Antalya Departure Bernina Express Train Experience Tour Route in the Alps

We meet in the morning at Antalya Airport. After our check-in and baggage procedures, we depart for Izmir via our Sun Express Airlines flight. Following our approximately one-hour journey, we arrive at Adnan Menderes Airport and collect our luggage. After a short wait, we reunite at the Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport International Terminal to complete our passport controls and second check-in and baggage drop-off. At noon, we meet with our valued guests again at the Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport International Terminal to finalize baggage, passport, and check-in procedures. With our Sun Express Airlines flight, we fly to the city of Venice, where water replaces stone and canals replace roads. Upon arrival, after completing passport and baggage procedures, we board the waiting vehicle and, after a short drive, proceed to our hotel in Padova or Venice. Accommodation: 4*Crowne Plaza Padova Hotel v.b (Tour 1) Accommodation: 4*AC Hotel Padova by Marriott Hotel v.b (Tour 2 / Tour 4 / Tour 5) Accommodation: 4*Delfino Venice Mestre Hotel v.b r (Tour 3)

After breakfast at our hotel in Mestre, Venice, we head north to Sirmione, a charming medieval town perched on a narrow peninsula at the southern tip of Lake Garda. Upon arrival, we are greeted by the famous historic bridge that carries traces of the past. During our visit, we capture beautiful photo moments against the lake’s stunning views and explore the Scaliger Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Along with our guide’s commentary, we also visit Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a Roman-era villa. After enjoying our time here, we board our vehicles and make our way to Tirano, a small but highly significant Alpine town located in Lombardy, Northern Italy, very close to the Swiss border. On our route, we pass through the picturesque landscape of Lake Iseo, known for its vineyards, quaint fishing villages, Alpine scenery, and one of Europe’s largest lake islands, Monte Isola. After a photo stop here, we continue toward Tirano, one of the starting points of the world-famous Bernina Express train. This will be the departure point for our next day’s train journey winding through the curves of the Alps, accompanied by breathtaking views. Our first stop in Tirano is the Basilica della Madonna di Tirano, built in the 16th century. While strolling through its cobblestone narrow streets and colorful Italian houses, guided by our tour leader, we visit Palazzo Salis, a historic aristocratic palace. As one of Tirano’s most important historical buildings, this palace reflects the town’s former wealth and cultural heritage. After completing our walk in the Centro Storico (Old Town) area, we have free time in the city center to enjoy a pleasant evening. We will meet at a prearranged time, proceed to our hotel, and settle into our rooms. Accommodation is in Tirano and Sondrio. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Della Posta Sondrio Hotel etc. (Tour 1 / Tour 3 / Tour 4 / Tour 5). Accommodation: Curt Di Clement Eco Mobility Hotel etc. (Tour 2).

After breakfast at our hotel, we head to Tirano Train Station to embark on an unforgettable journey accompanied by the breathtaking views of the Alps. We are in for a dreamlike ride with the Bernina Express, one of the world's most impressive panoramic train routes. Along this unique line, which features 196 bridges and viaducts and 55 tunnels, our train ascends from the Valtellina Valley, surrounded by vineyards, towards the enchanting nature of the Swiss Alps. As we pass the famous Brusio Spiral Viaduct, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the train appears to spiral around itself while ascending, creating one of the most captivating moments of the journey. Our journey continues alongside waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear Alpine lakes, offering us postcard-perfect views of the Bernina Pass and the turquoise Lago Bianco lake. After a short break in St. Moritz, one of the prestigious resort centers of the Swiss Alps, our train proceeds through the enchanting nature of the Engadin Valley and traditional Alpine villages, arriving at Chur, the historic capital of the Graubünden canton. This unique 4.5-hour train journey will be one of the most unforgettable experiences for discovering the Alps. At Chur, we board our waiting vehicle and head towards Maienfeld, known as the birthplace of the famous Heidi story. Heidi Village, built on the Alpine slopes, is a charming open-air museum that brings to life the atmosphere of Johanna Spyri's world-renowned novel. During our walk among Heidi's house, her grandfather's hut, and traditional Alpine homes, we will feel the fairy-tale nature of the Swiss Alps up close. Next, we travel to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, one of Europe's smallest yet richest countries. The Vaduz Castle, rising above the city, serves today as the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein and offers a striking view dominating the city. While walking through the city center, we have the opportunity to get a closer look at the National Museum, the Postage Stamp Museum, and the Parliament Building, experiencing the atmosphere of this small principality. After our tour, we set off towards Zurich, one of Switzerland's largest cities. Upon arrival, we proceed to our hotel and settle into our rooms. Accommodation in Zurich. Accommodation: La Maison Suisse Dottingen Hotel etc. (1 Day/Tour 3) Accommodation: Mercure Zurich City Hotel etc. (Tour 4 / Tour 5 / ) Accommodation: Hotel Zurich Airport or Hotel Zurich East Wallisellen etc. (Tour 2)

After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we begin our tour of Zurich, Switzerland's largest city. Our city tour includes the Kunsthaus (Art House), established in 1910, and the historic Opera and Ballet Building, which hosts world-renowned artists. We cross the Quaibrücke Bridge, one of Zurich's symbols, enjoying impressive views over the Limmat River. Our visit to Zurich continues with the Fraumünster Church, completed in the 16th century and once home to noblewomen. The church is particularly notable for Marc Chagall's famous stained-glass windows and the surrounding guild houses. Shortly after, we see St. Peter's Church, another important symbol of the city, known for housing one of Europe's largest clock faces. Next, we take a short break at Urania Tower (Urania Sternwarte), where we can capture panoramic views of Zurich. Following our guided exploration of Zurich, we head toward Lucerne, praised by the famous writer Alexandre Dumas as "Switzerland is an oyster, and Lucerne is the pearl within it" and also known as the "Proud City." With a history dating back to 1178, Lucerne was originally founded as a small fishing village and today sits in a unique location where the Reuss River flows into Lake Four Cantons. Our tour of the city begins with the covered wooden Chapel Bridge, the impressive Lion Monument, and the Glacier Garden. In this city that still evokes a medieval atmosphere, we will enjoy a short walk along the lakeside, offering opportunities to take photos amidst breathtaking scenery. Continuing our journey, we make our way to Spiez, a charming lakeside town nestled at the foot of the Alps. Located in the Bernese Oberland region on the shores of Lake Thun, Spiez is considered one of Switzerland's most photogenic spots due to its romantic blend of mountains, vineyards, and lake views. After our brief arrival tour, we embark on a pleasant boat ride to enjoy the lake scenery. Surrounded by Alpine peaks, Lake Thun offers a mesmerizing view with its turquoise waters and tranquil atmosphere. During the boat cruise, we have the opportunity to admire quaint towns built along the lake shore on one side and the majestic vistas of the Bernese Alps on the other. Along the way, the vineyards, historic castles, and small harbor towns lining the lake create a postcard-like scene. Especially the stunning views of Spiez Castle on the lakeshore and the reflection of the Alpine mountains on the water surface allow us to capture unforgettable photo moments. We conclude this enjoyable boat ride in the town of Thun. After touring this historic town, named after the lake it borders, guided by our leader, we are given free time in the center. After spending a pleasant time in Thun, we depart for our overnight stay in either Bern or Biel. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and settle into our rooms. Accommodation in Bern or Biel. Accommodation: Mercure Plaza Biel Hotel etc. (Tours 1 / 3 / 4 / 5) Accommodation: Holiday Inn Bern Westside Hotel etc. (Tour 2)

After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we set off to explore the city of Bern, renowned for its rich history and architecture. Our visit to Bern, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1983, begins with the famous Zytglogge Astronomical Clock Tower, known for its hourly moving figures that attract great interest from visitors. During our city tour, we will also see the Bern Minster (Berner Münster), which has the highest tower in Switzerland; the Swiss Federal Palace (Parliament Building); Einstein House, where the world-famous physicist Albert Einstein developed his theories and which now operates as a museum; the Paul Klee Museum; and Bear Park (Bärengraben), which has become the symbol of the city. After our guided tour of Bern, we board our vehicle and continue with an enjoyable journey through the foothills of the Alps to the city of Lausanne, historically significant for hosting important treaties. The Treaty of Ushak was signed here in 1912 between the Ottoman Empire and Italy, and the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne, which played a crucial role in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, was also signed in this city. Following our panoramic tour of the city center, we head towards Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland and located in the French-speaking region. Geneva is a fascinating city where culture, nature, and history intertwine, boasting approximately 4,000 years of history. It serves as the headquarters for many international organizations, including CERN, the World Health Organization, the United Nations, UEFA, and FIFA. During our city tour in Geneva, we will see the Monument to the Reformation, commemorating key figures of the Reformation such as John Calvin, William Farel, Theodore de Beze, and John Knox; St. Pierre Cathedral, featuring Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements; Jardin Anglais (English Garden); the Flower Clock; the Old Town; the Broken Chair Monument, where we will take a photo stop; and Rousseau Island on the Rhône River. After completing today's tour, we have free time for dinner and shopping. We will reconvene at the designated time, return to our hotel, and settle into our rooms. Accommodation will be in Geneva or Annemasse. Accommodation: 4* IntercityHotel Geneva Hotel etc. (Tour 1) Accommodation: 4* Novotel Annemasse Centre Geneva Port (Tour 5) Accommodation: 4* Mercure Annemasse Porte De Geneve etc. (Tour 2 / Tour 3) Accommodation: 4* Appart City Collection Geneva Airport (Tour 4)

After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we check out of our rooms and head towards the city of Annecy, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, known for its history, natural beauty, and romantic atmosphere. This enchanting city, nestled at the foot of the Alps, is known as the "Venice of the Alps" thanks to its fairy-tale canals, crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy, and medieval architectural heritage. During our city tour, we will visit several notable sites: the imposing silhouette of Annecy Castle visible from a distance, Saint Pierre Cathedral with its architectural richness dating back to the 16th century, the Thiou River flowing through the city and earning it the title "Venice of the Alps," and the iconic Palais de l'Île, situated on a small island in the river and formerly used as a prison. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to enjoy leisurely walks and take photos around the flower-decorated Jardin de l'Europe Park by the lakeside and along the serene shores of Lake Annecy. After some free time in the city, we will regroup and continue our journey. Traveling through the French Alps from the foothills of Mont Blanc, we cross the Mont Blanc Tunnel, which connects France and Italy and is approximately 11 kilometers long, arriving in Italy. Our next stop is Milan, known as the heart of the shopping world but also distinguished by its rich historical and cultural heritage. We begin our tour of Milan by visiting the monument and museum dedicated to the great artist Leonardo da Vinci, who lived in the city for many years. Next, we see La Scala Theatre, one of the world's most famous opera houses where works by legendary Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi are performed. During our city tour, we also visit the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, one of the oldest shopping galleries in the world and home to renowned fashion brands. We conclude our walking tour at Piazza del Duomo, considered the heart of the city, by admiring the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals. After some free time, we proceed to our hotel and settle into our rooms. Accommodation in Milan. Accommodation: 3* Hotel Ibis Milano Malpensa Hotel or similar (Tour 1 / Tour 3 / Tour 4 / Tour 5) | Accommodation: 4* Crowne Plaza Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel or similar (Tour 2)

After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we head to Scalo Milano Outlet, which hosts world-famous brands and offers stylish products at discounted prices. During the free time here, you can shop and enjoy a pleasant experience. After the free time, we move towards Verona, located in the Veneto region and considered one of Italy's most romantic cities, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the city of William Shakespeare's legendary lovers Romeo and Juliet, Verona captivates its visitors with its enchanting atmosphere. During our walking tour in the city, we will visit places such as the Verona Arena (Arena di Verona), one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world; Juliet's House (Casa di Giulietta), associated with the Romeo and Juliet legend and famous for its balcony; the historic Castelvecchio Castle; the Verona Cathedral, notable for its Gothic architecture; the Teatro Romano, uncovered through archaeological excavations and now hosting concerts and festivals; Ponte Pietra Bridge; and San Zeno Basilica. After the tour, we have free time on Via Mazzini Street, which connects Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra. On this pleasant pedestrian street, you can listen to classic Italian street musicians, stroll among shops, and choose any restaurant you prefer for dinner. After the free time, we take our seats in the vehicle and embark on a short journey of approximately one hour to Padua, a city of great importance in the history of science, art, and faith. Upon arrival, we proceed to our hotel and settle into our rooms. Accommodation is in Padua. Accommodation: Belstay Venezia Mestre Hotel or similar. 1st Tour Accommodation: Delfino Venice Mestre Hotel or similar. 2nd Tour Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Padova Hotel or similar. 3rd Tour / 4th Tour / 5th Tour Accommodation: Smart Holiday Venice Mestre Hotel or similar.

After enjoying breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we set off for Venice, a city where we can leisurely explore until our evening flight. As the capital of the Republic of Venice—one of the most powerful maritime forces during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and the center of art and trade from the 13th century until the late 17th century—Venice captivates its visitors with its unique architecture and romantic atmosphere. Upon arrival, we board a vaporetto to begin our tour through the city of canals. In this extraordinary city built on dozens of channels connecting to the Grand Canal, our tour will include sights such as the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, founder of the Kingdom of Italy; the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), named after the sighs of prisoners taken to prison who took their last look at the Venetian scenery; the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the political center of the Venetian Republic; and the National Marciana Library (Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana), one of Italy's most important libraries. Next, we arrive at St. Mark's Square, the symbol of Venice. After visiting St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most magnificent examples of Byzantine architecture and known as the "Golden Church" due to its rich mosaics, we complete our city tour. Following the tour, guests may optionally join an extra gondola ride. We then have free time for shopping in the city center and for dinner. After the free period, we regroup and head to Venice Airport. After completing the necessary customs and passport procedures, we fly with SunExpress Airlines to Izmir. Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, we bid farewell, looking forward to meeting again on another tour program.

After our arrival, we collect our luggage and prepare for our flight to Antalya. After completing the re-check-in and baggage drop procedures, we board our Sun Express Airlines aircraft and take our morning flight as indicated on the calendar for the next day, arriving in Antalya. We say goodbye until we meet again in the next tour program.