Celebrate Christmas & New Year in Style – A Magical Rail Holiday Through Switzerland

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 via Basle to Lucerne. On your return, the tour overnights in Cologne, 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 Swiss Alps

Free days based in Lucerne. Nestled at the foothills of the Alps on the shores of the stunning lake, Lucerne is considered to be Switzerland’s most scenic city. Your First Class Swiss Travel Pass covers trains, trams, post buses, boats and even entry to national museums, so there is something for everyone. Your experienced tour leader will offer an optional escorted excursion each day. The precise details of the optional excursions may vary to make the best of the winter weather conditions, however they are likely to include a boat trip to Vitznau, followed by a journey to the summit of the Rigi and a ride on the world’s steepest funicular railway, the ‘Stoosbahn’. It may include a trip to Andermatt via the Gotthard Pass and Göschenen.

Lake Views, Medieval Streets, and the Glacier Express

From Lucerne, you continue to Thun via Interlaken. Located at the lower end of Lake Thun, the town is often referred to as the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. Free days based in Thun with your First Class Swiss Travel Pass. Optional escorted excursions include Mürren, Wengen or Grindelwald to fully explore the Bernese Oberland and enjoy views of the Eiger, Monch, & Jungfrau and a visit to Montreux to see Chillon Castle, returning via Bern. 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 and optional guided day trips throughout, this 14-day festive rail adventure through Switzerland is exceptional value at £3,880pp. 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.”