Jump into the artistry of Switzerland as it is embodied by dominant mountain peaks, lush rolling meadows, and shimmering reflective lakes. Your custom tailored tour will encompass the natural scenery and world-class museums, welcoming art scenes and inspiring historical architecture. Sunlight pierces stained glass windows designed by Chagall to fill churches with colorful light as the bright facades of city centers reflect in the tranquil waters of rivers and lakes. Art exhibits show both the...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Zurich – Arrive in Switzerland to Enjoy Zurich’s Vibrant Atmosphere
Your plane will descend into Zurich Airport, and you can see the sporadic clusters of houses that spread across the high altitude plains. The lush trees and red rooftops resemble a pastoral painting as your plane reaches the gate and your private transfer awaits your arrival at baggage claim. Zurich is a vibrant, efficient city set at the mouth of Limmat River that feeds into Zurich Lake. The city is Switzerland’s largest and wealthiest, encompassing an area of nearly 34 square miles and reaching an altitude of 2,858 feet above sea level at its highest point. The streets embody the city’s chic atmosphere, filled with contemporary cafes, artsy locals, and winding lanes.
Tall church steeples imitate the surrounding mountaintops as the government has converted old factories into cultural centers. Creative living spaces add to the vibrant community life even in the expansive cityscape as your private transfer will escort you from the airport to your luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city. Your introduction to the city and its artistry comes with a visit to the Fraumunster, a 13th-century Cathedral originally founded as a women’s abbey in the 9th century. The slender blue skyline adds vigor and life to the undulating towers of the city. Marc Chagall designed and produced the five windows along the choir stalls, and the stained-glass scenes depict Biblical tales, from Elijah’s ascent to heavens to an angel calling for the world’s end. When the sunlight spreads through the glass, the stories are iridescent.
What's Included:
Day 2
Zurich – Relish a Full Day Private Tour of Zurich's Remarkable History
Day 3
Zurich – Explore the Towns around Zurich, Including St. Gallen
Day 4
Basel – Discover the Beauty of Old Town Basel
Day 5
Basel – Full Day Excursion to the Town of Weil am Rhein in Germany
Day 6
Geneva – Visit Bern to Tour the Old Town Architecture and Museums
Day 7
Geneva – Half-Day Tour of Geneva’s Art and History Museums
Day 8
Geneva – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Visit Switzerland’s largest collection of international art at the Kunstmuseum in Basel with both old masters and modern impressionists
- Explore The Museum of Art and History, the third largest museum in Switzerland, with archeological artifacts and stunning artwork
- Walk along the cobbled streets of historical city centers for a view of the fabulous, preserved architecture
- Cross the border into Germany to visit the Vitra Design Museum and in Weil am Rhein for insight into the vibrant culture of design
- Enjoy the sensational architecture of the Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut in the French town of Ronchamp
- See the stunning stained glass windows designed and created by Marc Chagall
- Discover Bern, the capital of Switzerland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its collection of art and architecture
Detailed Description
Artists attempt to capture nature’s beauty through any discipline accessible to them, from paints to clothing, stained glass to pastels and your 8-day tour of Switzerland will bring you on a colorful tour of the towns, cities, and countryside across Switzerland to highlight all types of art. Museums feature works by painters and sculptors inspired by the Alps, lakes, rivers, and culture it inspires. You will land at Zurich Airport where your private transfer will await your arrival, and then you can enjoy the comforts of your luxury hotel located in the heart of the city before venturing out on an introductory tour of the city.
The next day, your private guide will meet you in your hotel lobby and take you on an engaging full day tour of the city to take in the architecture of the Old Town and the art that overflows from the various museums around town. The Swiss National Museum features panel paintings, wooden sculptures, and Gothic art that depicts chivalrous knights. The following day, you will have a private excursion to the surrounding towns near Lake Zurich, and then you will visit the small, atmospheric streets of Winterthur for the combination of historical and contemporary artworks at Sammlung Oskar Reinhart am Romerholz Museum. In St. Gallen, you can visit the 16th-century library that is filled with books masterfully bound and exhibited in the grand rococo architecture.
The following day, you will leave Zurich behind for the beautiful streets of Basel, home to a celebrated contemporary art fair, along with dozens of popular art museums. Tour Old Town and take in the fabulous architectural landmarks. The next day, cross into Germany to the town of Weil am Rhein, home to the Vitra Design Museum as the building is as unique as the items in the exhibits. Continue to Ronchamp in France to see the distinctive architecture of the Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut.
Travel next to visit the capital city of Bern and enjoy the tranquil, historical streets en route to Geneva. Indulge in your full day tour of Geneva the next day, home to a fantastic collection of museums, including the third largest museum in Switzerland. The city combines cosmopolitan flair with national pride and highlights the history of the bordering countries and Geneva’s connection to the greater world. Conclude as your private transfer will collect you at your hotel and bring you to the Geneva Airport for your flight home.
Starting Price
$5,200 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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