Explore Switzerland: Food, Culture, Hiking & Photography – July 2025

Departure from the USA on a flight to Geneva.

We’ll aim to arrive mid-morning and gather just outside customs, where our private driver and van will be waiting to greet us. From there, we’ll head to our hotel, perfectly situated in the city’s charming Old Town and just a short stroll from the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. This will be our home for the next two nights, offering an ideal base to begin our Swiss adventure.

We start our adventure with a relaxing morning in our centrally located hotel, the perfect base for exploring the city’s vibrant charm. For those looking to stretch their legs, an optional guided walk around Geneva offers a gentle introduction to the city’s picturesque streets, historic landmarks, and serene lakeside views.

In the evening, indulge in the ultimate Swiss culinary experience with dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant. We then will delight our palate with authentic regional dishes, from creamy fondue and raclette to perfectly prepared rösti and other local specialties.

After a peaceful night’s rest, we will enjoy a leisurely breakfast to energize for an enriching day of exploration. TravelAvidly Guide will lead everyone on a personalized tour of Geneva, offering insights into the city’s rich heritage and unique character.

We will begin with a visit to the Jet d’Eau, Geneva’s iconic water fountain, a symbol of the city and a perfect spot for photos. Then we stroll to the Flower Clock, a stunning blend of art and horticulture celebrating Geneva’s watchmaking tradition. We then continue to the historic St. Pierre Cathedral, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and discover its archaeological site beneath, uncovering layers of Geneva’s past.

Wander through the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and quaint cafés, as the guide shares tales of Geneva’s pivotal role in history – from being a hub of Reformation to its status as a center for international diplomacy. Explore the bohemian charm of the Carouge district, with its artisan workshops, unique boutiques, and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Here, we will uncover the local culture and lifestyle, complemented by stories of the area’s fascinating evolution.

Throughout the tour, the guide will share captivating insights into Geneva’s legacy of innovation in science and its watchmaking excellence, enriching your journey with knowledge and inspiration.

We begin our day with a leisurely breakfast before embarking on a scenic train journey to the enchanting town of Interlaken. Together, we’ll sit back and marvel at the breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, shimmering lakes, and charming Swiss villages as the train winds its way through the heart of Switzerland.

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients at a cozy café or restaurant nestled in Interlaken’s picturesque setting. Afterward, we’ll check in to our comfortable hotel, where we’ll settle in for the next three nights. Each morning, we’ll wake up to a delicious breakfast included with our stay, setting the perfect tone for our alpine adventures.

In the evening, we’ll savor a hearty dinner at a local eatery, where traditional Swiss hospitality and flavors take center stage. Whether it’s a classic cheese fondue or a modern twist on Swiss cuisine, our meal will be a delightful and satisfying way to end a day of travel and exploration.

We start our day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, energizing ourselves for an adventure in one of Switzerland’s most scenic destinations. Together, we’ll board the train to Lauterbrunnen, a charming village nestled in a stunning valley, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The journey itself is a treat, offering spectacular alpine vistas along the way.

Once we arrive in Lauterbrunnen, we’ll set off on an invigorating hike through this breathtaking valley. As we wander along trails leading to iconic spots like Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls, we’ll marvel at the natural beauty that surrounds us. The gentle sounds of rushing water and the crisp mountain air make for a truly rejuvenating experience.

Midway through our hike, we’ll take a break to enjoy lunch at a cozy alpine restaurant or perhaps share a picnic amidst the serene landscape, soaking in the unparalleled views of the Swiss Alps. After our hike, we’ll return to Lauterbrunnen station and board the train back to our hotel, reflecting together on the day’s unforgettable sights and moments.

We’ll end the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where we can unwind and savor traditional Swiss flavors—a perfect conclusion to a day immersed in nature’s wonders.

We begin our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, preparing ourselves for an extraordinary alpine adventure. Together, we’ll board the train to Grindelwald, a picturesque village surrounded by towering peaks and lush green meadows. We’ll enjoy the scenic ride through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes as we approach the gateway to our next experience.

From Grindelwald, we’ll embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. As the train ascends to the highest railway station in Europe, we’ll marvel at the awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the unique attractions at the summit, including the Ice Palace, Alpine Sensation, and panoramic viewing platforms offering breathtaking vistas of the Aletsch Glacier and beyond.

We’ll pause for lunch at one of the restaurants at Jungfraujoch, where we can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning alpine scenery. After our adventure at the Top of Europe, we’ll return to Grindelwald by train, reliving the spectacular views on the descent. Then, we’ll board the train back to our hotel, bringing an unforgettable day to a close.

We start our day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, fueling ourselves for a journey to one of Switzerland’s most enchanting cities. Together, we’ll board the train to Lucerne, a destination renowned for its stunning lake, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. We’ll relax and enjoy the picturesque ride through Switzerland’s breathtaking countryside.

Upon arrival, we’ll treat ourselves to a delicious lunch at a local café or restaurant, sampling Lucerne’s regional delicacies as we take in the city’s charming atmosphere. Afterward, we’ll spend the afternoon strolling through Lucerne’s picturesque streets, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the Old Town, all surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps and the shimmering waters of Lake Lucerne.

Later, we’ll indulge in a Lucerne Wine Tasting Tour by the serene lake. We’ll visit a traditional winery to savor some of the region’s finest wines, paired with insights into Swiss winemaking traditions. This experience offers a perfect blend of taste and relaxation in a stunning lakeside setting. We’ll check in to our hotel in Lucerne for a two-night stay, where we’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations and a hearty breakfast each morning. In the evening, we’ll savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, rounding off our first day in Lucerne with exceptional cuisine and warm Swiss hospitality.

We begin our day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, preparing ourselves for a day of outdoor exploration and alpine beauty. Together, we’ll board the train to Engelberg, a picturesque mountain village known for its stunning landscapes and endless hiking opportunities. We’ll enjoy the scenic journey as we ascend into the heart of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by breathtaking views.

Upon arrival, we’ll set out on a rejuvenating hike through Engelberg’s pristine trails. Whether we choose a leisurely walk or a more challenging trek, we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of lush meadows, rugged peaks, and charming alpine chalets. We’ll pause for lunch at a cozy mountain restaurant or enjoy a packed picnic surrounded by nature’s tranquility, savoring the fresh mountain air and the serene ambiance of Engelberg’s idyllic setting.

After our hike, we’ll take the train back to Lucerne, reflecting on the day’s invigorating experiences and stunning vistas. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local Lucerne restaurant, savoring the flavors of Swiss cuisine as we unwind and relax.

We start our day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, savoring our last morning in Lucerne before our return to Geneva. We’ll board the train back to Geneva, enjoying the comfort and scenic beauty of Switzerland’s world-class rail system. As we journey through rolling hills and charming towns, we’ll reflect on the wonderful memories we’ve created during our trip.

Upon arrival in Geneva, we’ll check in to our hotel for a one-night stay. We’ll take some time to relax, or if we’re feeling adventurous, we can opt for a walk or shopping excursion around the city. We’ll explore Geneva’s vibrant streets, high-end boutiques, and local shops, or simply enjoy the city’s elegant ambiance.

For lunch, we’ll choose from a variety of Geneva’s delightful dining options, ranging from cozy cafés to gourmet restaurants serving international and Swiss-inspired cuisine. We’ll spend the afternoon soaking in Geneva’s unique charm, perhaps with an optional guided walk through its historic Old Town or a leisurely lakeside stroll.

As the day winds down, we’ll indulge in a memorable dinner at one of Geneva’s fine restaurants. Together, we’ll toast to an incredible journey filled with exploration, culture, and breathtaking scenery. This day offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable conclusion to our Swiss adventure.

Today marks the end of our Swiss Alps tour – and what an adventure it will have been.  We will have breakfast at our hotel before transferring to the airport for departure.