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Marvellous Escapes · Tailor-made rail holiday

Panoramic Swiss Adventure

Five-day Swiss rail loop from Zurich via Bernina Express to Tirano

Illustration of Panoramic Swiss Adventure

Marvellous Escapes offers a five-day independent tailor-made rail journey through Switzerland and into Italy, anchored by the acclaimed Bernina Express. The trip begins in Zurich with two nights, including a guided walking tour of the Old Town (passing the striking Baroque Jesuit Church and historic Chapel Bridge) and a relaxing cruise on Lake Zurich to admire mountain and city views. From there, you board a scenic train to Chur, Switzerland's oldest town, for two nights of exploration. On Day 4, the highlight arrives: a full-day roundtrip on the Bernina Express, which climbs through the Swiss Alps, crosses the Landwasser Viaduct, passes glaciers, and descends dramatically into Tirano, Italy. Flights from the UK (or optional London rail via Paris) are included, along with the Swiss Travel Pass, hotel breakfasts, Bernina Express reservations, and 24-hour on-trip support. This itinerary suits first-time rail travellers seeking a celebrated European route, repeat rail enthusiasts exploring Switzerland, couples looking for unhurried two-night stays, and independent explorers who prefer guided highlights with self-directed exploration between destinations.

What to know before you look closer

  • The package price from 1,249 GBP excludes rail fares if you choose the London St. Pancras train option in place of flights; confirm total cost with Marvellous Escapes.
  • Day 5 involves a return journey from Chur to Zurich airport; travel time and logistics are not detailed in the itinerary.
  • Hotel stars and specific names are not listed; confirm accommodation standards with the operator before booking.

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Zurich

    Zurich

    Today, you will fly from London to Zurich where you will enjoy a two-night stay. Alternatively, roundtrip rail is available from London via Paris.

  2. Day 2overnight: Zurich

    Zurich

    After breakfast, you'll head out to explore the city on a walking tour. Wander through the Old Town to admire the elegant Swiss architecture, including the striking Baroque Jesuit Church and the historic Chapel Bridge. You'll also enjoy a cruise on Lake Zurich where you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline as you glide across the tranquil waters.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Chur

    Chur

    Today, board your train for a scenic journey from Zurich to Chur, Switzerland's oldest town. This beautiful rail route offers stunning views as you travel through the Swiss countryside, passing picturesque villages, lush green landscapes, and the shimmering waters of Lake Zurich. Upon arrival in Chur, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. Take the rest of the day to explore this charming Alpine town, known for its well-preserved Old Town, narrow cobbled streets, and historic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Mary and the medieval towers.

  4. Day 4railovernight: Chur

    Bernina Express

    Today, embark on one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world with a roundtrip on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano and back. Enjoy panoramic views as the train winds through the Swiss Alps, crossing viaducts, passing glaciers, and descending into Italy. Marvel at the dramatic contrast between snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, and take in the breathtaking sight of the famous Landwasser Viaduct. Upon arrival in Tirano, enjoy some free time to explore this quaint Italian town before boarding the return train to Chur for another overnight stay.

  5. Day 5

    Return Home

    Today you'll head to Zurich airport from Chur for your return journey home. If you would like to extend your stay in Switzerland, speak to your Marvellous Escapes Travel Designer.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 2Cruise on Lake Zurich after exploring the Old Town and its Baroque Jesuit Church, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline.
  • Day 3Train journey from Zurich to Chur through Swiss countryside, passing picturesque villages and the shimmering waters of Lake Zurich into Switzerland's oldest town.
  • Day 4Bernina Express roundtrip from Chur to Tirano crosses the Landwasser Viaduct and descends through the Swiss Alps, passing glaciers and dramatic valleys into Italy.

Included

  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Zurich with breakfast included
  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Chur with breakfast included
  • Flights to and from the UK (or a roundtrip train journey from London St. Pancras)
  • Swiss Travel Pass
  • Bernina Express roundtrip Chur to Tirano
  • Zurich Walking Tour
  • Cruise on Lake Zurich
  • Secure reservations for the Bernina Express

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. The package includes a Swiss Travel Pass and a roundtrip Bernina Express journey from Chur to Tirano, plus the train leg from Zurich to Chur on Day 3. Flights are included from the UK, or you can substitute a roundtrip rail journey from London St. Pancras via Paris.
Is this escorted or independent?
Marvellous Escapes describes this as an independent tailor-made journey between destinations. You receive a guided Zurich walking tour and Lake Zurich cruise, plus 24-hour on-trip support, but you are not part of a group tour.
Which trains are featured?
The Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano roundtrip is the signature rail experience. Day 3 also includes a train from Zurich to Chur. Both routes are covered by the included Swiss Travel Pass.
What accommodation is included?
Two nights in Zurich with breakfast and two nights in Chur with breakfast. Specific hotel names and star ratings are not provided; confirm with Marvellous Escapes.
When does this trip run?
No specific departure dates are listed. Contact Marvellous Escapes to check availability and book your preferred dates.
What is not included?
Meals other than hotel breakfasts, travel from Chur airport to Zurich on Day 5, visas, travel insurance, and personal expenses.

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