Suggested itinerary
What is included?
Day 1 London to Paris by Eurostar
Train travel
Kick off your holiday on the Eurostar to Paris's Gare du Nord, where a taxi will be waiting to whisk you off to the Grand Pigalle Hotel (complimentary cocktail included) in the historic South Pigalle area of the capital, which will be your base for two nights. In the afternoon, take to the streets with La Petite Frenchie and explore the famous sights and hidden lanes in the family's 40-year-old Citroen 2CV.
Transfers to and from hotels
Hotels with exclusive perks for our customers
24-hour support while you are away
Day 2 Full day in Paris
In the morning, head to the hip Rue des Martyrs, right on your hotel's doorstep, where you can enjoy some people watching from one of the hundreds of cafes and browse the boutique shops before a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, it's time to meet at the Secret Wine Door for some cheese and wine tasting.
Day 3 Train from Paris to Milan
Wave goodbye to Paris and catch the train to Milan, which will take around 7 hours. On arrival, you will be transferred to Moscova Luxury B&B in the old town, where a complimentary bottle of wine and Italian snacks are included for our guests. Take in this beautiful city at your leisure for the rest of the day, stretching your legs after the train.
Day 4 Full day in Milan
After a good night's sleep and a hearty Milanese breakfast, get ready for a 3-4 hour walking tour of all the most famous sights, where Sara and her team will bring history to life as they take you through the art, history and architecture of the city, personalised for you. After lunch, take a rest before learning to make pasta with Pietro in his house, as well as his 'secret' tiramisu, before sitting down to eat with him, with complimentary wine and coffee included.
Day 5 Train from Milan to Tirano
Arrivederci to Milan and off to Tirano (around 2.45 hours) on the Swiss border, the start and end point for the beautiful Bernina Express. However, Tirano is incredible in its own right, and after checking into the Curt di Clement Eco Mobility Hotel that dates back to 1500, you can enjoy a visit to the hotel's ancient wine cellar with a barrel dating back to Napoleonic times with a complimentary drink at the end. Spend the rest of the day exploring the stunning local scenery with the hotel's ebikes before a delicious dinner.
Day 6 Bernina Express + train to Zurich
Board the Bernina Express and get ready for a train journey to remember. The famous red train weaves through breathtaking landscape as it makes its way to Chur in Switzerland in around 4 hours and you just need to sit back and take it in. From Chur, it's just an hour and a half to Zurich, where you will be taken to check in at the boutique Hotel Helmaus, situated in a 14th century building, where you will receive a complimentary arrival drink. Relax at your leisure for the rest of the day.
Day 7 Full day in Zurich
It's time to see Zurich, and we have just the person to show you this gorgeous city. Samantha from The Zurich Insider will take you on a unique, private guided tour to take in all the major sights. If you are feeling extra energetic, there are half/full day trips to Lake Lucerne, Rhinefalls, Bern and beyond. If you have time, perhaps fit in a beer tour with Sandro and Simona.
Day 8 Train to Cologne
On to the last leg of your trip, and the 6-hour journey to Cologne, where you will check into Classik Hotel Antonius and will be offered a complimentary welcome drink. Enjoy the city's sights on your own for the rest of the day.
Day 9 Full day in Cologne
See Cologne by rickshaw! Yes, that's right, Rikolonia offers all sorts of tours exploring the hidden corners of the city. Choose from a sightseeing tour, a pub tour, picnic tour or a champagne tour!
Day 10 Return to London
Hopefully you've had a fantastic holiday, and it's whet your appetite for more train adventures! Time to put your feet up and look through your photos as you enjoy the 4.5 hour journey back to London.
Tours and activities with local, independent guides
How much does the trip cost?
Prices based on our suggested itinerary start from £1,500 per person. When you send a booking request with dates and your budget, we will create an itinerary and a price to suit you.
We are different from most travel companies because we recognise that our customers have different budgets and different interests. That is why we make the trip to fit you, rather than make you fit the trip!
