5-Day Grand Alpine Winter Journey: Lucerne & Zermatt

This five-day winter journey combines Switzerland’s most iconic alpine scenery with authentic cultural and culinary experiences, offering an unforgettable winter adventure.

From exploring Lucerne’s medieval charm and indulging in chocolate and cheese tastings, to ascending Mount Rigi for traditional fondue and continuing by scenic rail toward the legendary village of Zermatt, each day reveals a new dimension of Switzerland’s winter beauty.

You’ll cruise across Lake Lucerne, ride Europe’s oldest cogwheel train, journey through dramatic alpine valleys by rail, and stand before the world-famous Matterhorn. This itinerary captures Switzerland at its most cinematic — blending natural grandeur, refined villages, and unforgettable culinary moments.

Still deciding what you’d like to do during your stay in Switzerland? Browse our full selection of Switzerland Multi-Day Tours and Day Tours from Lucerne. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Welcome to Lucerne, a charming lakeside city surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Your private guide will meet you at your hotel (or arrange an airport pickup upon request) and introduce you to one of Switzerland’s most beautiful winter destinations.

Begin with a stroll through Lucerne’s medieval Old Town and admire the colorful frescoed buildings and cobblestone streets which feel even more magical under winter lights. Cross the iconic Kapellbrücke, the 14th-century wooden bridge that has become the symbol of the city.

Along the way, you will visit Lucerne’s oldest chocolate store and indulge in delicious handcrafted chocolate pralines and learn about Switzerland’s world-famous chocolate tradition. Pause along the shores of Lake Lucerne to warm up with rich Swiss hot chocolate, traditional glühwein or freshly roasted chestnuts, all while admiring the breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps rising above the lake.

Overnight in Lucerne.

Today, experience one of Switzerland’s most iconic winter excursions to Mount Rigi, famously known as the Queen of the Mountains.

Your journey begins with a scenic boat cruise across Lake Lucerne, gliding past picturesque villages and snowy shorelines. Upon arriving in Vitznau, board Europe’s oldest cogwheel railway, first opened in 1871, for a spectacular ride to Rigi’s panoramic summit.

At the top, enjoy sweeping views across 13 lakes and countless alpine peaks, often rising above a sea of clouds in winter.

Warm up with a traditional Swiss cheese fondue in a cozy mountain hut overlooking the Alps.

Following lunch, experience a thrilling alpine sledding run down pristine snow-covered slopes surrounded by breathtaking winter scenery — one of Switzerland’s most fun and authentic winter traditions.

Descend by gondola through snowy forests before returning to Lucerne by scenic boat.

Overnight in Lucerne.

Today, you travel deep into the Swiss Alps to the legendary mountain village of Zermatt, home of the world-famous Matterhorn. Enjoy a private scenic drive through spectacular mountain landscapes, charming alpine villages, and dramatic valleys before reaching Täsch, where you board a short train into car-free Zermatt. Alternatively, you can choose a breathtaking scenic rail journey through the Swiss Alps.

Upon arrival, explore this charming car-free alpine village, where horse-drawn carriages and electric taxis replace cars, creating an atmosphere that feels timeless and peaceful.

As evening falls, admire your first unforgettable view of the Matterhorn, one of the most photographed mountains in the world and the inspiration behind the Toblerone chocolate logo.

Overnight in Zermatt.

Today, ascend high into the Alps to experience one of Europe’s most extraordinary mountain viewpoints.
Ride a series of cable cars to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters (12,740 ft). Walk through the Glacier Palace, a magical tunnel carved deep inside the glacier with dramatic ice formations and sculptures within the ice caves.

From the summit viewing platform, you will be surrounded by 14 glaciers and an astonishing 38 Alpine peaks over 4,000 meters across Switzerland, Italy, and France. Here, you will have a magnificent view of the Matterhorn dominating the skyline.

For winter enthusiasts, Zermatt also offers some of the best winter scenery and skiing in the Alps, with slopes open year-round thanks to its glacier.

After descending, spend the afternoon exploring Zermatt village. Browse charming boutiques, enjoy cozy cafés and wander the picturesque streets.

Overnight in Zermatt.

Wake up to the crisp alpine air and another spectacular view of the Matterhorn glowing in the morning light above Zermatt.

This morning, ride the legendary Gornergrat Railway, one of the highest open-air cog railways in Europe. As the train climbs high above the valley, you will witness the Matterhorn from a completely different perspective – rising among a panorama and the massive Gorner Glacier stretching below. Here, you can enjoy classic alpine winter adventures like a fun winter sledding run or explore the quiet beauty of the mountains on a snowshoe walk through pristine alpine trails, surrounded by breathtaking views.

After soaking in all the stunning scenery, head back to Zermatt to begin your return journey to Lucerne or Zurich by scenic train or private transfer, bringing your unforgettable Swiss winter adventure to a close.

Your itinerary can be fully customized to suit your interests, weather conditions, and pace. Additional experiences can include: 

• A private horse-drawn sleigh ride in the Alps 
• Visits to festive Christmas markets (December tours) 
• Snowshoeing or winter hiking experiences 
• Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz (additional days) 

With Riccardi Travel, every journey is designed to deliver authentic, unforgettable Swiss experiences — combining iconic landscapes, local culture, and winter magic. 

Throughout the tour, you’ll have personal time to explore, shop, or relax. Our flexible itinerary allows adjustments based on weather conditions and your interests, ensuring the most enjoyable winter experience possible. 

Still deciding how you’d like to spend your winter in Switzerland? Browse our full selection of Switzerland Multi-Day Tours and Day Tours from Lucerne. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

The tour will start at your hotel or a pre-arranged location with your private guide.

Private pick-up from airport with hotel transfer can be included upon request.

The booking is made, once the 10% non-refundable deposit has been received.
If your cancelation is:

• More than 60 days prior to the tour: 100% refund
• Between 59 days – 30 days prior to the tour: 50% refund
• Less than 30 days prior to the tour: no refund