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Railbookers · Independent rail vacation

The Grand Rivieras of Switzerland, Italy, and France

Independent 10-day rail trip through Swiss, Italian, and French Rivieras

Illustration of The Grand Rivieras of Switzerland, Italy, and France

Railbookers operates this independent, 10-day, 9-night rail journey from Montreux to Nice, crossing Switzerland, Italy, and France. After a transfer from Geneva Airport using a Swiss Pass, the trip settles into Montreux for three nights, with independent day trips to the medieval Chateau de Chillon and to Lausanne's Olympic Museum. A train via Milan then carries travelers to Genoa for three nights, based for day trips to the colorful harbor of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, and to La Spezia, a stepping stone to the Cinque Terre. The route ends in Nice for three nights on the French Riviera, with the Promenade des Anglais, the Marc Chagall museum, and a day trip to Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. With three hotel bases across ten days and self-guided day trips throughout, this trip suits independent travelers who prefer settling in rather than changing hotels every night.

What to know before you look closer

  • The evidence pack does not specify the mode of travel for every day trip (Lausanne, La Spezia, and the French Riviera excursion); confirm the details with Railbookers before booking.
  • The evidence pack lists no specific departure dates for this package; confirm current dates and pricing with Railbookers before booking.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Montreux

    Your Journey Begins in Montreux

    Welcome to Switzerland! Begin your journey by transferring from Geneva Airport to Montreux with use of your Swiss Pass. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a three-night stay. Enjoy an afternoon in Montreux, a lakeside haven known for its mild climate and stunning vistas.

  2. Day 2overnight: Montreux

    Day Trip to Chillon Castle

    Embark on a captivating day trip to Chateau de Chillon, where a medieval fortress stands sentinel on the shores of Lake Geneva. Enjoy the option of taking a return boat back to Montreux or opting for a leisurely lake stroll back to city center.

  3. Day 3overnight: Montreux

    Day Trip to Lausanne

    After breakfast, venture to Lausanne for a day, exploring its vibrant cultural scene, visiting the Olympic Museum, and strolling through the historic city center.

  4. Day 4overnight: Genoa

    Montreux to Genoa

    Embark on a journey from Montreux to Genoa this morning via Milan. Wander through the narrow lanes of the Old Town, visit the splendid Palazzi Dei Rolli, and marvel at the grandeur of Genoa Cathedral.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Genoa

    Day Trip to Portofino and Santa Margherita

    Following breakfast, enjoy a day trip to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, a picturesque fishing village turned luxury retreat. Enjoy the colorful harbor, boutique shops, and stunning coastal views. In the evening, take a train back to Genoa.

  6. Day 6overnight: Genoa

    Day Trip to La Spezia

    Another day trip takes you to La Spezia, a stepping stone to Cinque Terre. Explore the naval museum or catch a ferry to the enchanting villages that dot the coastline.

  7. Day 7railovernight: Nice

    Genoa to Nice

    Enjoy a final breakfast in Italy before making your way to the station for a train to the heart of the French Riviera; Nice - known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and the Promenade des Anglais. Discover the art of Marc Chagall at the dedicated museum.

  8. Day 8overnight: Nice

    Nice

    Enjoy a day at your own leisure to explore the city! Savor Mediterranean flavors at a local bistro, or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.

  9. Day 9overnight: Nice

    Day Trip to French Riveira

    Enjoy a day trip along the French Riviera, exploring glamorous destinations like Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Each offers a unique blend of luxury, beauty, and a glimpse into the jet-set lifestyle.

  10. Day 10rail

    Your Journey Ends in Nice

    Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you would like to extend your holiday to another city, just ask your Rail Expert and we can help you make all arrangements.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 2A day trip to Chateau de Chillon, a medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva, with a boat ride or lakeside stroll back to Montreux.
  • Day 5A day trip to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, with its colorful harbor and coastal views, returning to Genoa by train in the evening.
  • Day 6A day trip to La Spezia, a stepping stone to the Cinque Terre, with the option of the naval museum or a ferry to the coastal villages.
  • Day 7The train from Genoa to Nice, arriving on the Promenade des Anglais in the heart of the French Riviera.
  • Day 9A day trip along the French Riviera to the glamorous destinations of Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.

Included

  • Rail travel as per itinerary
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Montreux
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Genoa
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Nice
  • 3 Day Swiss Pass
  • Independent Day Trip to Chillon Castle and Lausanne from Montreux
  • Independent Day Trip to Santa Margherita/Portofino and La Spezia from Genoa
  • Day Trip to the French Riveira from Nice

Questions travellers ask

Is the train travel included?
Yes. Rail travel is included as per the itinerary, along with a 3-Day Swiss Pass.
Is this trip escorted or independent?
It is an independent rail vacation; the day trips to Chillon Castle, Lausanne, Portofino, La Spezia, and the French Riviera are described as independent day trips.
What cities does the trip visit?
Montreux, Genoa, and Nice, each with a 3-night stay, plus day trips to Chillon Castle, Lausanne, Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, La Spezia, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
How does the trip travel between Montreux, Genoa, and Nice?
By train; the Montreux to Genoa leg runs via Milan, and a further train continues from Genoa to Nice.
How many nights of hotel accommodation are included?
9 nights with breakfast, three nights each in Montreux, Genoa, and Nice.

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