Railbookers
Paris and Zurich from Paris
Independent rail loop from Paris to Zurich and back
8 daysfrom $2,849
25% rail
Rail Escape
Paris to Basel: Swiss and French Delights
Discover Swiss and French delights on our Paris to Basel rail tour. Enjoy rich culture, and iconic scenery.
Day by day
- Day 1overnight: Paris
Arrive in Paris
Welcome to the City of Light! Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a three-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Eiffel Tower, either by climbing the stairs or taking the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world, lined with cafés, restaurants, and high-end shops.
- Day 2overnight: Paris
Explore Paris Attractions
Begin your day by visiting the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world's most famous art treasures, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. After exploring the museum's vast collection, take a leisurely walk through the Tuileries Garden, a beautiful public park adjacent to the Louvre. In the afternoon, visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture (currently undergoing reconstruction after the 2019 fire).
- Day 3overnight: Paris
More Paris Attractions
Start your day with a visit to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, a charming neighborhood known for its artists and bohemian atmosphere. Climb the steps to the top of the basilica for breathtaking views of the city. Afterward, explore the nearby streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Place du Tertre, a square filled with street artists and cafés. In the evening, consider taking a cruise along the Seine River to admire the city's iconic landmarks from the water.
- Day 4railovernight: Strasbourg
Depart Paris for Strasbourg
After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Strasbourg, a charming city located in the Alsace region of France. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Petite France quarter, a picturesque neighborhood with half-timbered houses and canals, reminiscent of a fairytale setting. Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with intricate carvings and a towering spire.
- Day 5overnight: Strasbourg
Explore Strasbourg
Start your day by visiting the Palais Rohan, a magnificent 18th-century palace that now houses museums showcasing Alsatian art and history. Afterward, explore the charming streets and squares of the city center, stopping at local cafés and bakeries to sample traditional Alsatian cuisine, such as flammekueche (a tart made with crème fraîche, bacon, and onions). In the evening, consider attending a performance at the Opéra National du Rhin, one of the oldest opera houses in France.
- Day 6railovernight: Basel
Depart Strasbourg for Basel
After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Basel, a vibrant city located on the border of Switzerland, France, and Germany. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's old town, with its charming medieval buildings and narrow streets. Visit the Basel Münster, a striking red sandstone cathedral dating back to the 11th century, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of its towers.
- Day 7overnight: Basel
Explore Basel
Begin your day by visiting the Kunstmuseum Basel, one of the largest and most important art museums in Switzerland, housing an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day. Afterward, take a stroll along the Rhine River, which flows through the heart of the city, and visit the Basel Paper Mill, a unique museum showcasing the history of papermaking. In the evening, explore the city's lively nightlife and culinary scene.
- Day 8
Depart Basel
After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, spend the morning exploring any remaining sites or neighborhoods before heading to the airport for your departure.
Included
- Welcome Package with travel essentials and detailed itinerary information
- First-Class Rail Travel throughout (some regional trains second-class only)
- 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation in all cities, near train stations
- Daily Breakfast at all hotel accommodations
- Airport Transfers on arrival and departure
Not included
- International Airfare
- Excursions, Activities and Entrance Fees
- Meals Beyond Breakfast
- Local taxes or fees (e.g. hotel tourism taxes)
- Personal Expenses
- Tips and Gratuities
- Local Transportation
