Switzerland’s tourism boom has reached another high, with official figures showing 43.93 million hotel overnight stays in 2025, up 2.6% on the previous year. Demand from the Oceania region also grew by 4.3%.
The figures extend a run of record-breaking results for the destination and point to strong appetite for the mix that Switzerland delivers particularly well: spectacular Alpine landscapes, character-filled cities, lakeside towns and rail journeys that are experiences in their own right.
For Australians considering Europe in 2027, Scenic’s Iconic Switzerland journey brings those elements together in one 13 day itinerary. Travelling with no more than 28 guests, the handcrafted land journey combines panoramic rail travel and celebrated mountain destinations with luxury accommodation, local culinary experiences and the support of a dedicated Scenic Tour Director.
“Switzerland is having a moment, but its appeal goes well beyond a single season. Australians are drawn to the contrast of high Alpine landscapes, tranquil lakes, sophisticated cities and remarkable rail journeys, all within one compact destination. Iconic Switzerland connects those experiences seamlessly, giving guests the time to take in the country at a considered pace without having to manage the logistics themselves,” said Janelle Maher, Scenic Journey Designer.
A journey designed around the best of Switzerland
Iconic Switzerland follows a route through the country’s mountain regions, lakeside towns and cities, with accommodation, rail travel, sightseeing and key arrangements included. Highlights include:
- Travelling on the GoldenPass Express, with ever-changing views across Alpine peaks, valleys and lakes.
- Staying at Kempinski Palace Engelberg, at the foothills of Mount Titlis, as a Scenic Special Stay.
- Ascending to Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe and home to Europe’s highest railway station.
- Discovering Swiss culinary traditions through a monastery cheesemaking class and a traditional fondue experience.
- Enjoying two Scenic Enrich experiences: wine tasting in the vineyards surrounding Zurich and a risotto-making class on the shores of Lake Lugano.
- Taking in the Matterhorn and Grindelwald, alongside the lakeside beauty of Lake Geneva.
Switzerland across the Scenic collection
Iconic Switzerland is the spotlight journey within a broader Scenic collection that reflects the destination’s growing appeal. Travellers can also experience Switzerland as part of selected 2027 river cruise and land combinations, including Rhine Highlights with Switzerland and Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland – both include a river cruise plus a 5-day land extension in Switzerland.
For guests seeking a more extensive experience, Combine the Romantic Rhine and Moselle river cruise with Iconic Switzerland land tour and Enchanting Belgium extension for a 30-day journey, giving travellers several ways to make Switzerland part of a longer European holiday.
Limited 2027 availability
Iconic Switzerland land tour departs between May and September 2027. With demand for Switzerland continuing to build and limited availability remaining on selected departures, guests are encouraged to book now.
