Embark on a journey through the countryside and cuisine of Switzerland. This small nation packs a punch with its mountainous landscapes, glacial lakes, picturesque cities and food staples that are so tough to beat. Visit the Zytglogge Clock on an orientation walk with your local leader in Bern, travel on a cogwheel train through the Alps and walk to the peak of Mount Rigi. Join a guided tour of a local cheese cellar, experience Matterhorn and treat your taste buds to plenty of chocolate along the way!
**Please be aware that you must be able to walk up to 4 miles during a day and be able to manage your own luggage up steps if need be.
**We specialize in tours for adults only. We take you away from your everyday world and immerse you into local cultures all over the globe.
There are a lot of reasons someone might fall in love with Switzerland! Here are a few:
Switzerland is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. From the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the serene lakes like Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich, the country is a dream for nature lovers.
Cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern have a rich mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. Cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and beautiful town squares contrast with high-end shopping, chic restaurants, and cultural experiences. Geneva is famous for its international vibe, being home to the United Nations, while Zurich is known for its lively arts scene and cutting-edge design.
Food and Drink
Switzerland offers some delicious food. Cheese fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate are a must-try. The Swiss are passionate about their chocolate, and you’ll find some of the best chocolate shops in cities like Zurich. Also, don’t miss a chance to try the famous Swiss rosti (a potato dish) or enjoy a hearty alpine meal in one of the mountain huts.
Efficient Public Transportation: Switzerland has one of the best public transport systems in the world. Trains are fast, reliable, and offer spectacular views of the countryside.
We're committed to ensuring our trips remain safe for everyone — for our travelers, our leaders and crew, and the people we visit along the way. As responsible travelers, anyone who chooses to travel with us has a duty of care to themselves and the people around them. Travelers are required to comply with local regulations and laws.
What are the medical and vaccination requirements?
Medical and general vaccination requirements differ between nations and as we are not medical practitioners, we unfortunately cannot advise on this issue. Please see your local GP or travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements.
We believe vaccinations play a key role in saving lives and helping to keep people safe. Around 70% of the world is vaccinated against COVID-19 but vaccination rates remain low in some of the destinations and communities we visit. Therefore, proof of up-to-date COVID vaccine is required on all of our trips.
All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages. When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas, and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay, or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.
Need a passport? Click here -> U.S. Passport
Need to renew your passport? Click here -> Renew U.S. Passport
We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.
In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense, or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure, or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.
Risks of Travel and Release: We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.
If you cancel within 30 days of making your deposit, you will receive a 100% refund minus a $150 admin fee per spot reserved.
If you cancel between 31 days after booking and 180 days before the trip, you will receive a 50% refund minus the $150 admin fee.
No refunds will be given if you cancel within 180 days of the trip’s start date.
Note: If you find someone to fill your spot, I can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee, provided the transfer is made at least 60 days before departure. If you become ill or encounter other issues, it is highly likely that the required travel insurance will cover your costs, so please check with your provider.
It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and to make their payments on time. We reserve the right to retain payments according to the cancellation policy outlined above in order to pay our vendors and ensure the trip can proceed.
By making a deposit, you agree to the above terms of service and cancellation policy.
To ensure smooth operations for our trips, we kindly ask that all payments are made on time. If a payment is 15 or more days past due, a $50 late fee will be applied to your balance.
We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you need to adjust your payment plan or have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa at [melissa@pennypinchingglobetrotter.com].
We’re happy to work with you to find a solution. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!
Travel insurance will help protect your investment and is required for all of our trips. We recommend and use World Nomads. If you are over 70 we recommend using Insure My Trip.
At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience for all our guests. To ensure a smooth and harmonious trip for everyone, we have established this Group Travel Code of Conduct. All participants are expected to follow these guidelines to promote a respectful and supportive group dynamic.
1. Respect and Cooperation - All travelers are expected to treat each other with kindness, respect, and courtesy at all times. This includes:
- Listening to others' opinions and experiences without judgment.
- Offering help and support to fellow travelers when needed.
- Communicating openly and constructively to resolve any misunderstandings or concerns that arise.
2. Personal Attacks and Harassment - Personal attacks, harassment, or any form of abusive language directed at fellow travelers will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Insulting or belittling others for any reason including remarks based on race, nationality, gender, religion, appearance, or personal beliefs.
- Making derogatory or offensive remarks, either in person or through digital communication channels (e.g., group chats or emails).
- Engaging in behavior that causes distress, harm, or discomfort to others.
3. Disruptive Behavior - Traveler's should ensure their behavior does not disrupt the group's activities or the overall enjoyment of the trip. This includes:
- Avoiding excessive arguments or conflicts that disturb the group’s harmony.
- Engaging in proactive problem-solving rather than contributing to negativity.
- Being considerate of group plans/schedules and communicating any issues promptly to the group leader or host.
4. Accountability and Responsibility - Each traveler is responsible for their actions. Should conflicts arise, all involved parties are encouraged to:
- Address concerns calmly and privately, when possible.
- Seek the assistance of the group leader or host if mediation is needed.
- Understand that repeated violations of this policy may result in removal from the trip with no refund.
5. Group Dynamics and Social Interaction - Group travel is a chance to connect and share experiences with others. We encourage all travelers to:
- Participate in group activities with an open mind and a collaborative spirit.
- Be inclusive and welcoming to fellow travelers, regardless of their background or personal views.
- Show empathy and understanding toward the diverse personalities and cultures within the group.
6. Consequences for Violating the Policy - Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in the following consequences:
- A verbal warning from the group leader or host.
- In extreme cases, expulsion from the trip without refund, if the behavior continues despite prior warnings.
In addition, any traveler who exhibits consistently disruptive behavior, or who repeatedly violates the principles outlined in this policy, will no longer be permitted to travel with Penny Pinching Globetrotter in the future. We reserve the right to refuse service to individuals whose actions compromise the experience of other travelers or the integrity of the group.
At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we aim to create positive, memorable travel experiences for all. By following this policy, we ensure that everyone can enjoy their trip in a respectful and supportive environment.
By booking your spot on this trip, you are agreeing to the policy outlined above.
All lodging as mentioned
Meals as listed
An English speaking guide is with us throughout the trip to show you around their country.
To handle all the details before and during your trip
All activities and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary
Other than your plane tickets, we take care of everything and make sure you are on time and where you need to be.
Travel insurance is required
Transfer from the airport to the hotel at the start of the trip and transfer back to the airport at the end of the trip
With included meals
For local guides and host
Varies by destination
Bienvenue! Welcome to the heart of Europe — where majestic mountains meet serene lakes and timeless charm.
It’s recommended that you fly into Geneva airport and then make your way to Lausanne.
Your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your group leader and travel companions. Afterwards consider joining us for an optional dinner at a local restaurant to get your first taste of Swiss cuisine!
Arrival Transfer
Excluded -GenevaAirport offers direct trains to Lausanne. After exiting the baggage claims area simply follow the signs for 'Trains' and you will find the train station in the basement of the airport. Train tickets can be purchased from machines at the baggage claims area or the train station itself.
Optional Activity
Group Dinner at a local restaurant
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting, as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you will be late, please notify your travel agent or hotel receptionist. Please ask the receptionist or look for a note in the lobby for more information on the meeting location.
If you are staying late or arriving early, you can add extra nights at checkout here. Alternatively, you may find it cheaper to book directly through hotels.com. I am an affiliate with them, and when you use my link, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Looking for something to do today? Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours: Viator & Getyourguide
Accommodation
Step into the heart of Lausanne with an orientation walk — the perfect introduction to this vibrant lakeside city. This immersive experience will unveil the charm, stories, and hidden gems of Lausanne. Wander the cobbled streets of the medieval city center, where history whispers from every corner. Along the way stop for a delicious local bakery treat. From picturesque squares to lively cafés, you'll get a feel for the city's unique rhythm and character.
Marvel at one of Switzerland’s most iconic Gothic landmarks-the cathedral. Our guide will lead you through the cathedral’s rich history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views from the tower — a must-see! Enjoy breathtaking vistas over Lake Geneva and the Alps, perfect for unforgettable photos.
After some free time for lunch, step into a world where imagination knows no boundaries. The Collection de l’Art Brut in Lausanne offers a captivating journey into the minds of self-taught artists who create outside the norms of traditional art. Founded by French artist Jean Dubuffet, this unique museum showcases works by individuals untouched by academic art culture — prisoners, psychiatric patients, and visionaries who express themselves with raw intensity and authenticity. From intricate drawings and haunting sculptures to vibrant collages and unconventional materials, every piece tells a story of resilience, emotion, and pure creative instinct.
Late this afternoon you can visit the Olympic museum if you want.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Lausanne - Orientation walk with Cathedral visit
Lausanne - Collection de l'Art Brut visit
Accommodation
Today is your first chance to experience the French side of Switzerland and there is no better way to do that than a visit to the UNESCO wine region of Lavaux. The first stop will be to the iconic Chillon Castle on lake Genveva. It is one of the most visited and iconic historical buildings in Switzerland. The castle is famously connected to Lord Byron's poem The Prisoner of Chillon. Byron was inspired by the story of François Bonivard, a monk who was imprisoned in the castle's dungeon for six years. A pillar in the atmospheric underground dungeon is said to bear Byron's carved name.
After lunch take a train to Cully and travel through the Lavaux Wine Region. Lavaux is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Switzerland, famous for its stunning, terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva. This region is a major wine-producing area, particularly known for its Chasselas grape, and offers breathtaking views and charming villages. We will explore the terraced vineyards on a 2-hour walking tour. This is an area that is a living cultural landscape, where people live and work. After the tour of the vineyards, you'll be able to try some of the wine firsthand, with 3 tastings included. You will walk back to the train station and return to Lausanne for a free evening at your leisure.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Chillon Castle Visit
Lavaux - Day trip with wine tasting
Train to Cully and back to Lausanne
Accommodation
This morning board a train for the nation's capital: Bern. After dropping off your luggage step into the heart of Switzerland’s capital with an Orientation Walk through Bern, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Zytglocke — the medieval clock tower that has kept time for the city since the 13th century. Wander through Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where cobbled streets, sandstone buildings, and hidden arcades tell stories of centuries past.
Your guide will lead you through the city’s highlights — from the Federal Palace to the Bear Park — while sharing fascinating insights into Bern’s history, culture, and quirky traditions. Then, prepare to be amazed as you enter the Zytglocke. Witness the intricate mechanics of its astronomical clock, marvel at the parade of figurines that dance on the hour, and climb the tower for panoramic views over the rooftops of Bern.
Our lodging for tonight is at the oldest inn in Bern located in the middle of the old town with lots of cafes and shops nearby.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Bern - Orientation Walk with Zytglocke tour
Train Lausanne to Bern
Accommodation
Hotel Goldener Schlussel or Similar
This morning catch a local train to the small town of Thun. This is the starting point of a unique experience where you will float past stunning alpine scenery towards the picturesque city of Bern on an inflatable raft with a sound system on board. The water is perfect for a refreshing swim on hot summer days, and you can comfortably float alongside the boat. A professional guide will navigate the boat safely down the river while you enjoy the water, scenery, and time together in nature. The late afternoon and evening will be free to explore the area.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Thun - Rafting from Thun to Bern
Train Bern to Thun
Accommodation
Hotel Goldener Schlussel or Similar
In the morning travel by train to the Zermatt, located at the foot of the Matterhorn. Once you are checked in, embark on an unforgettable journey from the charming alpine village of Zermatt to the breathtaking heights of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest cable car station at 3,883 meters.
Your adventure begins with a scenic ride on state-of-the-art gondolas, gliding above pristine snowfields and dramatic mountain landscapes. At the summit, step into a world of eternal ice: explore the Glacier Palace, a magical ice cave carved deep into the glacier, and marvel at glittering sculptures and tunnels.
From the panoramic viewing platform, feast your eyes on 38 majestic peaks and 14 glaciers, including the iconic Matterhorn.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Zermatt - Orientation Walk
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Train Bern to Zermatt
Accommodation
Today is focused on the special surroundings, including the famous Matterhorn. Travel by train to Riffelberg, where you will embark on a time-travel experience back to when author Mark Twain visited the area on foot, naturally, as walking was the only way to reach the mountain when he was there in 1878. This trail follows the route that Mark Twain chose in 1878 and later described in his book “Climbing the Riffelberg”. We will stop at a rustic mountain restaurant on Riffelalp, where you can try traditional Swiss food and more creative modern dishes. Afterwards, continue to Lake Riffel, which, when the wind is still, shows a perfect reflection of the Matterhorn on its surface. Your last stop of the day will be Gornergrat. The viewing platform at the top of the Gornergrat is a ‘must’ for every Gornergrat visitor. The platform allows a superb all-round panorama: 29 four-thousand-meter high peaks are visible - plus many that are over 3,000 meters high and the Gornergletscher. Apart from the iconic Matterhorn you will also see Switzerland’s two highest peaks – the Dufourspitze and the Dom.
Upon return to Zermatt visit the Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis, where history and adventure collide. Dive into the dramatic tale of the first ascent of the Matterhorn, explore life in the mountains through immersive exhibits, and marvel at artifacts that bring Zermatt’s rich heritage to life.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Mark Twain Trail from the Riffelberg to RiffelAlp
Exploration at Lake Riffel
Viewing Platform at Gornergrat
Matterhorn Museum
Train transportation
Accommodation
Today is another amazing day as you travel by Glacier Express from Zermatt to Chur. Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys aboard the legendary Glacier Express, traveling from the alpine village of Zermatt to the historic town of Chur. This is not just a train ride—it’s a panoramic adventure through Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes. Glide past deep valleys, towering peaks, and pristine mountain lakes, all from the comfort of your seat in the Glacier Express’s modern panoramic carriages. As you cross 291 bridges and pass through 91 tunnels, marvel at engineering wonders like the Oberalp Pass—the highest point of the route—and the dramatic Rhine Gorge, often called the “Swiss Grand Canyon.”
Enjoy onboard service with freshly prepared meals and drinks, while GPS-based commentary enriches your experience with fascinating insights into the regions you traverse. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Glacier Express offers a slow travel experience that’s as luxurious as it is unforgettable.
Once at your final destination you will discover that the picturesque old town of Chur is definitely worth seeing with its 5000-year-old settlement history and sights such as the bishop’s palace and the Cathedral of Mary’s Ascension. The historically well preserved district is completely car-free and can be discovered at your leisure on a leader led troll this evening.
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Activities
Glacier Express, Zermatt to Chur
Leader led orientation walk in Chur
Accommodation
After breakfast travel by train to Lucerne. Lucerne is known for its medieval architecture, colourful Old Town and views of snowcapped mountains and it’s a bit of a foodie’s paradise so you’ll have plenty of great options. Enjoy a walk on the Museggmauer Walls surrounding Lucerne with your local leader. Dominating the skyline, the Musegg Wall and the nine Musegg Towers formed part of the town’s fortifications, and today, walking along the ramparts is a popular activity for locals and visitors. Stop for a drink at the Hinter Misegg farm – an organic farm right in the heart of the city. Look out for the resident alpacas, Highland cattle, mini pigs, hens and goats.
Tonight those who want can join us for an optional Fondue dinner.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Lucerne - Museggmauer Walls Walk
Farm Visit
Accommodation
Set out on a day trip to Mount Rigi known as Queen of the Mountains today. Take the train to Arth-Goldau, where you’ll board a cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm. Switzerland's cogwheel trains are a popular way to experience mountain scenery. This line was Europe's first cogwheel mountain railway, operating on a rack-and-pinion system to ascend steep slopes which opened in 1871.
Upon arrival, set off on a short walk to the peak of Mount Rigi. After, go downhill to the local cheese cellar, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and a cheese tasting. Then walk to Vitznau – a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Lucerne, nestled at the foot of the Rigi which features traditional Swiss architecture and a tranquil ambiance. Later this afternoon, take a scenic boat ride back to Lucerne.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Rigi Kulm - Guided Tour of Cheese Cellar & Cheese Tasting
Rigi Staffel - walk
Train transportation
Cogwheel Train experience
Boat ride on Lake Lucerne
Accommodation
Today is an exciting day as you travel by train to Stans where you will step into a world of breathtaking alpine beauty and cutting-edge engineering with a visit to Stanserhorn, Switzerland’s most exhilarating mountain experience! Ride the Cabrio Cable Car – the world’s first open-top cable car! Feel the wind in your hair and the thrill in your heart as you ascend 1,900 meters above sea level, with panoramic views of lakes, valleys, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you're a nature lover or a thrill-seeker, this ride is unlike anything you've ever experienced.
Once at the summit, enjoy a meal – such as Älplermagronenserved in an edelweiss pot – in the revolving restaurant, browse the well-stocked souvenir shop, talk to the Stanserhorn rangers and admire the marmots, or explore the Stanserhorn Summit Circuit – a scenic loop at the top that offers 360° views of 10 lakes and over 100 mountain peaks. Stroll along well-marked paths, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and meet the friendly marmots that call this summit home.
After this exceptional experience, return to Lucerne before boarding a train to your final destination: Zurich. You will have free time in Zurich this afternoon. This evening we encourage you to join us for a farewell dinner.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Stanserhorn - Cabrio Cable Car
Stanserhorn Circuit
Train transport
Accommodation
Hotel Zuri by Fassbind or similar
This morning head to one of Switzerland’s most vibrant hubs for contemporary art: Kunsthalle Zürich. Located in the heart of the city, this dynamic space is dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions from international and Swiss artists, offering fresh perspectives on today’s cultural landscape. Dive deep into the stories behind the artworks and spark S conversation as you explore thought-provoking installations and innovative concepts.
After the visit, enjoy some free time to relax at the nearby cafés or explore Zürich’s vibrant art district. Later in the afternoon for a stroll through charming streets and hidden alleys as you uncover the city’s finest chocolatiers and artisan shops.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Kunsthalle Zürich
Chocolate experience
Accommodation
Hotel Zuri by Fassbind or similar
All good things must come to an end and your tour will finish after breakfast today. Departure flights can be booked for any time as there are no activities planned for today.
Standard check-out: 11am
Meals included
Breakfast
Departure Transfer
Not Included-
The quickest way to reach the airport is by train. Airport trains depart from the main station in Zurich (Zurich Hbf) every 10 minutes and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the station.
If you are staying late or arriving early you can add extra nights at check out here or you might find it cheaper to book yourself via hotels.com. I am an affiliate with them and when you use my link I earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Looking for something to do today? Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours: Viator & Getyourguide