Day 1 Shanghai → Dubai → Zurich
All day
丨 Full refund if visa is rejected:
This itinerary is a single-entry group visa for Schengen countries and includes visa services. Fingerprints will be taken at the Shanghai Consulate approximately 15-40 days before departure. The final approval time is subject to the consulate's response. If there are no document issues, visas will be issued within a week of departure. Visa procedures will be sent via text message after placing your order, so please check. If the group visa application is rejected, a full refund will be provided. For details, please see "Fees Included - Visa" section.
How to cancel the visa:
After the trip, you need to collect your passport and round-trip boarding passes and send them to the consulate for visa cancellation. This is expected to take about half a month. Please arrange your itinerary after returning home.
About the team:
This itinerary is a China-TravelNote independent tour, with a maximum of 19 people. A China-TravelNote tour leader will be arranged upon completion of the trip.
丨Ticket Description
This itinerary includes round-trip international air tickets. Since group air tickets require approval from the airline, the departure times of international flights in different departure batches are different. Please refer to the flight time in the group departure notice.
·morning
Today is your departure day. Please be sure to arrive at Shanghai Pudong Airport 3 hours in advance to check in and take your flight to Zurich, Switzerland's largest city.
EK305, Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) - Dubai Airport (DXB), 07:15 - 12:05, flight time: 9 hours and 20 minutes
Dubai Airport transfer: 3 hours and 20 minutes
EK085, Dubai Airport (DXB) - Zurich Airport (ZRH), 15:35 - 20:20, flight time: 6 hours and 45 minutes
After arriving in Zurich, we arranged to be picked up at the airport and checked into the hotel to rest, adjust to the time difference, and prepare for tomorrow's new itinerary in Switzerland!
Day 2 Zurich full day
·morning
In the morning we first briefly left the old town of Zurich and came to the old town of Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland. The town is located at the "joint" of the Rhine River at the junction of eastern Switzerland and Germany, and originates from the Rhine Falls: because shippers often need to find a place to unload and store goods to avoid ships being unable to pass due to rapids, the town came into being.
We'll explore the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall, and experience the cascading waters up close on a boat trip. We'll also take you on a stroll through the heart of the old town, where the houses are richly decorated with oriel windows and painted walls. The medieval-style painted houses and narrow cobblestone streets make this one of Switzerland's best-preserved old towns.
·afternoon
After a free lunch, return to Zurich city.
Zurich, Switzerland's financial capital, is a charming city brimming with historical charm and modern energy. Explore this Alpine gateway city, a place steeped in culture and imbued with a modern urban feel.
First, we'll take a cable car up to the summit of ETH Zurich, one of the world's leading universities and the former student of physicist Albert Einstein. We'll visit Einstein's locker to relive the life of this great scientist on campus, and explore the university's open areas to soak in the atmosphere. The observation deck offers stunning views of Zurich's Old Town.
Next, we visited Zurich's iconic twin-towered cathedral, the symbol of Zurich. Crossing the Limmat River, we arrived at Fraumünster (Fraumkirche), home to Marc Chagall's stained glass windows. While we only toured the exterior, we could still appreciate the cathedral's artistic value. We then continued on to Zurich's 17th-century Town Hall, a witness to countless political events throughout Swiss history.
Day 3 Zurich → Mt. Rigi → Weggis → Lucerne
·morning
After breakfast, we set off for the heart of Switzerland and take a train to Mount Rigi, one of Switzerland's most iconic peaks. It is known as the "Queen of Mountains" and is one of the most beautiful outposts of the Alps.
After reaching the foot of the mountain, we'll board a historic cogwheel mountain train, slowly traversing forests and pastures toward the summit. From the train window, Swiss lakes, mountains, and rural scenery blend in, creating a breathtaking natural landscape.
After reaching the summit, we'll take in the magnificent views of the Alps from the observation deck and embark on a light hike (approximately 1.5 hours, covering approximately 3-5 kilometers). Along the way, we'll admire Lake Zug, Lake Lucerne, and the snow-capped mountains in the distance, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the mountains in the fresh air.
·afternoon
After the hike, we took the cogwheel train down the mountain to the small town of Weggis at the foot of Mount Rigi. The author Mark Twain once lived here and praised its tranquil beauty because of its picturesque scenery and pleasant climate.
Stroll along the lakeside and admire the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, we'll board a Lake Lucerne Sightseeing Cruise, a local boat ride along the lake, heading towards Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities.
·night
That evening, we will arrange for everyone to enjoy a Western dinner in Lucerne and then check into the hotel to rest.
Day 4 Lucerne → Lungern → Golden Pass → Interlaken
·morning
In the morning, as the sun shone on Lake Lucerne, we set off for a day of exploration. Lucerne is not only one of Switzerland's most beautiful lakeside cities, but also a cultural city steeped in history.
First, we visited one of Switzerland's most symbolic sculptures, the Dying Lion. This stone lion sculpture commemorates the Swiss mercenaries who died during the French Revolution.
Next, we visited the Musegg Walls (Inside), a well-preserved 14th-century wall that bears witness to Lucerne's history. The Männliturm Tower, a popular Instagram spot, offers stunning views of Lucerne's Old Town and the surrounding lake. It's a popular check-in spot on Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book).
Finally, we strolled to Lucerne's landmark, the Chapel Bridge. Built in the 14th century, this medieval wooden bridge spans the Reuss River. Over a hundred historical murals on the bridge vividly depict Lucerne's past, transporting you back in time.
·afternoon
After a free lunch, we drove to Lungern, Switzerland's "paradise." We embarked on a lakeshore hike along the Lungern Lake Trail (approximately 1 hour, covering 4-5 kilometers). Along the way, the turquoise waters of the lake, framed by a crisscrossing network of forests, wooden houses, and meadows, created a fairytale-like experience—a hidden gem worth stopping by.
After the hike, we headed to the nearby train station to board Switzerland's famous Golden Pass Train. Through the train's panoramic windows, the Swiss landscape unfolded like a slowly unfolding scroll, with lakes, forests, mountains, and valleys unfolding one after another, a breathtaking sight.
We arrived in Interlaken that day and checked into a local hotel to rest.
Day 5 Interlaken → First Peak → Grindelwald → Interlaken
All day
Interlaken is an ideal starting point for exploring the Swiss alpine scenery. We took the First Peak Cable Car from Grindelwald, passing through green valleys and pine forests along the way. The snow-capped mountains in the distance stood tall, shrouded in clouds and mist, and the scenery was picturesque.
Standing at 2,167 meters above sea level, First Peak offers not only breathtaking snow-capped mountain scenery but also a variety of exciting alpine experiences. Choose two of these experiences (included in the price) for a unique experience. In addition, the First Skywalk—a glass-walled walkway built along the steep mountainside, with sections suspended high above the cliff—feels like walking in the clouds. On clear days, you can even see the Jungfrau and the surrounding mountains in the distance. It's a truly amazing experience!
First Peak Experience Activities: Choose two of the following:
First Flyer (zipline) - Take a high-speed zipline and glide from the top of First Mountain to the valley at high speed. Like a soaring eagle, you dive down at a high speed and the mountain breeze blowing in your face makes you excited.
First Glider - You will become an Alpine falcon, hanging horizontally on a hang glider, overlooking the magnificent snow-capped mountains and forests in an exciting and safe way.
Mountain Cart - a unique mountain transportation tool that winds down from the mountains, shuttles between meadows and paths, and the scenery along the way is intoxicating.
First Trottibike (mountain scooter) – Ride a cross between a scooter and a bicycle and zip to Grindelwald, past flower meadows and farmhouses.
If you prefer hiking, you can also follow the trail to Lake Bachalpsee. Its mirror-like waters reflect the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks, creating a fairytale-like scene. The hike is approximately 5 kilometers, so be sure to manage your time accordingly.
·afternoon
We will go down the mountain in the afternoon and stop at the small town of Grindelwald, which is known as the "Dream Hill" and is the site of many Swiss postcard-like scenery.
We will return to Interlaken for the rest of the day, leaving you free to explore. Herwegstraße is lined with Swiss watch shops, chocolate shops, and boutiques, offering a wide selection of unique Swiss souvenirs.
Day 6 Interlaken → Montreux → Tesch → Zermatt
·morning
After breakfast, we continued our journey westwards and arrived at another Swiss lake region: Lake Geneva.
We will then proceed to Montreux, a city nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva. With its mild climate and beautiful scenery, it has attracted many artists and musicians, including Freddie Mercury (lead singer of Queen). It is also the venue for the Montreux Jazz Festival, where you will have a free lunch.
·afternoon
The first stop in the afternoon is Chillon Castle (inside). This ancient castle on the shores of Lake Geneva has a long history. The castle consists of towers, underground wine cellars and lakeside terraces. It was once the place where the "Prisoner of Chillon" described by the French poet Byron was imprisoned, leaving behind many legendary stories.
After the tour, we drove to Tesch and then took a train to Zermatt. This car-free town is famous for its magnificent views of the Alps and quiet pedestrian streets. Among the many small towns in Switzerland, its scenery is the brightest star.
·night
That evening, we will enjoy a special dinner of Alpine cuisine and then check into the hotel to rest.
Day 7 Zermatt
·morning
In the morning, we start our day in Zermatt, facing the dawn of the Alps. Today, we will go on a light alpine hike, experiencing the magnificence and charm of the Alps in a way close to nature.
Departing from Zermatt, we'll board the Gornergrat Rack Railway (mountain ticket included), which has been operating since 1898 and is Europe's highest outdoor railway system. After reaching the summit, we'll explore the surrounding area before embarking on the Matterhorn Hiking (approximately 1-2 hours, 2 kilometers). This hike takes you through the magnificent alpine glacier region and onto Riffelsee, where the Matterhorn is reflected in the mirror-like waters of the lake, creating a breathtaking photo opportunity.
·afternoon
Then, take the train down the mountain from the nearby cogwheel train station (you have to pay for your own train ticket). You will stay in Zermatt that night, so if the weather and physical strength permit, you can choose to continue hiking down the mountain, or stroll through the town of Zermatt after descending the mountain to admire the small Alpine-style houses and check in at the observation deck.
Day 8 Zermatt → Annecy → Geneva
·morning
Today we will leave the Alps and head to Annecy, located in the southeast of France, at the foot of the Alps. It is known as the "Balcony of the Alps" and is also known as "Little Venice".
Arrive in town and wander along winding canals and cobblestone alleys lined with colorful medieval buildings, flower-adorned balconies, and elegant cafés. Visit the historic Annecy Castle (exterior), cross the romantic Lovers' Bridge, and sample authentic Savoy cheeses and sausages at the market, immersing yourself in the uniquely slow pace and elegance of southern France.
It is not recommended to rush the itinerary on that day. Take enough time to appreciate this small town in southern France where the lake and snow-capped mountains complement each other and it is like a paradise on earth.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we'll drive to Geneva for a city tour. Geneva, Switzerland's second-largest city, lies on the southwest corner of Lake Geneva. Blessed by nature, Geneva is surrounded by lakes and mountains, offering picturesque scenery year-round. It's also a cosmopolitan city, home to many world organizations.
Upon arrival, enjoy Geneva French dinner and then check in to the hotel to rest.
Day 9 Geneva → Dubai → Shanghai
·morning
As an international city, Geneva is not only home to many international organizations, but also a city of museums full of cultural atmosphere.
If you're interested in European art, don't miss the Geneva Museum of Art and History (free admission). It houses a rich collection ranging from prehistoric artifacts to Renaissance paintings and modern art, including classic works by Swiss artists and treasures worthy of the Louvre.
We'll then stroll along Lake Geneva and its old town, exploring this city where history and modernity blend together. Lake Geneva is one of western Switzerland's most iconic sights, and the Jet d'Eau is the city's symbol. The 140-meter-high jet of water rises into the sky, creating a dazzling rainbow in the sunlight, making it an ideal spot for photo opportunities.
Walking along the lakeside, we came to the English Garden, which is famous for its exquisite French garden design and the flower clock with changing floral patterns throughout the year, symbolizing the exquisite craftsmanship of the Swiss watch industry.
·afternoon
Later that day, we will go to Geneva International Airport and take an international flight back to Shanghai, concluding our Alpine tour.
EK 84, Geneva - Dubai, 21:20 - 05:45 (+1), flight time 6 hours and 30 minutes
Day 10 Arrived in Shanghai★ Disbandment Day
All day
Arrived in Shanghai, and happily ended this Swiss outdoor trip. Looking forward to your wonderful travel notes~
Reference flights:
EK304, Dubai (DXB) - Shanghai Pudong (PVG), 09:35 - 22:20, flight time: 7 hours and 30 minutes
Due to regulations, all European embassies have a (though not very) chance of requiring applicants to attend an interview at the embassy after their return. If this happens, please understand and cooperate, and attend the interview within the designated timeframe to avoid impacting future visa applications. Travel and accommodation expenses incurred during the interview are the responsibility of the applicant.
The visa cancellation time for relevant European countries is usually around 15 working days. When you sign up for a tour, please pay attention to your other exit arrangements after returning to China.
