Full Bernina Train: 5-Country Route Through The Alps

7 March 2027 – 14 March 2027 | 7 Nights, 8 Days
Tour details

IMPORTANT NOTES

ABOUT THE TOUR PROGRAM

• The advertised prices are subject to a tiered pricing system that applies as capacity fills up. • Your travel documents and flight tickets must be with you throughout the journey. • The tour will only take place if sufficient participation is achieved (typically, the minimum required number of participants is 20 and the maximum is 40, though this may vary by date and tour). If sufficient participation is not met, the final cancellation notification date is 20 days prior to the tour start. Tours cancelled due to insufficient participation will be communicated to you through your agency. • In necessary cases, we reserve the right to change the order of cities visited and the airline company without prior notice, provided the program content remains unchanged. • Holding a valid passport and/or visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Border police have the authority to deny entry; BinRota is not responsible for this situation, and all responsibility lies entirely with the passenger. • BinRota acts as an intermediary between the airline and the passenger and is subject to the Hague Protocol of 28.09.1955. There may be risks of delays or cancellations in scheduled and special flights, and flight times may change; BinRota is obligated to notify passengers of such changes as soon as possible. Our passengers purchase the tour knowing and accepting that flight details may change.

ABOUT ACCOMMODATION

• Hotels specified in the program are listed as "and similar" categories; final hotel information will be provided 48 hours before departure. • Hotel star ratings may vary depending on local conditions in the destination countries. • During peak periods such as fairs, congresses, concerts, events, or sports tournaments, hotels may be selected at distances greater than those specified. • Check-in time is earliest at 15:00 local time, and check-out time is between 11:00 and 12:00. • Bed types cannot be guaranteed and are blocked based on hotel availability. Triple rooms are assigned according to hotel suitability and consist of 1 large bed + 1 extra bed; since extra beds are foldable or convertible sofa beds (coach beds), guests booking triple rooms and/or children accept any potential crowding and bed type. Child discounts apply only to one child aged within the range specified in the pricing section, traveling alongside two adults. • In group accommodations, breakfast is typically served as a limited continental menu (butter, jam, bread, tea or coffee) in a separate room allocated exclusively for the group, at a specific time designated for the group, in accordance with the local culture.

ABOUT FLIGHT TICKETS

• Tickets are issued exactly matching the name/surname, date of birth, Turkish ID number, and passport details on the passport; our agency bears no responsibility for incorrect information provided. • Passengers must be at the airport at least 3 hours before the flight. Online check-in must be completed by the guest 24 hours prior to departure. Some airlines do not allow online check-in or seat selection for group tickets. • Our agency is not responsible for delays, cancellations, or changes in time/route/price caused by the airline. • Due to the sequential ticket rule of airlines, if the outbound flight is not used, the return flight may also be cancelled.

ABOUT GUIDING AND TOURS

• Panoramic city tours are guided tours conducted from inside the vehicle to provide a general introduction to cities; they do not include entrance fees to museums or historical sites and last a maximum of 2-3 hours. • Our agency is not responsible for tours being unable to proceed due to closures of sightseeing locations by local authorities, road closures, or adverse weather conditions. Some tours may be conducted using public transport or on foot, where feasible, due to closed roads or areas inaccessible to vehicles. • Optional/extra tours are organized by the local agency subject to a minimum participation requirement of one-third of the group size and are not mandatory. If the required number is not met, tours may not take place, or prices, content, and vehicles used may vary based on the number of participants. The days and times of optional tours may be changed depending on whether museums/historical sites are open or closed and weather conditions.

VISA AND PASSPORT

• Holders of Ordinary (blue) and Service (gray) passports require a visa; only holders of Private (green) passports are exempt from visas. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip and must not be older than 10 years. There must be blank pages in the passport for entry and exit stamps. • For destinations requiring a visa, applications must be submitted with the documents listed in the "Documents Required for Visa" list provided by your agency. • Torn, worn, wet, or otherwise damaged passports must be renewed; if the destination country requires a visa for Turkish citizens, a valid visa must be present in the new passport. Otherwise, responsibility lies with the passenger. • Guests under 18 years old traveling alone or with only one parent may be asked for a joint consent document at border crossings; we advise exercising caution in this matter.

HEALTH

• There are no mandatory vaccinations for visiting European countries.

CURRENCY

• Euro (EUR) is used in Germany, Austria, France, and Italy. • Swiss Franc (CHF) is used in Switzerland and Liechtenstein; it is advisable to carry some Euros with you in these countries as well.

TIME ZONE

• All countries in the program (Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Italy, France) are in the same time zone. • Summer time in Europe begins on March 28, 2027. Before this date, Turkey is 2 hours ahead; after this date, Turkey is 1 hour ahead.

ELECTRICITY AND PLUGS

• In Germany, Austria, and France, plug types are compatible with Turkey (220-230V). • In Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Type J plugs are used, and in Italy, Type L plugs are used; therefore, it is recommended to carry a plug adapter for grounded (thick) plugs.

TELEPHONE USE

• Your mobile phone line can be used abroad if international roaming is enabled.

SHOPPING

• You have the opportunity to shop at shopping malls in city centers and at souvenir stalls. In EU countries, you can benefit from Tax Free (tax refund) on purchases exceeding a certain amount.

CLOTHING AND ESSENTIAL ITEMS

• Summer season: T-shirts and shirts that are easy to put on and take off, cotton trousers, shorts, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket and sweater for evenings; additionally, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and chargers are recommended. • Winter season: Layered clothing that allows free movement and keeps you warm, jackets, scarves, beanies, and waterproof shoes are recommended.

What's included
  • Economy class air ticket with Turkish Airlines between Istanbul (IST) – Zurich (ZRH) / Basel (BSL) – Istanbul (IST)
  • 7 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in 4* hotels
  • Airport-hotel-airport transfers & all transfers via private bus
  • Ticket for the Bernina Express train between St. Moritz and Tirano
  • Panoramic city tour of Zurich
  • Panoramic city tour of Milan
  • Panoramic city tour of Geneva
  • Panoramic city tour of Basel (subject to flight schedule availability)
  • Included: Alsace Wonders Colmar, Riquewihr & Strasbourg tour worth 100 Euro
  • Included: Annecy tour worth 60 Euro
  • Included: Lausanne & Montreux tour worth 30 Euro
  • Included: Freiburg tour worth 40 Euro
  • Included: Como & Lugano tour worth 75 Euro
  • Included: One Day Tour of 4 Countries worth 160 Euro
  • Professional Turkish guiding and assistance services
  • Hotel and tourist city taxes (25-30 Euro)
  • TURSAB mandatory professional liability insurance
  • Travel and health insurance (surcharge applies for ages over 65)
Not included
  • Fees for personal and official items such as exit taxes, visas, etc.
  • All types of personal expenses and hotel extras.
  • All services not explicitly specified in the program and included services.
  • Optional tours / activities if available in the program.
  • Alcoholic / non-alcoholic beverages consumed during included meals if available in the program.
  • Domestic connecting flights and domestic transportation fees.
  • Tips for guides and drivers.
Tour Program
Istanbul – Zurich
We meet our guide at the Istanbul Airport International Terminal, proceed with baggage and ticket procedures at the Turkish Airlines counter, and then depart on a scheduled flight to Zurich. Upon arrival in Zurich, we begin our panoramic city tour. Highlights of the tour include Fraumünster Church, Grossmünster Church, the Swiss National Museum, the Opera House, Lake Zurich, St. Peter's Church, historic guild houses, Zurich Altstadt (Old Town), and the bustling Bahnhofstrasse Avenue lined with world-famous shops. At the end of the tour, we transfer to our hotel for overnight stay.
Zurich – Lindau – Bregenz – Liechtenstein – Rapperswil – Zurich
After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we depart early in the morning from our Zurich accommodation by private vehicle for our "Four Countries in One Day" tour. Our first stop is Lindau, a charming island town on the shores of Lake Constance in Germany, renowned for its medieval streets. We stroll through its narrow lanes to admire the Bavarian Lion statue and the Lindau Lighthouse, while taking in panoramic views of the lake and the Alps. Next, we cross to Bregenz on the Austrian side of the lake, where we pause briefly by the water's edge. Then, crossing the border, we enter Liechtenstein, one of the world's smallest yet most captivating countries. During free time in the center of Vaduz, our guests may shop at boutique stores, relax in cafes, or visit Vaduz Castle atop the hill; those interested can also have their passports stamped with a commemorative Liechtenstein seal. Following this, we continue along the shores of Walensee and make our final stop at Rapperswil, a picturesque town on the banks of Lake Zurich. Known as the "Town of Roses," Rapperswil offers opportunities for lakeside walks and breathtaking views from Rapperswil Castle overlooking the town. At the end of the day, we return to our hotel in Zurich for an overnight stay.
Zurich – St. Moritz – Bernina Express – Tirano – Milan
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart by private vehicle for St. Moritz train station. Today, we embark on the enchanting Bernina Express journey, a trip so magical it seems to fulfill dreams. Running on the world-renowned Bernina line, which opened between 1908 and 1910 and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fairytale ride offers breathtaking Alpine vistas and ample opportunities for photography. Upon arrival in Tirano, we continue our journey to Milan by private car. Once in Milan, we begin our panoramic city tour, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Piazza della Scala. After the tour, we transfer back to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Milano – Como – Lugano – Milano
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for the Como and Lugano tour nestled at the foot of the Alps. Our journey begins with Lake Como, Italy's third-largest lake. This glacial lake, shaped like the letter "Y" and surrounded by the Alpine foothills, welcomes visitors throughout the year. We take a short stroll around this natural wonder where green meets blue, pausing for photos. In this charming town, known for its picturesque villages, we will visit Piazza Cavour and the 14th-century Duomo. After the tour, we head to Lugano. Within Switzerland's borders, this natural gem features the stunning Lake Lugano, whose breathtaking views captivate us as we enjoy a panoramic drive and pause for photographs. Finally, we return to Milan and transfer back to our hotel. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Milan – Annecy – Geneva
After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we set off towards Geneva. Along the way, we travel through breathtaking Alpine landscapes. Our route includes a visit to Annecy. Located in France's Haute-Savoie region at the foot of the Alps, Annecy is known as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its historic charm interwoven with canals. We take a short stroll along the shores of the turquoise Lake Annecy, one of Europe's cleanest lakes, and pause for some photos in this fairytale town. Among the sights we will see are the 12th-century Palais de l'Isle, built on a rocky island in the middle of the canal; the Pont des Amours, also known as the Lovers' Bridge; flower-lined canal banks; and the cobblestone streets of the old town. After our tour, we proceed to Geneva. During the city tour, highlights include St. Pierre Cathedral, the Jet d'Eau fountain—a symbol of the city that reaches up to 140 meters—and the Monument to the Reformation. Following the tour, we transfer back to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Geneva – Lausanne – Montreux – Mulhouse
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for Lausanne. Known for hosting the signing of the Treaty of Lausanne on July 24, 1923, this city holds a special place in our national history and was also one of the major bishopric centers of the Middle Ages. Following a short break in the Ouchy district along the shores of Lake Geneva, we proceed to Montreux. Closely familiar from our national history, Montreux is not only renowned for its castles, historic structures, and natural beauty but also as an important city in the world of music. The iconic song "Smoke on the Water" tells the story of a fire at a casino in Montreux that left a lasting mark on an era; additionally, a statue of Freddie Mercury, who spent his final years here, can be found in the city. After enjoying a pleasant break in Montreux, we view Chillon Castle, the city's symbol, from a panoramic perspective and capture postcard-worthy views with our cameras. We then set off toward Mulhouse. Upon arrival at our hotel, we have free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Mulhouse – Alsace – Colmar – Riquewihr – Strasbourg – Mulhouse
After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we set off for our tour of Colmar and Strasbourg to discover the wonders of Alsace. First, we head to the fairytale town of Colmar, where highlights include the Old Customs House, Pfister House, and Petite Venise (Little Venice), the city's most famous district surrounded by colorful houses along its canals. In this unique setting, you can savor regional specialties and browse for souvenirs. Our next stop is Riquewihr, a village in Alsace renowned for its vineyards, flower-adorned balconies, car-free cobblestone streets, and well-preserved buildings that escaped damage during World War II. As one of the region's most visited villages, Riquewihr, with its population of around 1,100 and surrounding vineyards, feels like a true gem. Its half-timbered houses, painted in pastel tones and decorated with flowers, line the gently sloping main street, Grand Rue. After completing our visit here, we proceed to Strasbourg. We are now in Europe's second most important city after Brussels; a place rich in history and culture, home to Gutenberg, Rouget de Lisle, philosopher Erasmus, and writer Goethe. Strasbourg's historic center lies within the "Grande Île," a UNESCO World Heritage site. During our city tour, we will see Notre-Dame Cathedral and numerous historical structures situated on an island encircled by rivers. To the southwest of this island is La Petite France (Little France), the city's most beautiful neighborhood, where we enjoy a pleasant walk through an area marked by the confluence of rivers, Renaissance-era historic houses, and museums. After the tour, we transfer back to our hotel for overnight accommodation.
Mulhouse – Freiburg – Basel – Istanbul
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for our tour of Freiburg. Highlights of the day include the Bächle, small water channels running along the streets with a total length of 15.5 km; the Freiburger Münster (Cathedral), whose tower rises 116 meters and is visible from every corner of the city; Markthalle (Covered Market), offering a wide array of international culinary delights; the expansive Münsterplatz square; Rathausplatz, home to both the old and new town halls; Kaiser Joseph Street, lined with souvenir shops and cafés; and Augustiner Platz, the city's main gathering point. At the end of the tour, we proceed to Basel. Depending on our flight schedule, we will enjoy a panoramic city tour of Basel, featuring the flower-adorned Altstadt (Old Town), the red sandstone City Hall, the 12th-century Münster Cathedral, and the Mittlere Rheinbrücke bridge spanning the Rhine River. Following the tour, we transfer to Basel Airport at the time designated by our guide. After completing baggage, ticket, and customs procedures, we board our Turkish Airlines scheduled flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, our tour and services come to an end.