Discover lakes, historic cities and the Rhine Falls on this short Swiss rail tour

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Historic Cities & Waterfalls - 3 Days
Highlights
  • Travel from Zürich to Lucerne and then onwards to St. Gallen aboard the scenic Voralpen-Express
  • Discover the historic cities of Lucerne, St. Gallen and Schaffhausen
  • Journey alongside Lake Constance and the River Rhine, with a summer boat trip from Stein am Rhein
  • Visit the spectacular Rhine Falls before returning to Zürich
Included and details
  • 3 days of rail travel following the complete itinerary
  • Seat reservation on the Voralpen-Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen
  • Boat journey from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen during the summer season
  • Half-Fare Card giving you 50% off additional public transport and mountain lifts

Discover lakes, historic cities and spectacular scenery on this 3-day rail tour from Zurich. Spend the day and night in Lucerne before heading to St. Gallen aboard the Voralpen-Express. On your final day travel via Lake Constance and along the Rhine towards Schaffhausen and the spectacular Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall.

Your 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Zurich – Lucerne
Begin your journey in Zurich and travel to Lucerne, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city before your overnight stay, a must-see is the famous Chapel Bridge and adjoining Water Tower, dating back to the 14th-century. Alternatively, get into the mountains with one of the many nearby mountain excursions (Rigi, Pilatus, Stoos and Stanserhorn), all 50% off with your Half-Fare Card.

Day 2: Lucerne – St. Gallen
Board the Voralpen-Express for the scenic journey from Lucerne to St. Gallen, travelling past Lake Lucerne and through the rolling landscapes of the Swiss Pre-Alps. Spend the afternoon exploring St. Gallen and the historic Abbey District (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage due to its cathedral and library) before your second overnight stay.

Day 3: St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zurich
Travel towards Lake Constance and Stein am Rhein, continuing along the Rhine to Schaffhausen. During the summer season, part of the journey can be made by boat. Visit the spectacular Rhine Falls before returning by train to Zurich.

Combining scenic trains, lakes, historic towns and one of Switzerland's most impressive natural attractions, this compact itinerary is an easy way to discover northern and eastern Switzerland in just three days.

Your journey, your way

Your rail journey is taken care of, while your stay remains completely flexible. Once you've booked, our team can help you find and arrange accommodation to suit your budget, travel style and preferences - whether you're looking for a simple overnight stay, a boutique hotel or something a little more special.

Prefer to arrange your own accommodation? That's absolutely fine too - the choice is yours.

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Summary

Historic Cities & Waterfalls - 3 Days
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All itineraries are subject to availability. Please contact us if you would like to extend or customise your itinerary. Accommodation is not included in the displayed price, giving you the freedom to choose where you stay. After booking, our team can help you arrange accommodation tailored to your preferences and budget, or you're welcome to make your own arrangements.