Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Immerse your students in the rich history, art, and culture of Switzerland on this journey through Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zurich. Your class will visit iconic landmarks including the Saint Pierre Cathedral and the Chapel Bridge, get a taste for Swiss culture during a hands-on chocolate workshop, and bring Swiss history to life during an immersive roleplaying LEAP activity.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Switzerland (Geneva)
Day 2
Arrive in Geneva
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Travel to Lausanne
Day 3
Olympic Museum visit
The Olympic Museum celebrates the Games from their origins in ancient Greece to their modern role as a symbol of global unity. Inspired by Pierre de Coubertin’s early 20th-century vision, the museum overlooks Lake Geneva and features original torches, historic medals, and stories from every era, highlighting the enduring values of peace, unity, and human achievement.
Geneva city walk
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.
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum visit
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.
Day 4
Maison Cailler chocolate workshop
Put on an apron and discover the art of Swiss chocolate-making. With guidance from expert chocolatiers, melt, mold, and decorate your own creations, leaving with delicious treats and a new appreciation for the craft behind every bite.
Gruyère cheese factory visit
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.
Travel to Interlaken
Interlaken Tour Director-led sightseeing
On this Tour Director-led walk, stroll along the Hoheweg Promenade, once a vital trade route and now known for views of the Jungfrau region. Explore Interlaken, a town shaped by 19th-century tourism and alpine culture, then continue to Unterseen, the historic old quarter, where medieval buildings reflect Switzerland’s deep heritage.
Day 5
Jungfraujoch excursion
Travel to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” by gondola and cogwheel train. Ride the Eiger Express and ascend through the Alps to Europe’s highest railway station. Visit the Ice Palace, take in views from the Sphinx Observatory, and enjoy sweeping glacier landscapes.
Day 6
Travel to Lucerne
Lucerne Tour Director-led sightseeing
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.
LEAP Swiss Life and Legends
Experience the legends of William Tell, the Lion Monument, and the story of Swiss independence as history comes to life through vivid reenactments.
Day 7
Mt. Pilatus excursion (optional)
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.
Travel to Zurich
Zurich Tour Director-led sightseeing
Explore Zurich, a global financial hub known for its shopping and historic charm. Walk through the Old Town along the Limmat River, passing the Quays of Zurich and Bahnhofstrasse. See the Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches, whose Gothic towers and stained glass overlook the city.
Day 8
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Switzerland
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
