Switzerland – Alpine Train – Milan (from Thessaloniki)

Breakfast at our hotel; we leave Lombardy behind and head west, crossing northern Italy and gradually approaching the majestic mass of the Alps. As the journey unfolds, the landscape changes. The plains give way to mountains, and soon we cross into France, heading for one of the most charming towns in the French Alps. Arrival in the beautiful city of Annecy, built on the shores of the Alpine lake of the same name. Annecy is one of those towns that seem to have been created for photographs. Small canals crisscross the old town, colorful buildings are reflected in the water, stone bridges connect the picturesque alleys, and the peaks of the Alps rise up around the lake. We’ll stroll through the Vieille Ville, the beautiful old town, and we’ll explore the iconic Palais de l’Île, one of the most photographed buildings in France, built on a small islet in the Thiou River. We’ll walk down Rue Sainte-Claire, with its arcades and traditional shops, cross the small bridges, and reach the gardens and the lakeside area. During the Christmas season, the scene becomes even more beautiful. The alleys are lit up, the squares are decorated, and the scents of mulled wine, sweets, and savoyard delicacies fill the old town. Time for a stroll, photos, coffee, and a first taste of the festive atmosphere of the Alps. We’ll then head to neighboring Geneva. Upon arrival, we’ll get our first glimpse of the city. We’ll head to the shores of Lake Geneva, snap our first photos of the famous Jet d’Eau, and stroll through the Jardin Anglais, home to the iconic Flower Clock. And of course, since we’re just two days away from Christmas, we’ll spend some time at Noël au Quai, Geneva’s large Christmas market right by the lake. Wooden chalets, Swiss delicacies, local products, mulled wine, and the illuminated lake make for a wonderful first evening in Switzerland. Afterward, transfer to the hotel and check-in. A first day that begins in Italy, continues in the French Alps, and concludes with a Christmas evening stroll in the heart of Geneva.

After breakfast, we begin our comprehensive tour of Geneva, one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan and international cities. The city is built where the Rhône River meets Lake Geneva and has been one of the most important centers of international diplomacy for decades. We’ll first head to the International Organizations district. We’ll see the imposing Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations, the International Red Cross building, and the Place des Nations, featuring the famous “Broken Chair” sculpture. We’ll then head back toward the city center and the lakefront. We’ll get a closer look at the famous Jet d’Eau, see the Flower Clock, and head up to the historic Vieille Ville, Geneva’s old town. In the narrow cobblestone streets, we’ll come across the Place du Bourg-de-Four, one of the city’s oldest squares, and the imposing St. Peter’s Cathedral. We leave Geneva and follow the northern shore of Lake Geneva toward Lausanne. Built amphitheatrically above the lake, the city boasts a unique natural setting with views of the Alps across the water. We’ll walk through the historic center and see the imposing Gothic Lausanne Cathedral, City Hall, and the beautiful Place de la Palud. We’ll continue through one of the most picturesque regions in the country. The famous vineyards of Lavaux form successive terraces above Lake Geneva, creating a stunning landscape with the lake below and the Alps across the way. And we arrive in the elegant city of Montreux, one of the most famous resorts on the Swiss Riviera. We’ll stroll along the lovely lakeside promenade, past historic Belle Époque hotels and manicured gardens, and see the iconic statue of Freddie Mercury. But the main highlight of today’s itinerary is Montreux Noël. During the holiday season, hundreds of lights and more than a hundred wooden chalets create one of the most atmospheric settings in Switzerland. Here we’ll have time for shopping, mulled wine, chocolate, traditional raclette, and, of course, an authentic Swiss fondue. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Geneva.

Today we leave the French-speaking part of Switzerland behind and travel through the heart of the country, on a day filled with historic towns, lakes, and Alpine scenery. Our first stop is Bern, the federal capital of Switzerland. Its historic center stretches along a striking bend in the Aare River and is one of the best-preserved medieval ensembles in Europe. We’ll start in the Bear Quarter, home to the city’s symbol, and enjoy the panoramic view of the historic center. Crossing the bridge, we’ll enter the old town and walk beneath the characteristic covered arcades. We’ll see the impressive Zytglogge, the famous Clock Tower, the Cathedral, the house where Albert Einstein lived, the historic fountains, and of course the Bundeshaus, the Federal Palace. Free time for coffee and souvenir shopping. We then depart for enchanting Lucerne. The city is built in a unique natural setting, where Lake Lucerne meets the peaks of the Alps. We’ll see the moving Lion Monument, stroll through the beautiful squares of the old town with their painted facades, and, of course, cross the famous Kapellbrücke, the wooden Chapel Bridge with its distinctive water tower. Time for a stroll along the lakefront and to enjoy the unique winter atmosphere. Late in the afternoon, we’ll continue on to Zurich and check into our rooms.

Today could turn out to be one of the most memorable experiences of the entire trip. For those who wish, we’ll depart early in the morning for Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city and the capital of the canton of Graubünden. From here, we board the Rhaetian Railway’s Alpine train. And this is where the real journey through the Alps begins. As the train climbs higher, the scenery outside the windows changes constantly: deep valleys, rivers, forests, Alpine villages, impressive bridges, and—at this time of year—snow-capped peaks and snow-white landscapes. This is not just a trip but one of the program’s most memorable experiences. Arrival in the legendary St. Moritz, one of the world’s most famous winter resorts. St. Moritz has become synonymous with luxury, winter sports, and the international jet set. We’ll stroll through the elegant town center, past luxury hotels, traditional buildings, and boutiques of international brands, while the view of the frozen lake and the peaks of the Engadin creates a unique winter setting. Free time for coffee, lunch, and photos. In the afternoon, return by bus to Zurich. If you’re staying in Zurich, you’ll have the day free to explore the city at a more leisurely pace—stroll through the Old Town and along the lakefront, or visit one of the open museums and attractions.