Basel to Lugano: Old Town and Lake Cruise
Basel
Discover Lugano's charm with a scenic train ride, historic Old Town tour, and serene Lake Lugano cruise. Experience Swiss-Italian culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Duration: 11 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Basel - Your guide will greet you at your hotel or residence, before whisking you away to Lugano.
  • Oberalpstock - Setting off on a scenic train ride to Lugano, an array of unspoiled natural Swiss valleys and majestic mountain massifs can be appreciated. There will be a fascinating exploration of the Gotthard Pass (also known as ‘King of Mountain Passes’), the world’s longest rail tunnel, where your friendly tour guide will share riveting insights into the site’s historical significance. Views of the striking indigo-blue waters and surrounding mountainous scenery of Lake Lucerne will be visible throughout this delightful voyage, accompanied by interesting facts about the destination’s historical background courtesy of our tour guide.

As the journey proceeds, the guide will deliver an overview of the three traffic tunnels at Gotthard, including the Gotthard Rail Tunnel, the Gotthard Road Tunnel, and the Gotthard Base Tunnel — which happens to be the longest and deepest traffic tunnel in the world!

  • Lugano - Arriving at the majestic lakeside city of Lugano in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, the tour guide will lead you into the medieval Old Town, where a rich tapestry of history lies. Upon traversing through the ancient cobbled streets, the tour guide will unveil the Old Town’s cultural legacy, highlighting significant moments that shaped the area over the centuries. There will be an opportunity to encounter a variety of spectacular Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including the opulent Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, which dates back to the High Middle Ages. Time will be allocated for a restful lunch break, where enchanting views of the surrounding Swiss landscapes can be taken in.
  • Lake Lugano - The tour will continue with a soothing cruise along the cobalt-blue lake of Lugano. While gliding through the pristine glacier waters, you’ll be fully immersed in Lugano’s unparalleled beauty, where rolling valleys and snow-capped mountains harmoniously combine to create a breathtaking Swiss backdrop. Several magnificent mountains can be observed during the cruise ride, including Monte Brè, Monte San Salvatore, and Monte Generoso. Monte San Giorgio, a famous World Heritage Site, and Cinque Vette Park will also be visible.

As the cruise continues across Lake Lugano, your guide will shed light on the region’s historical heritage, including the establishment of the Italian-Swiss border, monumental conflicts during the Middle Ages between Como and Milan, and the construction of the Meide Causeway in 1848.

  • Basel - After a full day of adventure, your guide will return you safely to your hotel.
What's Included
  • Private Local Guide
  • Meet and Greet at your Hotel or Residence
  • Lake of Lugano Cruise Pass
  • Standard Rail Tickets (1st Class Upgrade Available Upon Request)
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Begin an unforgettable Alpine adventure to the historic city of Lugano, where Italian and Swiss culture melodiously combine to form a unique blend of captivating landscapes and fascinating heritage.

Hop aboard a cozy train ride and flow through phenomenal untouched Swiss backdrops, where views of majestic mountains and idyllic valleys can be admired. Enrich in local history as your friendly tour guide delves into the past events that shaped Lugano’s medieval Old Town. Enjoy a tranquil lunch in the heart of Lugano’s historic city and soak up the region’s enchanting atmosphere before setting off on a scenic cruise along the picturesque glacier waters of Lake Lugano, where you’ll see spectacular sites, including Monte Brè, Monte San Salvatore, Monte Generoso, and Monte San Giorgio — a famous World Heritage Site

Location
Basel
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 8 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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