Full Bernina Train Journey from the Alps to the Riviera: Switzerland, Italy, and France Route

6 March 2027 – 11 March 2027 | 5 Nights, 6 Days
Tour details

IMPORTANT NOTES

REGARDING 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.

• Sufficient participation is required for the package tour to take place (typically, the minimum number of participants is set at 20 and the maximum at 40, though this may vary based on date and specific tour). In case sufficient participation is not achieved, 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, BinRota reserves the right to change the order of visiting tours/cities and the airline company without prior notice and without altering the program content.

• Possessing 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 September 28, 1955. There may be a risk of delays or cancellations in both 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.

REGARDING ACCOMMODATION

• Hotels specified in the program are listed as "and similar" categories; final hotel information will be provided 48 hours before the tour departure.

• Hotel star ratings may vary depending on local conditions in the destination countries.

• During peak periods such as trade fairs, congresses, concerts, events, or sports tournaments, hotels may be selected at distances greater than those specified.

• Check-in at the hotel is earliest at 15:00 local time, and check-out 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 often foldable or convertible sofa beds (coach beds), guests booking triple occupancy and/or children accept any potential crowding and the type of bed available. Child discounts apply only to one child accompanying two adults and falling within the age group specified in the pricing section.

• 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 designated time, in accordance with the culture of the host country.

REGARDING 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 time. Online check-in procedures are performed by the guest 24 hours before the flight. 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.

NOTES REGARDING GUIDANCE 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 take place due to closures of sites 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 points where vehicle access is not permitted.

• Optional/extra tours are organized by the local agency subject to a minimum participation rate of one-third of the group size and participation is 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 (red) passports are subject to visa requirements; holders of special (green) and service passports are exempt from visas. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the end date 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 made using 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 traveling alone or with only one parent may be asked for a joint consent document at border crossings; we advise exercising caution regarding this matter.

HEALTH

• There are no mandatory vaccinations for visiting European countries.

• No health issues are expected in hotels and quality restaurants; however, during times outside the group schedule, it is recommended to consume bottled water, avoid ice, milk and dairy products, eat well-cooked meat/fish, and prefer fruits that can be peeled like bananas and pineapples.

CURRENCY

• Countries using Euro (EUR): Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, and other Eurozone countries.

• Countries using their own currency: Switzerland (Swiss Franc / CHF), United Kingdom (Pound Sterling / GBP), Czech Republic (Czech Koruna / CZK), Hungary (Forint / HUF), Poland (Zloty / PLN), Denmark/Sweden/Norway (Krona). It is advisable to carry some Euros even when visiting countries outside the Eurozone.

TIME ZONES

• Most Continental European countries (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Hungary, Poland, etc.) are 1 hour behind Turkey during daylight saving time and 2 hours behind during standard winter time.

• United Kingdom and Portugal are 2 hours behind Turkey during daylight saving time and 3 hours behind during standard winter time.

• Greece is in the same time zone as Turkey.

ELECTRICITY AND PLUGS

• In Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Greece, and most Continental European countries, plug types are the same as in Turkey (Type C/F, 220-230V).

• In the United Kingdom, a different plug type (Type G, three flat pins) is used; you must bring a plug adapter for this country.

TELEPHONE USAGE

• 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 souvenir stalls. In EU countries, you can benefit from Tax Free (tax refund) on purchases above 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
  • Round-trip economy class air tickets on Turkish Airlines routes Istanbul (IST) - Zurich (ZRH) / Nice (NCE) - Istanbul (IST)
  • Airport taxes
  • Bed and breakfast accommodation in 4-star hotels: 1 night in Zurich, 1 night in Milan, 2 nights in Genoa, and 1 night in Nice
  • Airport-hotel-airport transfers
  • Bernina Red Train journey on the Bernina Route, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Riviera Dream and Colorful Coasts; Tour of Rapallo, La Spezia, and Cinque Terre
  • Tour of Eze, Monaco, and Cannes
  • Panoramic Zurich City Tour
  • Panoramic Milan City Tour
  • Panoramic Genoa City Tour
  • Panoramic Nice City Tour
  • All transfers via private bus
  • Professional Turkish-speaking guide and assistant services
  • Hotel and city tourist 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 stamp, visa, etc.
  • All types of personal expenses and hotel extras
  • All services not explicitly specified in the program and included services3
  • Optional tours and activities, if available in the program
  • Museum and historical site entrance fees not explicitly stated as "visited" in the program
  • Alcoholic and 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 – City Tour – Zurich
After meeting your guide at the Istanbul Airport International Terminal, we will proceed to the Turkish Airlines counter for baggage and ticket procedures before departing on a scheduled Turkish Airlines flight to Zurich. Upon arrival, we will meet our private vehicle and begin exploring Zurich with a panoramic city tour. First, we stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, the city's most prestigious shopping avenue, renowned for its world-famous stores, Swiss watch brands, and elegant window displays, allowing us to experience Zurich's modern and sophisticated urban atmosphere up close. Next, we move into the Old Town district, which stretches across both banks of the Limmat River and preserves the city's history through its narrow streets, historic facades, small squares, and traditional charm. During our tour, we will visit several iconic landmarks: Grossmünster, one of Zurich's most recognizable structures with its twin towers and a significant place in the history of the Swiss Reformation; Fraumünster, known for its slender tower and stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall; and St. Peter's Church, home to one of Europe's largest church clock faces. We then continue along the Limmat River, connecting the two sides of the historic center, and pass through Paradeplatz, Zurich's financial hub. From there, we head south along Bahnhofstrasse to reach the shores of Lake Zurich, one of the city's most characteristic natural symbols, where we enjoy the tranquil waters, waterfront promenade, and surrounding city views that define Zurich's unique ambiance. After completing our tour, which combines historical centers, elegant architecture, the financial district, and stunning lake vistas, we transfer to our hotel and have free time. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Zurich – Bernina Red Train (St. Moritz – Tirano) – Milan
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart by private vehicle towards St. Moritz, one of Switzerland's world-renowned Alpine destinations. Along this scenic overland journey, leaving behind the orderly urban fabric of Switzerland and heading into the heart of the Alps, we are accompanied by breathtaking views of lakes, valleys, mountain villages, and towering peaks. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, one of the most exclusive regions of the Swiss Alps, we proceed to the train station and prepare for today's most special experience. From here, we board the Bernina Red Train and begin our unforgettable rail journey stretching from Switzerland to Italy. During our ride on the Bernina Red Train, we witness some of Europe's most stunning Alpine landscapes. Traveling along the Bernina railway line, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, we are captivated by mesmerizing vistas created by high mountains, deep valleys, Alpine lakes, and nature changing with varying altitudes. This historic railway, built to adapt to the challenging conditions of the Alpine terrain, is recognized as one of the world's most remarkable train routes due to its seamless integration with nature and its engineering feats. As we travel, we admire the high peaks and expansive valleys of the Swiss Alps on one side, while on the other, we observe the shifting vegetation and mountain scenery as elevation decreases. Starting from Switzerland's high-altitude Alpine world and progressing toward Italy's milder valleys, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience vastly different natural landscapes in a short time. Continuing our trip alongside the views visible through the windows of the Bernina Red Train, we have the chance to closely observe how this UNESCO-protected route harmoniously winds through mountainous terrain. Following the path that descends from high mountain passes into valleys, we explore diverse facets of the Alpine landscape, leave Switzerland behind, and head toward Italy. After this exceptional train experience, which forms the highlight of our day, we arrive in Tirano, located in northern Italy. At Tirano Train Station, after disembarking from the Bernina Red Train, we meet our private vehicle waiting for us and set off for Milan. Following our overland journey from the mountainous regions of Northern Italy to Milan, we reach the city, transfer to our hotel, and settle into our rooms. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Milan – Milan City Tour – Genoa City Tour – Genoa
After breakfast at our hotel, we will begin the Panoramic Milan City Tour. Our first stop is the Duomo di Milano, the most iconic symbol of Milan and one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals. Construction began in 1386 and took 600 years to complete; this masterpiece captivates all who see it. Our next destination is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located in the heart of Milan. It is one of the oldest and most magnificent shopping arcades in the world, connecting the Duomo di Milano with Teatro alla Scala. The final panoramic sight on our tour is Sforzesco Castle, built in the 14th century and later converted into a ducal palace. Over the centuries, it has witnessed military sieges, destruction, and reconstruction processes. After the tour, we depart for Genoa. As the capital of the Liguria region and once one of the Mediterranean's most powerful maritime centers, Genoa awaits our exploration on the Panoramic Genoa Tour. First, we visit the Boccadasse neighborhood on the city's eastern coast, which preserves traditional Ligurian coastal life with its pastel-colored houses, small fishing boats, and narrow streets leading down to the sea. Here, we take a short photo break in an area that maintains the tranquil atmosphere of a fishing village amidst Genoa's dense urban fabric. Next, we proceed to Genoa's historic center. We visit Piazza Raffaele De Ferrari, the city's most important square and the heart of its social and cultural life, renowned for its grand fountain and monumental surrounding buildings. Nearby, we admire the Palazzo Ducale, formerly the administrative center of the Republic of Genoa, and the Teatro Carlo Felice, one of the city's key cultural landmarks. Continuing our tour, we view the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo from the outside. This is Genoa's most significant religious building, distinguished by its striking facade adorned with black and white marble stripes, monumental entrances, and architectural continuity from the Middle Ages to the present day. We then move to the Palazzi dei Rolli district, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which reflects the wealth of 16th- and 17th-century Genoa and the opulent lifestyle of its powerful aristocratic families. Walking along Via Garibaldi, one of the city's most elegant streets, we enjoy panoramic views of the grand palace facades, allowing us to intimately experience Genoa's identity as the "City of Palaces." In the final segment of our tour, we turn our attention to the Old Port (Porto Antico), the focal point of Genoa's centuries-old bond with the sea. This waterfront area, where the historic port meets modern urban life, has been revitalized through the designs of the world-renowned Genoese architect Renzo Piano. Here, we will have the opportunity to admire harbor views, historic structures, and contemporary architectural elements. Following the tour, we transfer to our hotel and enjoy free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Genoa – Portofino – Cinque Terre – La Spezia – Genoa
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the Riviera Dreams and Colorful Coasts tour, visiting Rapallo, Portofino, La Spezia, and Cinque Terre. Our journey begins with a drive to the charming city of Rapallo, a captivating symbol of the Riviera. Here, we will enjoy a panoramic tour of Rapallo, which includes views of its picturesque harbor. From there, guests who wish may board a boat from the port to sail to Portofino (Boat fee: 30 Euros, collected on-site). Nestled in a sheltered cove along the Ligurian coast, Portofino is one of the world-renowned icons of Mediterranean luxury and the Italian Riviera, blending vibrant seaside houses with enchanting natural beauty. Its crescent-shaped harbor, the historic Castello Brown perched atop the hill, and the San Giorgio Church overlooking the bay are among the town's most iconic landmarks. After our walking tour in Portofino, we return by boat to Rapallo to transfer to the Cinque Terre train excursion. We then continue by private vehicle to our first stop, La Spezia. From here, we begin our train journey through the breathtaking coastal villages of Cinque Terre. We make a stop at one of the five UNESCO World Heritage-listed villages that stands out for its unique charm. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the village's history and architecture, followed by free time. Those interested can stroll along the waterfront, browse souvenir shops, or savor fresh seafood. Afterwards, we board our private vehicle and return to our hotel in Genoa for free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Genoa – Nice Tour – Nice
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart from Genoa on our private tour bus and head toward Nice, one of the most popular cities along France's renowned Côte d'Azur coastline. Upon arrival, we begin a panoramic city tour of Nice. First, we stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, stretching along the Baie des Anges, famous for its palm trees, seaside views, and iconic blue chairs that have become symbols of the city. Along the route, we admire the Hôtel Negresco, one of Nice's most iconic landmarks, with its pink dome and grand façade. Next, we proceed to Place Masséna, the heart of the city's social life, known for its red and ochre-toned buildings, black-and-white geometric pavement, and the central Fontaine du Soleil. Adjacent to the square, we take in the green urban fabric of the Promenade du Paillon. Continuing our tour, we enter the Vieux-Nice district, which best reflects Nice's historical identity through its pastel-colored buildings, narrow streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere. Here, we explore Cours Saleya, renowned for its flower market and traditional market vibe, the Baroque-style Sainte-Réparate Cathedral, and the historic streets surrounding it. We then reach Place Garibaldi, notable for its red façades and orderly square design. In the final segment of the tour, we follow the coast to Quai des États-Unis and the area around Rauba Capeu, offering some of the finest views of Nice's shoreline. With the breathtaking panorama created by the Baie des Anges, the old town, and the Mediterranean coast as our backdrop, we conclude our tour and transfer back to our hotel to settle into our rooms. The rest of the day is free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Nice – Eze – Monaco – Cannes – Nice – Istanbul
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for a tour of Eze, Monaco, and Cannes. The journey begins with our arrival in Eze, the first stop of the tour. This medieval town perched atop a high hill features narrow stone streets where we take a walk and listen to our guide share its history. Afterwards, guests who wish may visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory, known for its boutique production of famous perfume brands, and join a short guided tour before having the opportunity to shop. We then leave Eze and, after a short drive, arrive in the Principality of Monaco. First, we explore the historic district of Monaco-Ville, visiting key landmarks such as the Prince's Palace, the Justice Palace, and Saint Nicholas Cathedral. Next, we pause for photos at Monte Carlo Casino Square, home to one of the world's most renowned casinos. We experience Monaco by driving along the routes used by the Formula 1 race track. Afterward, we depart from Monaco and head west along the Mediterranean coast to reach the city of Cannes. Here, we receive information about La Croisette Boulevard, the Palais des Festivals (Festival Palace), and the beachfront, followed by some free time. Guests may choose to enjoy coffee by the beach or browse the shops of luxury brands. Upon concluding our tour, we transfer to the airport. After completing baggage handling, ticket procedures, and customs formalities, we board our Turkish Airlines scheduled flight back to Istanbul. With our arrival, our enjoyable tour and services come to an end.