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Day 1 Chamonix

Arrive at any time.

Our circuit begins and ends in Chamonix, France. This evening is our first opportunity to try out some of the best Alpine specialities in a typical restaurant, such as Cheese fondue, Tartiflette or Raclette accompanied with some famous "Vin de Savoie" wine.

Day 2 Chamonix/Les Contamines-Montjoie

Travel to Les Houches and enjoy a 24km (15 mi) hike through the stunning countryside to Les Contamines and savour a delicious dinner in the evening.

We set off this morning after breakfast for our first day of hiking. We'll take the bus to the village of Les Houches, where we begin with a cable car ride to Bellevue. From here on a clear day you’ll enjoy great views of the Chamonix Valley and the Mont Blanc Range, before beginning our hike to Les Contamines.

Day 3 Les Contamines-Montjoie/Les Chapieux

Hike the challenging 18km (11 mi) from Les Contamines to Les Chapieux.

Day 4 Les Chapieux/Courmayeur

Pass glacial lakes on the 23km (14 mi) trek from Les Chapieux to the Italian town of Courmayeur.

Day 5 Courmayeur

The picturesque mountain town of Courmayeur is an ideal backdrop for a free day. Opt to ride a cable car to Pointe Helbronner or go for a day hike.

Today we have a scheduled rest day to put up our weary feet or take the opportunity to enjoy the lovely town of Courmayeur and La Saxe. Enjoy an optional dinner with the group and our leader to taste some of the Italian Alpine specialities offered in Courmayeur's many atmospheric restaurants.

Day 6 Courmayeur/Val Ferret

Hike the 14km (8.6 mi) from Courmayeur to the Italian Val Ferret. It's a steep climb but the rewarding views are worth it.

Day 7 Val Ferret/La Fouly

Embark on a long, steep hike of 20km (12.5 mi) followed by a stay in the Swiss mountain village of La Fouly.

Day 8 La Fouly/Trient

After a short bus journey to the picturesque village of Champex, follow the "Bovine Way" and trek 16km (10mi) from La Fouly to Trient.

Day 9 Trient/Chamonix

Enjoy a final day of trekking 14 km (8.7mi) over the Col de la Balme to the Chamonix valley.

Day 10 Chamonix

We suggest booking your flight no earlier than 12:00 if you would like to leisurely enjoy your last morning in Chamonix. Please keep in mind that Geneva is approximately 2 hours away.

Please note that most international flights depart from Geneva Airport, and you will need to allow at least 3 hours prior to your departure time to travel from Chamonix to Geneva. For this reason, our suggested 12:00 flight departure time is not mandatory, but recommended to allow a leisurely final morning on tour.

Day 1 in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Begin the afternoon by heading straight to Altstadt (Zurich`s Old Town) and find a place for lunch amongst the wide range of cafes and restaurants in the area. Spend a bit of time wandering the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, check out the colorful and wonderfully-preserved buildings, and stroll along the Limmat River. We highly recommend a walking tour to discover the city and learn about the history and culture that it offers.

From here, make your way to Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich`s premier shopping street and one of the bustling streets in Old Town where you`ll find window-shopping stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and much more! While here, it`s worth checking out Uhrenmuseum (Watch Museum) that is located in the basement of Beyer watch shop. You will learn the history and see the exhibition on time keeping dating back from 1400 BC to today.

Finish your day at one of the many restaurants or cafes on Bahnhofstrasse, some rich with tradition and many that are very inviting!

Day 2 in Zurich

Wake up early today and start your day off with a stroll along Lake Zurich. The lake is absolutely pristine and offers spectacular views of the Alps. Then head out on a boat cruise for about an hour ride on the lake and get lost in the stunning views and peaceful nature all around.

In the afternoon spend some time visiting Grossmunster, one of the most famous churches in Zurich. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city from the top. If time allows, head over to Church of Our Lady (or Fraumunster), built in the 9th century and famous for its graceful spire. You must see it to appreciate its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows that alone make it worth the visit.

As night approaches, head over to the Lindenhoff for sunset, a small climb will offer the most spectacular views of Zurich over the Limmat River and Old Town. You'll find numerous options for a great traditional Swiss dinner while in the downtown area offering views of the river.

Day 3 in Zurich

Start off your day by exploring the breathtaking views of Zurich and head to the Uetilber Mountain. Hike, jog, bike, or take the train up the mountain. At the top, take in the spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Zurich, the lake, and perhaps even a glimpse of the Alps. Relax with a cup of coffee or a bite to eat while taking in the fantastic views of the city and beyond.

Next, head over to the KunsthausZurich (Museum of Art); said to be one of the best museums in the city. Among an interesting collection of Swiss artists, the museum also hangs works by Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall and Claude Monet. And a visit to the top floors is a must!

On your final night, make your way to Zuri-West, a night life hotspot with a trendy, post-industrial edge. A revival has been taking place here for more than a decade, with converted industrial buildings offering everything from concert halls and rooftop bars to luxury flats. The area is now a hotspot for food design, art and culture.

Additional Days in Zurich

Should you be able to spend additional days in Zurich check out the picturesque beauty of Lucerne. Only a 45 minute drive from Zurich, this full day adventure will give you an understanding of why this is deemed one of Europe’` prettiest cities. Wonder around the city and marvel at the beautiful architecture and the oldest covered foot bridge in Europe. Then take a scenic boat ride to the base of Mount Pilatus and ascend on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world (only open in the summer months). This is an incredible journey up mountains offering the most breathtaking views to the top. Then make your way back down on the aerial cableways and panorama gondolas.

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Lucerne

Welcome to Lucerne! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Once you arrive in town, start your exploration at the Old Town, a maze of cobblestone alleys lined with brightly frescoed facades. Follow the old cobbled streets in the Old Town of Lucerne, and get lost amongst the many shops, fountains, restaurants and the historic painted buildings. The four main squares of the Old Town are Mühlenplatz, Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz and Kornmarkt.

Most of Old Town is spread across the north bank of River Reuss. On the south bank is the 17th century baroque style Jesuit Church of Saint Francis Xavier, identified by its dull-green twin onion domes. The flower-lined 14th century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) runs diagonally across the river and is the most well-known symbol of Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe and is full of history. As you stroll along the bridge and past the water tower, you can view the many paintings on the gables inside the bridge, which were painted by Hans Heinrich Wägmann in the 17th-18th century. Many of these paintings and the bridge were destroyed after a fire in 1993, but have since been reconstructed. You can also capture a gorgeous view of the town of Lucerne as well as a scenic view of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps.

Further down the river is Lucerne`s second covered wooden footbridge, the Spreuer Brudge or Mill Bridge, built in 1408. The bridge, in the city`s lower end, connected the mills to the baker`s quarter. Triangular panels on the roof depict a macabre series of paintings that show grinning skeletons in everyday human scenes. Cross over the bridge and stop in one of the charming al fresco riverside cafes. Make sure to try some delicious handmade chocolates and the variety of specialty cheeses you`ll encounter along the way.

Check out the brick-roofed Rathaus, the 17th-century town hall that now houses its own brewery and restaurant in the basement. Continue on and check out the Lion Memorial, a dying lion is carved into a sandstone rock rising above a pond of water, commemorating the Swiss guards who fell fighting for King Louis XVI in 1792 during the French Revolution. Check out the Glacier Garden found next to the Lyon monument which displays natural remnants from the Ice Age 20,000 years ago.

In the evening, enjoy an atmospheric dinner by the riverside, many restaurants offer both indoor and al fresco seating.

Day 2 in Lucerne

Start off your day with a cruise of the beautiful Lake Lucerne. Sit back and relax while you cruise past the stunning views of Switzerland. The average trip is about an hour-long and includes an audio guide of the main sights, as well as amazing views of the Alps. For something more active, you may want to explore Lake Lucerne by paddle boat and make your own way around the Lake.

After the cruise, stroll and people-watch along the active waterfront promenade. When the weather is warm, the stretch is full of young people rollerblading and old men playing pétanque (an age-old ball game). Find a restaurant in the area to enjoy some lunch and make sure to enjoy the cheese fondue, a must try while in Switzerland!

Continue along the promenade towards the Swiss Museum of Transport. The museum traces the history of road, rail, water and air navigation through simulators and multimedia displays. Don`t miss the vintage locomotives on display among the numerous exhibits. There is a film theater and a planetarium within the museum complex, but the highlight for kids and the kids at heart is the Chocolate Adventure. The interactive ride explains the history and making of chocolate through visuals, smells and tastings. Grab a snack at the in-house restaurant and take it with you for a picnic across the street at the beautiful lakeside park.

As evening approaches head back into Old Town to enjoy one of the lively cafes or restaurants in town. You may want to take in the live music and traditional folk performances, complete with yodelers, alphorn players and other Swiss performances. And end your night with a characteristically Swiss dessert, a cheese platter. It features different cuts of cheese paired with relish, jelly, walnut, fig, mustard and bread, and can be found on almost every menu in town.

Day 3 in Lucerne

On your last day in Lucerne, grab your comfortable shoes and take a day trip up the mountain to Mount Pilatus for a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne. Towering over Lucerne at 6,995 ft, Mount Pilatus has the world`s steepest cogwheel railway. Board the 126-year-old cogwheel rail that chugs up the mountainside at a steep angle, sometimes as sharp as 48 degrees, and operates from May to November. The train gently rolls up the mountain at 6 miles/hr and rolls through tunnels piercing straight through the rock face.

Another option to the top of Mount Pilatus is by gondola from Kriens through Krienseregg to Fräkmüntegg. The ride is a peaceful stretch complete with pristine views of the Mount Pilatus and the luscious green meadows and wildlife below. The final leg up from Fräkmüntegg to Pilatus Kulm by aerial cableway is the most exciting, but maybe not for the faint hearted. The total journey up to the mountain station is about 30 minutes.

When you arrive at the top, be prepared for the most spectacular views as soon as you step outside. From here, it is a 10-minute climb to the summit of the Esel (the central peak, but not the highest). And from Pilatus-Kulm, it is a 30 minute trek to the Tomlishorn, the highest peak of the mountain. The trip can also be combined with various types of sports or hiking tours.

In summer, indulge your active side at the Rope Park or the Toboggan Run. Grab a bite at the upscale Queen Victoria restaurant at Hotel Pilatus-Kulm or the self-service restaurant with a sun terrace at the Hotel Bellevue. There`s usually a choice of set meals. The Panoramic Gallery linking the two hotels features a covered roof and is a good place to stop for breathtaking views of the mighty Alps.

On your last evening in Lucerne check out the Grand Casino, a perfect spot to try your luck in poker, roulette or blackjack. Or if you are looking for something a bit more cultural, and if you speak German, you can enjoy a performance at the Stadttheater. And after dark, the Old Town is a great spot to be with various pubs and cafes to enjoy.

Additional Days in Lucerne

Should you be able to spend additional days in Lucerne we recommend a day trip to the World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, located 50 miles from Lucerne, this is known as the Top or Europe and is home to the highest railroad station on the continent at 11,332 ft. A perfect way to enjoy this stunning Alpine scenery is on the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip. The journey would begin with a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland and a cogwheel train trip up to the Jungfraujoch, passing through the mountain pass of Kleine Scheidegg, beneath the famous Eiger North Face. While on the summit, you can stop to explore the Ice Palace and enjoy the stunning views from the Sphinx Observation Terrace.

Your Last Day in Lucerne

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Interlaken

Welcome to Interlaken, the heart of the Bernese Oberland region! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Interlaken is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding Alps and Lakes. Situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienze, Interlaken is surrounded by some of the Alps highest peaks, Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. You will find this charming traditional village, with such abundance list of things to do, is guarantee to be an enjoyable time.

Once you arrive in town, start your exploration at the Town Center. There are two sides to Interlaken`s town center, the main street and the streets north of the main street leading to the river. The Main Street boasts many neat shops and restaurants. Spend some time taking in the ambience while enjoying some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants or cafes. If you`re looking to buy some Swiss chocolate, Swiss Army Knives or souvenir type items, then pick them up while you`re here.

After you`ve finished with your shopping, head north through the small collection of streets that lead to the river. Here you will find more traditional buildings decorated with baskets of flowers and colorful window shutters. When you get to the bridge crossing the river, enjoy the view of the turquoise glacier waters moving rapidly towards the lake.

Next, spend some time at the Touristik-Museum (Museum of Tourism), the first regional tourism museum in the country. Exhibitions show the growth of tourism in the region throughout the past 2 centuries and cover everything from early transport and hotels to travel clothing and skiing. The museum is open from May to mid-October.

In the evening, enjoy an atmospheric dinner by the lake, many restaurants offer both indoor and al fresco seating when the weather is nice. If you choose to continue your evening after dinner, there are plenty of bars, pubs and nightclubs in town with something for everyone to enjoy.

Day 2 in Interlaken

Start off your day with a cruise of the beautiful Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Interlaken is home to two of the finest lakes in Switzerland. And what better way to enjoy them than with a cruise on one or both of them. A cruise through the crystal clear glacier waters of Lake Then or Lake Brienz takes you past beautiful fishing villages and castles steeped in history. Towering mountains surround the lake making for some of the most breathtaking scenery.

The Lake Thun cruises depart from the ferry dock near Interlaken West Station and Lake Brienz cruises depart from the ferry dock near Interlaken Ost. A ticket allows for unlimited hop on hop off on both lakes and train travel between Interlaken West and Ost stations.

Alternatively, for the best view of Interlaken, Lakes Thun and Brienz and the surrounding mountains including the big three, Eiger, Monch and Jangfrau, take the funicular up Harder Kulm. In just about eight minutes you reach 4,337 ft above sea level and from the restaurant and viewing area you are met with views that are simply jaw dropping. The viewing platform projects over the slope and has a glass floor.

Stop at the Harder Alpine Wildlife Park to see marmots and ibexes (an extinct denizen of the Alps). This park was created to re-introduce the ibex, and the breeding was so successful that within a few years they were able to begin reintroducing these beautiful creatures into the wild.

This is also a perfect place to start many great hikes through the surrounding mountains.

Day 3 in Interlaken

On your last day in Interlaken, head to Interlaken Ost railway station for a day trip to depart for an epic train ride on the Jungfrau Railway, the highest rail station in Europe. Amazingly, the Interlaken Line is more than 100 years old, and will lift you in stages through stunning landscapes; the last part of the ride up is inside a huge tunnel carved out of the mountains at the turn of the last century. (The train runs the entire year.)

There are actually two routes, one via Lauterbrunnen, the other via Grindlewald. It is actually the same train from Interlaken Ost, later the train is split in two. Tickets are good for either route and you can take one route up and the other back to see more of the country. Going via either route you physically change trains twice. Once at either Lauterbrunnen or Grindlewald, and the second time at Kleine Scheidegg, where the two routes come back together. From Kleine Scheidegg you make the last leg to the Jungfraujoch. From here, you can enter the Top of Europe Building, which overlooks the permanently frozen expanse of the Aletsch Glacier in the UNESCO Natural World Heritage property of Jungrau - Aletsch - Bietschhorn. There are restaurants and attractions inside, and you can then ride the elevator to the Sphinx Observatory for breathtaking 360° indoor and outdoor views.

There are various winter sport activities available also for those so inclined.

Note: We recommend you leave as early as you can in the day as the journey from the Ost station to the top takes around two and a half hours and you want to beat the clouds that have a tendency to roll over the mountains in the afternoon. You will also have less crowding by leaving earlier.

On the way down you can make stops in any of the charming villages you passed through on the way up. We highly recommend the quant village of Wengen.

Additional Days in Interlaken

Should you be able to spend additional days in Interlaken there is still so much to see and do. If you are traveling in winter months, take a day to enjoy the snow sports of the area. Interlaken is not a ski resort per se, but its amenities, location and transport connections make it a great place for skiing or snowboarding. The Jungfrau Ski Region incorporates, Grindelwald First, Kleine Scheidegg-Mannlichen and Murren-Schilthorn. Even closer is Beatenber-Niederhorn to the north of Interlaken, which has slopes that will suit all levels of skiers. You may also want to try the toboggan run from the Faulhorn peak down to Grindelwald.

During the warmer months, there are numerous hikes, look out points, bike rides, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and the list goes on. A more adventurous way to explore is by ziplining down the side of a mountain and then take a scooter bike through the mountainside down to the village of Grindelwald. Whatever you decide, we highly recommend finding an activity that lets you take in the beauty of the Alps outside the villages.

There are also many day trips around the area worth taking. One highlight in the area that is worth a day trip is Europe`s finest living history museums, The Swiss Open-Air Museum Ballenberg. The museum spreads across 124 acres of alpine countryside in a series of village and farmstead groups representing different Swiss regions and their traditional ways of life.

Your Last Day in Interlaken

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Montreux

Welcome to the small resort town of Montreux on Lake Geneva! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Start the day with a stroll along the promenade. Montreux has the most beautiful, flower-bordered lake promenade which links neighboring town Vevey to Montreux and goes all the way to Chillon Castle. Just start in one direction and you can walk for miles, the view never gets old and you never know what you`ll find. If you walk along the north western shore of Lake Geneva you`ll come across the Chillon castle.

Next, pay a visit to the Chateau de Chillon that sits wistfully on a rocky island on the shores of Lake Geneva, right at the foot of the Alps. This is the most visited monument in all of Switzerland and it`s easy to see why. It is said to be the inspiration behind Prince Eric`s castle in The Little Mermaid movie!

Visiting the castle is like going back in time. You can visit the turrets, dungeons, great banqueting halls, a medieval chapel, courtyards, vaults, private bedrooms; the list goes on and on. You`ll also want to stroll through the well-manicured gardens surrounded by the panoramic views of the beautiful Lake Geneva and endless mountains.

On your first evening in Montreux, take in the ambiance of the city at night while sipping on a glass of wine and dining alfresco (if weather allows) in one of the numerous cafes and restaurants dotted along the promenade. The promenade is even more gorgeous in the evening!

Day 2 in Montreux

Start your day by exploring the `old` Montreux, we suggest taking a guided walking tour to fully discover this area. At almost every turn there are views to admire with panoramas of the lake, mountains and forests. This is a great spot to enjoy a relaxing breakfast at one of the charming bistros or restaurants while admiring the many fountains fed by spring water that surround the area.

The Old Town is also a perfect starting point for enjoying a magnificent hike of the area. The trail to the wild Gorges du Chauderon leads along the Baye de Montreux River to Glion or Les Avants.

Spend the rest of the afternoon on a tour of Rochers-de-Naye, at 6,698 ft, this is one of the most popular tours along Lake Geneva. From Montreux, a cogwheel train takes visitors up to Rochers-de-Naye in less than an hour. The train ascends the slopes over Lac Léman, passing Glion, a little resort on a rocky crag almost suspended between lake and mountains. You come to Caux at 3,598 ft., lying on a natural balcony overhanging the blue bowl of the lake. Finally, the peak of Rochers-de-Naye raises high in the Vaudois Alps. In the distance, you can see the stunning Alps, including Mont Blanc and the Jura Alps. At the end is an alpine flower garden, the highest in Europe. The train departs from the railway station of Montreux every hour during the day, with the last departure between 5:30 and 7 pm, depending on the season.

Alternatively, you may want to enjoy a boat trip of the area leaving from Montreux. This is a great way to get a different perspective while passing charming little villages from the water. There are ferries which depart several times a day.

Spend your evening trying your luck at the Casino Barrière de Montreux. Most of the action in the evenings revolves around the casino with about 200 slot machines; a handful of roulette tables and a small disco that stays open nightly till 4 am.

Day 3 in Montreux

On your last day in Montreux spend the day in the Lavaux vineyards that extend along Lake Geneva between Lausanne and Montreux. The scenery is breathtaking, it`s no wonder they`re a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although there is some evidence that vines were grown in the area in Roman times, the present vines terraces can be traced back to the 11th century. Follow the Route de Vignerons by car or, even better, take the well-marked walking paths that include short Parcours Viticoles (`vineyard trails`) or the 19-mile Grande Traversee.

Spend your last evening in the neighboring, charming town of Vevey. It is filled with colorful cafes, shops, homes, restaurants, and of course, flowers! Vevey is right on the water as well, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps across the lake. There`s an `old town` with colorful buildings and narrow pedestrian streets, a great spot to treat yourself to some delicious local cuisine.

Additional Days in Montreux

Should you be able to spend additional days in Montreux we recommend a tour on the Chocolate Train. There is no better way to enjoy the delights of Switzerland then by sampling their finest products - chocolate and cheese, and a day trip excursion on board `The Chocolate Train` is the perfect way to do it. The train is boarded from the lakeside in Montreux and journeys high up into the glorious alpine foothills to Gruyeres.

Gruyeres is a charming and picturesque medieval town in the district of Gruyere (famously named after a cheese). Of course, most of the restaurants here serve the obligatory fondue made with Gruyere cheese, and you can even take a visit to the local cheese museum, `La Maison du Gruyere` where you can learn about the history and creation of this delicious French export.

After spending some time in the delightful Gruyeres continue on to the Cailler-Nestlé Chocolate Factory in Broc. If you have a sweet tooth, then this certainly is the place for you as a tour of the factory and chocolate sampling awaits.

Your Last Day in Montreux

Depart your hotel for the airport or train station where you will head home or make your way to more European adventures. Savor the memories of a very special time spent in Montreux.

Day 1 in Geneva

Welcome to Geneva! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Once you arrive in town, stroll around the lakeside, the largest freshwater lake in the Alps. The best way to get to know the city is to walk along the banks and explore. Enjoy the sight of the Jet d`Eau, the city`s landmark, a large fountain, that started out as a way to release pressure from a local factory. Along the eastern bank, by Quai Gustave-Ador, you`ll pass by the iconic Flower Clock that sits outside the Jardin Anglais. On the opposite side you`ll see Perle du Lac park, a beautiful green area where it`s possible to swim in the lake.

Next, make your way up to Geneva`s main shopping district to explore the city`s high-end stores and brands. Together Rue du Rhône, Rue du Marché and Rue de la Croix d`or are where these stores gather. This is also where you`ll find luxury items, from Swiss watches to the finest jewelry, and all the latest trends with prices that will reflect the luxury items that they are. Stop in for a bite to eat on Place de Molard where you`ll find some charming restaurants with outside terraces.

Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring Geneva`s old town, Vielle Ville. Start in Place du Bourg-de-Four, a square filled with history and the gateway to the picturesque maze of small streets. In the heart of the old town there are numerous antique shops, boutiques, galleries, museums, historic sites and homey cafes to discover. Be sure to visit the famous St. Peter`s Cathedral which dates back to the 12th century. Some other must see places are Maison Travel (the museum of history of Geneva) and the Old Arsenal, a series of canons decorated by mosaics portraying Caesar`s arrival in the city in 58 BC located in front, Place du Bourg-de-Four and The Treille Promenade. Also here is the famous luxurious Hotel de Ville, where many historical milestones occurred.

Finish your day relaxing with a lakeside cocktail after your first day in Geneva. There are many restaurants overlooking the lake that serve cocktails some with rooftops terraces offering beautiful views of the lake.

Day 2 in Geneva

Wake up early today and head to Mont Salève for the best views of Geneva. It is a short half-day trip to Salève, across the border in France (a 30-minute bus ride from Geneva`s central station). Hiking up the side of the mountain takes around 1-2 hours or you can take a leisurely cable car in less than 10 minutes. From the top you can enjoy outstanding panoramic views of all of Geneva and the vast expanse of Lac Léman. This mountain is an immense playground for sports lovers. In addition to hiking, you can go paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking or cross-country skiing in the winter months. Nature lovers will enjoy the fauna and flora and the beautiful vista of Geneva. On the south-east side of the mountain, take in the views of the Alps with the Mont-Blank massif.

After you have worked up an appetitive, stop in the restaurant located at the funicular arrival point for some traditional French mountain dishes or grab a snack at the shack just outside.

Spend the remaining part of your day unwinding in Carouge, Geneva`s Italian district. Built in the 18th century by architects from Sardinia, the area immediately stands out from the rest, incomparable to the rest of the city. In fact, Carouge`s unique architecture is an expression of its Sardinian heritage, a pattern of magnificent historical streets with warm and cozy cafes, bistros and antique shops. Relax over a cup of coffee and watch the world go by, or plan to stay a while and enjoy dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants in the area.

If time and energy allows, end your day getting cultural at the performing arts of Geneva. The city offers both the theatre and opera houses and hosts a mix of internationally renowned shows. Check out the latest events at the Grand Théâtre de Genève and the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande.

Day 3 in Geneva

On your last day in Geneva explore International Geneva by starting at the Place des Nations, a big square situated in the heart of Geneva`s International district, in front of the United Nations headquarters, famous for housing the Broken Chair. The chair is commemorating victims of mine disasters. From here you can take a tour of the Palais des Nations or learn about the history of the humanitarian movement at the International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

In the afternoon pay a visit to CERN, the world`s largest most expensive physics lab, home to an array of impressive machinery including several particle accelerators. Even for those not too interested in mind-bogglig physics equations, it`s a fascinating trip that traces the history, and purpose, of the Large Hadron Collider, that is at the center of probably the best known, and most controversial, experiments in the world.

On your last evening in Geneva choose from one of the numerous world-class restaurants in the city, several of them Michelin-starred to relax over some delicious local cuisine.

Additional Days in Geneva

Should you be able to spend additional days in Geneva we recommend a day trip to one of the several nearby cities and regions of the area. Lausanne, with its excellent museums and historic sites, is a short boat or train ride away, and the Swiss capital of Bern and the mountain glory around Interlaken are short train rides east. In this Jungfrau region, the villages of Mürren and Wengen are among the most attractive towns in Europe. Because Geneva sits right on the border with France, it is easy to reach several French cities, as well. Lyon is only two hours by train. Dijon, to the north in Burgundy, is only a little farther. Geneva is within easy reach of some of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, and as well as superb skiing in the French Alps. The French Alps are also filled with year-round attractions.

Your Last Day in Geneva

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.