Reformation Switzerland and the Italian Lakes, with a Taste of France

with Rio Vista Community Church
  • May 29 - June 9, 2026 (12 Days)

Have questions?

We’re here to help! Call or email one of our expedition specialists today.

(877) 234-3002

hello@christianexpedition.com

Days until Departure

Your Host
Dr. Tom Hendrikse

Your Host

Dr. Warren Gage

Your Host

Your Expedition Includes
  • Economy class airfare from MIA to GVA, and from Milan to MIA1 checked bag and one carry-on on flights
  • 12 Day Tour of Switzerland, France, and the Italian Lakes
  • 4 Nights in Montreux, Switzerland, 3 Nights in Lucerne, Switzerland, and 3 Nights in Stresa, Italy
  • 4+ Star and 4 Star hotel nightly accommodations in excellent locationsPortage included
  • Ground transportation in motorcoach
  • Daily breakfasts & 6 dinners
  • 1 Wine-tasting in Lavaux Vineyards on the Swiss Riviera
  • 1 Panoramic Boat Ride on Lake Como
  • Entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Services of an English-speaking Tour Manager
  • Local guides at some sites
  • Gratuities for hotel, restaurant staff, and local guides
  • Road tolls, ferry crossings, and parking fees
  • All airport and hotel taxes
  • Audio headsets when touring
  • Name badge & luggage tag
  • 9am-5pm (EST) reservation support
  • 24/7 travel emergency support

Not Included

  • All meals not mentioned as being included
  • Drinks at meals
  • Gratuities for tour guide and driverRecommended: $7 per person per day for Tour Manager; $5 per person per day for driver
  • Card feesPrices listed are cash-discounted prices. Passengers paying by credit or debit card will be assessed a 3% card fee.
  • Personal expenses
  • Porterage at airports
  • Travel insurance, which may be obtained via Christian Expedition from Allianz at an additional cost
  • Optional Day-Trip to Lauterbrunnen & Grindelwald
  • Anything not mentioned as included
Itinerary

Day 1: Friday, May 29, 2026Depart the US

Today marks the beginning of your European adventure! Depart from Miami International Airport (MIA) on an overnight transatlantic air journey to Switzerland.

Day 2: Saturday, May 30, 2026Arrive in Switzerland; Montreux

Upon arrival at Geneva Airport, you’ll meet your group and transfer by private coach to your hotel in Montreux, nestled along the serene shores of Lake Geneva. After checking in, take some time to stroll the lakeside promenade in front of the hotel, with views of Chillon Castle silhouetted against the lake and the mountains, one of the most iconic views in Switzerland. Rest and refresh after your travels, and in the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel, a perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers and share in anticipation of the days to come. Overnight in Montreux. D.

Day 3: Sunday, May 31, 2026Gruyères, Lavaux Vineyards & the Swiss Riviera

Our day begins with a scenic drive to the village of Gruyères, famous for its namesake cheese. Visit La Maison du Gruyère to learn the traditional methods behind Swiss cheese-making, followed by a guided tour of the historic Gruyères Castle. With eight centuries of art and legend housed within its walls, the castle offers a fascinating look into the region’s heritage. In the afternoon, visit the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, where you’ll enjoy a wine-tasting overlooking the stunning Swiss Riviera. This evening, you will be free to enjoy dinner at your leisure in town. Overnight Montreux. B.

Day 4: Monday, June 1, 2026Geneva

Today we visit Geneva for an exploration of the city’s historical and theological significance during the Protestant Reformation. The city, once dubbed the “Protestant Rome,” was shaped in large part by John Calvin and his contemporaries. You’ll visit St. Peter’s Cathedral, where Calvin preached, and view the exterior of Calvin’s Auditorium. A brief stop at the historical site where Calvin and Idelette de Bure’s former home once stood (exterior view) offers a glimpse into the personal life of one of the Reformation’s key figures. Next, you will have time to explore the old town, Place Du Bourg-de-Four and see the Jet D’Eau and the famous Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais. Conclude the day with a visit to Reformation Wall, where statues of Farel, Calvin, Beza, and Knox stand as enduring symbols of the Reformation. Overnight Montreux. B, D.

Day 5: Tuesday, June 2, 2026Yvoire, Évian-Les-Bains in France

Today we will journey into France! We begin the day with a visit to Yvoire, a beautifully preserved medieval village on the French shores of Lake Geneva, known for its charming stone houses, flower-filled balconies, and its 14th-century castle. Yvoire is officially designated one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (the Most Beautiful Villages of France) and has been awarded the prestigious “4 Fleurs” distinction for its breathtaking floral displays. Next, visit Évian-Les-Bains, a chic lakeside spa town, known for its natural mineral water and Belle Epoque architecture. Those who wish will have an opportunity to drink from the famous Évian Fountain (officially called the “Cachat Spring”), where you can taste real Évian water straight from the source. Overnight Montreux. B.

 

Day 6: Wednesday, June 3, 2026Bern

After breakfast and checkout, depart for Lucerne. En route, you’ll stop in Switzerland’s capital, Bern, for a guided walking tour of its well-preserved medieval old town. Take in views of the famous Clock Tower, the Cathedral, Barenpark, and the picturesque Rosengarten. Enjoy some free time for lunch before continuing on to Lucerne. Overnight Lucerne. B, D.

Day 7: Thursday, June 4, 2026Free Day OR Optional Day-Trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley & Grindelwald

Today, you have 2 options! Enjoy a free day in Lucerne or join the group for an unforgettable day trip into the breathtaking Switzerland countryside (optional excursion; $130 per person additional supplement). Those who join the excursion will set off for a scenic day trip through the Bernese Oberland to Lauterbrunnen Valley, with its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and peacefull cliffs that are said to have inspired Christian author J. R. Tolkien’s depiction of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings. While in Lauterbrunnen, see Staubbach Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland, and wander the streets of this charming, car-free village. In the afternoon, we will visit Grindelwald, an Alpine village nestled beneath the iconic Eiger Mountain, renowned for its traditional Swiss architecture and stunning mountain scenery. Travel back to Lucerne by coach. Overnight Lucerne. B. D.

Note: Your tour leaders have elected to make this excursion optional because it is an estimated ~10 hours, but this is a beautiful day-trip and is highly recommended. 

Day 8: Friday, June 5, 2026Lucerne

This morning we explore the enchanting city of Lucerne. A guided walking tour will showcase the city’s medieval beauty, including landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge, Spreuer Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the historic Town Hall. Later in the day, you’ll have time to explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and to browse shops filled with Swiss watches, wood carvings, and chocolates. Overnight Lucerne. B.

Day 9: Saturday, June 6, 2026Locarno, Stresa

After breakfast, journey south toward the Italian Lakes region and your next destination: Stresa, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore. En route, we will enjoy a stop in Locarno, a sun-soaked Swiss town known for its colorful buildings, palm-lined lakeside promenade, and Italian flair. Time-permitting, in the afternoon, we will visit Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, a renowed botanical garden in Verbania, before continuing on to our hotel. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy dinner with your group. Overnight Stresa. B, D.

Day 10: Sunday, June 7, 2026Como, Bellagio, Boat Ride on Lake Como

Today is your opportunity to explore the enchanting shores of Lake Como! Now a glamorous retreat location for the rich and famous, Lake Como is the region where Saint Augustine stayed in AD 386 after his conversion to Christianity. You will get to visit the lakeside city of Como, known for its stunning views and relaxed atmosphere. You will also get to explore Bellagio, a picturesque village with cobblestone lanes, flower-lined promenades, and breathtaking views. As a special treat, you will enjoy a panoramic boat ride on the lake. As you sail across Lake Como, you will be surrounded by dramatic alpine landscapes, charming lakeside villages, and elegant villas nestled among cypress and olive trees. Overnight Stresa. B.

Day 11: Monday, June 8, 2026Lake Maggiore

Today we enjoy a short boat transfer across Lake Maggiore to Isola Bella, where you’ll visit the ornate Borromean Palace and have time to explore its stunning tiered gardens. Continue by boat to Isola dei Pescatori, a quaint fishing village, known for its charming shops and restaurants. After returning by boat to the hotel, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group in the evening. Overnight Stresa. B, D.

Day 12: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Return Home

Today we head to the airport in Milan and begin our journey home. If time permits, breakfast is included today. Later today we will arrive back in Miami (MIA).

Price (per person)

Land Tour

2 guests
$6,192/person

Roundtrip Airfare

2 guests
$+ 1,267/person
Single Room, if no roomate

1 guest

+$1,975/person
Group Flights
Miami (MIA)
Included

Can I book my own flights?

You are always welcome to arrange your own flights. Arranging airfare on your own gives you the ability to spend personally-earned airline miles for your ticket, handpick your seats, upgrade directly with the airline, or deviate from the group in other ways.

What is group airfare?

We work with airlines on booking group airfare from anticipated departure airports. This allows us to get the best rates to fly you and the rest of the group to and from your destination. Group air contracts do not allow deviations, date changes, or upgrades, and in some cases issuing tickets at individual rates may be necessary. See “special flight/hotel requests section” below.

Select your preferred departure airport during registration. If you don’t see your preferred airport listed, please select “send me a flight quote”.

Can I apply TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

If you have booked airfare through us and would like to apply your Known Traveler Number (for TSA PreCheck) and/or your CBP PASSID (for Global Entry), you may provide it to us during registration. Forgot your KTN? Retrieve it here: https://tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov/ktn-lookup

Can I use frequent flyer miles or airline vouchers?

We cannot book your airfare using earned frequent flyer miles or airline vouchers. However, if the airfare we book for you coincides with an airline you are a member of, we are happy to apply your frequent flyer # to your booking for any mile accrual (if applicable).

Can I upgrade my flights and/or depart earlier/return later than the group?

Absolutely. If you would like to arrive earlier/depart later than the group and/or upgrade your airfare, please contact us at hello@christianexpedition.com

When will I receive my flight schedule?

The group’s flight schedules will be provided to you digitally and in the mail 30 days before the pilgrimage.

Payment Schedule
Today
$450 due per person
$200 per person is non-refundable.
02/28/2026
Remaining payment due
The initial deposit of $450 plus any charges imposed by our vendors is non-refundable. In the event of postponement, this still applies.