Search

Great Rail Journeys · Independent

Switzerland's Lakes, Mountains & The Golden Pass

Seven-day Swiss rail loop from London via two scenic trains and eight lakes

Illustration of Switzerland's Lakes, Mountains & The Golden Pass

Great Rail Journeys' Switzerland's Lakes, Mountains & The Golden Pass is a seven-day independent rail journey across the Swiss heartland for travellers seeking a mix of train travel and free time in lakeside towns. Starting from London, the trip takes you by Eurostar and regional rail to Montreux on Lake Geneva, where two nights allow you to visit the medieval Château de Chillon and walk the promenade. The centrepiece is a daylong ride on the Golden Pass Express from Montreux to Interlaken, a train with panoramic windows that reveals lush valleys, charming villages, and mountain peaks as it climbs through the Bernese Oberland. You spend two nights in Interlaken, gateway to the Jungfrau region, with the option to ride a funicular to Harder Kulm or take a boat across the lakes. From there, the Lucerne-Interlaken Express carries you onwards to Lucerne, where another two nights let you explore the medieval city and walk the historic Chapel Bridge built in 1332. The return to the UK is your choice: fly from Zurich or continue by train through Basel and Paris on the Eurostar. Throughout, you stay in four- or five-star hotels on a bed-and-breakfast basis. This pace suits independent travellers and couples seeking scenery and self-guided exploration without a tour guide.

What to know before you look closer

  • The final day offers a choice between a flight from Zurich or an all-rail return via Paris; check which suits your schedule
  • Hotel selection within each city depends on availability and tier chosen; confirm your specific hotel with Great Rail Journeys when booking
  • Optional extras such as Schilthorn, Jungfrau Express, and guided e-biking are at additional cost

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Montreux

    Outbound Travel – Getting to Montreux

    Travel from London to Zurich. On arrival in Zurich take the train from the airport to Montreux, a pretty lakeside resort at the foot of the mountains. Alternatively, travel by rail all the way from London via Eurostar to Paris Nord, then Paris Gare de Lyon to Geneva, and Geneva to Montreux. On arrival in Montreux, transferred to your hotel for the night (4* or 5*, B&B basis).

    Meals: Breakfast

  2. Day 2overnight: Montreux

    Montreux

    Free day in Montreux. Famous for its annual jazz festival, the pretty Swiss town sits on the banks of Lake Geneva with walks along its promenade and fantastic views over the lake and mountains. The medieval castle, Château de Chillon, built on a rock right on the shores of the lake, is the most visited historical building in Switzerland. Optional excursions available at a supplement.

    Meals: Breakfast

  3. Day 3railovernight: Interlaken

    The Golden Pass

    After a free morning in Montreux, take the Golden Pass Express through the heart of Switzerland's enchanting landscapes. This magical train reveals the country's diverse beauty with panoramic windows displaying lush valleys, serene lakes, charming villages, and majestic mountains. Arrive in the afternoon to Interlaken, the gateway of adventure in the heart of the Bernese Oberland region. Transferred to your hotel (4* or 5*, B&B basis).

    Meals: Breakfast

  4. Day 4overnight: Interlaken

    Interlaken

    Free day in Interlaken, the town between two lakes. Wander around this quiet town with spectacular views, shop for souvenirs in local shops. For the best views, take the funicular up Harder Kulm. Take a boat ride on the lake or stroll through the park. Optional excursions available at a supplement.

    Meals: Breakfast

  5. Day 5railovernight: Lucerne

    The Lucerne Interlaken Express

    Journey continues aboard the Lucerne Interlaken Express to Lucerne. This magical train journey connects Interlaken and Lucerne in the most picturesque way, with breathtaking views including rolling hills, serene mountain lakes, and majestic peaks. On arrival in Lucerne, transferred to your hotel (4* or 5*, B&B basis).

    Meals: Breakfast

  6. Day 6overnight: Lucerne

    Lake Lucerne

    Free day in Lucerne to explore the streets of this fascinating medieval city. History includes museums and monuments, and the Chapel Bridge over the River Reuss was built in 1332. Visit one of the town's chocolate shops and watch stores for unique gifts.

    Meals: Breakfast

  7. Day 7rail

    Lucerne to the UK

    Take the train from Lucerne back to Zurich, savouring the views along the way, then fly from Zurich airport back to the UK. Alternatively, travel entirely by rail: train from Lucerne to Basel, Basel to Paris Gare de Lyon, then Eurostar from Paris Nord back to London St Pancras. First Class upgrades available.

    Meals: Breakfast

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3Board the Golden Pass Express from Montreux through lush valleys, serene lakes, and charming villages to Interlaken
  • Day 5Ride the Lucerne-Interlaken Express to Lucerne, viewing rolling hills, mountain lakes, and majestic peaks
  • Day 6Walk across the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, built in 1332, in the medieval city centre

Included

  • 6 nights hotel accommodation (Bed and Breakfast)
  • Standard Class Rail in Switzerland
  • Return flights between London and Zurich

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance

Questions travellers ask

Is all train travel included?
Yes. The price includes standard class rail in Switzerland and return Eurostar or flights between London and Zurich. First class upgrades are available at extra cost.
Which trains do I travel on?
You ride the Golden Pass Express from Montreux to Interlaken and the Lucerne-Interlaken Express from Interlaken to Lucerne. You also travel on Eurostar (London to Paris or Paris to London) and regional trains connecting to Montreux and from Lucerne.
Are the hotels included?
Yes. Six nights of bed-and-breakfast accommodation in four- or five-star hotels are included. You choose between two hotel options in Montreux, two in Interlaken, and two in Lucerne.
Is this tour escorted or independent?
This is an independent tour. You have free days in each city to explore on your own. Optional guided excursions are available at supplement.
What meals are included?
Only breakfast is included daily. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense.
How much walking is involved?
You will walk around the towns of Montreux, Interlaken, and Lucerne. A funicular up Harder Kulm and boat rides on the lakes are optional activities available during free days.

Similar journeys