Italy and Switzerland rail holiday
Description of Italy and Switzerland rail holiday
Price information
Departure information
This trip can be tailor made throughout the year to suit your requirements
Travel guides
Classic railway journeys don’t simply take you through spectacular landscapes, such as the Scottish Highlands, Gobi Desert or vast swathes of India; t...
The closer you get to the borders with France, Germany and Italy the greater the cultural influence, although Switzerland’s main identity stems just a...
Responsible Travel
As the pioneers of responsible tourism, we've screened this (and every) holiday so that you can travel knowing we've worked to maximise the benefits of your holiday to local people and places, and minimise any negative impacts.
Planet
CARBON REDUCTION:When embarking on our Switzerland and Italy rail trip, you'll be making a significant contribution to carbon reduction and the preservation of the environment and wildlife. Rail travel in both Switzerland and Italy is a shining example of eco-friendly transportation, deeply integrated into the travel experience. These advanced rail systems offer breathtaking scenic train journeys between cities and mountain destinations, all while minimizing the environmental impact.
Swiss trains, primarily powered by electricity, are a sustainable mode of transport. By choosing to travel in the comfort of 1st or 2nd class seats aboard regularly refurbished train cars, you not only enjoy the stunning landscapes but also actively reduce your carbon footprint. Sharing these journeys with fellow travelers fosters a sense of collective responsibility towards a greener planet.
Moreover, due to the compact nature of Swiss and Italian city centers, we recommend walking guided tours during your trip. This approach not only allows you to deeply immerse yourself in local culture but also promotes a healthy and eco-conscious mode of exploration, reducing the need for additional transportation.
For example: Using an electric tuk-tuk in Zurich, taking a cable car to the car-free village of Mürren, using an electric shuttle in the car-free village of Zermatt, and relying on railways throughout your trip is indeed an excellent and environmentally responsible way to reduce your environmental impact while traveling. These transportation choices minimize carbon emissions, promote sustainable tourism, and allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of Switzerland with minimal harm to the environment.
ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE:
While unrelated to your travel experience, we want to highlight our commitment to reducing waste in our office operations. We diligently segregate waste into organic, plastic and cans, paper, and glass categories, promoting responsible disposal. Unnecessary document printing is minimized, with recycled paper used when needed.
Our employees have access to kitchen facilities equipped with a microwave oven and a refrigerator, enabling them to bring lunches in reusable containers or prepare meals on-site, reducing packaging waste. Our commitment extends to the beverages we serve, including coffee, teas, and others, which are always presented in ceramic mugs or glassware, minimizing the use of disposable cups.
Energy-efficient light bulbs illuminate our well-positioned office space, eliminating the need for constant lighting and reducing electricity consumption. We ensure that all devices are powered down when leaving the office. Additionally, our high-tech heating/cooling system with a heat pump promotes responsible air circulation.
We firmly believe that individual responsibility can drive positive change, and we are dedicated to maintaining our environmentally conscious practices, not only during your trip but also in our everyday office operations, to support carbon reduction, protect the environment, and preserve wildlife.
People
LOCAL ECONOMY: Our commitment to the regions we explore extends to the local economy, employment, inclusivity, and diversity. Over the years, our journeys through Europe have forged deep friendships and connections. We prioritize collaborating with those dear to us, nurturing their growth, and ensuring meticulous attention to detail. Our service providers, including guides, drivers, and workshop leaders, play a vital role in our travelers' experiences. When we need additional staff, our first instinct is to seek recommendations from our trusted friends rather than resorting to online searches. We hold word-of-mouth recommendations in high regard and deeply value the input of our long-standing partners. Our restaurant recommendations are a testament to our dedication, always stemming from the finest locally-owned establishments that not only serve quintessential dishes but also contribute to the local economy.EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY: We are dedicated to creating a work environment where our guides find joy in their roles, mirroring the satisfaction of our clients. We meticulously organize working hours and conditions, prioritizing ample rest for everyone involved. While client satisfaction remains paramount, we remain flexible and willing to adjust itinerary hours when necessary to accommodate the preferences of all. We are committed to providing fair wages to local workers and respecting their desires concerning working conditions. We believe that quality sometimes comes with a slightly elevated price for the service, and we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with clients who appreciate our commitment to fair employment practices.
Traveling exposes you to foreign cultures and territories, and Switzerland and Italy are no exception. These lands embrace a diverse mix of warm and welcoming people from various corners of the globe, reflecting inclusivity and diversity. They stand as beacons of liberal ideals, where prejudice has long been forgotten. The locals are open-minded, tolerant, and patient. By attentively observing and listening to the personal stories of those you encounter, you'll enter a realm of travel where your transformation goes beyond photographs. You'll emerge as a different, more enriched individual, absorbing the wisdom imparted by the country and its people. Be open to stepping away from your familiar ways and embrace the boldness of trying new things suggested by locals. By doing so, you'll emerge as a truly enlightened and enriched traveler, promoting inclusivity and diversity throughout your journey.
Popular similar holidays
Balkans rail holiday
From £2749 - £2995 16 days excluding flights
Travel through seven countries in the Balkans
Grand rail tour of Scotland
From £2995 - £3050 15 days excluding flights
A leisurely self-guided fortnight touring Highlands and islands
Moorish Spain to Marrakech by rail
From £1549 - £1899 13 days excluding flights
Visit villages and Moroccon cities