Railbookers Italy and Switzerland by Rail Brochure for U.S. Travelers

WHY RAILBOOKERS?

Railbookers offers expertly planned tailor made vacations with an extensive range of trips to North America, Europe and beyond.

We take the complexity out of independent rail travel and offer all our clients unparalleled service, incredible travel experiences and the very best value. The team at Railbookers is made up of proud ‘train geeks’ with comprehensive knowledge and passion for all things rail.

CHOICE IS YOURS

We are the one-stop shop for trains, hotels, sightseeing, transfers, and more.

NO PIECING IT ALL TOGETHER

We take the complexity out of independent train travel, and make your vacation planning easy!

FLEXIBLE BOOKING WINDOW

Book and travel from today to two years out - secure space and lock in the best price!

EXTENSIVE VACATION COLLECTION

Independent itineraries including multi-country, multi-city, pre- and postcruise, rail and sail, luxury, and more.

24/7 EMERGENCY LINE

Global staff across five countries to handle any unplanned disruptions such as train delays, strikes or emergencies.

HOTEL SELECTION

Select a 3-, 4-, and 5-star all on the same trip -The choice is yours!

TRAIN TRAVEL EXPERTS

We know the best routes and connections including luxury, scenic, and overnight rail.

AUSTRIA

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OUR VACATIONS

HOW DO I MAKE A RESERVATION?

Call Railbookers 1-888-829-3040 to speak with one of our knowledgeable Rail Experts to book your perfect rail vacation, call your local travel advisor or visit our website to submit an online request at www.railbookers.com

WHAT INFORMATION DO YOU REQUIRE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING?

All passenger first and last names, and all dates of birth, are required at the time of booking. Certain train providers will require passport information.

CAN I CUSTOMIZE MY TRIP?

Absolutely. We can add hotel nights to give you extra time to explore your destination, or add in additional destinations to help you discover new ones! We can also add transfers for ultimate ease and convenience and have an extensive range of sightseeing options so you can make the most of your trip. Just speak with our Rail Experts and we’ll start creating the perfect rail vacation for you.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND THE MOST SCENIC ROUTE TO GET TO MY DESTINATION?

We’re always advocates of taking the scenic route! With so much to see from the train windows on all our rail vacations, you’re in for a treat. If there’s a different route you could take for some extra special scenery, we’ll be excited to let you know!

CAN I TAKE A RAIL VACATION THAT YOU OFFER IN REVERSE?

Yes! We can offer a reverse option on any of our itineraries. If you are already planned to be in one destination and would like to visit cities on one of our packages in a different order or start/finish in a different location, please call us and speak with a Rail Expert.

CAN I UPGRADE TO FIRST-CLASS RAIL ON SOME OR EVEN ALL OF MY TRAIN JOURNEYS?

You certainly can. We know that many of our clients like to upgrade some or all of their train journeys to first-class. Upgrading will give you a larger seat, more legroom and even a meal and drinks on certain routes. To find out more, please speak with one of our Rail Experts who will tell you the advantages of first class on your specific route.

WHERE ARE YOUR HOTELS LOCATED?

Our hotels are centrally located within each city we offer. Most are within a short distance of local sights and/or your railway stations.

HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?

In general, each passenger can take two items of luggage plus one personal item. There are no weight restrictions - just remember you’ll need to carry everything!

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS?

After we receive full payment, travel documents will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to your departure.

CAN I ADD ON ADDITIONAL SIGHTSEEING OR ADDITIONAL HOTEL NIGHTS?

Yes, you can add additional sightseeing activities and/or hotel nights to most existing rail vacation packages we offer. When you speak with a Rail Expert, request an explanation of the upgrade options to your vacation package as you wish. Additional charges may apply.

AM I ABLE TO TRAVEL ON MY CHOICE OF DATES?

There are no set departure dates with our vacations, with the exception of private train journeys such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Most trains will run every day, which means our vacations do too!

CAN I CHOOSE MY TRAIN TIMES?

Our packages don’t have set departure times, and if there is a train running when there are multiple trains a day, your Rail Expert will be able to talk you through the different departures. If there’s a particularly convenient time or a departure that will ensure you catch the best scenery, we’ll be sure to recommend it.

HOW LONG BEFORE THE TRAIN DEPARTS SHOULD I BE AT THE STATION?

With the exception of Eurostar, which has a 45-minute check-in time, there is no official checkin required for train journeys in Europe or North America. Of course, we always recommend arriving at the station in plenty of time.

ITALY & SWITZERLAND

Experience the best of the Alps and the Mediterranean on a Switzerland and Italy rail vacation. Journey from the snow-covered peaks of the Swiss mountains to the famous cities and coastlines of Italy, including Lucerne, Zermatt, Venice, Florence, and Rome. With flexible routes, handpicked hotels, and expert planning from Railbookers, enjoy a seamless way to discover two of Europe’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations by train.

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DAY 1: YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN ZURICH

Welcome to Zurich! Make your way from the airport and head to your hotel. Once checked in take a stroll around the city’s beautiful Old Town where you will find a great selection of local restaurants for dinner.

DAY 2: ZURICH

Following breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich with an expert guide to introduce you to the city and the old town. Explore the city by bus to get an overview of the various districts. Embark on a guided walking tour of the Old Town and discover the city and its beautiful surroundings from the water during an audio-guided boat trip on Lake Zurich. The rest of the evening is yours at leisure.

DAY 3: ZURICH TO ZERMATT

At a time of your choosing, make your way to the station for a train south to the beautiful canton of Valais, and the village of Zermatt. Deep in some of the Swiss Alps’ highest peaks Zermatt has captured the imagination of many for years. Check-in at your hotel for a two-night stay then be sure to enjoy a traditional raclette or fondue for dinner.

DAY 4: GORNERGRAT RAILWAY

Today enjoy a ride on the highest open-air railway in Europe, the Gornergrat rack railway. The 30min ride to the summit is spectacular thanks to the constant views of the Matterhorn Mountain, but also the fragrant pine forest it passes through as well as its steep gradient. At the top, some 3000m above sea level, the views are breath-taking. Enjoy a short hike, some lunch, or even a virtual flight over the surrounding mountains at the Zooom Experience.

DAY 5: THE GLACIER EXPRESS FROM ZERMATT TO ST. MORITZ

Experience one of the world’s greatest train journeys today, onboard the Glacier Express. crossing numerous mountains passes and impressive viaducts. You can’t escape the wonderful views from inside the famous panoramic red carriages, and your journey ends in the glamorous lakeside town of St. Moritz.

DAY 6: ST. MORITZ

Take a relaxing stroll around the lake and enjoy the chic town itself, the first real alpine holiday destination for the international jet set. St. Moritz is said to enjoy some of the freshest air in Europe and is the official home of Alpine sports. At night, enjoy some of the classic glitz and glamour of the St. Moritz Casino.

DAY 7: ST. MORITZ TO MILAN VIA THE BERNINA EXPRESS

Another day of breath-taking scenery today, this time onboard the legendary Bernina Express. The train scales some of the Swiss Alps highest peaks and dramatic passes and viaducts, before dropping down into a palm tree lined valley of northern Italy. From here take a train to Milan and make your way to your hotel for a two-night stop in the fashion capital!

DAY 8: MILAN

Following breakfast, get ready to explore more of the city on your walking tour! Make the most of the city by learning about its greatest artistic achievements. See the Duomo’s stunning exterior, visit the world-famous Leonardo’s Last Supper, and explore the Sforza Castle gardens. Be sure to listen out for tips and tricks on the best restaurants to enjoy an evening meal, pointed out by the guide to enjoy your last evening with delicious cuisine!

DAY 9: YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN MILAN

Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you’d like to extend your journey to another city, just ask your Rail Expert and we can help you make all the arrangements.

TREASURES OF SWITZERLAND AND

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DAY 1: ZURICH TO LUCERNE

After arriving into Zurich, you’ll take a direct train to Lucerne, known as the gateway to central Switzerland. This stunning town boasts delicious food, friendly locals, sunny plazas, waterfront promenades, and unforgettable countryside and mountain views. There’s a reason this city of lights wins over so many travelers’ hearts.

DAY 2: LUCERNE/MOUNT RIGI

Today take a 1hr cruise on Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, then the oldest mountain cog railway in Europe 1800m up to Rigi Kulm. The railway carriages haven’t changed much in 100yrs, and once at the top you get to enjoy some spectacular 360-degree views of as far afield as France and Germany on a clear day. There’s a gift shop and restaurant for lunch at the top, and between May and October you may even have the chance to take a stroll with a St Bernard dog, synonymous with the area. On your decent take another scenic cog railway to the town of Art-Goldau then a train back to Lucerne, or if you’re feeling adventurous hop off at Rigi Kaltbad and take the cable car to Weggis from where there is a 15-minute walk to the boat cruise back to Lucerne.

DAY 3: LUCERNE TO LUGANO

Embark on a scenic train ride from Lucerne to Lugano on the Gotthard Pass via a train change in Bellinzona. You’ll be treated to beautiful scenery along the way.

DAY 4: LUGANO

Spend today getting to know Lugano. Located in Switzerland right on the Italian border, this city offers all the loveliness of Switzerland with a Mediterranean flair. Why not use your Swiss Pass to take a cruise on Lake Lugano or catch a ride to the top of San Salvatore in the Lepontine Alps?

DAY 5: LUGANO TO MILAN

Travel by train to fashionable Milan. Spend the rest of the day discovering the city. Visit the Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral in the heart of the city or the Santa Maria delle Grazie, a classically beautiful Renaissance church. Milan is also home to the Last Supper and the majestic La Scala Opera house.

DAY 6: MILAN TO VENICE

Catch a Trenitalia train directly to Venice. Set out to acquaint yourself with the classic Italian city. Stroll down the banks of the shimmering canals and discover the magnificent architecture that lines the cobbled streets and square. Come the evening, relax at an outdoor trattoria by the sparkling lagoon.

DAY 7: VENICE

Discover the city’s hidden gems and highlights on a walking tour, and take an iconic, relaxing gondola ride on your own. You will also have skip-the-line access to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, two of the city’s most popular monuments.

DAY 8: VENICE TO ROME

Board Trenitalia once more to Rome and begin admiring the Eternal City’s allure. Italy’s capital boasts a wealth of history on every street, which you’ll be able to explore at your own leisure with your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour.

DAY 9: ROME

Continue using your hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to explore all the history and wonder of the city. See the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and many more popular landmarks and attractions.

DAY 10: YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN ROME

The Glacier and Bernina Express Trains with the Gems of Italy

Days

The Swiss Mountains and Italian Treasures

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THE SWISS MOUNTAINS AND ITALIAN TREASURES

11 DAYS | 5 DESTINATIONS

Jungfraujoch

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Rail travel as per itinerary

• 10 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast

• 4 Day Swiss Pass

• Mount Pilatus day trip from Lucerne

• Tickets for the Harder Kulm Funicular in Interlaken

• Jungfrau day trip from Interlaken

• Small-group tour of Venice with Doges Palace and Saint Marks Basilica

• Small-group tour of Florence with Uffizi and Accademia Galleries

• Small-group tour of Rome with the Roman Forum and Colosseum

OUR EXPERTS RECOMMEND

Upgrade to First Class rail for extra comfort and panoramic alpine views throughout Switzerland.