
1. What exactly is a hotel-to-hotel round trip?
On a hotel-to-hotel round trip you spend each night in a different Private Selection hotel and travel on to the next stage during the day. The route, hotels and key services are arranged in advance and your luggage is moved for you, so you simply enjoy the scenery, culture and cuisine along the way.
2. How many days do I need for a round trip through Switzerland?
It depends on how much you want to see. Most round trips run from about two to eight nights. A short trip of three to four nights suits one region, while around a week lets you combine lakes, mountains and a scenic-train stretch comfortably. Fewer hotel changes generally make for a more relaxed trip.
3. Are train tickets and the Swiss Travel Pass included, or bought separately?
This depends on the tour. Some packages already include the rail tickets you need; others leave transport to you. A Swiss Travel Pass covers the fare on most trains, but the panoramic trains still require a paid seat reservation on top. Check the individual offer to see exactly what is included.
4. Do the scenic trains require seat reservations?
Yes. On the famous panoramic trains such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, a seat reservation is mandatory in addition to a valid ticket and carries a surcharge. Seats can be booked roughly three months ahead and sell out in high season. On a rail round trip this is often arranged for you, depending on the tour.
5. How does the luggage transfer between hotels work?
Your main luggage travels separately from hotel to hotel: you leave it at reception in the morning and it is waiting at your next hotel that evening. During the day you carry only a small day bag, so you never have to haul suitcases on and off trains or along trails. The exact arrangements are listed with each tour.
6. Are the tours guided or self-guided?
Both options exist. Many round trips are self-guided: you travel independently and at your own pace while the hotels, route and core services are organised for you. Others are guided, with a tour leader accompanying the group. Each offer states clearly whether it is guided or self-guided.
7. Can I travel by car instead of by train?
Yes. Alongside rail journeys and active tours on foot or by bike, there are self-drive round trips where you move between hotels in your own car. These give you the freedom to set your own schedule and stop wherever you like, while the hotels and route are still arranged in advance.
8. When is the best time of year for a round trip?
For hiking and cycling round trips, the snow-free months from May to October are ideal. Rail and self-drive trips work year-round – summer for long days, winter for snow-covered landscapes. Summer is the busiest season and books up early, so reserving well ahead is recommended.
9. Is the trip suitable for solo travellers, couples and groups?
Yes. The round trips suit solo travellers, couples and groups alike. They are especially popular with active travellers who like to combine movement, comfort and characterful hotels. Effort varies by transport mode and stage length, so it is worth checking the duration and character of each stage before booking.
10. Where do the round trips start and how do I get there?
Round trips start in different regions across Switzerland and neighbouring countries, and many are easily reached by train from Zurich, Geneva or Basel airports. Geneva is a convenient gateway for routes in western Switzerland. The starting point and recommended arrival are described with each individual tour.