Introducing our new tour! From snow-capped mountains to the glistening blue sea, our Switzerland and the Mediterranean program has something for everyone. Travelers will experience the Mediterranean lifestyle as they roam the streets of Lucerne, stroll the pebble beaches of the French Riviera, ramble down Las Ramblas, and take in all the sights and experiences along the way.
Day 1: Start tour
Day 2: Guten Tag Zurich! Meet your tour director and travel to Lucerne, where your adventure will begin.
Day 3: A day of sightseeing all of Lucerne’s most famous sights, of course led by your tour director. Weave your way through the narrow, winding streets until you reach the River Reuss and the Medieval Kapellbrucke Bridge. You’ve never seen a bridge like this! The walls are decorated with recreated murals from the 14th century – talk about stepping back in time. Continue down the cobblestone streets in the Old Town to see the Lowendenkmal (Lion Monument). This impressive cat statue standing over a reflecting pool was created to honor the Swiss Guards who died defending the Tuileries in 1792.
You can’t be in Switzerland and just look at the mountains. So, take advantage of the option to go on the Mount Titlis excursion. At an altitude of 10,000 feet, Mount Titlis is the highest glacier in central Switzerland. Experience this incredible part of the Alps from below and above! You will discover the inside of the glacier and make your way down 20 meters below the surface. Then, travel via the Ice Flyer Chairlift to get a bird’s eye view. Wow!
End the day of discovery with a traditional Swiss dinner of fondue. Cheese and bread? Yes please!
Day 4: Travel to Cinque Terre via Lake Como, with free time to explore breathtaking Lake Como along the way. Have your camera ready. Lake Como’s depth is one reason for it’s beautiful deep blue water, which has make it one of Italy’s most picturesque locations. That plus the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains? It’s the ultimate Instagram moment.
Day 5: Explore Cinque Terre, which means “five lands” on a guided excursion. A series of five traditional fishing villages along the cliffs of the Italian Riviera, this destination features colorful houses and stop-you-in-your-tracks views. In fact, it is impressive, Cinque Terre itself was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 1997. Journey back in time where wine-making, olive-farming, and anchovy fishing still occupy most of the residents’ time.
Day 6: Travel to Cote d’Azur, stopping in Monaco and Nice for sightseeing tours. Ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 1th century, Monaco is the epitome of French Riviera glamour. Ever been to a Prince’s palace? Stop to see Prince Rainier’s crib, the Palais du Prince.
Speaking of palaces, old palaces and mansions abound in “Le Vieux Nice” (Old Town). Your afternoon in Nice will be quite nice (see what we did there?) Stroll along the water on the Promenade de Anglais, originally called the “Camin deis Anglés” in local dialect (the “English Way”) by the British who would flock to Nice in the 19th century.
Day 7: Travel to Provence and immediately fall in love with the French countryside. What does one do in the country? Hike of course! The Ocher Trail is considered a geological phenomenon and a feast for the eyes. The “feast” will feature impressive rock formations and vibrant colors as you hike the loop of the trail.
Day 8: One day in Provence just isn’t enough, so day two will be spent seeing all the highlights with your tour director. First up – the Pont Du Gard. This monument is a true masterpiece of ancient architecture, and is considered one of the most beautiful Roman constructions in the region. Ancient Roman indeed! The aqueduct bridge was built in the first century AD to carry water over 50 km (31 mi) to the Roman colony of Nemausus (Nîmes). Speaking of Nîmes, your next stop will be the Nîmes amphitheater, followed by Les Baux de Provence, a picturesque Medieval (12th century!) village situated on a rocky plateau.
Day 9: From France to España! Travel to Barcelona and get ready to treat yo’self! A day along the Barcelona city walk will awaken all the senses. The pedestrian boulevards and market stalls feature flowers, fresh foods of all kinds, coffee, palm readers, street performers, and history everywhere you look. With the mountains in the distance and the Mediterranean Sea at your back, take the best walk in the city along Las Ramblas, and even participate in a special Las Ramblas treasure hunt!
All those delectable looking treats at the market got you drooling? End the day with a delicious traditional tapas dinner.
Day 10: End your time in Barcelona with a guided sightseeing tour. Highlights include Gaudí’s Sagrada Família (Church of the Holy Family), Montjuïc Hill (Hill of the Jews), and a Park Güell visit. Want to see it all? At the top of Park Güell, a terraced area allows for a wonderful view of the park and Barcelona City, including all the impressively vibrant colorful tiles that line the area.
You can’t leave Spain without feasting on Paella, a Valencian rice dish with ancient roots.
Day 11: Travel home OR extend your tour to Madrid. Hey, you’re here anyway, right?
Check out our Switzerland and the Mediterranean itinerary to learn more and start planning your trip!