14 days from £3,760pp | Book Now
Step into a winter wonderland by train and swap airport queues and motorway stress for snow-dusted mountains, festive fun, and one of the world’s most scenic rail networks. Ffestiniog Travel’s much-loved Christmas & New Year rail tour in Switzerland returns with a carefully crafted itinerary that combines effortless travel, jaw-dropping views, and the festive spirit of Switzerland’s alpine towns.
With centrally located hotels, optional guided excursions, and the freedom of a First Class Swiss Travel Pass, this tour is the perfect balance of structure and independence - ideal for both seasoned travellers and winter holiday first-timers.
A Relaxed Start and a Seamless Return
The adventure begins with a civilised lunchtime Eurostar departure from London, avoiding early starts or the need for an overnight stay in the capital (for most travellers). You'll glide through Europe to Cologne for a one-night stay before travelling the classic Rhine route to Interlaken. On your return, the tour ends in time for a same-day journey home, giving you a full holiday without travel fatigue. Everything is paced comfortably - no long days on the move, just scenic rail journeys and plenty of time to unwind.
Festive Charm in the Heart of the Swiss Alps
Interlaken is your first alpine base — nestled between two lakes and surrounded by snowy peaks, it's the perfect place to spend Christmas in true Swiss style. With half board and special Christmas Eve and Day dinners included, you’ll enjoy the season in warmth and comfort. Your Swiss Pass gives you unlimited travel on local trains, buses, boats and more — and the public transport runs every day, even on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Optional escorted excursions to magical spots like Mürren, Zermatt, and Lucerne are available, but the flexible itinerary means you can also set off on your own if you prefer.
Lake Views, Medieval Streets, and the Glacier Express
From Interlaken, you continue to Lausanne, a charming city perched above Lake Geneva. Stroll the medieval old town or hop on a lake cruise; your centrally located hotel makes exploration easy. Then it’s time for one of the world’s most iconic train rides: the Glacier Express to Chur, where you will spend four nights. From here, you can ride the Bernina Express, explore the Rhaetian Railway’s incredible network, and take in stunning winter vistas from every window.
A Rail Enthusiast’s Dream with All the Trimmings
This holiday isn’t just about where you go — it’s how you get there. With your First Class Swiss Travel Pass, you have the ultimate flexibility and comfort to explore. All hotels are in central locations, ideal for walking or hopping on a train. And unlike other tours, you won’t be locked into a rigid schedule. Want to visit a museum or sip hot chocolate in a lakeside cafe instead of joining a group outing? Go ahead — this tour encourages it.
Book Now and Make This Christmas Unforgettable
With no expensive excursions to add, half board in Interlaken, and optional guided day trips throughout, this 14-day festive rail adventure through Switzerland is exceptional value at £3,760pp. For those seeking a scenic, cultural and stress-free way to celebrate Christmas and New Year, there's simply no better way to travel. Reserve your place now with just a £200 deposit, and unwrap a different kind of holiday magic this winter.
What our travellers say:
Swiss Christmas and New Year Rail extravaganza
“Travel by train to Interlaken and Chur to experience Christmas and New Year there, with a knowledgeable tour leader and freedom to explore the wonderful world of Swiss mountain railways and the snowy Alps. Ffestiniog Travel know their tour areas well and provide an experienced tour leader with good knowledge of the area. They also allow you the freedom to leave the group on any day if you wish to pursue your own special interest or place you want to see.”
Christmas & New Year in Switzerland by BrusioBridge, 14 Jan 2024