Venice & Milan to Paris via The Alps STANDARD Independent Rail Tour 2025

Arrival in Venice (airport or rail station) and shared transfer by boat to Venice city centre, to reach the hotel of your stay. Rest of the day at leisure to discover Venice and its beautiful Lagoon. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel, then full day dedicated to the discovery of Venice. You can take a guided walking tour through the most famous places in the city (Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower, the Rialto Bridge, Campo Santa Maria Formosa) and others less known; or a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace, with the Doge's luxurious apartments and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Alternatively, you can go on a boat trip to the islands of the Venice lagoon: Murano, known all over the world for its famous glass craftmanship; Burano, famous not only for its lace, but also for the picturesque fishermen's houses all painted in bright colours; and Torcello, the first settlement centre in the lagoon. In the afternoon there will be a 30-minute “gondola ride” with commentary via app on your mobile phone (service included). Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): an absolutely must-try experience! Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Breakfast at your hotel. Reach Santa Lucia Rail Station on your own to get the High-Speed Train to Milan. Arrival in Milan and free time to visit the city on one’s own. You can discover the most famous symbols of Milan, such as the Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio and the Navigli, the famous canals, the very hub of the Milanese nightlife. You can continue your visit to the city with an internal visit of the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, a unique experience to visit one of the most famous theatre houses in the world. For the sports enthusiasts, a bike tour tour is also available. Overnight stay at hotel. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel and then take the regional train to reach Como. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Discover the city of Como and its famous lake on your own. A day ticket is included for the hop-on / hop-off public boat to discover the lake departing from Como. You can choose the best stops to get off for a walk according to the departures of the boats and the time of the train back to Milan. Enjoy some free time in Como to get to know the town and shop in the many local boutiques. Return to Milan in the evening and overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Embark on a breathtaking journey that begins in the charming Italian town of Tirano and takes you to the world-renowned alpine resort of St. Moritz in Switzerland, aboard the famous Bernina Express. Your adventure starts in Tirano, where you'll board the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage railway renowned for its scenic views. As the train ascends through the stunning landscape of the Swiss Alps, you'll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The journey crosses the Bernina Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet), offering unparalleled vistas that change with every twist and turn. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. St. Moritz, famous for its glamorous atmosphereand pristine natural beauty, offers a range of activities to suit every taste. You might choose to stroll along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, explore the upscale boutiques, or dine in one of the town’s exquisite restaurants. After a day filled with breathtaking scenery and luxury, you'll spend the night in St. Moritz, where you can relax and unwind, ready to continue your adventure the next day. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a morning departure from the glamorous alpine town of St. Moritz. You will embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This iconic train journey will take you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and over the dramatic Oberalp Pass at an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps' rugged peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages. As you arrive in Zermatt, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, you'll have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure. Stroll through the car-free streets of Zermatt, visit the quaint shops, or relax in one of the cozy cafes while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery. After a day of exploration, settle in for the night in your Zermatt hotel, ready for the adventure that awaits. (B)

The following day is dedicated to the awe-inspiring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Have breakfast at the hotel and then begin your day with a cable car ride to the highest cable car station in Europe, at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,739 feet). From here, you'll experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Explore the Glacier Palace, carved deep inside the glacier, or enjoy the panoramic views from the viewing platform. After your visit, return to Zermatt where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine or simply relaxing after your day of high-altitude adventure. You'll spend the night in Zermatt, savouring the tranquil alpine atmosphere. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel, then start your journey as you board your train to Geneva. As you leave behind the iconic Matterhorn, the train will take you through some of Switzerland’s most picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the views as you pass through charming valleys, alongside crystal-clear lakes, and past traditional Swiss villages, all framed by the stunning backdrop of the Alps. Upon arriving in Geneva, you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to explore this cosmopolitan city. Stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, visit the famous Jet d'Eau, or explore the vibrant international district. With its blend of Swiss precision and French flair, Geneva offers a unique cultural experience. After a day of discovery, spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Geneva, ready for the next leg of your journey. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a train journey from Geneva to the romantic city of Paris. As the train whisks you through the scenic countryside, you’ll leave behind the serene Swiss landscapes and cross into France, arriving in the heart of Paris. Once in Paris, the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Whether you choose to visit iconic landmarks like the Louvre Museum, stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre, or relax in one of the city’s many cafes, Paris offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Paris, where you can unwind and savor the magic of the City of Light. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will discover Paris of the Parisian starting from a panoramic roof bus. Visit the most famous neighbourhoods and monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame and admire the architecture of "The City of Lights" Specifics commentaries for children who will be able to discover Paris through the commentaries of Lulu and Maurice, 2 dogs who will visit the city. Then you will discover Paris from the Seine on board a glass-enclosed boat. Afterwards, you will take advantage of an incomparable panoramic view of the capital while visiting the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower. Overnight stay in Paris. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will discover the charming Palace of Versailles with its astonishing treasures. Begin the tour in the center of Paris where you'll meet your guide and small group of travelers. You'll board a train together for a short ride into the countryside. Once at Versailles, you'll skip the line and head right into the Palace. Alongside an expert guide, you’ll visit the incredible gilded palace chapel, the King and Queen’s private apartments and of course, the phenomenal function rooms including the iconic Hall of Mirrors. As you walk, your guide will bring the palace to life with stories of courtly intrigue and royal plots, while also giving you insight into the everyday lives of the people who lived here. With your guide leading the way, they'll give you an introduction to the extravagant Palace Gardens and allow you to wander them on your own. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore the rest of the royal domain, such as the Gallery of Coaches (open weekends and public holidays) or the Trianon Estate where Marie Antoinette enjoyed her private moments at palaces like Petit Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet. With a roundtrip train ticket to Paris included, enjoy the flexibility of returning to the City of Lights when you wish. Overnight stay in Paris. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. End of services. (B)