Our goal was to see as much as possible in 6 days while maintaining an unhurried approach. From the first contact, our experience was detailed perfection. Marc and his team managed everything from airport pickup to hotel and restaurant recommendations.
We hoped to relax and not worry about anything — this expectation was exceeded. The team clearly listened to our preferences.
Our main stops included Zurich, Appenzell, Liechtenstein, Lake Lucerne, Interlaken, Thun, Zermatt, and the vineyards around Montreux.
The best element of our time was our top-tier guide, Manuel. His personality, knowledge, energy, and pride in his country were exceptional.
14 Day Italy & Switzerland
Itinerary: Lucerne,
Lake Como, St.Moritz
- Adventure
- Cultural
- Family
- Lucerne
- St. Moritz
- Zurich
Overview
Highlights
This 14-Day Italy and Switzerland itinerary blends Switzerland’s alpine beauty with the elegance of northern Italy. Over two weeks, you’ll travel from Zurich through Lucerne and the Bernese Alps before crossing into Lake Como and continuing through the Engadine Valley to St. Moritz and Davos.
Designed as a curated Switzerland and Italy private multi-day trip, the journey balances iconic landmarks with hidden locations that only locals tend to know.
Schedule
Morning
Your journey begins in Zurich, where your private guide welcomes you upon arrival and introduces the city. The experience starts with a Zurich city tuk tuk BBQ tour – a very unique and relaxed way to explore the historic centre.
The private electric tuk tuk moves quietly through the streets, passing the medieval lanes of the Old Town and along the Limmat River, into the most beautiful corners of the city. Whilst you’re travelling, a freshly prepared Swiss BBQ lunch is served onboard, with local wine and traditional side dishes to complete the experience.
Afternoon
After lunch, continue discovering Zurich at an easy pace with your private guide. You’ll see elegant Bahnhofstrasse, historic guild houses, and viewpoints over Lake Zurich while learning about the city’s role as Switzerland’s financial and cultural centre.
Evening
As the day winds down, step aboard a private sunset cruise on Lake Zurich. The city slowly glows in the evening light while the Alps begin to appear on the horizon. It’s a peaceful introduction to Switzerland before returning to your hotel for the night.
Morning
On day 2, you’ll travel north for one of the most engaging Swiss tours from Zurich, beginning with a private transfer to Basel.
Basel has long been Switzerland’s cultural capital, and your visit starts with a theatrical Basel walking tour led by an actor portraying a historic local character. Through storytelling and hidden corners of a grand townhouse, the tour reveals daily life in historic Basel.
Afternoon
Your private guide then continues with a classic Basel city tour, exploring the medieval old town, the cathedral overlooking the Rhine, and colourful guild buildings. Lunch is then served at the legendary Les Trois Rois hotel, one of Europe’s oldest luxury hotels.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll continue to a panoramic viewpoint high above the city. From here, the landscape opens out across Basel, the vineyards of Alsace, and the distant hills of the Black Forest. If you wish, there is also the opportunity to climb a 40-metre lookout tower, offering an even wider perspective across the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany.
Evening
Return comfortably to Zurich in the evening, enjoying a relaxed dinner or evening walk through the city.
Morning
Once you’ve been picked up at your hotel by your guide, you’ll leave Zurich behind and head towards the Uri Alps for one of the most scenic private tours in Switzerland.
A gentle alpine walk leads to a quiet village near a cascading waterfall where you’ll see traditional wooden homes with no electricity. The calm atmosphere here feels worlds away from city life. Guests who prefer not to hike can enjoy scenic viewpoints and photography stops instead.
Afternoon
Lunch takes place outdoors beside Lake Lucerne with a traditional raclette experience. Melted cheese is served with freshly baked bread and local accompaniments while you take in the alpine surroundings. Afterwards, continue to a secret viewpoint above Lake Lucerne known only to locals.
Later in the afternoon, visit a Swiss chocolate factory where you’ll take part in a private chocolate-making workshop with expert chocolatiers. You’ll learn about Swiss chocolate traditions and, of course, taste the creations you’ve made.
Evening
Your day ends in the lakeside village of Vitznau, where you settle in your hotel for the evening beside the calm waters of Lake Lucerne.
Morning
After breakfast, your private guide will collect you from your hotel in Vitznau for a scenic journey into the mountains above Lake Lucerne. The destination today is Stoos, a small alpine village reached by one of the steepest funicular railways in the world.
Once at the top, your guide introduces the village on a relaxed walk, sharing insights into life in this quiet mountain community. From Stoos, continue towards Fronalpstock, one of the most impressive viewpoints in central Switzerland.
Afternoon
At the summit of Fronalpstock, wide views open across Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alpine peaks. It’s an ideal place to pause, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
For guests who enjoy walking, there is the option to take part in the famous Stoos ridge hike. This trail follows the mountain ridge with open views on both sides and is considered one of the most scenic short hikes in the region.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll return to Stoos village for a unique Victorinox Swiss Army Knife workshop where you will assemble your own knife.
Evening
After descending the mountain, return with your private guide to Vitznau. The evening is free to relax beside Lake Lucerne and enjoy dinner at your hotel or at one of the lakeside restaurants.
Morning
Today’s journey takes you from Vitznau into the Bernese Alps to explore some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes. Travelling with your guide, you’ll begin the day in Lauterbrunnen – a dramatic valley surrounded by steep cliffs and famous for its waterfalls.
A short walk through the village offers views of the Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. From here, you’ll continue further into the mountains by train to the car-free village of Wengen.
Afternoon
Lunch is enjoyed in Wengen with sweeping views across the Jungfrau region. After lunch, continue to the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of powerful glacier-fed waterfalls hidden inside the mountain.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit Interlaken – the gateway town between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Your private guide will introduce the town and its alpine surroundings before the return journey.
Evening
You will be dropped off in Lucerne where you’ll have time to enjoy dinner and a relaxed stroll through the old town. Afterwards, your guide will show you where to take the evening boat across Lake Lucerne back to Vitznau. A private boat can also be arranged if you’d prefer.
Morning
After breakfast, your guide will begin the scenic journey south as your itinerary moves from Switzerland into northern Italy. The drive crosses the Alps through beautiful mountain landscapes before arriving in the canton of Ticino.
Along the way, you’ll stop in Bellinzona, a historic town known for its impressive medieval castles which once guarded the alpine trade routes between northern and southern Europe.
Afternoon
Your guide will introduce the town with a short private walk through the old centre before continuing the journey towards Lake Maggiore and the Italian border. By mid-afternoon you’ll arrive in Stresa, a charming lakeside town that serves as a gateway to Lake Como and the surrounding Italian lakes region.
Evening
The rest of the afternoon and evening are reserved for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hotel spa facilities, stroll along the lakeside promenade, or simply unwind while taking in views across the lake and surrounding mountains.
Morning
After breakfast, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for the journey to Lake Como, one of Italy’s most elegant destinations. Upon arrival in Como town, you’ll meet your local guide who will introduce the historic centre with its lively squares, narrow streets, and cathedral.
There will be time to explore the town before boarding a private boat for a tour across the lake.
Afternoon
Experiencing Lake Como from the water offers a completely different perspective. As you cruise along the shoreline, grand historic villas, gardens, and small lakeside villages with beautiful bell towers, appear one after another.
Stops during the day include the beautiful Villa Monastero and the village of Varenna, known for its colourful houses and quiet waterfront promenade.
Evening
After returning across the lake, you’ll travel back to Stresa where the evening is free to enjoy dinner and the relaxed atmosphere of the Italian lakes.
Morning
After breakfast, meet your private driver at the hotel for the journey to Milan, Italy’s capital of fashion, design, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, you’ll head directly to the location of your private cooking class where a professional chef will welcome you into the kitchen.
During the class, you’ll learn how to prepare a traditional three-course Italian menu. Under the chef’s guidance, you’ll work through classic recipes including fresh pasta, Milan’s famous saffron risotto, and the ever-popular tiramisu. Along the way, there’s plenty of opportunity to ask questions and pick up practical cooking tips.
Afternoon
Once the dishes are complete, sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared together. The experience is relaxed and social, accompanied by a glass of Italian wine and time to appreciate the results of your cooking.
After lunch, the afternoon is free to explore Milan at your own pace. Guests who enjoy shopping can browse the city’s boutiques, while those interested in culture may choose to add a privately guided Milan city tour.
Evening
Later in the day, return comfortably to Stresa. The evening is free to relax at the hotel or enjoy dinner overlooking the lake.
Morning
On day 9, you’ll set out from Stresa for a guided excursion to the Borromean Islands, located in the centre of Lake Maggiore. Meeting your private guide at the pier, you’ll board a boat and begin exploring this historic and scenic part of northern Italy.
Your first stop is Isola Bella, known for its impressive palace and elaborate terraced gardens. The island was transformed by the Borromeo family into a grand residence, and the palace interior reveals ornate rooms, galleries, and historic furnishings.
Afternoon
Continue to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands and home to a peaceful botanical garden. The 16th-century villa sits at the heart of the island and offers a glimpse into the early history of the Borromeo family.
As you walk through the gardens, you’ll see a wide variety of rare plants and trees that thrive in the mild lake climate. The relaxed setting makes it a pleasant contrast to the grandeur of Isola Bella.
Evening
After a full day exploring the islands, return by boat to Stresa. The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace, whether unwinding at the hotel or taking a stroll along the lakeside promenade.
Morning
After breakfast, you’ll depart Stresa with a private transfer to the town of Tirano in northern Italy. Here you’ll board the famous Bernina Express, one of Europe’s most scenic railway journeys.
As the train begins its ascent into the Alps, the landscape changes quickly from Mediterranean greenery to dramatic mountain scenery. The route passes glaciers, alpine lakes, and high mountain passes as it climbs deeper into the Swiss Alps.
Afternoon
The Bernina Express crosses remarkable engineering landmarks including spiral tunnels and viaducts as it winds through the mountains. Large panoramic windows allow uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape throughout the journey. By the afternoon, the train arrives in St. Moritz – the elegant resort town in the Engadine Valley.
Evening
Later in the day, join a pastry and chocolate tasting tour through St. Moritz. Led by a local guide, the experience introduces some of the town’s best confectioners and bakeries, offering a sweet introduction to this famous Alpine destination.
Once you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth, you’ll retreat to your hotel for the night in St. Moritz.
Morning
Day 11 begins with a unique and thrilling experience above the Engadine Valley. Your private guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the nearby heliport, where you’ll board a helicopter for a scenic flight over the mountains surrounding St. Moritz.
The flight offers impressive views across glaciers, alpine lakes, and remote valleys that are difficult to access by road. It’s a truly memorable way to see the scale of the Swiss Alps from the air.
After landing, enjoy a refined caviar tasting experience, adding a touch of St. Moritz’s famous luxury lifestyle to the morning.
Afternoon
The afternoon is intentionally left flexible. Guests may choose to enjoy the wellness facilities at the hotel, take a walk around Lake St. Moritz, or explore the town’s boutiques and galleries. St. Moritz has long been associated with winter sports and alpine glamour, and the relaxed afternoon allows time to experience the atmosphere of the resort.
Evening
The evening is free to enjoy dinner in one of St. Moritz’s restaurants, where Swiss cuisine and international flavours reflect the cosmopolitan character of the town.
Morning
After breakfast, depart St. Moritz with your guide for a scenic transfer through the Engadine Valley towards Davos. The first stop is the traditional village of Zernez, a quiet alpine community known for its Engadine architecture and relaxed atmosphere.
Here you’ll take a short private village walk and pause at a local bakery where you can try freshly baked regional pastries. It’s a simple but authentic introduction to everyday life in this part of Switzerland.
Afternoon
The journey continues over the Flüela Pass – one of the most scenic mountain roads in the region. As the road climbs higher into the Alps, wide views open across alpine valleys and high mountain peaks.
Lunch is served in Davos Monstein at a traditional Walser restaurant set inside a historic mountain chalet dating back to 1717. The menu reflects local traditions, offering dishes such as cordon bleu or schnitzel alongside more regional specialties.
Evening
After lunch, continue the short drive into Davos, the largest alpine town in Europe. After checking into your hotel, the evening is free to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
Morning
On day 13, you’ll set off on a guided excursion to Jakobshorn, which is one of the mountains overlooking Davos. A cable car brings you up to the summit where panoramic views stretch across the surrounding alpine landscape.
At the top, there is time to walk along the viewing areas and enjoy the mountain scenery before descending back to the valley.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, your local guide will take you to a small Walser village nearby that remains largely unknown to visitors. These historic alpine communities have preserved their traditional culture and architecture for centuries.
Here you’ll enjoy a relaxed walk through the village followed by a stop for a traditional dessert at a local café. It’s a quiet and authentic experience that offers a glimpse into everyday life in the mountains.
Evening
Return to Davos in the late afternoon. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy dinner in town or relax at your hotel after a day exploring the alpine surroundings.
Morning
Your final day begins with a guided transfer from Davos back towards Zurich. Along the way, stop in the village of Maienfeld, located in one of Switzerland’s best wine-producing regions.
Here you’ll visit a family-owned vineyard that has received several awards for its Pinot Noir. During the visit, enjoy a private wine tasting while learning about the region’s long winemaking traditions.
Afternoon
Continue the journey with a scenic stop at Lake Walensee, a beautiful lake surrounded by steep mountain slopes. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery before the final part of the journey.
The last stop of the trip is at the Läderach chocolate atelier, where you can take part in a chocolate-making experience, taste your creations, and visit the museum for a sweet final afternoon.
Evening
After exploring the chocolate factory and perhaps picking up a few Swiss treats to take home, the journey continues to Zurich where your 14 Day Italy & Switzerland itinerary concludes with drop-off at your hotel, or the airport.
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Quick Facts About This Swiss Tour
Bellinzona’s three castles form the largest medieval fortification complex in Switzerland and once guarded the main Alpine route between northern Europe and Italy.
St. Moritz is considered the birthplace of winter tourism in the Alps after a famous bet by hotelier Johannes Badrutt in 1864 convinced British guests to return in winter.
The Engadine Valley, home to St. Moritz and Davos, is one of the regions where Romansh, Switzerland’s fourth national language, is still spoken.
The Milan Cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete, with construction beginning in 1386 and finishing in the 20th century.
The Lake Maggiore is the second-largest lake in Italy, stretching across both Italy and Switzerland.
14 Day Italy & Switzerland Itinerary: Lucerne, Lake Como, St.Moritz Gallery
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1. 100% local expertise, tested first-hand
Every itinerary is designed by Swiss locals who live and breathe their regions – we’ve tested every route, restaurant, and hidden lookout ourselves.
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Our guides aren’t just professionals – they’re storytellers and insiders, available only through Luxury Tours Switzerland.
3. Hidden gems beyond tourist routes
We open doors to secret spots, from private lakeside picnics to heritage chalets, that no typical private tours Switzerland itinerary could offer.
4. Special access through trusted networks
From after-hours museum tours to private vineyard dinners, our connections unlock Switzerland’s most exclusive moments.
Our Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Your journey is fully hosted by expert local guides who accompany you throughout the itinerary. From Zurich to Vitznau, Lake Como, and St. Moritz, every detail is carefully arranged so you can travel seamlessly while gaining deeper insight into each destination.
The Bernina Express journey takes place on Day 10, travelling from Tirano in Italy to St. Moritz in Switzerland. It is one of the most scenic railway experiences in the Alps and a highlight of this Switzerland and Italy multi-day trip.
Yes. On Day 11 guests enjoy one of the most exclusive helicopter tours that Switzerland offers, flying above the Engadine Valley before landing for a refined caviar tasting experience.
The Zurich city tuk tuk BBQ tour is completely private, meaning the vehicle is reserved only for your group while a local driver guides you through Zurich’s historic streets.