Discover Lake Maggiore, Zermatt and the Centovalli Railway on a spectacular rail holiday through the landscapes of Italy and Switzerland. Combining scenic train journeys, beautiful lakes, Alpine scenery and leisurely sightseeing, this eight-day adventure offers a wonderful introduction to rail travel in Europe.
Stay beside Lake Maggiore in Baveno and journey aboard the famous Centovalli Railway to Locarno, travel across the Alps to Zermatt, explore the beautiful Borromean Islands by boat, and enjoy time to experience the Italian Lakes at a relaxed pace.
Lake Maggiore, Zermatt & the Centovalli Railway
Experience the spectacular landscapes of Italy and Switzerland by rail and boat on this leisurely eight-day European adventure, combining the beautiful Italian Lakes with one of Switzerland’s most scenic railway journeys.
Stay on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Baveno, with views across the lake towards the Borromean Islands. From this elegant lakeside base, explore picturesque towns, magnificent gardens and dramatic Alpine landscapes, with a carefully balanced combination of included excursions and time to discover the area at your own pace.
Journey on the Centovalli Railway
One of the highlights of the holiday is a journey aboard the Centovalli Railway, a wonderfully scenic route connecting Italy with Switzerland.
Travel through the dramatic landscape of the Hundred Valleys, passing deep gorges, waterfalls, forests, mountain villages and impressive bridges before arriving in Locarno, on the Swiss shores of Lake Maggiore.
Discover the Borromean Islands
Take to the water to explore the beautiful Borromean Islands, scattered across Lake Maggiore.
Discover elegant villas, ornate palaces and spectacular terraced gardens while enjoying wonderful views across the lake towards the surrounding mountains.
Across the Alps to Zermatt
Another unforgettable journey takes you across the Simplon Pass and into Switzerland before continuing by train to Zermatt.
Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the Alps and overlooked by the unmistakable Matterhorn, car-free Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most celebrated mountain resorts.
Time to Explore Lake Maggiore
There’s also time to enjoy Baveno, strolling along its waterfront promenade, exploring the town or simply relaxing beside the lake.
Optional excursions may also provide opportunities to visit Lake Lugano and Lake Como, or spend a day discovering Milan, Italy’s stylish fashion capital.
Holiday Highlights
- 8-day escorted holiday in Italy and Switzerland
- Scenic journey aboard the Centovalli Railway
- Visit Locarno in Switzerland
- Journey across the Simplon Pass
- Rail journey to Zermatt in the Swiss Alps
- Boat trip around the Borromean Islands
- Free time in lakeside Baveno
- 6 included excursions
- 7 meals
- Stay at the four-star Grand Hotel Dino overlooking Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
- Optional visits to Lake Lugano, Lake Como and Milan
Departures & Prices
Selected departures are available between October 2026 and October 2027, with flights available from a choice of regional UK airports.
As a guide, prices currently start from approximately £1,950 per person, based on two adults sharing, with prices varying according to departure date and departure airport.
Solo accommodation is also available on selected departures, with supplements applicable.
Deposits are from £275 per person.
Prices, availability, flight options and supplements are subject to change. Please enquire for the latest departure dates and current price from your preferred UK airport.
Discover Italy & Switzerland by Rail
Combining scenic rail travel, Alpine landscapes and the Italian Lakes, this journey is ideal for travellers who want to experience some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery without constantly changing hotels.
Unpack in Baveno and enjoy a relaxed introduction to European rail travel, with memorable journeys into Switzerland, beautiful lake cruises and plenty of time to simply enjoy your surroundings.
Enquire with Discover the Frog Adventure Travel for current availability, regional departures and the latest prices.
