Our Swiss staff will meet and greet you at the Zürich airport on arrival day. We’ll answer any questions you might have, help you validate your rail passes and let you know when and where we’ll be leaving for your Swiss hometown. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have time to freshen up, get Swiss francs from an ATM or bank, enjoy a light meal and stretch your legs before your train journey.

You’ll have the benefit of using a Swiss luggage tag – one of the many marvels of the Swiss transportation system that allows you to send your bags from your home airport in the States directly to your Swiss hometown – so you won’t have to claim any bags at the airport.

There are 2 unescorted group departures to Ticino. The travel time from Zürich airport to Locarno is about 3.25 hours. Your landlords will meet you at the train station or will arrange for a taxi to take you to your apartment.

If you’re unable to join the group escort, or are coming from other parts of Europe, you might need to reach your Swiss hometown on your own. In this case, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions before you leave home.

On the day after your arrival, we’ll meet all Untourists for an orientation session. Much of it will be devoted to teaching the use of the Swiss public transportation system, but you’ll also learn about specific events going on during your stay. It’s a good opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

As a follow-up to the orientation, an escorted Saturday trip – to the historical village of Riva San Vitale or the lovely city of Bellinzona, for example – helps guests familiarize themselves with the use of the public transportation system. Later in your stay you may choose to join another escorted excursion to an interesting site, bringing together travelers from your area. Destinations range from Locarno’s pretty side valleys to the resort town of Ascona. In addition, depending on group size, Untours hosts a farewell pasta diner (and maybe a game of bocce ) with all fellow travelers from your area.