The Swiss Trains and Italian Lake District tour with National Geographic Expeditions is a dream for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Starting in Zurich, Switzerland, the journey takes you through scenic alpine towns, majestic mountains, and serene lakes, blending the charm of Swiss railways with the allure of Italy’s lakeside villages.
Our guide, Tim Jepson, introduced us to the majestic Matterhorn in Zermatt, where we took gondolas up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for panoramic views and walked through ice tunnels inside the glacier. Zermatt’s charm continued with delicious meals of rösti and fondue, a hike through stunning alpine trails, and a ride on the historic Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s second-highest railway. The three days in Zermatt were filled with activities, yet we still had time to savor the beauty of the mountains.
Next, we boarded the luxurious Glacier Express for a scenic ride to Saint Moritz. The journey offered stunning vistas at every turn and a delightful three-course meal aboard the train. Saint Moritz, known as the birthplace of Alpine tourism, provided us with a mix of guided excursions and free time to explore. Highlights included visits to the Segantini Museum, local chocolatier Hanselmann, and a trip to Muottas Muragl for sweeping views of the region.
After Saint Moritz, the Bernina Express took us to the charming town of Poschiavo, where photo opportunities were endless, and the tiramisu was unforgettable. Wandering through the town, we enjoyed moments of exploration and relaxation.
Our final stop was Italy’s Lake Como, where the fairy-tale landscape continued to amaze. In Varenna, our lakeside hotel became a haven for leisurely days spent lounging by the pool, enjoying sunset aperitivos, and taking in the views. A private boat ride took us to Bellagio and the stunning Villa del Balbianello, featured in Hollywood films. We also experienced a cooking demonstration by a local chef and a private tour of Como Cathedral and Teatro Sociale in Como.
The farewell dinner at a villa overlooking the lake was the perfect conclusion to our adventure, filled with memories of scenic railways, cultural discoveries, and new friendships. The National Geographic Expedition provided exclusive opportunities, from private museum tours to hands-on cooking experiences, making this journey truly one for the bucket list.
READ MORE: