France

Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

Nine nights in three bases, Brussels, Strasbourg and Basel, with guided day trips to Ghent, Bruges, Colmar, Zermatt, Mount Pilatus and Bern. First-class trains and 3-star hotels by the station; a lot of ground covered in one trip.

From €2,999 per person · about $3,500Updated

Belgium, France and Switzerland : a taste of the three countries

Route

1 Brussels 2 Strasbourg 3 Basel Ghent Colmar Zermatt Lucerne Bern

Route9 nights · 3 stops · 6 day trips

  1. 1 Brussels 3 nights Ghent, Bruges
  2. 2 Strasbourg 2 nights Colmar
  3. 3 Basel 4 nights Zermatt, Lucerne, Bern
  1. Brussels beer and chocolate tour, then guided days in Ghent and Bruges
  2. Strasbourg's cathedral quarter and the Alsace Wine Route to Eguisheim and Kaysersberg
  3. Basel three-countries e-bike ride along the Rhine
  4. Zermatt and the Gornergrat, the Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip, and Bern's old town

Day by day

  1. Brussels, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 1

    Brussels

    Private transfer from Brussels Airport to your hotel.

    Brussels Beer and Chocolate Tour.

    You'll visit at least 3 chocolate shops, sampling over 10 types of unique Belgian chocolates, including flavors like hazelnut, salted caramel, and even basil. Afterward, the tour takes you to 3 local bars near Grand Place for a Belgian beer tasting, where you'll try at least 6 different beers, including Abbey, Trappist, Lambic, and Belgian IPAs. Along the way, a friendly guide will share the city's history and lead you through hidden gems.

    Night in Brussels.

  2. Ghent day trip, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 2

    Ghent day trip

    Round-trip train in 1st class.

    Day-trip to Ghent.

    You'll explore Ghent's blend of medieval charm and vibrant, youthful energy, with highlights including the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and other UNESCO sites. You will enjoy scenic views and possibly interact with locals during transferts. The tour is personalized to your interests, ensuring a memorable and flexible experience.

    Night in Brussels.

  3. Bruges day trip, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 3

    Bruges day trip

    Round-trip train in 1st class.

    Day trip to Bruges.

    Bruges welcomes you inside one of the most stunning medieval cities in the world and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. With the knowledge of your experienced guide, you will walk through its tiny streets and will have the opportunity to appreciate its unique red brick houses in the Flemish or “Nordic” architecture, but also its many canals owing to which it got the sweet nickname of “Little Venice of the North”.

    Night in Brussels.

  4. Strasbourg, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 4

    Strasbourg

    Train ride from Brussels to Strasbourg in 1st class.

    Strasbourg Introduction Walking Tour.

    You will have the chance to go through the city's most famous squares and landmarks. You'll start with a visit to the stunning Strasbourg Cathedraland explore the old town's history, architecture, and culture. The tour covers key spots like the Cathedral Square, Gutenberg Square, and the German district, while also delving into the unique Alsatian identity shaped by both French and German influences. Your guide will share stories of Strasbourg's past and present, offering insights into its legends, gastronomy, and modern life.

    Night in Strasbourg.

  5. Colmar

    Day 5

    Colmar and the Wine Route

    Round trip in an air conditioned vehicle.

    Day Trip to Colmar and Alsace Wines and Villages.

    You will travel through scenic Alsace, with views of the Black Forest and vineyards, to reach the charming town of Colmar. After a walking tour of the well-preserved old town, you'll have free time for lunch and personal exploration. You will continues along the Alsace Wine Route, where you will visit quaint villages like Eguisheim or Kaysersberg for a wine tasting session at a local "caveau" (winery). You will sample a variety of Alsace wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.

    Night in Strasbourg.

  6. Day 6

    Basel

    Train ride to Basel in 1st class.

    Basel 3-Countries E-Bike City Tour.

    You will cycle along the River Rhine, visiting key landmarks and the historic point where Germany, France, and Switzerland meet. You'll learn about the city's history, explore hidden spots, and enjoy shopping opportunities. A highlight is a stop at the best chocolate shop in Basel, where you can savor Swiss chocolate or enjoy a premium hot chocolate. At the end, you will receive a special gift, a bottle of local Pinot Noir or traditional sparkling wine from the German side.

    Night in Basel.

  7. Zermatt, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 7

    Zermatt

    Train ride in 2nd class.

    Zermatt Village Matterhorn Area and Mt. Gornergrat.

    You will spend the day at the picturesque alpine village of Zermatt, known for its charming chalets and stunning views of the Matterhorn. Your guide will lead you through the historic part of the village and take you to the Gornergrat mountain, offering breathtaking "postcard" views of the Matterhorn. Along the way, the guide will share insights into Switzerland's culture and people, while taking you to some off-the-beaten-path spots, away from the typical tourist crowds.

    Night in Basel.

  8. Lucerne 2

    Day 8

    Mount Pilatus

    Round trip by train, lake boat, coghwheel train and aerial cableway.

    Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip.

    You will enjoy a boat ride across Lake Lucerne, followed by a ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel train to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. On the return journey, you'll take a panoramic aerial cableway and a local bus back to Luzern. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of 73 alpine peaks and numerous lakes. For families and adventure seekers, there’s a rope park on Fräkmüntegg and various attractions at the summit. In the winter months (Nov-May), the cogwheel train and boat are replaced by a cableway and a scenic lake cruise.

    Night in Basel.

  9. Bern, Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

    Day 9

    Bern

    Train ride to Bern in 2nd class.

    UNESCO Stroll through Bern Old City.

    You will explore Bern's historic Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will wander cobbled streets, visit hidden spots, and discover landmarks like the Bernese Minster, Parliament Building, Kornhaus (Granary) with the Ogre Fountain, Käfigturm (Prison Tower), and the city's oldest gate. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about Bern’s medieval past and present. The tour can be personalized to suit your interests, and after the walk, you will have some free time to explore.

    Night in Basel.

  10. Day 10

    Journey home

    Private transfer to Basel Airport.

Where you stay

9 nights · 3 bases

  1. 1 Brussels 3 nights Day trips: Ghent, Bruges
  2. 2 Strasbourg 2 nights Day trips: Colmar
  3. 3 Basel 4 nights Day trips: Zermatt, Lucerne, Bern

Best time to go

Our pickCrowds

  1. Jan3–8°
  2. Feb3–9°
  3. Mar6–13°
  4. Apr8–17°
  5. May11–20°
  6. Jun14–24°
  7. Jul16–26°
  8. Aug16–26°
  9. Sep13–22°
  10. Oct10–17°
  11. Nov6–11°
  12. Dec4–8°

May, June and September are ideal: Flanders and Alsace are green, Pilatus runs its full boat-and-cogwheel loop, and the Gornergrat is clear. Late November to Christmas is a strong alternative, with the Strasbourg and Colmar Christmas markets and a snow-covered Zermatt, though Pilatus switches to cable car only.

What travelers say

Reviews from travelers who booked with us, in France.

All reviews

A wonderful travel partner

Caroline our specialist was always knowledgeable, available, helpful and kind. I was unable to make the trip because my cat became quite ill a couple of days before our departure. Caroline helped my husband have an enjoyable trip on his own and we appreciate her. I learned a lot even though I couldn’t travel. I can now use What’s App and Google Translate and Instagram. Thank you Caroline!

from Seattle, WA Switzerland · with Caroline Verified on Kimkim

Barcelona to Nice along the Mediterranean

We had a wonderful time making the journey along the Mediterranean coast. Starting in Barcelona we were able to visit the newly opened Sagrada de Familia with a wonderful guide - one of the highlights our trip. We had an early entry so the crowds were easily managed and we were able to enjoy both inside and out. The next day we had another great guide who showed us the Jewish history and historical presence in Barcel…

We had a wonderful time making the journey along the Mediterranean coast. Starting in Barcelona we were able to visit the newly opened Sagrada de Familia with a wonderful guide - one of the highlights our trip. We had an early entry so the crowds were easily managed and we were able to enjoy both inside and out. The next day we had another great guide who showed us the Jewish history and historical presence in Barcelona. After Barcelona, we went to Girona, which was a wonderful surprise. We stayed at a lovely hotel in the old town that was a converted palace. Our tour here of the old town focusing on Jewish history was incredible. The next day we had an all day small group tour of Dali's house and museum - both well worth the travel including the incredible views along the Costa Brava. Travelling by car along the southern coast of France was relatively easily finding great things to see - Pone du Gard, Baux de Provence town and castle, St. Paul de Vence and finally Nice. An electric bike ride in Nice was also wonderful.

from Boston, MA France · with Valentine Verified on Kimkim

Mount Pilatus, Lake Brienz and Grindelwald

The trip was wonderful. Emilie did a great job in booking our hotels and tours! She explained the train system and how to use the Swiss Rail Pass. The hotels for the most part were in great locations, close to the train stations, restaurants and sites to see. The trips she planned to Mount Pilatus and Gornergrat were filled with beautiful scenery of the Alps! Our Kayak tour on Lake Brienz with Hightide Kayaks and Ben…

The trip was wonderful. Emilie did a great job in booking our hotels and tours! She explained the train system and how to use the Swiss Rail Pass. The hotels for the most part were in great locations, close to the train stations, restaurants and sites to see. The trips she planned to Mount Pilatus and Gornergrat were filled with beautiful scenery of the Alps! Our Kayak tour on Lake Brienz with Hightide Kayaks and Ben, our guide was great. It couldn’t have been more peaceful and serene and Ben got some great photos for us. Our E-bike tour through Grindelwald was filled with amazing views of waterfalls and quaint towns. Marceau, our guide was informative and provided us with hi-lites of the area, photos and a perfect picnic lunch. We did have one glitch, with The Galcier Express running almost three hours longer than scheduled. We heard rumors that there was a train issue with another Glacier Express train. By the time we got to one of the more scenic areas, it was too dark to see any sites. Checking into our hotel at around 9 pm and leaving before 9 am the next morning seemed like such a loss of time. Granted this is no fault on Mobee International’s part, it was just a matter of unforseen circumstances. We only caught a glimpse of St Moritz on the bus ride back to the train station. Emile is aware and has started a process for a refund of some sort. Overall I would highly recommend Emilie and the Mobee International team to friends that seek assistance with travel plans. This is our second trip Mobee International assisted us with travel plans.

from Mililani Town, HI Switzerland · with Emilie Verified on Kimkim

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Belgium, Alsace & Switzerland by Train in 10 Days: Brussels to Zermatt

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Frequently asked questions

Why only three bases for three countries?

Nine nights in Brussels, Strasbourg and Basel mean you unpack only three times. From Brussels you visit Ghent and Bruges, from Strasbourg Colmar and the Alsace Wine Route, and from Basel Zermatt, Mount Pilatus and Bern. The hotels are close to the main station, so day trips start without a taxi. The Zermatt day from Basel is long; you can add a night there instead of returning to Basel.

Are the trains first class?

The rail legs between Brussels, Strasbourg and Basel and the day trips to Ghent and Bruges are in first class. The Colmar and Wine Route day is by air-conditioned vehicle, and the Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip combines a lake boat, the world's steepest cogwheel train and an aerial cableway. Private transfers meet you at Brussels Airport and take you to Basel Airport.

What category are the hotels?

3* hotels close to the main station in each base, which keeps the price down on a three-country trip, with breakfast included. If you want more character, we often upgrade to 4* boutique addresses in Strasbourg's Petite France and central Basel, priced on request, or add an optional night in Zermatt.

Is the trip guided?

Most days include a licensed guide or a small-group tour: the Brussels beer and chocolate tasting, personalized days in Ghent and Bruges, the Strasbourg walking tour, Colmar with a wine tasting in Eguisheim or Kaysersberg, the Basel three-countries e-bike ride, Zermatt and the Gornergrat, and the Bern old town stroll. Mount Pilatus is done at your own pace, and you keep free time after most visits.

When is the best time, and does it work at Christmas?

May, June and September are ideal: Flanders and Alsace are green, Pilatus runs its full boat-and-cogwheel loop and the Gornergrat is usually clear. Late November to Christmas is a strong alternative, with the Strasbourg and Colmar Christmas markets and a snowy Zermatt, though from November Pilatus runs by cable car only, with a lake cruise replacing the cogwheel loop.

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