectacular route of the Simplon Pass, following the shores of Lake Leman and across Swiss vineyards. Travel further south after crossing the border into Italy with a change in Milan, before arriving in Como.

  4. Day 4overnight: Como

    Lake Como

    Today, experience the beauty of Lake Como from the water with an included two-hour boat tour. Glide past charming lakeside villages, elegant villas, and lush hillsides, including a glimpse of George Clooney's famed lakeside home.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Como

    Lake Como

    After breakfast this morning, continue to discover Como. Perhaps take the funicular railway up to Brunate for panoramic views or wander around the shops and boutiques.

  6. Day 6

    Depart Como

    After breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and continue with your travels.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3A train from Geneva to Como via the Simplon Pass, following the shores of Lake Leman and crossing Swiss vineyards, with a change of trains in Milan.
  • Day 4An included two-hour boat tour of Lake Como, past lakeside villages, elegant villas and lush hillsides, including a glimpse of George Clooney's lakeside home.
  • Day 5The funicular railway up to Brunate for panoramic views, or time exploring Como's shops and boutiques.

Included

  • 1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Geneva
  • 3 nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast in Como
  • Small group boat tour in Lake Como

Questions travellers ask

Is rail travel included?
Yes. The train from Geneva to Como via the Simplon Pass and Milan is included, along with hotel stays and a Lake Como boat tour.
Is this tour guided or independent?
It is an independent rail vacation. The only included guided activity is a small-group boat tour of Lake Como.
What is the route?
Two nights in Geneva, then a train journey across the Simplon Pass, following Lake Leman and Swiss vineyards, changing in Milan before arriving in Como for three nights.
What hotels are used?
Hotels are chosen from 12 accommodation options in Geneva and Como; sample properties include the Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix in Geneva and the Palace Hotel in Como.
When does this tour run?
The operator does not publish current departure dates in the available materials; confirm dates directly with Railbookers before booking.

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