Switzerland and Paris

Embark on a sweet adventure at a Swiss chocolate factory, where the rich aroma greets you on arrival. Guided by expert chocolatiers, explore the art of chocolate making with a behind-the-scenes look at dip-coating and decorating. Then, try your hand at creating your own delicious treats to take home.

Explore Lucerne with your Tour Director, set against the Alps and green pastures. Walk the Old Town’s cobblestones to Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge decorated with murals, and see the Lion Monument, a sandstone tribute to Swiss Guards lost in 1792. Visit the ornate Jesuit Church and take in the charm of Weinmarkt and Kornmarkt Squares.

Experience the legends of William Tell, the Lion Monument, and the story of Swiss independence as history comes to life through vivid reenactments.

Scale snow-capped Mount Pilatus for sweeping views of Lucerne and the Alps. From May to mid-November, cruise Lake Alpnach before riding the world’s steepest cog railway; the rest of the year, ascend by cable car. At the summit, capture frame-worthy photos, and on clear days, enjoy vistas stretching up to 200 miles.

Begin your ZipRider adventure with a ride up the three-stage Grindelwald First Gondola, surrounded by alpine meadows, grazing cows, and sweeping views of glaciers and rugged peaks, including the Eiger. At the summit, launch from the platform and soar over ski runs at speeds up to 55 mph, taking in spectacular, unforgettable mountain scenery.

Discover Switzerland’s most famous cheese in the Gruyère Valley, where farmers have perfected their craft since the 12th century. Tour a factory to see how each wheel is made—requiring nearly 150 gallons of milk—and sample the rich flavors of this iconic Swiss tradition.

Discover Geneva on a city walk set against Lake Geneva and views of Mont Blanc. See the soaring Jet d’Eau fountain, stroll through the Jardin Anglais to admire the world-famous Flower Clock, and visit the Cathedral de Saint-Pierre with its Reformation history and climb to the North Tower. Explore the Old Arsenal, the Reformation Wall, and soak in the city’s cosmopolitan charm.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum offers a unique look at the history of humanitarian action alongside today’s global challenges. Its permanent exhibition, The Humanitarian Adventure, explores three themes: Defending Human Dignity, Restoring Family Links, and Reducing Natural Risks, reflecting the key issues faced in the modern world.

Ride the TGV, Europe’s famed high-speed train, as you travel to Paris.

Take in Paris on foot, strolling wide boulevards, manicured parks, and lively streets filled with cafés and flower stalls. Cross to the Île de la Cité to view the storied Notre-Dame Cathedral, centerpiece of French history, then wander the charming Île St. Louis and the vibrant Latin Quarter, rich with student life and culture.

The world’s largest art museum, the Louvre, is housed in a former medieval fortress and entered through I.M. Pei’s striking glass pyramid. Inside, discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory, along with vast collections of Egyptian antiquities, Greek ceramics, and works spanning seven departments. Please note: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.

Explore Paris with a licensed local guide on a sightseeing tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, stroll the grand boulevard lined with shops and cafés, and see the ornate 19th-century Opera House. Look up at the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World’s Fair, and visit Les Invalides, Napoleon’s military refuge, along with other historic sites.

The ultimate palace, Versailles was begun by Louis XIII and transformed by Louis XIV into the seat of royal power until the French Revolution. Inside, admire the 250-foot Hall of Mirrors, flanked by the salons of War and Peace, and the State Apartments where lavish ceremonies unfolded. Step into the magnificent Gardens of Versailles, a masterpiece of fountains, sculptures, and sweeping vistas. Be sure to visit Marie Antoinette’s rustic hamlet, where she escaped court life by tending sheep and playing at village life. Please note: Versailles is closed on Mondays.