France to Switzerland

Monday 24 August

Depart on Singapore Airlines mid afternoon with connection in Singapore for Paris

Tuesday 25 August

Arrive in Paris and transfer to your centrally-located hotel. After time to refresh, walk to the Eiffel Tower and take a ride to the top of the tower to enjoy the spectacular view. Welcome dinner tonight.

Wednesday 26 August

A leisurely morning before we travel to Epernay in the Champagne Region to board the canal boat MS Deborah and settle in for the next six nights. 

Thursday 27 August

This morning we travel by coach for Reims, the ‘City of Coronations’. On arrival we explore the city by foot and discover the Place Royale, Place Du Forum, the Place de l’Hotel de Ville as well as a guided visit to the gothic Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where French kings were crowned. We return to our barge this afternoon and cruise through vine-covered hills towards Dormans.

Friday 28 August

Today we explore the famous Champagne Route by coach. We visit the village of Hautvillers, the birthplace of champagne and continue on to a local champagne house for a tasting. This afternoon we cruise on to Chateau-Thierry.

Saturday 29 August

After breakfast we depart by foot to explore the medieval castle of Chateau-Thierry which has dominated the Marne Valley for centuries. Witness a spectacular live falconry demonstration, recognised as an Intangible Heritage Art of Humanity by UNESCO.  This afternoon we cruise on towards Saint-Jean-les-Deux-Jumeaux.

Sunday 30 August

We set off this morning to the charming town of Meaux and explore the Episcopal Palace and the Brie de Meaux exhibit hall. We will learn about the technique of making the region’s most famous cheese before enjoying tasting. 

Monday 31 August

Today we cruise to Paris. On arrival we pass by some of the city’s most important sights including the Place de la Madeleine before a walking tour through the unique Parisian covered walkways within the heart of this bustling city. We return to our barge for a final gala dinner on board.

Tuesday 01 September

This morning we disembark the MS Deborah and begin our second day in Paris. Our tour will include iconic landmarks such as The Arc de Triomphe and the newly renovated Notre Dame Cathedral. After lunch we visit the Louvre Museum, with free time to explore at your leisure. 

Wednesday 02 September

Today we travel on to Beaune taking us into the heart of Burgundy’s prestigious wine region. This ancient and historic town is full of beauty, great food, and cosy wine cellars. This afternoon we step into the towns medieval soul and visit the Beaune Hospices founded in 1442. Dinner tonight at a local vineyard.

Thursday 03 September

We visit a traditional mustard factory to learn about the harvesting and production process, before travelling on to Annecy – known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’. Explore its charming canals, pastel buildings, medieval architecture, and enjoy stunning mountain views.

Friday 04 September

Today we explore Annecy Castle. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this historic sight offers a mix of medieval history, art, and panoramic views over Annecy and its stunning lake. After lunch we relax and enjoy a lake cruise on crystal-clear waters surrounded by Alpine Peaks. 

Saturday 05 September

A relaxing morning in Annecy with free time to explore. This afternoon we travel from the French Alpine charm of Annecy to the Swiss international elegance of Lake Geneva.

Sunday 06 September

Enjoy an orientation walk of the city including the Olympic Museum before we take a train to Cully to visit the vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting at a local Domanine. We travel on to Vevey, a picturesque town renowned for its stunning lakefront, with free time to explore.

Monday 07 September

Today we board our Swiss train for Zermatt including an excursion to the famous Gornergrat (3,089m). We travel on Europe’s highest rack railway and marvel at the spectacular panorama of 29 peaks including views of the Matterhorn. 

Tuesday 08 September

All aboard the Loetschberg Train as we travel through the stunning Swiss Alps with views of the alpine peaks Eiger, Monch and the Jungfrau enroute to Interlaken. 

Wednesday 09 September

Today we ascend to the summit of the Jungfrau Massif on board the modern Eiger Express Cable Car. Take in the breathtaking views. We continue our alpine ascent by cogwheel train and disembark at Europe’s highest railway station Jungfraujoch (3,454m). We have free time to explore the Ice Palace and take the chance to ride in the ultrafast lift to the Sphinx Observatory to get a fantastic view of the longest glacier in the Alps. 

Thursday 10 September

This morning relax on a lake cruise taking in the alpine vista’s and atmosphere. Indulge in a hearty feast of Swiss specialties such as classic cheese fondue at a typical Old Town restaurant. We travel on to Lucerne on board the Interlaken Lucerne Express Train.

Friday 11 September

Enjoy a walking tour of Lucerne including the Lion Monument, Old Town and the Chapel Bridge. We continue with a thrilling ascent on the worlds steepest cogwheel railway to the soaring Mount Pilatus (2,132m). This evening a farewell dinner awaits.

Saturday 12 September

After breakfast we transfer to Zurich Airport to check in for our return flight home. 

Sunday 13 September

Change planes in Singapore and fly home - late arrival. 

Please ask if  you would like to extend your stay in Europe