Take in a gradual change of scenery as you descend towards the enchanting shores of Italy's Lake Como and on to the southern tip of Switzerland. The vegetation south of the Alps is Mediterranean: chestnut groves, vineyards, and olive and fig trees are a stark contrast to earlier today as you were within walking distance of glaciers. Afternoon arrival in the popular town of Lugano allows time for shopping under the arcades of Via Nassa or sipping an espresso on flower-festooned Piazza Riforma. To truly appreciate splendid Lake Lugano, an optional boat ride is available, followed by dinner at a traditional "grotto" restaurant

Today's Distance: 87 mi / 140 km

Depart from Lake Lugano to the Italian shore of Lake Maggiore for a break in Stresa, the "Pearl of the Lake." An optional boat ride to enchanting Isola Bella can be arranged. Continue over lofty Simplon Pass into the Swiss Valais, an area renowned for its excellent wines and great mountain resorts. To reach the most famous of them, leave the coach behind in Tasch and board a MOUNTAIN TRAIN to climb the last few miles up to car-free Zermatt, a picturesque cluster of rustic chalets beneath the Matterhorn.

Today's Distance: 165 mi / 265 km

This morning, you can join an optional excursion to Klein Matterhorn for spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. Later, drive through the vineyards and apricot groves of the lower Rhone Valley, and arrive at beautiful Lake Geneva.

Today's Distance: 93 mi / 150 km

In the stately capital of Berne, your guided tour starts at the BEAR PARK, followed by a panoramic view of the city from the Rose Garden. Next, enjoy a walking tour through the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town. Witness the hourly parade of painted figures at the Clock Tower and take pictures of ornate, floweradorned fountains. See life in rural Switzerland and look forward to a special lunch at a traditional Swiss WORKING FARM. Cross the Brunig Pass that connects the Bernese Oberland to central Switzerland and arrive in picturesque Lucerne. An optional dinner excursion to a folklore party is complete with yodeling for classic Alpine merrymaking.

Today's Distance: 162 mi / 260 km

Follow your Tour Director for a pleasant walk and admire Thorwaldsen's impressive LION MONUMENT, dedicated to the Swiss Guards who protected the Royal House of France during the French Revolution. Walk along ornate patrician houses of the walled Old Town, then cross the famous covered CHAPEL BRIDGE to the Jesuit Church, the first large baroque church built in Switzerland on the north side of the Alps. Afterward, another true Swiss experience: a trip to the top of Mount Pilatus, the "Guard of Lucerne," where you receive a special SOUVENIR CAP to always remember this experience! Tonight, a farewell dinner awaits for a proper auf Wiedersehen

Morning transfer to Zurich Airport in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich.
 
Today's Distance: 34 mi / 55 km