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The perfect switzerland itinerary 7 days – 10 days.

Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

If you’re looking to spend 7 days in Switzerland, or even 10, this Switzerland Itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip for your first time. With day-by-day itineraries and detailed activity suggestions, you’ll be on your way to enjoying one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

Switzerland itinerary- the best way to spend one week in switzerland + 3 bonus days.

If you're looking to spend 7 days in Switzerland, or even 10, this Switzerland Itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip for your first time. With day-by-day itineraries and detailed activity suggestions, you'll be on your way to enjoying one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

From its snow-capped mountains and glistening lakes to its quaint villages and world-class cities, Switzerland is a country that has it all. And whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing vacation, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Switzerland that fit the bill.

We had the opportunity to live in Switzerland for a bit while we had some work there. We lived in Basel and loved our time there. I’ve since been back several times to visit friends and to visit this gorgeous country. I recently went back a few months ago and wanted to share my itinerary to help you make the best of your time, whether you have 3 days in Switzerland or 10 days in Switzerland.

If you’re spending one week in Switzerland, you’ll have enough to see the highlights, but I’ve added on a few extra days in case you have more time for a few extras on your vacation to Switzerland. I always recommend prioritizing the 7 day Switzerland itinerary, and then moving on to the extras only if you have time.

  • Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:
  • Wanderlust Switzerland Guide

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

best travel itinerary for switzerland

  • Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland
  • Zurich : Baur Au Lac
  • Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
  • Zermatt: The Omnia
  • Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
  • Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
  • Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
  • Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Getting Around Switzerland

  • Unlimited Train Rides : Swiss Pass
  • Renting a Car : Cheap Rental Cars or Expedia Cars
  • Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland
  • Paragliding
  • Lindt Chocolate Tour
  • Lake Lucerne Cruise

Here's a Short Cut

Map of Switzerland

How do i get around switzerland, where do i purchase my swiss travel pass, swiss half fare card, where should i stay in switzerland, what languages are spoken in switzerland, do i need to know germany before i visit switzerland, what is the best time to visit switzerland, is it safe to travel to switzerland, how many days are enough for my switzerland itinerary – 7 days or more, what apps should i download for visiting switzerland, what currency is used in switzerland, how much is a trip to switzerland, is the tap water safe to drink in switzerland, what should i pack for my vacation to switzerland, some things to do in zurich, some things to do in lucerne, some things to do in interlaken, some things to do in lake thun, some things to do in the lauterbrunnen valley, some things to do in zermatt, some things to do in bern switzerland, some things to do in gruyeres, some things to do in montreux, some things to do in geneva, to sum this all up, here is my recommended switzerland trip itinerary:.

This interactive map will help you get around during your Switzerland itinerary. It’s color-coded by each day, so you can easily locate where you want to go and navigate there. Feel free to copy this map and download it offline so you can use it while you travel in Switzerland. Use the arrow on the top left of the map to pull up the key and see that each day is a different layer. It’s a very handy map once you figure out how to use it.

Things to Know About Visiting Switzerland

There are many ways to get around Switzerland, the two main ways are using public transportation and renting a car. I’ll highlight the best way to get to each destination below. This Switzerland itinerary can easily be used with either a car or by train.

If you choose to get a rental car in Switzerland, I always recommend using this site to compare rates and cars.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

If you choose to use public transportation in Switzerland, I recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass to maximize your time and save you money . The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train rides on most lines, free or discounted gondola rides, and discounts to many attractions though Switzerland.

I find that it’s especially worth buying the Swiss Travel Pass if you are planning to visit Zermatt because the expensive Gornergratt train is quite expensive, and it’s half off with the pass. If you’re comfortable riding trains and buses, I think it’s the best way to travel in Switzerland.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

You can purchase your Swiss Travel Pass here . Just select the correct number of days for your Switzerland itinerary and check out. The pass begins on your selected date and runs continuously. The Swiss Travel Pass comes in. 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 day increments.

If you’re unsure of your dates or the amount of time your Switzerland itinerary will be, it might be a good idea to purchase a Swiss Half Fare Card instead. This pass is good for one month and will offer 50% off most trains. There seems to be less of a discount on shorter journeys. I prefer to purchase the more expensive Swiss Travel Pass just for ease of use while I am in the country. But the Swiss Half Fare Card may be a better option if you are only planning on taking several long and expensive rail journeys. You can purchase the Swiss Half Fare Card here .

While Switzerland is a small country with world-famous efficient public transportation, there can be some destinations that take longer to get to. For this reason, I recommend staying in a few different places during your trip. You should adjust this to your own needs and time restraints, but I recommend staying in these destinations in this Switzerland itinerary:

A red and brown swiss chalet house covered in snow with snow covered pine trees in the background in Switzerland.

  • 1 night – Zurich (either at the beginning or the end of your trip depending on flight times)
  • 2 nights – Interlaken
  • 2 nights – Lauterbrunnen
  • 2 nights – Zermatt
  • If continuing for 10 days in Switzerland:
  • 3 nights – Bern with day trips to Gruyere, Montreux, and Geneva

Our Hotel & Chalet Recommendations: Zurich Hotels here Interlaken Hotels here Lauterbrunnen Chalets here Zermatt Hotels here Bern Hotels here

Believe it or not, there are actually FOUR official languages in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Each of these is spoken in different regions of the country.

  • Swiss German is the most widely spoken language, spoken by 63% of the population, and is spoken in the northern, eastern, and central parts of Switzerland. All official communications and publications are conducted and printed in German, however, there are also many different Swiss German dialects. Swiss German is a collection of Alemannic dialects no longer spoken in Germany or Austria, with French expressions sprinkled in. The Swiss German speakers take pride in the diversity of their dialects.
  • Swiss French is the second most spoken language in Switzerland and is spoken mostly in the western cantons of Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, and Jura. This is generally standard French that is also spoken in France.
  • Swiss Italian is spoken in the canton of Ticino and the southern part of Graubünden, on the south bordering Italy. Funny enough, you’ll find German speakers in the northern regions of Italy. Most locals will speak both German and Italian, as this region of Italy was once part of Austria. Swiss Italian is only spoken by about 350,000 people in Switzerland.
  • Romansh is the final official language of Switzerland and is the least spoken language with only 37,000 people. When the Romans conquered the province of Rhaetia, the language combined with the native people creating Rumantsch .

Women walking in traditional swiss clothing in Zermatt Switzerland

Learning German before you visit Switzerland isn’t a necessity as many people speak English, but it is definitely a good idea to learn a few German, and even French, phrases before you go. This should be plenty to help you get by during your time in Switzerland. You may not even need them, but it’s good to be prepared.

  • Yes/No : Ja/Nein Pronunciation: Yah/Nine
  • Hello: Hallo Pronunciation: a-low
  • Excuse Me : Entschuldigung Pronunciation: ehnt-SHOOL-di-gung
  • Good Morning: Guten Morgen Pronunciation: GOO-ten MOR-gen
  • Good Evening: Guten Abend Pronunciation: GOO-ten aa-behnt
  • Goodnight : Gute Nacht Pronunciation: GOO-teh nahkht
  • Goodbye : Auf Wiedersehen Pronunciation: all-veet-a-zen
  • See You Later: Bis Spotter Pronunciation: BIS Sh-put-er
  • Thank You: Danke Pronunciation: dong-ka
  • Thank You Very Much: Merci Vilmal Pronunciation: MEL-see VIL-mall
  • You’re Welcome: Bitte Pronunciation: BI-teh
  • Nice to Meet You: Freut Mich Pronunciation: FROYT mikh
  • What’s Your Name : Wie Heisst du? Pronunciation: vee HICE-en zee?
  • My Name Is : Ich Heisse Pronunciation: Ikh HICE-eh
  • Do You Speak English? : Sprechen Sie Englisch? Pronunciation: SHPREHK-en zee EHN-glish?
  • Welcome: Willkommen Pronunciation: Wheel-come
  • Sorry: Tut mir leid Pronunciation: TOOT meer LIGHT
  • I am Sorry, I Don’t Speak German : Entschuldigung, ich Spreche Kein Deutsch Pronunciation: Ent-shu-il-de-gung, eek sprek-a-nee doy-ch
  • I Do Not Understand : Ich Verstehe Nicht Pronunciation: Ikh fehr-STAY-eh nikht
  • Where is the Bathroom? : wo ist die toilette, bitte? Pronunciation: VOOH ist dee twah-LET-uh, BIT-tuh?
  • How Much Is That? : Was kostet das? Pronunciation: vahss KOSS-tet dahss?

There’s really no correct answer to the question. There are incredible things to do in Switzerland during every season of the year. I personally always prefer to travel when there are less crowds and when the weather is not too hot and not too cold. This usually means taking a Switzerland trip during the shoulder season in April-May or September-October.

Two kids skiing in bright clothing in Switzerland

In June, July, and August you will find the busiest days in Switzerland. With a winter Switzerland itinerary, you will definitely have snow, especially in the Swiss Alps , and the weather in Switzerland in the summer is generally warm and pleasant, but still can be cold and rainy.

  • Best time to visit to avoid crowds (shoulder season) : April – June, September – October
  • High Season : July – August. The high season is July to August when the weather in Switzerland is the warmest it is in the entire year, but you will have to face a lot of tourists, and over 50% increase in prices.
  • Low Season : October – March
  • Ski Season : December – March
  • When are the Seasons in Switzerland : April – June (spring), July – August (summer), September – October (fall), November – March (winter)
  • Best Time to Ski in Switzerland: Winter (between December and March) is the low season in most parts of Switzerland, as there will be intense snowstorms. However, this is the best season for those who want to ski in Switzerland.

According to US News , Switzerland has been rated #1 in safety! And according to Travel Safe Abroad , it was given a Safety Index of 89, So I’d say that’s a pretty good sign. Every time I’ve visited Switzerland, I’ve felt completely safe, but as always, be on guard when you travel, protect your wallet, and don’t be an idiot when you travel in Switzerland.

I will say that your risk of being injured doing outdoor activities is most likely higher if you’re not used to being active outdoors at home. Just be careful and know your limits. Always register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) in case anything happens.

For this reason, also, I always recommend that you purchase travel insurance before you travel. Especially these days, you just never know. And better safe than sorry.

Your Switzerland itinerary will depend on the number of days you are able to travel, but I recommend spending at least 7 days in Switzerland if possible, although 10 days is ideal. A one week Switzerland itinerary will allow you to see most of the destinations on this list, so if you’re able to stay longer, keep going until day 10.

A phone with 3D mountains coming out of it with the alps in Switzerland in the background.

  • SBB App – Public transportation in Switzerland is shockingly punctual, clean, fast, and efficient. The SBB app will tell you when and where to get your trains and buses to take you where you want to go. This is the most important app you’ll need in Switzerland if you’re only traveling by public transportation.
  • Switzerland Mobility App – If you’re looking for great hikes in Switzerland, you’ll want to download the Switzerland Mobility App to help you find the best trails and not get lost.
  • Duo Lingo – If you want to learn a bit of German or French before visiting Switzerland, Duo Lingo is a fun and free app to help you learn.
  • Google Translate – While most people in Switzerland will be able to communicate with you in at least a little bit of English, it’s always goo to have the Google translate app, especially for reading signs or menus that are not in English.

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). The exchange rate right now is $1.05 USD to 1 CHF.

Swiss Francs money in a hand with green landscape in the background in Switzerland

This depends on many factors like where you’re traveling from, when you’re going, how many people are in your party, what kind of hotels you choose, what activities you want to do, whether you rent a car or take public transportation, etc. It’s almost impossible to estimate how much this Switzerland itinerary will cost. I always say to plan around $3,000 USD per person for any trip to Switzerland.

A fountain with water coming out of a lion's mouth

Tap water is safe to drink in Switzerland and you can also find drinking fountains all over the country that you can drink from. I’ve filled many water bottles from these fountains and it’s been tasty and safe.

When you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, you’ll want to be sure you pack properly. But don’t worry, there are plenty of places to shop if you forget anything. Here are a few essentials you’ll want to be sure to pack for Switzerland. You can see my Switzerland packing list , or check out my abbreviated list below.

A group of people hiking through the alps in Switzerland with hiking poles and backpacks

  • Power Adapter for Switzerland
  • Portable Charger ( my favorite )
  • Portable WiFi Device
  • Appropriate Outdoor Clothing ( I like to shop here )
  • A few nicer outfits for dinners
  • Packable down jacket
  • Your favorite sun hat
  • Sunscreen ( my favorite )
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • Good Hiking Boots (if you’re planning to do lots of hikes)
  • Collapsible Hiking Poles
  • Packing Cubes
  • Melatonin for Jetlag
  • Packable Day Pack
  • Liquid IV for Dehydration
  • Waterproof Phone Case
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Quick Dry Towel

The Best Switzerland Itinerary for 7-10 Days

Ok now on to what you came here to read! This is the best Switzerland itinerary to help you maximize and enjoy your vacation. It spans the Switzerland countryside and cities and includes recommendations on where to stay and what to do in each destination.

Day 1 – Arrive in Zurich & Explore

Most major international flights to Switzerland will arrive at Zurich international airport, which is a great starting point for your Switzerland itinerary. Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and one of the most popular tourist destinations. With its picturesque Old Town and world-class museums, it’s easy to see why Zurich is such a popular destination. You’ll most likely be beginning and ending your vacation to Switzerland here.

If you only have a short time in Switzerland, I recommend taking day trips from Zurich .

A sunset in Zurich Switzerland over the river

  • Walk Around Old Town Zurich
  • Explore Lake Zurich
  • Visit the Museum of Art
  • Enjoy Views from Lindenhof
  • Visit the Swiss National Museum
  • Visit Grossmünster Church
  • See the Impressive Zurich Zoo
  • Ride the train to the top of Uetlibertg
  • Take a Cruise down the River
  • FIFA World Football Museum
  • Day 2 – Lucerne

Lucerne is a small city located in central Switzerland that is often overlooked by tourists. But with its beautiful Old Town, covered bridges, and Alpine setting, Lucerne is well worth a visit. And if you’re looking for things to do outside of the city, you can take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne or even go for a swim!

A flower covered bridge over the water in Lucerne Switzerland

  • Wander Around the Old Town
  • Take a Cruise on Lake Lucerne
  • Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Walk Across Chapel Bridge
  • Visit the Rosengart Collection
  • See Bertel Thorvaldsen’s Lion Monument
  • Explore the Glacier Garden
  • Enjoy the Views from Musegg Wall
  • Visit Hofkirche Basilica

Day 3 – Interlaken and Lake Brienz

Nestled between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, Interlaken is a popular tourist destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Surrounded by mountains, Interlaken is the perfect base camp for hikes, mountain biking, para-gliding, and other adventure activities. It also has a cute old town center to explore and dine in. I had the privilege of paragliding in Interlaken and I will never forget it. The whole area is postcard perfect!

Lake Brienz in Switzerland with houses and a castle

  • Go Paragliding
  • Ride up Harder Kulm via funicular
  • Take a Steamboat on Lake Brienz
  • Ride the Schynige Platte Railway
  • Tour Justistal Alpine Dairy book here
  • Aareschlucht Gorge info
  • Explore the charming views at Istelwald village

Day 4 – Lake Thun

Lake Thun is the other lake that borders Interlaken and is just as beautiful as Lake Brienz. Spend a few days between these two lakes and soak up all the beauty around you.

Lake Thun in Switzerland

  • Explore Lake Thun
  • Ride a Steam Boat on Lake Thun
  • Visit Thun Castle
  • Explore St. Beatus Caves
  • Wander around the medieval old town of Unterseen
  • Weissenau Nature Reserve
  • Explore the picturesque town of Spiez
  • Panoramabrücke Sigriswil – Panoramic Footbridge

Day 5 – Lauterbrunnen, Murren & Schilthorn

The Lauterbrunnen valley is a gorgeous area of the Bernese Oberland that is a must-see. When you picture a quaint village in Switzerland with wooden chalets, Alpine valleys, high mountain peaks, and roaming cows with bells, it’s likely Lauterbrunnen valley that you’re thinking of. If you want to see iconic scenes like this when you visit Switzerland, Lauterbrunnen is the perfect place to go.

Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland with small houses and large cliffs and a waterfall with a sunset

  • Hike the Lauterbrunnen – Murren Trail (4 miles)
  • Visit the largest free-falling waterfall in Europe (Staubbach Falls)
  • Take the cog railway to nearby Wengen
  • Take the cable cars to nearby Murren
  • Take a cable car ride up to Schilthorn
  • Eat at Piz Gloria, the rotating James Bone restaurant
  • Visit the Highest Altitude Structure in Europe ( Sphinx Observatory)
  • Explore Trummelbach Falls (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Go paragliding or just watch the paragliders
  • Grab a drink at the Horner Pub in town
  • Rent bikes and ride around Lauterbrunnen Valley

Days 6 & 7 – Zermatt

While the mountain resort town of Zermatt is small, the surrounding mountains in the Swiss Alps and the surrounding areas are massive. This destination takes some time and effort to get to, even though it’s simple to reach by public transportation, so I always recommend staying the night and exploring Zermatt for two days if possible. Many people will attempt Zermatt as a day trip from Bern or Zurich, which is fine, it just limits what you can do there. It’s a must on any Switzerland itinerary. Zermatt is most famous for its incredible views of the Matterhorn, but there’s a lot more to this picturesque town. It’s home to some of the most scenic train rides on Earth and some great restaurants and shopping as well.

Zermatt is also the end of the Walker’s Haute Route , which is a massive hike through the Swiss Alps that begins in Chamonix, France, and traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland, ending in Zermatt.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

  • Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
  • Hike the Matterhorn Glacier Trail
  • Visit Schwarzsee (lake)
  • Take the Gornergrat Railway (one of the most scenic train rides in the world)
  • Hike from Gornegrat to Riffelsee (1.5 miles)
  • Befriend Blacknose Sheep
  • Explore the old town of Zermatt
  • Eat Fondue & Raclette
  • Visit the Matterhorn Museum
  • Pay your respects at Mountaineers Cemetery
  • Walk through the Hinterdorfstrasse – old town
  • Walk along Gorner Gorge

That’s the end of my one week in Switzerland itinerary. However, if you have another 3 days in Switzerland or more, I recommend continuing with the next few destinations. They are great, but I always recommend prioritizing the above itinerary if you only have 7 days in Switzerland.

Day 8 – Bern 

Bern is the capital of Switzerland and a unique and relatively small city. The entire city is a UNESCO world heritage site with so much to explore. The medieval architecture and easy public transportation make it an easy city to visit.

Dramatic clouds over the city of Bern in Switzerland with a bridge over a river

  • Explore Old Town Bern
  • Count the fountains of Bern
  • Visit Berner Munster (Bern Cathedral)
  • Climb up Kafigturm
  • Zytglogge Clock Tower
  • Visit the bears at the Barengraben, or Bear Pit
  • Walk through the Rosengarten (Rose Garden Park)
  • Visit the Einstein Museum & Einstein House
  • Walk along the Aare River
  • Relax at the Hamman & Spa Oktogon

Day 9 – Gruyere & Montreux

These two Swiss towns are some of the most beautiful in the country and reside in the French-speaking section. If you have a car, it’s only a 30-minute drive between the two. Public transportation between them can be tricky, so you may just want to pick one to visit if you don’t have a car, depending on where you’re staying. Either town is a great day trip from Bern or the Lauterbrunnen valley.

Gruyere is an idyllic farming town nestled in the Swiss Alps and renowned for the famous Gruyeres cheese, which you’ve probably tried before. Be sure to have fondue here, as it’s some of the best we’ve ever tried in Switzerland.

Two women in Gruyeres

  • Visit the Gruyeres Cheese Factory & Tour
  • Walk down Rue de Bourg in the Old Town
  • Walk Le Grand Chemins
  • Tour Gruyeres Castle
  • Walk along the Ramparts
  • Eat Gruyeres Cheese Fondue
  • Visit the HR Giger Museum
  • Grab a drink at the Giger Bar
  • Visit the Tibet Museum
  • Tour Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory

Montreux is a dazzling town set against the backdrop of the mountain peaks of the Alps and on the shores of Lake Geneva. Also in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, Montreux has much to offer in way of scenery and cultural opportunities.

A vineyard on the banks of Lake Geneva Switzerland

  • Explore Montreux Old Town
  • Visit Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Walk Along the Montreux Lakeside Promenade
  • Hike the Gorges du Chauderon
  • Take a Cruise on Lake Geneva
  • Visit Chateau de Chillon
  • Hike Rochers de Naye
  • See the Freddy Mercury Statue
  • Visit Chaplin’s World Museum
  • Visit the Nest Museum
  • Day 10 – Geneva

Situated between the French border and Lake Geneva, the town of Geneva is an international town known for being the United Nations Headquarters and also the headquarters for The Red Cross. It’s also a great place to visit on your Switzerland trip if you want to get more of a feel for the French part of Switzerland.

Two rows of international flags leading to a building in Geneva Switzerland

  • Take a boat ride on Lake Geneva if you haven’t done that Montreux
  • Check out the famous Jet d’Eau (Water Jet)
  • Visit the Romanesque Temple de Saint-Pierre
  • Explore Geneva’s Old Town
  • See Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in the city
  • Check out the flags at Palais des Nations
  • Tour the Art & History Museum
  • Visit the International Red Cross and Crescent Museum
  • Visit the Ariana Museum, dedicated to ceramics and glass
  • Wander around Parc de la Grange

There’s so much to see and do in Switzerland and you could easily spend months exploring all this Alpine country has to offer! But if you only have a week, this Switzerland itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country. From hikes with unbeatable views to leisurely days spent soaking in mountain views from your hotel room window and delicious chocolate and fondue, you’re sure to fall in love with this corner of Europe. I hope this Switzerland trip planner was helpful and that you’ll be on your way to planning a great vacation.

If you're looking to spend 7 days in Switzerland, or even 10, this Switzerland Itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip for your first time. With day-by-day itineraries and detailed activity suggestions, you'll be on your way to enjoying one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

  • Use the train to get around Switzerland
  • Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card before you travel to Switzerland
  • There are four official languages spoken in Switzerland
  • Learn a few German phrases before your vacation to Switzerland
  • The best time to visit Switzerland is Spring and Fall 
  • Switzerland is a very safe country
  • 7-10 days in Switzerland is an ideal time
  • Download important apps before Switzerland trips
  • Swiss Francs (CHF) are used in Switzerland
  • Tap water is safe to drink in Switzerland
  • Pack appropriately for Switzerland
  • The Best Switzerland Itinerary:
  • Day 1 – Zurich
  • Day 3 – Interlaken – Lake Brienz
  • Day 4 – Interlaken – Lake Thun
  • Day 5 – Lauterbrunnenn, Murren, & Schilthorn
  • Day 6 – Zermatt – Glacier Express Train
  • Day 7 – Zermatt – Gornergratt
  • Day 8 – Bern
  • Day 9 – Gruyeres & Montreux

If you're looking to spend 7 days in Switzerland, or even 10, this Switzerland Itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip for your first time. With day-by-day itineraries and detailed activity suggestions, you'll be on your way to enjoying one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

Wanderlust Crew

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Most Scenic Train Routes

Switzerland's Nature Parks

How to Go Skiing

The Top Hikes

Matterhorn Complete Guide

The Most Beautiful Lakes

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Switzerland Airports

Getting Around

Places to Visit in Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Switzerland

Top Things to Do in Geneva

One Week Itinerary

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Switzerland is a small country compared to many of its European neighbors, but you'll still need more than a week to take it all in. If a week is all you've got, this itinerary will give you a taste of the best the country has to offer, taking you from cities to mountains and medieval towns to sparkling lakes. You'll use the cities of Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, and Geneva for exploring Swiss history and culture, taking in the stunning scenery, and sampling Swiss cuisine. Your time will be split between both French and German-speaking Switzerland, so you'll also get a feel for how these two cultures blend and co-exist.

Skip the rental car for this itinerary, which we've specifically designed to be done via public transportation. Armed with a Swiss Travel Pass , you'll have nearly unlimited use of Switzerland's excellent network of trains, buses, and ferries. Some mountain cable cars, ski gondolas, and cog railways are also included with the pass, making car-free sightseeing in Switzerland a breeze.

Day 1: Zurich

Hopefully, you caught some shut-eye on your flight to Zurich, so you can enjoy a full day exploring Switzerland's largest city. Zurich offers an engaging mix of history and innovation, and at turns the young and old sides of Switzerland. From the airport, take the train to Zurich's main station, where you can walk, tram, or cab to your central hotel—we recommend you make you choose a base in or close to the Altstadt, or Old Town, and figure on getting around the city on foot or via trams. In the Altstadt, don't miss the mighty Grossmunster cathedral, and take time to wander the main drag, the Neiderdorf, and the mostly pedestrian streets that fan off from it.

Cross the Limmat River, pausing to take in city views and the sight of swans, swimmers (depending on the time of year), and tour boats along this pretty waterway. Stroll the Bahnhofstrasse—reportedly Europe's most expensive shopping street—even if it's just for window-shopping, and duck into Zurich's other grand cathedral, the Fraumunster. In the afternoon, head down to the Limmatquai for a boat tour of Lake Zurich, or hit one of the city's top museums.

That evening, plan on dinner at the cavernous Zeughauskeller , famous for its meter-long sausages and setting in a 15th-century arsenal.

Day 2: Day Trip to St. Gallen and Appenzell

This morning, hop on a train headed east for the hour-long ride to St. Gallen—trains depart about every 20 minutes from Zurich Main Station. Once there, spend some time exploring the Abbey of St Gall , a complex that dates back centuries and which has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily spend a few hours wandering the sites of the abbey, which include a library that contains more than 150,000 books, including priceless early medieval illuminated manuscripts, and the Baroque abbey cathedral.

In St. Gallen town, wander among the half-timber houses of the pedestrian-only Old Town, and take in the Textilmuseum , with its displays of historic clothing and machinery.

If you're up for a longer day, jump down to the town of Appenzell after lunch—just a 30-minute ride from St. Gallen—for a glimpse at the Appenzell canton, Switzerland's richest in terms of folk traditions. Spend a couple of hours in this charming town, then transfer back to St. Gallen and on to Zurich for the night.

Day 3: Lucerne

Chinnaphong Mungsiri/GettyImages

Today you'll switch gears and locations, from busy Zurich to more sedate Lucerne , your base for the next two nights. The largest city on Lake Lucerne is worthy of a visit on its own, and is also a stepping-off point for exploring the surrounding Alps and lake region. Lucerne town has a pretty center filled with half-timber houses and cozy inns and eateries— Wirsthaus Taube is a great choice for rosti, one of the must-try foods of Switzerland . The historical museum has living history presentations that will interest kids and adults, and a short bus ride away, the Swiss Transport Museum is easily one of the top museums in the country. Lucerne's most famous landmark, the 14th-century Chapel Bridge, is a must-see.

Once you've explored Lucerne in the morning, make an afternoon excursion to Mount Pilatus, an all-season playground more than 2,000 meters above sea level. From Kriens, a short bus ride from Lucerne, take the Panorama Gondola on a breathtaking 30-minute ride to the top of Pilatus, where you'll find hiking, an adventure park, restaurants, and soaring views.

Day 4: Boat Ride to Rigi or Rutli

MySwitzerland.com

Spend at least part of the day on the waters of Lake Lucerne, with a scenic boat ride around one of Switzerland's most beautiful lakes . Your Swiss Travel Pass grants you hop-on/hop-off access to the boats of the Lake Lucerne Navigation System , which ply the lake year-round.

Head to Vitznau, where you might be tempted to spend the night at the 5-star, lakefront Park Hotel Vitznau —or at least consider a scenic lakeside lunch there. From Vitznau, climb aboard the historic cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm at the top of Mt. Rigi, and take an easy hike back down, at least part of the way—there are places to eat at several of the railway stops.

For a big dose of Swiss history, take the boat from Lucerne to the Rütli Meadow, the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. The journey here is more than half the fun—the boat ride is more than two hours, and traverses nearly the full length of Lake Lucerne.

Day 5: Bern

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Take a morning train from Lucerne to the Swiss capital of Bern , about a 60-90 minute ride. From Bern's main station, you're about a 10-minute walk from the Alstadt, or Old Town, which dates back to the 12th century and is another of Switzerland's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bern is built into a sharp bend in the Aare River, which historically made it easier to defend and, aesthetically, placed it in a beautiful setting. Make sure you visit the Zytglogge historical clock just before the top of the hour, so you won't miss the rooster crowing and the complicated display of dozens of mechanical moving figures.

Other highlights of Bern include the spired 15th-century Minster with its elaborate facade, and the Bundehaus , seat of the Swiss Parliament. Science and history fans will enjoy a visit to the Einstein House , where the physicist lived for two years, and art lovers should head to the Zentrum Paul Klee , the museum and cultural center dedicated to the 20th century abstract artist.

If you visit Bern in the summer, be sure to take a swim in the Aare River—it's a favorite warm-weather pastime of locals. During the holiday season, Bern is home to several lively Christmas markets.

Day 6: Day Trip to Interlaken and the Jungfraujoch

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Bern is less than an hour away by train from Interlaken, which bills itself as Switzerland's "adventure capital"—and that's saying a lot in a country rich with opportunities for active travel. Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, Interlaken is the perfect base for exploring a number of surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks, most notably the Jungfraujoch.

Via train, cable car, and cogwheel rail, make the journey to the "Top of Europe"—the 3,454-meter Jungfraujoch station at the end of the line. Here, besides journeying to the highest train station in Europe, you'll be treated to views of the Aletsch Glacier—Europe's longest at 22 kilometers, as well as the Eiger, Mönch, and the Jungfrau peaks. There's snow year-round at the top (so dress appropriately!), as well as a snow park, an ice cave, observatories, and bars and restaurants. Swiss Pass holders get a discount on train tickets to the Jungfraujoch.

If you decide to stay in Interlaken, you can still soar high above the city and its lakes, thanks to several paragliding outfitters—you see tandem riders in the skies from dawn to dusk. Skywings and Twin Paragliding are both recommended operators. If paragliding sounds a little too spine-tingling, try a scenic boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, which is included with the Swiss Travel Pass. Or simply enjoy the historic Old Town and abundant shopping and dining in Interlaken before hopping the train back to Bern.

Day 7: Geneva

TripSavvy / Angelina Pilarinos

This morning, take an early train from Bern to Geneva and get there in less than two hours. Your trip will wind down in the largest city in French-speaking Switzerland and the diplomatic center of Europe, home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent. Both offer tours and museums, as does CERN—the European Organization for Nuclear Research that's home to the Large Hadron Collider. We suggest picking one of these sites to visit, and then spending the rest of your day enjoying Geneva's scenic lakefront, and its ancient Old Town. At St. Pierre Cathedral and the Museum of the Reformation , you can learn about Geneva's role in the rise of Protestantism.

On your last evening in Switzerland, if you haven't had any yet—and even if you have— top off your vacation with a dinner of traditional cheese fondue. Cafe du Soliel has been serving it for 400 years, along with cured meats and regional desserts, including delicate meringues. The next day, head back to your point of origin, and say your farewells to a perfect week in one of Europe's most beautiful destinations.

Switzerland Travel Guide

The Top 9 Scenic and Novelty Train Rides in Switzerland

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

The Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

A Guide to Airports in Switzerland

The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland

How to Travel Between Italy and Switzerland by Train

The 10 Best Things to Do in Bern, Switzerland

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

The Complete Guide to Switzerland's Nature Parks

The Top 15 Things to Do in Zurich

How to Use Swiss Trains and the Swiss Travel Pass

The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary

Written By: Seraina Zellweger

City Guides , Switzerland

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Visiting Switzerland for the first time is exciting. You’re frantically putting together a bucket list in your head and you can’t wait to start packing. But planning a Switzerland Itinerary can be overwhelming.

All the places you’re going to see. The people you’re going to meet. The foods you’re going to eat. But every trip also comes with its burning questions that need answering. 

How much time should you spend in Switzerland ? How do you get around? What are the highlights you can’t miss? And what’s even realistic to see and do in the time available? 

Table of Contents

7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary

  • Day 1 – Zurich, Kapellbrücke in Lucerne, Bern
  • Day 2 – Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, Jungfrau
  • Day 3 – Interlaken, Golden Pass, Montreux
  • Day 4 – Gruyeres, Broc Montreux, Zermatt
  • Day 5 – The Matterhorn, Domodossala, Locarno
  • Day 6 – Canton of Ticino, Stone Bridge of Lavertezzo, Maggia, Verzasca
  • Day 7 – Ride the world’s longest train tunnel, Lake Como, Zurich

If you’re planning a one week trip to Switzerland , let me help you with some of those issues. The following Switzerland itinerary is doable within seven full days and includes a bit of everything Switzerland has to offer. If you are looking for a longer Switzerland Itinerary, we have mapped out the Ultimate 3 Weeks in Switzerland Road Trip here.

The Swiss Alps , lakes, scenic train rides, chocolate, cheese, and charming towns. Just to name a few. This seven-day itinerary starts and ends in Zurich , the main entry point to Switzerland for visitors arriving by plane.

But with Switzerland being such a small country, you could technically start and end in any other city as well. Sound good? Let’s dive in. 

One Week in Switzerland Highlights

Day 1: zurich – lucerne – trubschachen – bern.

Day 1 Switzerland Itinerary highlights:

  • spend half a day in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city
  • walk across the iconic Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
  • stuff your face with free Swiss biscuits
  • enjoy the pretty night views over Bern, Switzerland’s capital city (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Morning – Zurich

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own or join a free walking tour. Those run daily at 11:00 AM and cover all the hotspots of Switzerland’s largest city.

Alternatively, you can check out the Niederdorf (old town of Zurich), the Lindenhof park (great views over the city and the River Limmat), busy Bahnhofstrasse (Zurich’s main shopping street) and of course Bellevue by the lake, on your own.

Technically, you even have the option to explore the city by bike. A service called “Züri rollt” rents out free bikes, which is extra handy as it lets you cover more ground in less time. Around midday, or after the walking tour, grab a small takeaway lunch and have it on the train to Lucerne. ( You’ll understand why it needs to be small in a minute. )

Read more: Things to do in Zurich / 3 Days in Zurich

Insider tip:

For the best views over Zurich, head to the Polyterrasse, the terrace outside the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology.

It’s not far from Zurich main station and you can either walk or catch the Polybahn, a funicular taking you right to the terrace.

Short Stop in Lucerne

Since you’ve still got a bit of ground to cover today, you won’t have much time in Lucerne. But it should suffice for a stroll through the old town, take in the views of Lake Lucerne, and a walk across Kapellbrücke, the iconic wooden footbridge in the centre of Lucerne. Read more: 19 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland

Insider Tip:

  • When you’re at the platform in Lucerne, please check the display to make sure you catch the right half of the train.

What I always do at the Kambly store is head to the savoury section every now and then. It helps to fit in more of the sweet stuff.

Trubschachen – Kambly factory store

After an hour or two, continue your journey to Trubschachen, an innocent little place that’ll give your sweet tooth the time of its life. This inconspicuous village is home to a family business that dates back to 1910.

The Kambly family has been making some of the most iconic Swiss biscuits for over a hundred years.  And trust me. They know what they’re doing.

The Kambly factory store, which you’ll find right next to Trubschachen station, is free to visit. In here, you can spend as much time as your heart desires tasting up to 100 different types of delicious biscuits. ( And now you know why you had to keep that lunch to a minimum …)

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the heart of the factory or watch the production of their tasty creations. However, they do  have a cinema at the shop where they give you some more insights into this traditional family business. After reaching the point of explosion, or maybe two bites before, move on to Bern. 

Evening – Bern Switzerland

The direct train leaves once an hour and takes around 45 minutes to arrive in Switzerland’s capital city. There might not be much left of today, but depending on what time you get to Bern, you could still fit in a quick stop by the bear park or a trip up to Rosengarten for its impressive night views. After all, the best way to digest a Kambly overdose is to walk it off.

The train to Trubschachen gets split up along the way and only the front part travels through the picturesque Entlebuch region to your culinary destination.

Day 2: Bern – Interlaken

Today’s highlights:

  • visit the adrenaline-packed and popular town of Interlaken
  • enjoy a day jumping off planes, cruising across a lake or whatever else your adventurous heart desires
  • Hang out at Jungfraujoch – the top of Europe

To squeeze the maximum out of your time in Interlaken, I suggest you leave Bern right in the morning.

The train ride to Interlaken takes just under an hour, which gives you almost a full day to explore the place everybody wants to visit when coming to Switzerland.

As a local, I try to avoid Interlaken as it gets super busy and completely swamped by tourists. But there’s a darn good reason for that. Interlaken is conveniently located for all sorts of fantastic outdoor adventures and spectacular mountain excursions.

You’ve got more options to choose from today than you can wrap your head around.  It all depends on your budget, but in an adrenaline-packed place like Interlaken, the sky’s the limit. If you want to spend time in Interlaken there are many activities that will get your adrenaline flowing. And your wallet is bleeding. Read more: Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4-Day Itinerary

  • Paragliding

Lake Thun & Lake Brienz

A more budget-friendly option is to embark on a passenger ship cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. Both rides come with incredible views that will make you wish you’d never have to leave. 

If you’re looking for a stopover on one of the cruises, get off at either

  • Giessbach Hotel (Lake Brienz)
  • the Beatus Caves
  • or the town of Spiez (Lake Thun)

As if that wasn’t enough, the Jungfrau region around Interlaken is also an excellent playground for hikers. The amount of trails is endless and whatever your fitness level and ambitions, you’ll find something to your taste. 

Afternoon: Jungfraujoch – aka Top of Europe

Of course, the No. 1 destination everybody dies to see out here is the famous Jungfraujoch – aka Top of Europe.  Unfortunately, this spectacular ride is a real budget-strainer.  Expect to pay up to 210 CHF (197€ / 220 USD) for a return trip. 

In case you’re after a slightly less expensive alternative, look into visiting Mount Schilthorn instead. The ride up the cable cars and the panoramic views from the top have equal potential to take your breath away. Read more: Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

But there’s more to do in Jungfrau

Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen , two quaint little mountain villages in a stunning setting, are close to Interlaken as well. And let’s not forget about the Aare Gorge, the place where the River Aare makes its way down from the glacier toward Lake Brienz.

Ok, I better stop listing your options here as this will only make you quit reading and decide to spend all week in Interlaken. And we wouldn’t want that. Read more: Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4 Day Itinerary

Swiss Travel Passes

  • If you travel by a Swiss Travel Pass or an Interrail / Eurail Pass, your train and boat rides are fully covered.
  • Rail passes are valid for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days
  • Includes Unlimited travel on Swiss Rail, bus, boat and public transport in cities
  • Free entrance to more than 500 museums
  • 50% off most mountain excursions
  • However, you pay extra for the Jungfraujoch train and the gondola ride to Schilthorn.
  • The travel passes entitle you to a discount between 25% and 50%, though.

Day 3: Interlaken – Golden Pass Line – Montreux

Day 3 highlights:

  • ride parts of the famous Golden Pass Line, one of the five big scenic train rides in Switzerland
  • visit the popular Château de Chillon
  • grab a glass of wine in the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO)

Time to leave Interlaken already. But don’t worry. The Golden Pass Line, which is one of the five big scenic train rides in Switzerland, has plenty of mesmerizing views in store for you. It connects the centre of Switzerland in Lucerne with Montreux by the shores of Lake Geneva.

Today, you’ll be travelling from Interlaken to Montreux , which accounts for roughly two-thirds of the Golden Pass Line.  The first leg takes you past Lake Thun to Spiez and finally into Zweisimmen, where you’ll transfer to a different train.

Morning: Train Journey Through Switzerland on Golden Pass Line

That’s where the climb through the Bernese Oberland, my favourite part of the Golden Pass Line, begins. 

This region is an absolute dream for mountain-lovers and pretty much sums up what Switzerland is about.  Lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, tons of hiking trails, wonderful landscapes and cute little villages are abundant in this area.  Too bad you can’t hop off along the way, but you need to keep going if you want to make it to Lake Geneva today. 

After leaving the Bernese Oberland and coming down the hills, you’ll arrive in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Bienvenue…

Afternoon: Montreux

The Golden Pass Line terminates in Montreux and depending on what time you arrive, you might still have a few hours to explore the area.  Read more: Montreux and its Musical Legacy

The main spots I recommend are the famous Château de Chillon, an old castle by Lake Geneva, and of course the Lavaux vineyard terraces, which are only a short ride west of Montreux. To fully experience the gorgeous views of this UNESCO World Heritage site, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards. 

Cheers to a relaxing night after a long day on the train.

Insider tips:

  • The Golden Pass Line is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass as well as the Eurail and Interrail Passes.
  • You can complete the Golden Pass Line without making a reservation. However, their customer service recommend booking a seat for the segment between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get fairly busy during high season. Costs vary between 5 and 8 CHF per person.

Day 4: Montreux – Gruyères – Broc – Montreux – Zermatt

  • eat lots of Swiss cheese and chocolate
  • hang out in the quaint little village of Gruyères

Morning: Gruyères

What’s a trip to Switzerland without visiting a cheese or chocolate factory?  Exactly. So today, you have the option to do both. After breakfast, store your bags either at the train station in Montreux or ask if you can leave them at your accommodation for the day.

Then catch the train to the slightly touristy yet wonderful village of Gruyères. You might recognise parts of the journey from yesterday. The ride between Montreux and Montbovon is served by regular regional trains as well as the Golden Pass Line.

Since Gruyères is highly popular with tourists, it can get a bit crowded. But like with every busy place, there’s a reason. And in this case, the reason is a medieval castle.  And cheese. Lots of cheese. 

Gruyères Medieval Castle

The main attraction in Gruyères is the medieval castle, which is open for public and costs 12 CHF to enter. But the hidden cobblestone alleys and the countless souvenir shops also tend to have people stick around longer than they expected. 

Gruyère Cheese Factory

The Gruyère cheese factory is right behind the train station and for a small entrance fee, you can watch how the iconic Gruyère cheese is being made. Samples and tasting opportunities are included. 

Once you’re done snacking, either catch the bus uphill or follow the path until you reach the centre of Gruyères. This walk should take you around 20 minutes.

After exploring Gruyères and maybe grabbing a souvenir or two, you have the option to head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler .

La Maison Cailler

Their visitor centre teaches you everything you need to know about Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand and at the end of the tour, you’ll get to taste a looot of free samples. 

Probably more than you thought you could handle. Definitely more than I could handle the last time I went…

On your train ride back to Montreux, try to digest your cheese and chocolate overdose and get ready to move on to Zermatt for the night.

Evening: Zermatt

This final ride takes around two and a half hours and if you leave Montreux in the early evening, you’ll make it to Zermatt just in time for dinner.  Provided you find any room for it…  Also read: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do

  • The part between Visp and Zermatt is served by the Glacier Express trains. Those leave three times daily and are only for people with a reservation.
  • However, there are regular trains commuting between Brig and Zermatt that don’t require a reservation.
  • The best part? The views are exactly the same as with the Glacier Express. Minus the large panoramic windows.

Day 5: Zermatt – Domodossola – Locarno

Day 5 Highlights

  • explore the popular mountain town of Zermatt with Switzerland’s most iconic mountain: the Matterhorn – aka Mount Toblerone. Read more: 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Incredible Matterhorn Views
  • spend half a day enjoying the mountain setting in and around Zermatt – Read more: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do
  • take a short trip to Italy before embarking on another scenic train ride back into Switzerland 

Zermatt is all about mountains and the outdoors. If you’ve come to Switzerland for our spectacular views, you’re going to love it here.

Several hikes and walks of all difficulty levels take you places you didn’t even know existed. Like for instance the popular Zermatt lakes trail, which takes 2.5 hours to complete. It leads past five crystal clear mountain lakes and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

Another impressive, yet head spinning adventure is walking across the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa. It stretches 494 metres (1.620 feet) across the valley.  Hello vertigo!

The circular track starts and finishes in Randa, 15 minutes by train from Zermatt.

In case you’d rather skip the hiking altogether and see those mountains the easy way, I recommend heading to Gornergrat. 

After a ridiculously steep train ride, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3.089 metres (10.135 feet) above sea level. Right in front of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn. Don’t be surprised if climbing those steps to the viewpoint leaves you completely breathless. It’s not you, it’s the thin air.

Afternoon: Journey to Locarno

Try leaving Zermatt at the latest around 2 or 3 in the afternoon because your journey to Locarno takes more than four hours.

After your transfer in Brig, the onward train continues to Domodossola in Italy. This particular ride isn’t too pretty as you’ll be spending most of it in a tunnel. But that shouldn’t bother you too much as the next leg of the journey is beyond stunning from start to finish.

As you travel through the impressive Centovalli region – which stands for one hundred valleys – you’ll pass several charming villages with old stone houses, ride across tall viaducts and even catch a glimpse of a waterfall or two.

You’re probably going to laugh now because your final station today is called  Locarno FART . An unfortunate name, I know. It’s short for F errovie  A utolinee R egionali T icinesi and translates to “Regional Railway of Ticino.” Any questions? 🙂

  • The Swiss Travel Pass and the Interrail / Eurail Passes are valid on the rides through Italy as well.
  • Upon check-in at your accommodation in Locarno, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket.
  • This beauty lets you use public transport in the whole Canton of Ticino for free for the duration of your stay and gives you several additional discounts. 

Day 6: Free day in the Canton of Ticino

  • spend a day exploring the Canton of Ticino, Switzerland’s warm and sunny south
  • swim in crystal clear and freezing mountain rivers or one of the two big lakes
  • have some of the finest pizza and ice cream – Italian style

Get ready to explore the Italian part of your Switzerland itinerary in all its glory. With the abundance of activities to choose from, you won’t get bored today. Also read: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland

First up, I recommend you head to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca . Both are fantastic for hiking, spending some time by the river or going for a refreshing swim.

Also, don’t forget to bring your picnic on this journey. You’ll find countless opportunities to take a break in both valleys. 

Suggested Things to do

My favourite place is right below the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo. If you prefer calmer waters over cold mountain streams, head to Lago Maggiore or Lago di Lugano. Both lakes provide you with more photo and swimming opportunities than you can imagine.

In case you’re one of those adrenaline junkies, there’s always the 007 bungy at the end of the Verzasca valley. You might have seen this 220-metre (720 feet) dive in the James Bond movie Golden Eye .  If you decide to throw yourself off that wall, please send me a picture. I’d love to see that…

Other popular destinations in Ticino, apart from Locarno, are Lugano and the inspiring little artsy town of Ascona right next to Locarno.

Ascona is definitely worth a visit and if you’re after some delicious pizza and ice cream, it’s the perfect place for a romantic lunch or dinner. You can taste the proximity to Italy in any restaurant here.

I’m aware that one day isn’t anywhere near enough to cover all of these activities. That’s why you’ve got another day here until you return to Zurich tomorrow.

  • The Canton of Ticino is a highly popular holiday destination for the Swiss. If you travel during school holidays, please make sure you book your accommodation in advance.
  • The peace and quiet in the Verzasca and Maggia valleys can be deceiving. As soon as it starts raining further up in the mountains, those streams become a dangerous force of nature.
  • Please check the weather forecast before you head out .
  • In case it does rain further up, keep a safe distance from the water and don’t take a nap on one of the cosy boulders inside the river.
  • People have been surprised by the enormous mass of water and died. I’d hate for you to be one of them.

Day 7: Locarno – Zurich

Day 7 highlights:

  • ride through Gotthard Basistunnel, the world’s longest train tunnel
  • spend another day in the Canton of Ticino
  • take a short trip to Como in Italy

Spend this final day ticking off whatever’s still on your list from yesterday. Alternatively, leave Switzerland again and hop across the border to Italy. 

Not far from Lugano lies the idyllic Como region, the place where George Clooney and other celebrities got married. If you’re curious to find out what Mr. Nespresso saw in this part of the world, today’s your chance. 

The two main spots I recommend visiting in the area are the  city of Como or the village of Menaggio . Both are situated by the shores of Lake Como and will instantly enchant you with their laid-back atmospheres. For the most accurate information on how to get to Menaggio, I suggest you consult with the tourist information in Locarno, Lugano or Como.

Toward the end of the day, make your way back to Locarno and onward to Zurich.  Thanks to the 57 kilometres (35 miles) long Gotthard Basistunnel, which is currently the longest train tunnel in the world, you’ll be in Zurich within two and a half hours. Happy travels

And this concludes our little one-week itinerary through Switzerland. I hope this has given you some inspiration and helped you answer a bunch of your initial questions. 

Train Travel in Switzerland

By the way, you probably noticed I didn’t talk about rental cars in this post. With the fantastic network of public transport that Switzerland is blessed with, there’s really no need for a car. Almost every village, no matter how small and remote, is accessible by train or bus.

This is why I recommend buying yourself one of the two travel passes (Swiss Travel Pass, Interrail for Europeans, Eurail for non-Europeans) for the time of your stay to enjoy your flexibility. Bon voyage.

Explore more Switzerland Travels

  • Ultimate 3 Weeks in Switzerland Road Trip
  • The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
  • How to Travel Switzerland on a Budget
  • 7 of the Best Things to do in Basel, Switzerland
  • Our Best Switzerland Pictures
  • Unique and Crazy Things to do in Switzerland
  • Switzerland Travel Guide

If you enjoyed this Switzerland Itinerary, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning .

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Seraina Zellweger

Seraina Zellweger is a devoted budget traveller who’s been around the world and back. As a native Swiss, she’s made it her mission to give fellow backpackers tips on how to visit Switzerland on a shoestring.In her latest project, she's created a series of guides with itineraries for Switzerland , ranging from 2 to 14* days. For more information, Follow Seraina at LostInSwitzerland / Facebook / Twitter

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16 thoughts on “The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary”

Oh Seriana this looks amazing! My son & I have chosen Switzerland for a week vacation together!! this itinerary sounds great! can you recommend places to stay on this week trip? Thank you so very much! Julie

Thank you so much for sharing this itinerary – My family and I will be visiting mid September 2023 and we are going to follow this route – Thank you so much very kind of you

Where should we stay during this trip? Your help is much appreciated!

Thank you once again Ateka

Really nice schedule. Looking to follow this when I visit Switzerland with my family this summer. To follow this schedule, can you please comment on which city to stay in to make the most use of the time? Thanks.

Great Information! Thanks a ton. Switzerland is undoubtedly blessed with mother nature 🙂

Fab list – but no Geneva? I used to live just across the border in France from Geneva and loved the area (on both sides of the border). Lac de Geneve is well worth seeing and perhaps going on a cruise around. Plus you know – awesome shopping! Gruyeres is another of my favourite spots. Besides all the cheese, I loved the HR Giger museum. Did you visit? If you like the Alien movies it’s definitely one to include on the to do list.

Hello Reeva

Thank you for your comment. Yes, Lake Geneva is fantastic and Gruyères definitely also packs a ton of charm. I’ve visited both places several times and love them. But with Switzerland being blessed with so many awesome destinations, it’s basically impossible to fit everything into a 7-day itinerary;-) That’s why I had to make some cuts. But at least I managed to add parts of Lake Geneva by putting Montreux on the list.

Never heard of the Alien place, though. Thanks for the tip!

All the best, Seraina

I’m glad you like the itinerary and good on you for having Switzerland on your bucketlist. That’s a first step 🙂 I also hope you’ll one day get the chance to come over. All the best, Seraina

Thank you for your comment! Yes, Switzerland certainly is a beauty and despite it being such a small country, there’s heaps to discover. I’m glad you like the article 🙂

Thank you for your comment and yes, I absolutely hope it’ll inspire people to come over to Switzerland once it’s safe to travel again 🙂

Switzerland is the heaven on earth and there are so many things to explore in Switzerland. This blog is more than sufficient to tall you about the beauty of Switzerland.

Thanks for sharing this amazing article!

What an amazing itinerary! I have always included Switzerland on my bucket list for too long! Thanks for this post, now I’m really excited and encouraged to travel there! I hope I can finally get the chance to be there and live every wonderful moment that there is!

Thanks so much for the post Seraina, Switzerland has been on my bucketlidt for sometime but due to being so far away and the high costs of the country I’ve been putting it off for some time.

I absolutely love how you’ve captured the enchanting nature of the locations and inspire the wanderlust, with equally stunning photography.

Thank you Kaylini for your lovely comment! I really hope one day you can make it to Switzerland, despite our high prices. There are some great ways to save money and it will definitely be worth it 🙂 Take care, Seraina

Switzerland , a dream destination of most of the people and your this article can make someone more excited to visit.

Really Amazing When I read your Blog I Feel that I am really Visiting Switzerland Very Informative

Thanks Paul, I’m glad you like the post. And hopefully, you can one day visit Switzerland for real 🙂

Wanderlust Chloe

The Ultimate Switzerland Itinerary

From beautiful lakes and epic mountains, to adventurous activities and chic hotels, this switzerland itinerary takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the country’s highlights..

When it comes to magical European adventures, a trip through Switzerland definitely comes high on the list. It’s a compact enough country to fit a lot into one trip, but diverse enough to see and do a lot.

I love that you can start the day in a cosmopolitan city, by the afternoon you can be cycling past a beautiful lake and by the evening you could be skiing in the mountains! How many destinations offer that much variety?

Jacuzzi time at Hotel Sonne Zermatt, Switzerland

While there are lots of beautiful spots you could visit, I’m going to guide you through a route that offers a bit of everything, and gives you an overview of the best things to do in Switzerland.

It’s a trip I went on December with Preferred Hotels , the world’s largest independent hotel brand, representing 750 hotels, resorts and residences across 85 countries. However, it’d be equally as beautiful (and a lot less snowy) in summer months. Either way, you’ll pass by Lake Geneva, snap photos of the Matterhorn and enjoy all the chocolate and cheese you could dream of! What more could you want on a Swiss road trip?!

Start by watching the video for a flavour of the trip, then find out more about our awesome Switzerland itinerary…

Enjoying the snow in Zermatt, Switzerland

Best time to visit Switzerland

Switzerland is an all-year destination, but you’ll need to decide what kind of holiday you want to go on before deciding when to visit. These are your two main options….

  • A snow-filled, winter wonderland trip, with a stay in the mountains and plenty of icy activities.
  • A sunshine-filled spring or summer trip, where you spend every moment outside, hiking, cycling and enjoying lush valleys.

In terms of temperatures, you can expect highs in summer of 26 degrees in the cities and lows in winter of -30 (in the mountains). With altitude to deal with, you can expect quite a contrast in temperatures between cities like Geneva and high-alpine villages like Zermatt.

I should mention Switzerland is notoriously expensive. There are ways to keep prices down, but I think it’s somewhere to save for a special holiday – perhaps a honeymoon, birthday or anniversary. Enjoy the plush hotels, gourmet restaurants and create some special memories.

Champagne welcome at The Capra, Saas-Fee

How to get to Switzerland

There are plenty of flights to Geneva and Zurich each day. From London it’s a quick trip (under an hour and a half) and if you book a window seat, you’ll be rewarded by stunning views of the Swiss Alps on your journey.

My return flights from London were around £150 (including baggage), booking just three weeks before travelling. If you plan further in advance, or are able to take the earliest flights of the day, you can find deals for under £50 return. While I’ve mentioned it’s probably not a country to visit on a budget, the flights are incredibly reasonable.

Lake Geneva from Montreux, Switzerland

If you’re already based in mainland Europe, there are plenty of trains connecting all the major towns and cities too, including Zurich, Geneva, Bern and Lausanne.

Once you’ve reached Switzerland I’d recommend hiring a car so you can explore the country on your own time. It’s a beautiful country for a road trip, especially once you get into the alps.

If driving doesn’t fill you with joy, then don’t worry – most destinations are accessibly by public transport. You might find it helpful to pick up Swiss Travel Pass which covers transport in the country by rail, road and waterway, and is available for trips between 3 days and 15 days.

How long to spend in Switzerland?

I’d recommend spending five days in Switzerland to really feel like you’ve had a flavour of the country as a whole. However, if you’re limited to a shorter length of time, you could cram a decent overview of the country into three well-planned days.

A 5-Day Switzerland Itinerary

There are plenty of places you could visit, but I’ve focused on three main areas – Lausanne / Lake Geneva, Saas-Fee in the Swiss Alps, and Zermatt close to the Matterhorn.

To see the exact route, plus lots of recommendations, check out my Switzerland itinerary map here . 

LAUSANNE ITINERARY

Explore the city of lausanne.

Lausanne is a very pretty city, with a stunning Gothic cathedral, historic buildings with colourful facades and a buzzy shopping scene. I’d recommend a wander through the city centre, climbing the Escaliers du Marché (wooden stairs that are over 400 years old) to the cathedral, then climbing to the top of the tower for a great panoramic view of the city.

Exploring Lausanne city centre

Afterwards, head down to Les Arches , a unique bar set inside the archways of the Grand Pont bridge. The bar looks out over place de l’Europe, so it’s the perfect people watching spot. Throughout the festive period, you’ll find Christmas markets around this area too.

Lausanne Cathedral

Enjoy views of Lake Geneva

Regardless of the route you pick for your Switzerland itinerary, it’s likely you’ll pass Lake Geneva, or Lac Lémon as I affectionately heard it referred to in Lausanne. 

We didn’t have the best weather during our time in Lausanne, but on a clear day the views from Ouchy (Lausanne’s port area) are absolutely spectacular. Take a stroll along the edge of Lake Geneva and you’ll see boats coming and going, with beautiful views of the snow-topped Swiss Alps in the background. There are plenty of restaurants in this part of the city, many with beautiful lake views.

I took these photos from Montreux, a short drive from Lausanne. Just look at how clear the water is!

Lake Geneva from Montreux, Switzerland

Stay at a luxurious hotel in Lausanne  

We checked into five-star Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa in Lausanne, one of Preferred Hotel’s collection in Switzerland. I’d liken it to staying at The Ritz in London!

Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa, Lausanne

It’s historic, grand and you’ll feel like a princess as you wander from marble-clad lobbies to plush lounge areas. There’s a fine-dining brasserie, winter chalet featuring an indulgent cheese-filled menu, a cocktail bar and cigar lounge. 

The brasserie is overseen by Michelin-starred Chef Marc Haeberlin,  and features locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.

One of the highlights for me was the spa. It may have been around zero degrees outside, but the steamy jacuzzi area made me feel toasty! 

Check availability and latest prices at the Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa here

Spa at Royal Savoy Hotel and Spa, Lausanne

Learn about fragrance in Lausanne

On my first day in Lausanne I visited perfume expert Philippe K ’s fragrance shop for a special Art Of Fragrance experience. The concept is unique; over a few hours I’d have a consultation with Philippe, who would analyse my personality and my connection with fragrances, then match my results with a perfume within the store.

Philippe K, Lausanne

It wasn’t a simple analysis though. I’d liken it to a counselling session with a psychologist, who happened to know about perfume! I learned about myself, relieved myself of some burdens I’d been carrying, and left with a fragrance I’d never have selected alone. It was a revelation!

Philippe K, Lausanne

The fun continued with dinner at the Royal Savoy Lausanne’s Brasserie, where the barman created a cocktail which complemented my chosen fragrance!

Cocktails - part of the Art of Fragrance experience

SAAS-FEE ITINERARY

Stay at a luxurious mountain hotel in saas-fee.

Saas-Fee is one of the most famous ski resorts in Switzerland, so where better to stay on a special holiday than the most luxurious hotel in the village: The Capra . It’s another in Preferred Hotels collection, and is a boutique hotel, in a wooden-chalet style. With 29 rooms, a personalised style of service and a large, cosy lounge, it’s a real home from home. 

The Capra, Saas-Fee

The hotel’s décor oozes warmth, with a large fireplace in the lounge, flickery candles, plush cushions and an old-fashioned drinks trolley. We stayed in one of the penthouse suites, which boasted incredible views over the snowy roofs of the village, straight to the Swiss Alps.

While we weren’t skiing on this trip, the hotel has its own ski-in ski-out cabin right by the pistes, with heated boot racks and equipment lockers, meaning you’ll never need to lug your stuff to the slopes. Talk about five-star service!

My favourite place at The Capra? Peak Health Club – the hotel’s very own spa. I didn’t expect a small hotel to have such a large spa. There’s an indoor swimming pool, outdoor jacuzzi, wellness area with sauna, steam rooms and lounge areas, plus a yoga studio and treatment rooms.

Peak Health Club at The Capra, Saas-Fee

The hotel also has a gourmet restaurant (open to non-guests too), serving up sophisticated and tasty dishes. From nourishing poke bowls at lunchtime, to steak and fish dishes for dinner. There’s even a sommelier who is happy to pair dishes with exciting Swiss wines.

Poke bowl for lunch at The Capra, Saas-Fee

Whether you’re skiing, fancy a relaxing break in the Swiss Alps or want to head off on some day trips, The Capra is the perfect base in Saas-Fee.

Check availability and latest prices at The Capra here

View from our balcony at The Capra, Saas-Fee

Catch the cable car to the Ice Pavilion and highest revolving restaurant

On our final morning in Saas-Fee, we well and truly got our Swiss Alps fix! We caught two cable cars and a train to reach Mittelallalin – a 3,500 peak just below Allalinhorn. Once there, we’d planned to go inside the Ice Pavilion , but sadly it was closed for safety reasons (apparently there had been some movement within the glacier). Ordinarily though, you can head inside the glacier and see a world of incredible ice sculptures, plus experience an avalanche simulation.

View from Mittelallalin, Saas-Fee

We did however enjoy mesmerising views from the viewing platform, before heading inside to Allalin Restaurant , the world’s highest revolving restaurant. It was a great spot to warm up with a frothy hot chocolate!

If you’re skiing in Saas-Fee you’ll probably be familiar with this area, as lots of people start their day on the pistes outside, but if you’re sightseeing like us, it’s somewhere I’d definitely recommend!

View from Mittelallalin, Saas-Fee

Hike around Saas-Fee

We spent one morning hiking around the local area with expert guide Alex from Ski Zenit. We’d planned to go on a snowshoe hike, but with no fresh snow, we decided to tackle the route in hiking boots.

Winter hike in Saas-Fee

Even in winter, there are some lovely hiking tracks, taking you around the outside of the village, through pretty alpine forests, around a glacial lake, across the base of the ski slopes and up to Gletschergrotte, a small bar and restaurant by the piste.

Gletschergrotte, Saas-Fee

It was packed with skiers, stopping for their mid-morning pints, gluhweins and rostis, and a lovely place to appreciate the beautiful snowy mountains in the sunshine.

ZERMATT ITINERARY

Stay in a luxurious hotel with views of the matterhorn.

This was my second trip to Zermatt in winter . I was prepared for the spectacular views of the Matterhorn and the picture postcard town of wooden chalets and fairy lights. However, this time was extra special as we stayed at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof – one of the most famous hotels in Switzerland, and another in Preferred Hotels’ collection.

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Anyone who has been to Zermatt will know this hotel. The magical building sits in a great position in the centre of the town, with a huge outdoor bar area and grand entrance. As Zermatt is car-free, the hotel has a very special mode of transport to collect guests from the train station – an old-fashioned horse and carriage, pulled by two beautiful white horses. Yep, you’re guaranteed to feel like royalty when you arrive at a five-star hotel like this!

Horse and carriage at Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

The hotel itself is grand and chateau-like, with plush furnishings, glamorous chandeliers and a beautiful spa.

Foodies will adore this hotel, as it’s home to three restaurants – Brasserie Lusi, fondue haven SayCheese! And Michelin starred Prato Borni.

We stayed in a lovely suite on the third floor, with huge windows looking out towards the Matterhorn. It was cosy yet elegant – the perfect base for a few days of adventures in the area.

View from our window at Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Check availability and latest prices at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof here

Train from Zermatt to Gornergrat  

The train from Zermatt to Gornergrat is one of the best things to do in Switzerland, and along with the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz, this ride is known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The journey from Zermatt takes around thirty minutes, stopping at a few places in the mountains along the way. We timed our trip for first light, and enjoyed some incredible window views of the Matterhorn illuminated by the sun.

Zermatt to Gornergrat train

The vistas are incredible, and while in the mornings you might be jostling with skiers (who use the train to reach the top pistes), you’re likely to have it almost all to yourself on the descent. For the entire journey up, I was mesmerised by the view of the Matterhorn, barely taking my eyes off it! As you climb up the mountain you have the opportunity to see it from different angles, admiring its impressively sharp angles.

Skiers at Gornergrat

The final stop is Gornergrat train station at a height of 3,100m. There you can take in the panoramic views, visit the hotel, or warm up with a hot chocolate in the café. This is definitely a trip I’d recommend if you’re visiting Zermatt during your trip.

If you’re looking for other things to do, be sure to read my comprehensive guide to visiting Zermatt in winter .

Enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue in Zermatt  

During our trip to Zermatt, the snow same down pretty heavily, so I was happy to not only warm up in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof’s luxurious spa, but also enjoy dinner at SayCheese! Restaurant. Unsurprisingly, the entire menu revolves around one of my favourite Swiss ingredients – CHEESE!

Zermatt in Switzerland

We were ready for our fondue fix, but for an even more indulgent option, we ordered one with added truffle. It was absolutely heavenly. I loved the cosy atmosphere, friendly service and was 99% cheese by the time I rolled out of the restaurant!

SayCheese truffle fondue

I hope you’ve found this Switzerland itinerary helpful for planning your dream trip. While this route will take you to three of the most beautiful spots in the country, you could extend the trip with additional stops or day trips to Lake Lucerne (with its spectacular Chapel Bridge), Interlaken, the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Grindelwald, Zurich and Geneva.

If you’re looking for more travel tips for your holiday in Switzerland, have a read of these guides before you go:

  • 17 Unique Hotels in Switzerland
  • Zermatt, Switzerland: Things To Do In Zermatt For Non-Skiers
  • Where To Stay In Geneva, Switzerland

A big thanks to Preferred Hotels for hosting me in Switzerland and collaborating with me on this content. As always, all opinions are my own. Preferred Hotels are the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 750 hotels, resorts, and residences across 85 countries. Find out more here .

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The Ultimate Switzerland Itinerary

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Switzerland itinerary: 3 to 14 days [2023]

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Famous for the snow-capped mountains, Alpine villages and thundering waterfalls, Switzerland is a bucket list place for many adventurers.

Switzerland is influenced by its many neighbors, and yet, it has its own unique identity. The postcard views are abundant throughout this country, whether you spend time in cities or venture into the mountains. 

My Switzerland itinerary will show you the best places beyond the popular staples like Zermatt or Lauterbrunnen that sometimes can feel a bit touristy. 

Buckle up and get ready to put some cool places on your bucket list!

PRO TIP: Want to avoid mistakes while traveling this country? Check my top tips for Switzerland travel that will help you enjoy your Switzerland itinerary without falling into most common tourist pitfalls.

Basel is a great city to include on your Switzerland itinerary.

Where to begin your Switzerland itinerary

If you arrive to Switzerland from outside Europe, it makes sense to begin your trip to Switzerland from Zurich , Geneva and Basel that have international connections. Since most travelers spend about 5-7 days in Switzerland, planning your trip requires time and preparation, as there are too many places in Switzerland that are worth a stop.

PRO TIP: If you are not flying to Zurich airport, another option is to fly into Milan Malpensa Airport, which is under one hour from the border of Italy and Switzerland. This way, you can start your Switzerland road trip in Ticino, a southern canton that boasts a Mediterranean flair .

Your Switzerland itinerary: a complete overview

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and a good starting point for a classic Switzerland itinerary.

Day 1: Zurich

Where to stay: Hotel Seehof

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and also one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Located on the shores of Lake Zurich, this city is a great stating point for your itinerary because it offers a good intro to the country and has plenty of things to keep you busy for a few days.

✅ Read my complete guide on how to get from Zurich to Lucerne

Best places to visit in Zurich

Old Town Zurich has centuries-old architecture and historic landmarks such as the old protestant church Grossmunster , Peter Kirche and Framunster .

To get a panoramic shot of Zurich, climb to the top of Grossmunster . There, you will be able to get on an observation platform and see Fraumunster , the Limmat River and the Old Town of Zurich .

✅ Check my complete guide to Uber in Zurich to get around the city quickly

If you want to have some fun, head to Langstrasse that has many restaurants and nightlife. In summer, mark your calendar for the biggest annual event in Zurich, The Street Parade , which is also the most attended techno parade in Europe.

Best day trips from Zurich

Switzerland is one of the most scenic countries in Europe famous for its mountainous landscape and beautiful medieval towns.

You can also enjoy Uetliberg , the closest mountain to Zurich from which you can soak in the views of the area; shop till you drop along the Bahnhofstrasse , Zurich’s shopping district where you can find many stores from H&M to luxury boutiques; or visit one of Zurich museums like the Swiss National Museum to learn about the history of the country.

Best free things to do in Zurich

Zurich is an expensive city, and you can spend a pretty penny here without trying hard. To stay within your budget, take advantage of the free things to do in Zurich.

Take a stroll along the Limit River that flows through Old Town of Zurich or grab some food and enjoy the views on one of the benches along the river bank. You can also walk to the top of Lindenhof Hill a few minutes away from Old Town of Zurich from where you can get amazing views of the city.

If you are short on time, book your sightseeing tour of Zurich which will help you to see the city’s main highlights just in a day. 

Luzern is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland and a popular stop on a Switzerland itinerary.

Day 2: Luzern

Where to stay: Hotel Des Alpes

Luzern (Lucerne in English) is a classic Swiss town: It’s compact, it has a nice Old Town and it is easy to get around on foot. Luzern is about 50 minutes south of Zurich by train, and makes for a perfect day trip.

✅ Learn about where to stay in Lucerne

The city’s signature landmark, Kapellburcke (the Chapel Bridge) is what draws a lot of tourists. However, there are plenty of other things to do in Luzern such as the old town, Musegg Wall , and Hofkirche . 

Best places to visit in Luzern

One of the best places to visit in Luzern is the Swiss Museum of Transport . The most popular museum in Switzerland, this place showcases road signs and everything that related to different modes of transport, and makes for a fun afternoon visit.

One of the most popular things to do in Luzern is Mount Rigi. Take a boat from Lucerne to Vitznau and get on the cogwheel train to the summit of Mount Rigi.

Another way to get to Mount Rigi is by a boat. Weggis dock is 15 minutes uphill to the cable car (Luftseilbahn). From there, you can take a 10-minute cable car to the resort Rigi-Kaltbad, and catch the red cogwheel train on the Vitznau–Rigi line to the peak of Mount Rigi.

Finish your day in Luzern by taking a cable car from the valley station in Kriens near Lucerne to Mount Pilatus where you can hike and see a wonderful panorama of Luzern.

Best things to do in Switzerland is exploring small towns and hiking in the Alps.

PRO TIP: If you are in Switzerland only for a few days and don’t plan on buying the Swiss Rail Pass, download Omio App for booking your train tickets around Europe. I have used this app numerous times, and really loved how easy and simple it was to use.

Best tours of Lucerne

Bern is a capital of Switzerland and a a gateway to Bernese Oberland famous for its snow-capped peaks.

Day 3: Bern

Where to stay: Hotel Jardin Bern

Catch a 1-hour train from Luzern to Bern and spend a day in the Swiss capital.

Bern boasts a medieval old town on the shores of the Aare River. One of the most notable feature of Bern’s Old Town are the arcade-style buildings where you can find many stores, restaurants and cafes. 

While Bern lies slightly off the popular tourist route, it is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, if you are looking to see more culture of the country.

Zytglogge is one of the highlights of Bern, and you can visit it with a guided tour during 10 days in Switzerland.

Visitors enjoy sightseeing in Old City Bern that has many landmarks such as Zytglogge , a medieval clock tower with moving figurines; The Bern Minster , a Swiss Gothic cathedral built during the reformation era; and many typical Swiss fountains – the most famous of them is “ Kindlifresserbrunnen ” which is literally translated “child eating fountain. 

The unsettling figure portrays a man eating babies out of a bag – Read more about this sculpture and other things to do in Bern, Switzerland .

PRO TIP: Use public fountains to fill up your water bottle. Tap water in this country is very high quality, so you can save money instead of buying bottled water.

Best tours of Bern

Schilthon mountain is an often-overlooked spot on a classic Swiss itinerary, which is a perfect alternative to popular Jungfrau.

Bernese Oberland

Where to stay: Hotel Regina

Bernese Oberland is one of the most breathtaking parts of Switzerland with tall snow-powdered mountains, deep valleys carved by glaciers and green Alpine meadows that most people picture when they think of this country. 

Here you can visit Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn , some of the most well known mountains in the region. 

You can get to Schilthorn from Murren via Winteregg railway station. While tickets are available at the ticket office and online, book your tickets in advance because it’s one of the most popular places in the country.

Day 4: Schilthorn. Skip Jungfrau

 Jungfrau is on everybody’s bucket list.

It’s crowded and expensive, and while being on top of it is cool, you don’t get to see the actual mountain. Visit Schilthorn , a less expensive, and also less crowded mountain that boasts a great panoramic view of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau . It’s a perfect alternative to Jungfrau!

After soaking in views of Schilthorn , stop in a revolving restaurant Piz Gloria for a delicious meal where you can get 360-degrees views of the Swiss Alps without getting outside. Here you can also learn about one of James Boys movies that was filed here back in the day!

Best tours of Schilthorn

Bernese Oberland boasts many picturesque mountain towns. One of the most popular villages in the Jungfrau region is Grindelwald that has  hotels , restaurants and stores.

Other areas to stay near Jungfrau are Wengen, Mürren and Lauterbrunnen. 

PRO TIP: While a day is often enough to check cities off your bucket list, this is not the case with the Swiss mountains. If you want to hike and enjoy Bernese Oberland and visit places like Thun and Interlaken without rushing, spend from 3 to 5 days there.

Lauterbrunnen is a scenic village and  a gateway to Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland.

Day 5: Lauterbrunnen

Where to stay: Hotel Silberhorn

Your trip isn’t complete without venturing into the mountains – one of the most popular things to do in Switzerland, and there’s no better place to start than Lauterbrunnen Valley – a crown jewel of the Jungfrau region that boasts wonderful postcard views of the Swiss Alps.

Nestled between the gigantic mountains, this glacial valley is a popular stop for mountaineers, base jumpers and skiers because it offers a quick access to some of the most famous mountain peaks in Switzerland.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley has dozens of thundering waterfalls which make it a bucket list for travelers from all over the world. Wandering around here is a pure joy, and although Lauterbrunnen is touristy, it will be one the main highlights on your itinerary. 

You can reach Lauterbrunnen from Bern by train via a connection in Interlaken. Check the SBB website to find out how to get Swiss Rail Pass and plan your journey.

Thun Castle is one of the most popular landmarks in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SWITZERLAND!

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Switzerland, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form. 

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also create suggestions on flights, hotels and activities.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Day 6: Zermatt

Where to stay: Wellness Hotel Alpenhof

Located at the foothills of the legendary Matterhorn, Zermatt is a famous resort in the canton Valais, that is a popular stop for many travelers.

Here you can ski in the middle of the summer, reach the dizzying heights thanks to the wonders of the Swiss engineering, or climb one of the world’s most famous mountains.  

On a clear day, Matterhorn can be seen from several points in the area such as Gornergat, Rothorn and Glacier Paradise , the highest cable car in Europe. It’s important to plan your trip to Zermatt on a clear day, so you can see this world-famous peak and get the panoramic views of the Swiss Alps surrounding it.

Best tours of Zermatt

 To get a good taste of Zermatt, spend 2-3 days in the area. Some of the most popular activities here are mountain biking, skiing, ice skating and hiking. The Zermatt village has plenty of restaurants and accommodation from simple hostels like Zermatt Youth Hostel to luxury 5-star hotels like Mont Cervin Palace in the heart of Zermatt.

If you are looking for good hotels in Zermatt, I recommend Agoda , a great website for finding accommodations.

You can reach Zermatt by train from Interlaken in just over 2 hours,   but you will have to change trains two times.

The Italian Canton of Ticino is a must-stop during your trip to Switzerland.

Day 7: Ticino

Where to stay: Hotel Victoria

OK, here’s the deal: After visiting Bernese Oberland, Zermatt and other, many travelers go to Geneva or back to Zurich to catch their flight back home.  

I want to give you a different option if you are looking to see the different side of the country.

The Italian-speaking canton Ticino is a true gem that boasts Mediterranean flare, warm climate and the architecture similar to that in Northern Italy. It is home to some of the best places in the country if you want to explore the country off the beaten track.

Locarno is a hidden gem of Switzerland that many travelers end up missing.

PRO TIP:  Although you can get around most of the country by public transportation, Ticino is one place where  renting a car  makes more sense. The region has many small towns and scenic overlooks, and while you can visit them by public transportation, it will take longer.

👉 Exploring Ticino is a great idea, if you have a little bit more time, like 10 days in Switzerland.

Located in Ticino, Morcote is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland

Places to visit in Ticino

Some of the most beautiful places in Ticino are Lugano, Morcote , Locarno and Valle Verzasca.I recommend setting one day aside for your trip to Valle Verzasca where you can find an unspoiled nature and charming mountain towns such as Sonogno and Lavertezzo .

Located in the Canton of Ticino, Valle Verzasca is a great places to visit during your 10 days in Switzerland

To enjoy some of the best places to visit in Ticino, spend no less than 3 days in the region. You can easily spend a week here because there is so much to do in terms of culture and outdoors, but some travelers stay in Ticino for just a couple of days.

GOOD TO KNOW: Ticino is a common stop for travelers who head south to Italy through Switzerland. From Ticino, you can quickly reach Lake Como and Milan, which makes it a perfect stop if you are going to Italy. 

Take a drive on Gotthard Pass

If you travel Switzerland during summer, and plan to visit Ticino, take a scenic route along the Gotthard Pass in the Swiss Alps that connects northern and southern parts of the country. The highest point of the pass is located at the elevation of nearly 7,000 feet and the ride along the pass offers 360-degree views of the Alps. It is a perfect addition to your road trip if you have a car rental .

Located near Geneva, Lausanne is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.

Day 9: Lausanne

Where to stay: Discovery Hotel

If you continue your trip in Geneva , don’t forget to add Lausanne to your road trip.

The fourth-largest city in the country, Lausanne was built on three hills. Here you can get a good exercise by climbing to the historic old town where you can find the ornate Lausanne cathedral and marvel at Lake Geneva surrounded by the French Alps.

Lausanne has a relaxed pace, which makes it a perfect place to chill and take a boat ride along Lake Geneva if you want to visit Vevey, Montreux and Nyon.

Lausanne makes for a perfect stop, if you want to see one of the biggest cities in Switzerland famous for its scenery and culture.

Lausanne is also a home of the International Olympic Committee. The city is located in the wine-making region, and so this is your perfect chance to try some quality Swiss wine and treat yourself to some delicious sweet treats. 

Best day trips from Lausanne

Lavaux wine terraces is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland

Day 10: Lavaux

Lavaux is a hidden gem, and you should include it on your itinerary before it becomes too popular!

 A UNESCO heritage site,  Lavaux,  is a district comprised of terraced vineyards stretching about 19 miles along the shores of Lake Geneva. 

These wine terraces are ultimately one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland thanks to the cute villages on the slopes and stunning landscapes. Wander through Lavaux vineyards and sip some locally produced wine when you come here.

Lavaux wine terraces make for one of the best day trips from Geneva, Switzerland.

Lavaux is just east of Lausanne and can be accessed via a combination of boat or train and a boat from the city. It’s a perfect place to put on your itinerary if you want to take a break from the crowded spots, and a boat ride along Lake Geneva that will bring you here from Lausanne is an absolute must!

Castle de Chillon

Chillon Castle (or Chateau De Chillon) is a fairytale-like castle located along Lake Geneva near Montreux. One of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland, this medieval fortress is a great day trip from Geneva, Lausanne and other towns in the region of Lake Geneva, so if you have a few spare days, stop by.

Chilon, Switzerland is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe that you should visit during your 10 days in Switzerland.

How much time do you need for Switzerland?

While a classic Switzerland itinerary is about 7 days, I recommend at least 10 days in Switzerland for your trip which will allow you to see the country without rushing through. This country has too much scenic beauty and in my opinion, it’s one of those places where choosing a path less travelled and taking time to enjoy it really pays off.

Spending extra time in places like Bernese Oberland and Ticino will help you see places beyond the tourist playbook and create memories for lifetime. I suggest 14 days in Switzerland for the best experience.

Popular scenic routes by train in Switzerland

  • Bernina Express Switzerland – Nicknamed “from glaciers to palms,” Bernina Express will take you from Chur through the high Alps to the palm-fringed promenades of Ticino. Taking this scenic route is one of the most popular things to do, so get your tickets ahead of time!
  • The Glacier Express – This scenic ride will take you from Zermatt to St. Moritz. It’s a great option if you want to visit the famous ski resorts.
  • The Golden Pass –  This train route is from Luzern to Montreux and is a perfect option if you are looking for an easy option that can be done in a short time during your itinerary.

Basel is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland

Bonus: Other places to add to your trip

If you have extra time, consider adding several other destinations to your itinerary. 

  • Basel –  Switzerland’s third most populous city, Basel sits on the Rhine River near France and Germany. It has the most museums in Switzerland and also offers rich architecture and history.
  • Iseltwald – A gorgeous village along the shores of Lake Brienz, Iseltwald is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland thanks to its fairytale-lake architecture, and opportunities for hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding on the gorgeous lake.
  • Ticino –  Exploring Ticino takes time. Here you will find beautiful mountain villages, green valleys and tons of scenic hikes. I suggest 5-7 days in Ticino, so adding an additional time to your Swiss trip will help you see more of this stunning place.
  • Bernese Oberland –  This is the part of Switzerland where you should add the most time. Bernese Oberland boasts gorgeous scenery and has many hikes and scenic overlooks.
  • Kleine Scheidegg – A mountain pass with gorgeous view of the surrounding Alps, Kleine Scheidegg Sita at an elevation of 2,061 m (6,762 ft) between the peaks of Eiger and Lauberhorn in Bernese Oberland. It’s a popular starting point for hikes in the area and a perfect sunset watching spot.
  • St. Moritz –  Located in Eastern Switzerland, St. Moritz is a popular ski resort in winter and scenic holiday destination in summer that can be accessed via Bernina Express.

Bern is a capital of the country and is a perfect place to include in your 10 days in Switzerland itinerary.

3 Days in Switzerland itinerary

Three days in Switzerland is a really short time. 

If you decide to visit a few destinations in 3 days, you will be able to see only the most basic highlights. But if you stick to one city or area such as Zurich or the Bern region, you will be able to get a better feel of the area.

  • Zurich – Arrive to Zurich and spend a day exploring the city.
  • Bern   – Spend a day in Bern before catching a train to Interlaken in the evening.
  • Interlaken – Catch a 50-minute train to Interlaken, gateway to Bernese Oberland before leaving back to Zurich. 

Ascona is a hidden gem in Europe and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ticino, Switzerland

10 Days in Switzerland itinerary

10 days in Switzerland is enough for a classic itinerary around the country, as it allows you to visit more places. If you are visiting the country for the first time, 10 days in Switzerland is enough to get a taste of the country and decide what places you want to visit next time. 

  • Zurich – Arrive to Zurich and after taking some rest explore the city. 
  • Luzern – Take a trip to Luzern from Zurich in the morning. Spend a day in Luzern. Finish your day by taking a cable car ride from the valley station in Kriens near Lucerne to Mount Pilatus.
  • Bern – Catch a train to Bern from Luzern and spend a day in the Swiss Capital. Get on a train to Interlaken in the evening from where you can get to the Jungfrau region.
  • Lauterbrunnen  – Spend a day exploring Lauterbrunnen and take a cable car to Murren and Schilthorn. Explore mountain villages Grindelwald and Wengen. Do some hiking.
  • Zermatt – Take a day trip to Zermatt via train from Interlaken. Spend a day hiking around Zermatt and take a cable car to Glacier Paradise to enjoy the views of Matterhorn.
  • Geneva via Lausanne – Finish your trip in Geneva via a stop in Lausanne.

10 days in Switzerland is a good amount of time to explore some of the highlights of the country.

14 Days in Switzerland itinerary

2 weeks in Switzerland is a good amount of time that will allow you to visit the most popular destinations and hit a couple of less touristy spots. If you can spend 14 days in Switzerland, you can take your time and enjoy some of the most popular landmarks like Zermatt and Interlaken without rushing.

I recommend spending a bit more time in a specific region during 2 weeks in Switzerland, like Bernese Oberland, Ticino or Zermatt.

  • Lugano – arrive to Lugano from Milan via a train ride or by car. Spend 3 days in the Canton of Ticino. Besides, Lugano some of the places to Ticino are Ascona, Bellinzona, Valley Verzasca and Locarno. 
  • Zermatt – Take a train from Lugano to Zermatt. Spend 2-3 days in the area. 
  • Interlaken – Continue from Zermatt to Interlaken. Spend 4 days exploring Bernese Oberland.
  • Bern/Basel – After spending 4 days in the mountains, head to Bern or Basel for 1 day.
  • Geneva – Catch a train to Geneva via a stop in Lausanne. Spend 2 days exploring the Lake Geneva region where you can visit Lavaux, Chillon Castle and Vevey.
  • Luzern – From Geneva, head to Luzern for a day.
  • Zurich – Finish your itinerary with a day trip to Zurich before leaving the country.

How to get around Switzerland?

The best way to travel Switzerland is by train. 

Getting around Switzerland by train is quick and sometimes less expensive than renting a car. The Swiss cities are walkable and have good public transportation, so you don’t always need to rent a car , especially if your itinerary is mostly based around visiting cities. Get your Swiss Rail Pass ahead of the trip.

Renting a car in Switzeland

Renting a car in Switzerland can be pricey. In addition to your rental vehicle, you have to cover gas and parking fees which add up as you spend more days on the road. Also, Switzerland has many speed radars that will give you a steep fine when you drive too fast. 

Following the rules really pays off here! 

On the other side, renting a car allows you to take a ride along many mountain passes and not worry about having to catch your next train. I suggest DiscoverCars , a great car rental company that offers cars at competitive rates in many popular destinations in Switzerland.

Traveling Switzerland by train

If you plan on traveling in Switzerland by train and bus consider  buying the Swiss Rail Pass.  It allows you to get on a train, bus and tour boats. It also provides free admission into many museums in Switzerland and discounts on many cable cars and funiculars.

PRO TIP: Download the SBB app  on your phone to check train schedules, platforms, and connections. You can even book your train tickets on the app ahead of your trip.

What to take on your trip

To plan your trip, you need to get a few things that will help you make your trip easier. I’m going to give you a quick run down to prepare for your adventure.

  • Universal adapter – Electronics from mainland Europe, North America or Asia will not charge in Switzerland without a proper adaptor. That’s probably one of the most important things you should get for your trip if you don’t want to overpay for it while on the road.
  • Insurance – You shouldn’t go on a multi-week international trip without proper insurance whether you plan to spend your time in Switzerland or continue to other countries. 
  • Good hiking shoes – A pair of good hiking shoes and proper gear are musts if you include hiking in the mountains on your itinerary.
  • Sunscreen – The sun can be brutal at high altitudes. When you go high in the mountains, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn.

Frequently asked questions about Switzerland

Exploring the village is one of the best things to do in Morcote, Switzerland

What’s the currency in Switzerland?

The official currency of Switzerland is Swiss Frank. You can pay with credit cards almost anywhere within Switzerland, however, you should still carry some cash with you while you travel.

What language is spoken in Switzerland?

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansch. English is widely spoken and understood in most parts of the country.

Do I need a visa for Switzerland?

Whether you need a visa for Switzerland or not depends on what country you are from and what’s going to be the purpose of your visit. There are two types of visas for Switzerland: 

Schengen Visa, type C which allows you to enter the country and stay for up to 90 days within 180 days.

National Visa which allows for a stay in Switzerland longer than 90 days.

How much time do you need for Switzerland itinerary?

Plan no less than a week for your trip if you want to see the highlights of the country. Switzerland is a small but an incredibly scenic country, and you can spend months discovering its fairytale-like cities, small mountain villages and hiking in the Alps. If you can afford to spend 14 days in Switzerland, you will be able to enjoy some of the most amazing landmarks in the country without rushing.

How to plan your Switzerland trip?

While Switzerland is known as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, it’s also very expensive. That’s why you should create a budget and carefully plan your expenses ahead of your trip. Staying in budget hotels, cooking your food and skipping overpriced tourist attractions and using the Swiss Travel Pass can save you a good chunk of change.

After all, visiting one of the most expensive countries in Europe doesn’t have to break your bank. 

Best travel resources for planning your trip

Whether you need to book a car, organize a tour or book a flight, consider using some of my suggested services.

Agoda.com  – a great website for budget accommodations. Since hotels in Switzerland can be expensive, this platform comes in very handy for planning your trip to Switzerland.

WorldNomads  – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road while traveling Switzerland.

Safety Wing  – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row. 

GetYourGuide  – Thinking about booking a tour? Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers great deals and top-notch guides in some of the most popular places.

DiscoverCars  – There’s nothing like exploring the Swiss Mountains at your own pace. Consider renting a car at Discover Cars if you want more freedom while traveling.

CheapoAir.com  – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights. 

Booking.com  – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts. 

Kate Abroad

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate 2024 Itinerary

Dive into the heart of Switzerland with our ultimate one week in Switzerland itinerary, designed for travellers eager to experience the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture at a fast-pace.

From the majestic peaks of the Alps to the serene waters of Lake Geneva, this guide promises a journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re conquering the slopes, exploring historic cities, or indulging in the world-famous Swiss chocolate and cheese, we’ve got everything you need to make your Swiss adventure truly remarkable.

Switzerland’s compact size and efficient transport system make it possible to explore a variety of landscapes and experiences within a short period.

Here’s how to make the most out of a week in Switzerland, covering Geneva, Interlaken, Zermatt, and Zurich.

Getting around Switzerland in one week

Switzerland is unsurprisingly super easy to get around due to the combo of a small land size and a very efficient train system.

We did this full Switzerland 7 day trip by train and found it incredibly easy, however you could also hire a car and drive yourself around. Just be careful on the mountainous roads that can be snowy and icy in winter.

We booked most of our train tickets via Trainline , a site that I use for all UK and European trips . You do need to make separate seat reservations on the MOB site for the Golden Express though.

You can also look into a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card which can save you money, depending on your age and number of trips.

It’s best to book the longer journeys a few weeks in advance since they can fill up, but you can book the shorter legs around Interlaken the day before you travel without any issues.

7 Day Switzerland Itinerary

Day 1: geneva.

Start your Swiss adventure in Geneva, the city of peace. Begin with a stroll through the Old Town (Vieille Ville), home to the stunning St. Peter’s Cathedral. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

In the afternoon, visit the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations, for a guided tour. It’s a bit of a process to register because of security and needs to be done well in advance of your visit but definitely worth the hassle.

Alternatively, feed your sweet tooth with a chocolate-themed walking tour visiting some of tiger many artisan chocolatiers based in the city.

Later, unwind by Lake Geneva and marvel at the Jet d’Eau, one of the world’s tallest water fountains. It’s a bit underwhelming but has to be done.

Conclude your day in the bohemian district of Carouge, with its Mediterranean-style architecture and vibrant markets. Dine at one of the local restaurants to savor Swiss-French cuisine.

water jet on lake Geneva on a sunny day

Days 2-4: Interlaken and Surroundings

Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, serves as the perfect base to explore the Bernese Oberland’s breathtaking landscapes.

You could choose to stay a night in each of the different towns but we found it easier to settle in one hotel for a few nights and there is a much bigger accomodation selection in Interlaken.

Geneva to Interlaken is 3-4 hours by train, depending on which route you take. We took the scenic route which involves the regional train to Montreux and then the Golden Pass train to Interlaken.

The Golden Pass is more of a luxury tourist train but it’s not too pricey and worth it for the views.

boat on lake with mountains in the background Switzerland

Day 2: Interlaken

Spend some time exploring the township and wandering along the beautiful river path with views up to the mountains.

Interlaken is the paragliding capital of the world, with dozens of gliders visible in the skies year-round. If you’re feeling adventurous definitely book a paraglide in Interlaken , otherwise you can head to Hohematte park to watch them land.

Take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

This is an insanely steep railway that may not suit those who aren’t good with heights. You can also hike up to the view point in around 1 hour, find trail directions here .

Unfortunately, the funicular doesn’t run during the winter but depending on the weather you may still be able to hike and it’s worth going to the trailhead have look around.

Spend the afternoon on a scenic boat tour on either Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, each offering unique landscapes and charming lakeside villages. Or up the ante with a jet boat , kayak or bike tour – Interlaken is big on adventure activities.

In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Hohenweg Promenade, lined with hotels and flower gardens, and dine in a restaurant with views of the Jungfrau. We enjoyed Cafe de Paris that does all sorts of decadent rosti.

Day 3: Day Trip to Lauterbrunnen

The trip from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen is just short 20-minute train ride covering around 12 km, providing quick access to stunning valley views. Trains leave regularly from Interlaken Ost station.

Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley, famed for its 72 waterfalls. Don’t miss the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier waterfalls inside the mountain.

You can hike up to the waterfall in summer to get the best up-close views.

In the afternoon, take a cable car to the car-free village of Mürren for more stunning Alpine views and a peaceful evening stroll.

The network of cable cars around this part of the Swiss Alps is incredible and simply enjoying the scenery from the gondola is a great experience in itself.

waterfalls and mountains in lauterbrunnen 7 days Switzerland

Day 4: Day Trip to Grindelwald

The trip from Interlaken to Grindelwald is approximately 33 km, with a travel time of around 35 minutes by train, leading directly to the heart of the Bernese Alps.

Expect to see a lot of skiers and snowboarders on the train heading to/from Grindelwald, travel later in the morning if you want to avoid them.

Head to Grindelwald and take the gondola to First . It takes half an hour to get up and down the mountain on multiple gondola lines but it’s a beautiful journey where you can watch the skiers fly past below and see the town from above.

Once up at the summit, you can experience the First Flyer zipline or glider as well as the skywalk that takes you out along the side of the mountain for the best views (not a great one for those with vertigo though!).

If the weather is good and you’ve brought proper gear you can also hike one of the well-marked trails. We were keen to do this but I didn’t;t have hiking boots which you definitely need in the snow January conditions.

There is a restaurant and gift shop at the top, surprisingly the food isn’t all that overpriced compared to the options in town.

For the more adventurous, the Eiger Trail offers breathtaking close-up views of the north face of the Eiger.

In the evening, relax in Interlaken with a quiet dinner or explore the local shops for Swiss souvenirs.

views from Grindelwald first in the snow

Day 5: Zermatt

Interlaken to Zermatt: This journey takes about 2 hours by train for the 153 km trip, showcasing Switzerland’s natural beauty along the way.

Take an early train to Zermatt, a picturesque village at the base of the Matterhorn. Ride the Gornergrat Railway for spectacular mountain vistas.

Spend the afternoon hiking one of the many trails around Zermatt or visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the history of mountaineering in the area.

Explore the car-free streets of Zermatt, enjoy a meal in one of the cozy restaurants, and indulge in Swiss chocolate.

Zermatt town in the snow with matterhorn in the background

Days 6-7: Zurich

Zermatt to Zurich: Expect a travel time of about 3.5 hours over a distance of 313 km by train, concluding your Swiss adventure with urban exploration.

Day 6: City Highlights

Start your morning at Lindenhof Hill for serene city views. This quiet spot offers a panoramic vista of Zurich’s Old Town, the Limmat River, and the Grossmünster Church.

After soaking in the views, descend into the Old Town (Altstadt) to explore its winding cobblestone streets. Visit the Grossmünster, an iconic twin-towered church, and Fraumünster, known for its stunning stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall.

For lunch, enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine at the historic Zunfthaus zur Waag. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, this restaurant serves up classic dishes in a charming setting.

In the afternoon, dedicate your time to the Swiss National Museum, housed in a fairy-tale castle.

It offers a deep dive into Swiss cultural history, from ancient artifacts to modern design. Following this cultural immersion, unwind with a leisurely cruise on Lake Zurich , starting from Burkliplatz. It’s a splendid way to see the city from a different perspective.

Dinner can be enjoyed at the vibrant Zeughauskeller, where traditional Swiss dishes meet a lively atmosphere in a historic armory setting. End your day with a walk along the Limmatquai, a perfect backdrop for an evening stroll.

Day 7: Nature, Views, and Urban Culture

Begin your day with a journey to Uetliberg Mountain. A short train ride from the city center, Uetliberg offers breathtaking views of Zurich, the lake, and the Alps. Hike along its well-marked trails for a refreshing start to your day.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Lindt Home of Chocolate for the ultimate Swiss chocolate experience complete with plenty of tastings and a chocolate fountain. Fair warning, this does sell out so book a few weeks in advance!

Spend your afternoon exploring the contemporary culture of Zurich West. Visit the Schiffbau for innovative theater, or browse through the latest exhibitions at the Löwenbräukunst contemporary art complex. Don’t miss the Viadukt, a series of arches transformed into a shopping and dining destination.

If you want to splash out on your last night in Switzerland then reserve a table at the Clouds in the Prime Tower. With 5 star food and even better views, it’s a fitting finale to your Zurich adventure.

riverside view of Zurich Switzerland itinerary

In Short: 7 Days in Switzerland

Switzerland in a week is a whirlwind of stunning views, mouth-watering chocolate, and adventures from city streets to mountain peaks.

This trip might just scratch the surface, but it’s enough to leave anyone dazzled and dreaming of a return.

Happy travelling!

Europe Travel Resources

  • Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
  • Find awesome day tours on Get Your Guide
  • Book train tickets and buy cheap multi-trip passes from Rail Europe
  • Travel super cheaply across 28 countries with Flixbus
  • Save on attractions with a city pass from Go City (including Amsterdam, Paris and Rome)
  • Sort your Euros and other currencies with a Wise multi-currency card

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Spiez, Switzerland

Itinerary for Switzerland for 7 Days (Plus 3, 5, 10 and 14-day options)

Deciding which places to include in your itinerary for Switzerland can be one of the hardest parts of the whole trip planning process.  Which towns and cities you visit will largely depend on how much time you can spend in Switzerland as well as your particular interests. 

Many visitors want to see Switzerland in a week, so I’m sharing my best Switzerland 7 day itinerary ideas! But if you don’t have a week, don’t worry – I’ve also got itineraries for longer and shorter stays.

All these Swiss itinerary options are suitable for both train travelers and those who would prefer to rent a car and enjoy a Switzerland road trip .

To help you visualise where the Switzerland itineraries mentioned in this article will take you, use the map below as a guide.

Map of Switzerland.

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

Itinerary for Switzerland for 7 Days

In a perfect world, a week in Switzerland is not enough as there is just so much to see and do. However, it is long enough for you to experience some of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland.

No doubt Switzerland’s famous Alps are on your must-visit list and this 1 week Switzerland itinerary gives you the opportunity to visit some real beauties and go on a best of Switzerland tour. It also includes the picturesque city of Lucerne with its medieval covered wooden bridge and pretty Old Town.

Switzerland in 7 days itinerary overview:  

  • Lucerne – 2 nights
  • Interlaken – 3 nights
  • Zermatt – 1 night

This itinerary in Switzerland is ideal for travellers who only have one week in Switzerland and would like to do a round-trip itinerary starting and finishing at Zurich International Airport.

Day 1 – Arrive into Zurich and travel to Lucerne

By train: 1 hour / By car: 45 minutes Overnight: Lucerne

Beautiful buildings on Lake Lucerne.

Start your trip with sightseeing in Lucerne (depending on time of arrival).

Stroll through the Old Town

A wander through the Old Town is, for many, the highlight of a visit to Lucerne. This is not an ordinary city centre; it’s a place lined with charming cobblestoned streets, medieval squares and ancient bridges.

In the Weinmarkt area, pay close attention to make sure you spot the painted facades and original oriel windows Lucerne is famous for.

Lucerne’s Old Town is also great for shopping and dining out. Whether you want to buy fresh local produce, Swiss items like watches, chocolates and army knives or clothing and accessories by international fashion brands, there are lots of department stores, smaller shops and boutiques to browse.

Many of the best cafes and restaurants are also found here, so whether it’s a coffee and cake break or a three course dinner you will have no trouble in finding a fabulous eatery in which to while away the hours. 

Visit the Chapel Bridge

Incredibly, Chapel Bridge dates back to 1333 and visitors from all over the world flock to see this medieval wooden footbridge at close quarters – and of course to snap themselves standing by it for posterity. 

In 1993 fire caused severe damage to the structure. Fortunately it remains, but the evidence can be clearly seen on the decorative panels beneath the eaves.  

The Water Tower dates back even further to the turn of the century. Although it doesn’t store water, it has been used at various times as a treasury, a prison and an archive.

See the ‘Dying Lion’

This is one of the most famous monuments in the world, let alone Switzerland or even Lucerne. Mark Twain described the big cat carved from stone as one of the most emotive sculptures to be found anywhere.

The ailing lion is said to represent Swiss heroes who died while trying to protect Louis XVI during the late 18th century. Its latin inscription roughly translates as ‘to the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss’.

Take a cruise on Lake Lucerne

With clear blue waters set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, Lake Lucerne is a picture-perfect body of water. Taking a lake cruise is a must during your 7 day Switzerland itinerary. 

The lake is 38 kilometres long and bordered by four Swiss cantons. You can cruise its famous waters by paddle steamer, luxury yacht or modern motorboat. Some options include morning tea or lunch, served as you glide over the surface of the water.

  • Check cruise options and buy your tickets.
  • Browse hotels in Lucerne
  • Browse more Lucerne sightseeing options

Day 2 – Full day in/around Lucerne

Overnight: Lucerne

Titlis Rotair cable car high above the Alps.

If you have another day to spend in the Lucerne area and would like to explore the surrounding area, taking a trip to one of the following peaks is highly recommended.

Mount Titlis 

A train to Engleberg followed by a cable car ride will take you to the summit of Mount Titlis . From here there are panoramic views over the majestic Swiss alps, as well as a range of activities to get involved in.

Snow tubing and sledding area ideal for thrill seekers, while the Cliff Walk, revolving cable car and Glacier Cave are simply waiting to be explored.

Check prices and buy your Mt. Titlis tickets.

Mount Pilatus

The first stage in reaching Mount Pilatus is a bus ride to Zentrum Pilatus, where you can board the cable car for the trip up the mountain. The journey is just as memorable as any other part of the day.

Once you arrive, there’s a whole smorgasbord of delights to discover including restaurants, walking trails, a rope play park, sledding and an adventure playground. 

Check prices and buy your Mt. Pilatus tickets.

The journey to Mount Rigi begins with a cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau. From there the charming cogwheel railway will transport you to the top, where sweeping views over the alps are yours to savour.

A leisurely trip back down the mountain is recommended, so you can stop at each station to explore.

Alternatively, take the cable car to Weggis, where you can cruise the lake once more while en route to Lucerne. 

Check prices and buy your Mt. Rigi tickets.

Day 3 – Travel to Interlaken

By train : 1 hour 50 minutes / By car: 1 hour Overnight: Interlaken

Tourists looking at the view from Two Lakes Bridge at Harder Kulm, Interlaken.

There are plenty of great choices when in comes to sightseeing in Interlaken. Our recommendations for an enjoyable one day Interlaken itinerary include:

Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is Interlaken’s own mountain and one of the most popular attractions in the area. It can also be accessed directly via the funicular railway, which can be reached from Interlaken Ost station via just five minutes’ walk.

Services run half hourly each day from mid April to early December and the scenic trip takes only ten minutes. 

From the summit there are stunning views over lakes Brienz and Thun, as well as the Bernese Alps. At the top you will also find a restaurant, walking trails, a kids’ playground and the Two Lakes Bridge. Don’t miss seeing the views from the latter, which are breathtaking.

Lake cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz, or on Lake Thun to Thun and Spiez

Lake Thun is the largest lake and is known to the Swiss as Thunersee . You can sail on the lake, or try your hand at various water sports. Several villages are dotted around the shores of the lake, including Oberhofen, Faulensee, Thun and Spiez.

Taking a boat trip on Lake Thun is one of the most popular things to do in Interlaken, and among our favourites is the sunset cruise with wine and a Swiss cheese fondue. 

Known locally as Brienzersee , Lake Brienz is the smaller of the two lakes, but is more peaceful and just as pretty as Lake Thun. The active minded can try stand up paddle boarding, or you can sit back and relax on a modern boat for a cruise around the lake.

At the edge of the water you can see small villages, waterfalls and tree-clad hillsides. Of these Brienz is the most attractive, and you can take a cruise over the lake from Interlaken to Brienz.

  • Check cruise details.   
  • Browse hotels in Interlaken .
  • Browse more Interlaken sightseeing options .

If the weather isn’t kind during your stay, there are still plenty of things to do in Interlaken on a rainy day.

Day 4 – Sightseeing in Jungfrau Region

Overnight: Interlaken

Jungfraubahn train traveling through Switzerland's mountains.

Often referred to as the ‘Top of Europe’, taking a day trip to Jungfraujoch is a must for many visitors to the region.

A series of shorter train trips spread over a two hour period culminates in the scenic ascent via the Jungfraubahn. Trains operate every day of the year. 

Alternatively, you can take a cable car for part of the journey which reduces the travel time by around 45 minutes each way.

The summit is almost 3,500 metres above sea level and offers incredible views over the surrounding peaks. There is also lots to do at the top, with a range of shops and restaurants and a snow sports park to keep visitors happily occupied.

  > Book your Jungfraujoch train ticket.

If time permits, why not stop at the pretty villages of Wengen or Lauterbrunnen on the return journey?

Day 5 – Sightseeing in Jungfrau Region

Tourists on viewing platform at summit of Schilthorn Piz Gloria at sunset.

There’s still so much to see in the Jungfrau region during this one week Switzerland itinerary. Today we recommend you visit either Grindelwald-First or Schilthorn.

Grindelwald and Grindelwald-First

You can drive from Interlaken to Grindelwald in around 30 minutes, with the train trip taking around the same amount of time.

The town itself offers a range of attractions including shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, spas and wellness centres, and winter sports. There is also an indoor rope park, and at Grindelwald Glacier you can take a canyon walk or ride on the swing. 

Also popular is a trip to Grindelwald First, widely regarded as one of the best things to do from Interlaken. From the town of Grindelwald, a cable car service operates during all seasons and there is lots to do once you arrive at the mountain summit.

A great restaurant, the First Flyer Zipline, Trottibike scooter rides, the First Cliff Walk and mountain carts await those who make the trip to the top. 

Another excursion well worth considering is to Schilthorn , famous as a film location for the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service . The summit is around 3,000 metres above sea level and can be reached via train and cableway from Interlaken. 

As well as the superb mountain views from the observation deck with a glass floor, there are various Bond-themed attractions at the summit. You can also take a thrilling circular walk around the cliff face.

The authentic Swiss village of Mürren is well worth exploring either on your way to or from Schilthorn.

The Schilthorn can be reached by cable car from Stechelberg which is easily reached from Interlaken. Simply take a train to Lauterbrunnen and then a local bus to the Schilthorn cable car station. 

Book your Schilthorn tickets.

Tandem Paragliding

If neither or those excursions appeal, or you are a bit of a thrill seeker, why not book a tandem paragliding flight and see the beauty of the Swiss Alps from above?

Day 6 – Travel to Zermatt

By train: 2 hours 40 minutes / By car: 2 hours 55 minutes* Overnight: Zermatt

*This route travels via the Lotschberg Tunnel.  You are required to drive your car onto a special car-train to go through the tunnel.  The cost is around CHF25 per vehicle for the 10-minute journey through the tunnel.

Note that Zermatt is a car-free town. All vehicles must be parked in a parking station at Tasch and visitors can transfer to town via the Zermatt train station.

Gornergrat bahn with Matterhorn view.

We suggest you arrive in Zermatt by midday so that you have time to enjoy an excursion to see the Matterhorn up close and stroll around the picturesque village.

An original rack railway can take visitors from Zermatt to Gorner Ridge. The trip takes around half an hour and services depart frequently throughout the day.

Once you arrive, favourite things to do at Gornergrat include wildlife spotting, hiking, dining and souvenir shopping – and of course simply admiring the magnificent views. Ibex, chamois and marmots may be spotted in the area.

> Book your Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train ticket.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is very aptly named, as it’s the highest European cable car station in terms of altitude. The 360 degree viewing platform offers incredible views over 14 glaciers and 38 mountain peaks.

From car-free Zermatt, you can take a trip to the gondola station on the electric bus before the three-section trip to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

As well as soaking up the scenery, you can ski, take an ice toboggan ride or a trip into the Glacier Palace, or even watch a movie at the cinema. There is also a souvenir store and a restaurant.

  • Buy your Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car ticket.
  • Browse hotels in Zermatt
  • Browse more sightseeing options in Zermatt

Day 7 – Return to Zurich

By train: 4 hours / By car: 4 hours Departure from Zurich

Zurich and the River Limmat.

Although the city is often seen as a transport hub rather than a destination in itself, we highly recommend getting to know Zurich a little if time permits. The Old Town and Lindenhof in particular are delightful places in which to spend some time.

Zurich Old Town 

The Old Town straddles the Limmat River, and there are wonderful views over the water from the quay – Limmatquai.

This part of the city is both the most central and the most picturesque. Several bridges span the river, but don’t miss crossing the Muhlesteg Footbridge, which is decorated with numerous love locks.

Once you’ve had your fill of wandering around the Old Town, stopping in cafes and browsing in the boutiques, Lindenhof offers a welcome change of pace. This peaceful green space overlooks the Old Town and was formerly the site of a Roman fort.

Picnicking here is popular, and you may hear live music or see the giant outdoor chess set being played during your visit. 

Depart Zurich after one week in Switzerland full of highlights and breathtaking scenery!

Note: Whilst I refer to Interlaken in this Switzerland one week itinerary above, you could opt to stay at Lauterbrunnen , Grindelwald , Wengen , Mürren or another nearby village should you prefer.

You could start and/or finish this Switzerland 7 day itinerary in Geneva or Basel.  Travel times and distances should be amended accordingly.

Jungfraubahn traveling through Swiss Alps.

Switzerland Itinerary – 3 Days

Only have three days to enjoy the best places in Switzerland? May I suggest quality over quantity?  I recommend you choose just one place as your base on your Switzerland trip and see it properly rather than squeeze too much in.

Although you’d probably like to fit in as much in three days as you would if you had one week in Switzerland, you’re not going to fully appreciate the places you visit if you overdo it. Sometimes – and definitely in this case – less is more!

What is your ‘must see’ in Switzerland?  If it’s the Alps, you have plenty of options.  Spend your three days in Switzerland in either Lucerne, Interlaken or Zermatt.

Interested in learning more about using the Swiss Rail System to travel around Switzerland?  Read our comprehensive guide to Switzerland train travel.

If it’s the charm of Switzerland’s elegant medieval cities that you’ve always wanted to experience, Zurich, Bern and Lucerne all offer plenty to see and do. 

Basing yourself in one destination doesn’t mean you can’t visit other places. One benefit of having a single base is that you will save valuable time by not having to change accommodation each night. 

A day trip from Interlaken to Lucerne (or vice versa) is definitely possible so you can still combine the best of both worlds from one convenient base.

Switzerland Itinerary – 5 Days

If you don’t have a full week available for your visit and you can only spend 5 days in Switzerland, I suggest you follow days one to four of the 7 day itinerary above and return to Zurich on day five.

5-day Switzerland itinerary overview:

  • Lucerne – 2 nights
  • Interlaken – 2 nights

This Switzerland 5-day itinerary still gives you the chance to explore two of Switzerland’s highlights, Lucerne and the Jungfrau region, without being too rushed.

Chapel Bridge in Lucerne.

Switzerland Itinerary – 10 Days

If you have a few more days available to add to your itinerary for Switzerland, 10 days in total gives you the option to add another destination or two. I’d include a couple of nights in Zurich and an overnight stay at lovely Montreux on the Swiss Riviera.

10-day Switzerland itinerary overview :

  • Zurich – 2 nights
  • Interlaken – 3 nights
  • Montreux – 1 night
  • Zermatt – 1 night

Day 1 – Arrive into Zurich 

Sightseeing in Zurich (depending on time of arrival) Overnight: Zurich

Browse hotels in Zurich | Browse Zurich sightseeing options

Day 2 – Full day in/around Zurich

Overnight: Zurich

Explore the Old Town and Lake Zurich and/or enjoy a day trip to Stein am Rhein and the Rhine Falls.

Check out these suggestions for more things to do in Zurich .

Note: For days 3-7 of this 10-day Switzerland itinerary, please see details outlined above in the 7-day itinerary for Switzerland.

Day 3 – Travel to Lucerne

By train: 1 hour / By car: 45 minutes Sightseeing in Lucerne (depending on time of arrival). Overnight: Lucerne

Browse hotels in Lucerne | Browse Lucerne sightseeing options

Day 4 – Full day in/around Lucerne

Explore the Old Town and Lake Lucerne and/or enjoy a mountain excursion to Mt. Titlis, Mt. Pilatus or Mt. Rigi.

Day 5 – Travel to Interlaken

By train: 1 hour 50 minutes / By car: 1 hour Overnight: Interlaken

Do some sightseeing in Interlaken town, take the Harder Kulm funicular, or enjoy a lake cruise.

Browse hotels in Interlaken | Browse Interlaken sightseeing options

Day 6 – Sightseeing in Jungfrau Region

I recommend taking the Jungfraujoch excursion with the option to stop at Wengen and/or Lauterbrunnen in either direction.

Lake Geneva surrounded by flowrs and mountains.

Day 7 – Sightseeing in Jungfrau Region

Consider the Grindelwald-First or Schilthorn excursions with the option to stop at Murren and/or Birg in either direction.

If you’re keen to step outside your comfort zone, why not try one of these things to do in Interlaken for adrenaline junkies ?

Day 8 – Travel to Montreux

By train: 2 hours 45 minutes* / By car: 1 hour 40 minutes Overnight: Montreux

*This route goes via Visp. You can also take the Golden Pass Line from Interlaken to Montreux via Zweisimmen – journey time 3 hours 45 minutes.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva with a backdrop of the stunning Swiss Alps, Montreux is a great stop on your Switzerland itinerary. The active will enjoy the many trails and walking paths surrounding the lake, or a beautiful lake cruise.

Must-see attractions include Chillon Castle, a visit to the quaint town of Vevey and its Charlie Chaplin statue, and the Gorges du Chauderon in Montreux’s Old Town. There’s also “Queen: The Studio Experience” where you can visit the original sound studio where Queen’s lead singer Freddie Mercury recorded his last songs.

You could also take a ½ day trip to Gruyeres from Montreux.

Browse hotels in Montreux | Browse Montreux sightseeing options

Day 9 – Travel to Zermatt

By train: 2 hours 35 minutes / By car: 2 hours* Overnight: Zermatt

* Zermatt is a car-free town. All vehicles must be parked in a parking station at Tasch and visitors can transfer to Zermatt by shuttle train.

Arrive by midday so you have time to enjoy an excursion on the Gornergrat train or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cableway to see the Matterhorn up close. See above 7-day itinerary for more details.

Browse hotels in Zermatt | Browse sightseeing options in Zermatt

Day 10 – Return to Zurich

By train: 4 hours / By car: 4 hours

Cable car overlooking the town of Zermatt.

Switzerland Itinerary – 14 Days

14 days in Switzerland? Lucky you! You’re going to see a great deal of the country and a beautiful variety of landscapes.

From the attractive cities of Zurich and Lucerne, to the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps, and the picturesque lakeside towns of Montreux and Lugano, you’ll enjoy a varied and scenic Switzerland vacation.

2 weeks in Switzerland itinerary overview :

  • Lugano – 2 nights
  • St Moritz – 2 nights

Use the first nine days of the 10-day Switzerland travel itinerary above for the first part of your trip and then add the following days:

Day 10 – Travel Zermatt to Lugano

By train: 5 hours 20 minutes / By car: 3 hours 10 minutes (from Tasch) Overnight: Lugano

Sightseeing late afternoon (depending on time of arrival).

Browse hotels in Lugano | Browse sightseeing options in Lugano

Day 11 – Full day sightseeing in Lugano

Overnight: Lugano

Explore the city and lakefront promenade, ride the funicular to Monte Bre for spectacular views over Lake Lugano or visit Swissminiatur Open-Air Museum.

Not sure which month you should travel? My guide will help you to decide the best time to visit Switzerland.

Day 12 – Travel Lugano to St. Moritz

By train: 3 hours 50 minutes / By car: 2 hours 40 minutes Overnight: St. Moritz

St. Moritz is a popular resort town in Switzerland, famous for its ski slopes, luxury hotels, and natural beauty. Some of the best things to do include skiing, hiking, visiting Lake St. Moritz, riding the Glacier Express, experiencing the spas, or exploring Segantini Museum or Engadine Museum. 

Browse hotels in St. Moritz | Browse sightseeing options in St. Moritz

Day 13 – Full day in St. Moritz

Overnight: St. Moritz

Enjoy a mountain excursion, have a picnic by the lake or take a scenic ride aboard the Bernina Express.

Day 14 – Travel St. Moritz to Zurich

By train: 3 hours 10 minutes / By car: 2 hours 50 minutes

Need more ideas for a Switzerland road trip? Check out my alternative two-week Swiss itinerary by car .

Couple looking at a map and views of the Swiss Alps.

Choosing Your Transport

Now you have an idea of which places you’ll be visiting, it’s time to decide on your method of transport. 

Travelling around Switzerland by train

Switzerland’s rail network is one of the best in the world. Trains and connecting buses take you all over the country with ease.

Most trains in Switzerland don’t require reservations – you just hop aboard the next available train that suits you. The Swiss Railways SBB app is a handy tool to download to look up timetables.

If you plan to travel by train, it’s definitely worth considering purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass as this covers all public transport within Switzerland, free entry to over 500 museums, and 50% off most cable cars and funiculars.

Buy your Swiss Travel Pass now. 

Travelling around Switzerland by car

Renting a car can give you a bit more flexibility as well as the opportunity to stop where and when you like.

You’ll need to consider parking and fuel costs but if you are someone who doesn’t like being committed to a timetable, driving in Switzerland could be the way to go.

Switzerland’s roads are excellent and the mountain passes, with their many hairpin bends, are a highlight for many drivers. If you’re not too keen on a white-knuckle drive, don’t panic! All of the destinations mentioned in our itineraries above can be reached without travelling on a super-twisty mountain pass.

To plan your exact driving route, take a look at the AA Route Planner . I find it really helpful as it allows you to include via points and see the latest traffic warnings for your chosen route.

Our guide to driving in Switzerland has lots of useful info and tips to help make your road trip go smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have 3 days or 2 weeks, take this itinerary for Switzerland and amend it to suit your personal interests. These itineraries should be a good starting point to help get your Switzerland trip planning off on the right foot. 

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Tourists in Switzerland with "Switzerland 7 Day Itinerary" text overlay.

Switzerland Travel Essentials

Swiss Travel Pass

Private Transfers

Rail Packages

Self-Drive Packages

Accommodation

Sightseeing.

Jungfrau Travel Pass

Berner Oberland Pass

Group Tours

Private Tours

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

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The 11 most incredible places to visit in Switzerland: be inspired

Kerry Walker

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

Jungfrau Peak reflected in the water of a hearth pond at Kleine Scheidegg

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

A city old town with a turquoise river running through it

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Man on a rock next to a lake with a reflection of Matterhorn at dawn in Switzerland

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

A sunny day at Piazza Collegiate in Bellinzona, Switzerland

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

Young man walking with swiss cow on mountain footpath. Mount Pilatus, Lucerne,

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Woman sitting on a bench next to the Rhine River in Basel, Switzerland

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated November 2023

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3 Days In Switzerland: 11 Itineraries For All Travelers & Seasons [2024]

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affiliate disclaimer

Do you only have 3 days in Switzerland and want to make the most of your visit ? You’re right here. I’ve designed 11 different itineraries for various cities and travelers, so you can choose the perfect 3-day itinerary.

I lived in Switzerland for 3 years and visited all these beautiful places . Thanks to my experience, I’ve made these itineraries so you can have the best time possible.

So go through it, and choose the one that perfectly matches your interests .

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

11 Itineraries For 3 Days In Switzerland

I’ve created various itineraries depending on the city you’ll start from, the travel style you like, and the purpose of your visit to Switzerland.

These 3-day Swiss itineraries will help you get the most out of your time in Switzerland, even if you only visit it for 3 days.

So choose the perfect itinerary that suits your interests and have a great time in Switzerland in 3 days.

➡ 3 Days In Switzerland Itinerary From Zurich

The first itinerary on our list is the one that most travelers are interested in , as the majority of you land in Zurich .

Here is the 3-day itinerary in Switzerland from Zurich for you to make the most of your visit to Switzerland:

1. DAY: Zurich – Lucerne

On your first day, travel from Zurich to Lucerne . You’ll enjoy Lucerne on this day, soak up its unique atmosphere, and visit its museums.

I recommend visiting the Chapel Bridge with the Old Town . After, head to the Gütsch Chateau for the best views.

Then, walk alongside the Lakeside Promenade towards the Swiss Museum of Transportation (or take a bus there). Learn how the Swiss transportation system is designed and works so efficiently.

Hang out in the town and have a typical Swiss dinner .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE: Hotel Des Alpes

3 days in switzerland itinerary zurich

👉 READ ALSO: Zurich To Interlaken: Complete Travel Guide

2. DAY: Mountain Excursion From Lucerne – Luzern-Interlaken Express – Grindelwald

In the morning, make one of the following mountain excursions from Lucerne:

✅ Mt. Pilatus ✅ Mt. Titlis ✅ Mt. Rigi

In the afternoon, hop on the Luzern-Interlaken scenic train . Enjoy the incredible ride with stunning views before leaving Interlaken Ost.

After, take a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald . Enjoy the magical town, walk around, and have a nice dinner.

👉 READ ALSO: Where To Stay In Grindelwald: 9 Best Hotels

3. DAY: Jungfrau Region – Zurich

Before returning to Zurich, I recommend enjoying the beautiful Jungfrau region for a while today.

You can take mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn , hike in the stunning Swiss hills, or enjoy the adventure activities in Grindelwald First .

Towards the evening, take a train from Grindelwald back to Zurich .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH: Glarnischhof By Trinity

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Geneva

On a 3-day trip from Geneva , you’ll enjoy the beautiful Swiss Riviera at Lake Gevena and Montreux , an exciting mountain excursion to Glacier 3000 , and have a lovely time in Zermatt .

1. DAY: Geneva – Glacier 3000 – Montreux

On the first day, make an excursion to Glacier 3000 , one of the most exciting mountains in Switzerland .

Afterward, spend some time walking on the Lakeside promenade in Montreux and enjoy some of its museums , including The Queen Studio, Montreux Museum, and Charles Chaplin World.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic

2. DAY: Montreux – Zermatt

The next day, visit Chillon Castle in the morning before you travel to Zermatt.

You can take a boat from Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva back to Montreux, then hop on a train to Zermatt.

In Zermatt, make one of the mountain excursions:

✅ Matterhorn Gornergrat ✅ Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Or go hiking around the 5 stunning lakes with views of Matterhorn.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT: Backstage Boutique Spa Hotel

3 days in switzerland itinerary zermatt

3. Zermatt – Geneva

Spend some more time in Zermatt , and enjoy what you didn’t manage to do yesterday. You have the entire day, so make the most of it.

I recommend making the mountain excursions on day 2. and on this last day, enjoy some hikes around Zermatt (the 5 Lakes hike is amazing).

In the evening, take a train back to Geneva .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GENEVA: Hotel d’Angleterre or Hotel Bernina

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Basel

Basel has one of the most affordable flights to EuroAirport . So, if you land in Basel, take this 3-day itinerary to get the most out of your visit to Switzerland.

1. DAY: Basel – Bern

On the first day, visit Bern, the capital city of Switzerland.

Stay in Bern and enjoy its magical atmosphere. Walk through the Old Town and the Kramgasse to see the famous Zytglogge . Then visit the Einstein House and the Bern Cathedral .

If you want to, you can make a half-day visit to the town of Gruyeres . It’s one of my favorite Swiss towns. You can taste delicious Fondue in a traditional house and visit the La Maison du Gruyeres Cheese factory .

Learn how the Swiss make their cheese and come back to Bern.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN BERN: Best Western Plus Hotel Bern

2. DAY: Bern – Glacier 3000 – Montreux

Today, I recommend visiting the Glacier 3000 mountain on the way to Montreux.

In the morning, go to Les Diablerets and start the mountain excursion. Enjoy the breathtaking views, the Glacier path, the fun park, and all the chairlifts.

In the afternoon, make your way to Montreux . Visit some museums if you still have time and enjoy the beautiful Lakeside Promenade .

Switzerland itinerary 8 days by train Montreux riviera Chillon Chateau

3. DAY: Montreux – GoldenPass Express – Basel

In the morning, visit the Chillon castle and learn about its history. Then start making your way back to Basel.

I recommend taking one of the most beautiful panoramic trains in Switzerland , the GoldenPass Express , from Montreux to Spiez.

Then change to other trains to Basel .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN BASEL: Hotel Marthof Basel

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Lugano

On this 3-day Swiss itinerary from Lugano, I’ll take you to explore the stunning Grisons Canton , often forgotten by travelers.

We’ll visit the beautiful city of Bellinzona and Lake Lugano , charming town of Flims , and take one of the best scenic trains to the Italian town called Tirano .

1. DAY: Lugano & Bellinzona

On the first day, stay in Lugano and make an excursion to San Salvatore Mountain or Mt. Bre . Both of them have stunning views, and you can have lunch or walk around.

In the afternoon, visit the charming town of Bellinzona . Hop on the Artu tourist train and travel up to Montebello Castle . Then, come back to the town center and explore the Catelgrande .

In the evening, take a train back to Lugano .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN LUGANO: Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola or Historic Lakeside Hotel

2. DAY: Lugano – Flims

Today, I’m taking you to the picturesque Swiss town of Flims . Not many people visit it, but it’s a small, charming town with some of the most beautiful lakes.

So in the morning, take a train from Lugano to Chur . Then change to a bus to Flims . Enjoy the views on the way.

Afterward, make some nice walks to the Cauma Lake and the Spir II viewing point , from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Swiss Grand Canyon .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN FLIMS: Romantic Hotel Schweizerhof & Spa

3 days in switzerland itinerary cauma lake flims laax

3. DAY: Flims – Bernina Express – Tirano

Today it’s the day of the famous Bernina Express panoramic train .

In the morning, take a bus from Flims to Chur . Then hop on the Bernina Express and enjoy panoramic views from the train.

It’s one of the most beautiful journeys in Switzerland, during which you’ll see the Bernina Glacier and Lago Bianco , and make your way down to the Italian town called Tirano.

This is where your itinerary ends. You can travel elsewhere from Tirano and continue visiting northern Italy . Or travel back to Lugano/Milan .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN TIRANO: Le Rondini Rooms

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Milan

Are you visiting Milan and want to add a bit of Swiss beauty to your itinerary ? I have you covered.

Take this 3-day Swiss itinerary from Milan and experience some of the country’s best places and train rides .

1. DAY: Milan – St. Moritz

Travel from Milan to St. Moritz . It’s one of the most luxurious towns in Switzerland , where you can enjoy high-end shops and walk around the beautiful Lake St. Moritz .

But I brought you here mainly because of the scenic train Glacier Express, which starts in the town.

So relax , and tomorrow morning, be ready to experience the most beautiful panoramic train in the world.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz or Hotel Waldhaus Am See

2. DAY: Glacier Express (St. Moritz – Zermatt)

Today is the day to experience the most beautiful scenic ride in the world – Glacier Express .

In the morning, board the train and enjoy the 8-hour ride to Zermatt . Sip a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or champagne while listening to the commentary and seeing the breathtaking views.

The highlights are the Landwasser Viaduct, the Swiss Grand Canyon, Oberalp Pass, and the charming town of Andermatt before you arrive in Zermatt.

Stay in a beautiful wellness hotel in Zermatt and enjoy the views of Matterhorn.

3 days in switzerland itinerary glacier express

3. DAY: Zermatt

Take your time to enjoy Zermatt and its activities . Whether you feel like hiking or making some of the best mountain excursions in the country, it’s up to you.

I recommend the following mountain excursions :

✅ Matterhorn Glacier Paradise ✅ Matterhorn Gornergrat

If you want to enjoy hiking, the 5 Lakes Hike is one of the most beautiful around Zermatt, with stunning views of the famous Matterhorn mountain.

In the afternoon, enjoy the car-free town before you take a train back to Milan .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN: The Corner Duomo Hotel or IQ Hotel Milano

👉 READ ALSO: 11 Cheapest Ways To Travel Switzerland On A Budget

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Paris

Are you in Paris, considering visiting Switzerland for a while, but don’t know how to plan it?

Get this 3-day itinerary from Paris and visit the beautiful Switzerland.

1. DAY: Paris – Geneva

Take the TGV Lyria high-speed train from Paris to Geneva on the first day.

Then enjoy Geneva for a while, take a cruise on Lake Geneva , or go wine tasting in the stunning Lavaux vineyards .

2. DAY: Geneva – Montreux – Zermatt

Today, travel to the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt. On the way, I recommend visiting the charming town of Montreux and its Castle Chillon .

Then, continue by train to Zermatt . Enjoy the car-free village, walk through, and visit the Matterhorn museum . Then relax in a spa at your hotel.

Switzerland itinerary 8 days by train Zermatt 5 Lakes Trail

3. DAY: Zermatt – Paris

Make one mountain excursion early in the morning before you return to Paris.

If you want more time in Zermatt, skip Montreux and Castle Chillon on the second day and travel straight to Zermatt. On the second day, you could enjoy hiking or one of the mountain excursions.

Whenever you’re ready, return to Paris by train .

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN PARIS: Hotel Marignan or Cler Hotel

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

3-day itineraries in switzerland for different seasons.

This section is for you if you have more flexibility and can start your itinerary in any city.

These itineraries are based on the season , so whether you have 3 days in Switzerland in winter or summer, they’ll help you get the most out of your visit.

➡ 3 Days In Switzerland: Summer Itinerary

This is the ultimate 3-day itinerary for Switzerland to experience the highlights and a bit of everything the country offers.

This itinerary is mainly suitable for the summertime . It includes panoramic trains, a beautiful Swiss city, mountain excursions, and hiking in nature.

1. DAY: Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald

In the morning, take 2 hours to walk through Lucerne’s Old Town and the beautiful Chapel Bridge .

Then hop on one of the most stunning train rides – Luzern-Interlaken Express from Lucern to Brienz.

Get off in Brienz and hop on the steam train to Brienzer Rothorn . The entire ride takes 1 hour to get to the top. But wait for the breathtaking views. You can walk around, get to the cross, soak up the atmosphere, and then return to Brienz.

Then you can take a 2-hour boat ride from Brienz to Interlaken or train. Then, continue by train to Grindelwald.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel or Boutique Hotel Glacier

2. DAY: Jungfrau Region

Today is an exciting day in the Jungfrau region . I recommend making a mountain excursion in the morning (either Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn ) and enjoying some hikes in the afternoon, like the Eiger Trail or the Panorama Trail .

Alternatively, you can take a cable car to Grindelwald First , enjoy the adventure activities , and hike to Bachalp Lake .

Enjoy your day in one of the most beautiful Swiss regions. Relax in a spa at your hotel in the evening.

best things to do in Jungfrau region & Interlaken Grindelwald Eiger Trail

👉 READ ALSO: How To Get To Gelmerbahn Switzerland

3. DAY: GoldenPass Express – Montreux

On the last day, you’ll make one more scenic train ride – the GoldenPass Express .

Hop on the train in Interlaken and enjoy the beautiful Swiss hills and forests while sipping a cup of hot chocolate or coffee before the breathtaking Lake Geneva opens up in front of you.

Get off in Montreux and enjoy the town for a while. Then, visit Castle Chillon and walk on the Lakeside promenade to enjoy the stunning Lake Geneva.

➡ 3 Days Itinerary In Switzerland In December & Winter

If you’re visiting Switzerland in winter for 3 days, this is what I recommend you visit. Winter is also a great time to explore the country , even if you’re a nonskier. So, get the most out of it.

You can also follow this itinerary if you’re for 3 days in Switzerland in December and enjoy the beautiful Christmas atmosphere and markets in cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern.

1. DAY: Bern

Visit the charming capital of Switzerland – Bern on your first day. Walk through the Old Town and the famous Kramgasse Street to see the Zyglogge .

Then, visit the Bern Cathedral and the Einstein House. In December, you can also enjoy the magical Christmas markets in the Kleine Schanze Park or in front of the Bern Cathedral.

If you have time, you can also visit Gruyeres and learn how locals make Swiss cheese in the La Maison Du Gruyeres .

2. DAY: Bern – Zermatt

Early in the morning, take a train from Bern to Zermatt .

Enjoy Zermatt for the day and its beautiful winter sights. You can go skiing or winter hiking .

While doing so, don’t forget to make at least one of the famous mountain excursions : Matterhorn Glacier Paradise & Matterhorn Gornergrat.

Switzerland in November Skiing Zermatt Diavolezza

3. DAY: Glacier Express Ride (Zermatt – St. Moritz)

What better way to enjoy the Swiss winter wonderland than from a beautiful panoramic ride while sipping a hot chocolate from your comfortable seat?

That’s exactly what we’re going to do today. In the morning, hop on the Glacier Express train, sit back, and relax on this 8-hour ride to St. Moritz.

Listen to the commentary to learn more about the Swiss history, culture, and sights you’ll see.

The highlights are Andermatt, Oberalps Pass, Swiss Glacier Canyon, and the Landwasser Viaduct (among others).

Once you arrive in St. Moritz , enjoy luxury shopping or just soak up the atmosphere of this town on an evening walk . Then relax at the spa in your hotel .

3-Day Swiss Itineraries For Different Types Of Travelers

I’ve also got a couple of itineraries for each travel group .

So whether you’re a solo traveler , a first-timer in Switzerland, you want to make a perfect honeymoon , or enjoy it with your husband and kids as a family , there is one itinerary for you:

➡ 3-Day Switzerland Itinerary For First Timers & Solo Travelers

Is it your first time visiting Switzerland? Or are you traveling solo? I’m excited you’re about to explore it. Whether you’re by yourself or in a group, take this 3-day itinerary and enjoy the country fully .

1. DAY Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald

On the first day, spend your first 2 hours visiting Lucerne in the morning. Explore the Old Town and admire the beautiful Chapel Bridge .

After, hop on the panoramic train Luzern-Interlaken Express and enjoy the stunning views until you reach Brienz.

Get off in Brienz and hop on the historical steam train to reach Brienzer Rothorn . This mountain excursion is incredible, and you shouldn’t miss it. Walk around and enjoy the views.

On the way back, buy a local Swiss cheese at the Planalp (middle station) if a woman sells it. After, take a boat or a train to Interlaken, and then the last train to Grindelwald.

2. DAY: Grindelwald

Join other travelers and have fun up on Grindelwald First with its adventure activities . Fly above the Swiss mountains overlooking glaciers and mowing cows.

Then, go on some hikes in the Jungfrau region , such as Faulhorn, Bachalp Lake, or Eiger Trail.

You can also make mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch, Mannlichen, or Schilthorn. But plan ahead as they usually take a lot of time.

best time to visit switzerland september in switzerland

3. DAY: Grindelwald – Lugano

To experience all the sights of Switzerland, travel to the southern part and enjoy the Mediterranean feel in Lugano .

Stroll through its tiny streets, go to San Salvatore for the best views of Lake Lugano, and have a delicious gelato .

➡ 3-Day Switzerland Itinerary For Honeymooners

If you’re visiting Switzerland with your partner and want to enjoy a romantic gateway , it’s a great choice. I think Switzerland is the perfect country to go to.

So here is my 3-day Swiss romantic itinerary for you:

1. DAY: Grindelwald

From wherever you are, make your way to Grindelwald as soon as possible so you have the entire day to enjoy it.

Check in to your hotel with a private jacuzzi overlooking the stunning mountains. And then enjoy this romantic town the way you like.

You can go hiking (Eiger Trail, Panorama Trail, Via Alpina, Bachalp Lake), enjoy the adventure activities on Grindelwald First, or visit mountains like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn if you’re a James Bond lover.

Then spend a romantic evening in your jacuzzi in the hotel room and have a nice dinner.

2. DAY: Grindelwald – Andermatt

In the morning, take a train from Grindelwald to Andermatt and enjoy the breathtaking Swiss landscape on the way.

Andermatt is another romantic village in Switzerland you can enjoy. It’s particularly great to enjoy some spa and treatments as a couple . It’s also quiet, so you can explore the area and enjoy some privacy in luxury hotels .

The alternative would be to visit Zermatt if you were into it, but it’s slightly more touristy than Andermatt.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ANDERMATT: The Chedi Andermatt or Boutique Hotel The River House

honeymoon in Switzerland

3. DAY: Glacier Express Ride

On your last day, enjoy some romance from the most beautiful panoramic train in Switzerland – the Glacier Express.

Take it from Andermatt or Zermatt to St. Moritz. Have a glass of champagne with your partner and enjoy the stunning Swiss landscape.

You can spend the night in St. Moritz in a spa hotel and enjoy an evening walk through the old town and alongside the lake.

👉 READ ALSO: Honeymoon In Switzerland: How To Plan Your Romantic Gateway

➡ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary For Families

Are you visiting Switzerland as a family, and do you want to have some fun together? There are plenty of activities to keep your kids entertained.

So take this 3-day Swiss itinerary for families and experience the best of it:

1. DAY: Zurich

Zurich is a good place to start with kids, as you can visit the Lindt Chocolate Museum . It’s a nice interactive place to taste various chocolate types and see a huge chocolate waterfall .

Then, cruise around Lake Zurich or take a train to Utlisberg for nice views of the surroundings.

2. DAY: Grindelwald & Mannlichen Mountain

On the next day, take a train from Zurich to Grindelwald . If you like cheese, you can detour to Gruyeres and visit the cheese factory La Maison du Gruyeres . Otherwise, get to Grindelwald, so you can enjoy activities there.

Grindelwald has a nice playground , but I recommend taking a cable car to Mannlichen Mountain . There is a big playground with a cow statue. You can walk the Royal Walk , see many cows, and follow the cow pathway to the middle station.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel

3 days in switzerland itinerary mannlichen

3. DAY: Jungfrau Region

On the last day, enjoy some activities in the Jungfrau region.

The best way to spend time with kids is to do adventure activities on Grindelwald First or walk on the Thrill Walk on Birg station and visit the James Bond exhibition on Schilthorn .

Jungfraujoch is also a great alternative, where you can walk through the ice cave and see the Ice Age Squirrel .

BONUS: Best Of Switzerland Itinerary For 8 Days

If you have more time or want to explore more of Switzerland , take my 8-day Swiss itinerary and see the highlights .

It includes everything from panoramic trains to hiking spots, best locations, cheese and chocolate tasting, and some of the best mountain excursions.

So take the itinerary, skip the planning , pack, and enjoy Switzerland fully. Click on the image below to get the itinerary:

switzerland itinerary 8 days by train

Practical Tips For Visiting Switzerland In 3 Days

To help you plan your visit to Switzerland even more in detail, I’ve got some more tips for you. See how many days are enough to visit, how to plan, best time to visit, how to get around, and how much to budget.

Are 3 Days Enough In Switzerland?

No, 3 days is not enough to visit Switzerland. You should spend at least 8 to 10 days to fully immerse in the country’s beauty.

But if you only have 3 days , it’s certainly some time, and you can visit at least a few highlights .

👉 READ ALSO: How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed!

How To Get Around Switzerland

To make any of these itineraries, the best way to get around Switzerland is by car or train.

If you want to rent a car, you can do so via Discover Cars . They have the best deals.

I recommend getting a Swiss Half-Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass if you want to explore Switzerland by train.

A Half-Fare Card is usually a great option for those who want to do only a few things and get from one place to the next.

The Swiss Travel Pass is great for those who want to explore many different things and ride many trains, buses, and boats within the 3 days you’ll spend in Switzerland. The pass will save you so much money as it includes almost everything.

Best Time To Visit Switzerland

The best time to visit Switzerland is June, September, and winter (mainly December).

June and September have beautiful landscape colors, and you can enjoy all the activities fully. June is overall amazing as Switzerland shines with different colors, and it’s exactly what you picture Switzerland to be.

Winter in Switzerland is also a good time to visit. You can go skiing, and even as a nonskier, you can enjoy many activities like panoramic trains, winter hikes, sledding, and fun activities.

best time to visit switzerland

How Do I Plan A Switzerland Itinerary?

To get the most out of your time in Switzerland, think about the places you want to visit . Write them down on a piece of paper.

Once you know which places you want to visit, list all the activities like visiting a chocolate and cheese factory, making mountain excursions, hiking, etc. Then I recommend adding at least one panoramic train and a cruise on a Swiss lake to make great memories.

After, see how to get from one place to another (that you wrote to your list). Spend at least 2 days in each place, depending on what you want to do. And get a Swiss Travel Pass to be able to do it all for less and be flexible.

What To Pack For A 3-Day Swiss Trip

Things you need to bring for your trip depend on the activities and places you want to visit. Generally, the weather in Switzerland changes a lot , so prepare for different conditions.

Pack a waterproof light jacket and an umbrella. If you go to the mountains, pack hiking boots or trekking shoes. And something fancy for the Swiss cities .

When I visited Switzerland for the first time in a month, I managed to pack into a small 40L backpack . So, I’ve created this packing list to help you pack for your Swiss trips.

Click on the image below and download my Swiss packing list for free:

switzerland packing list

3 Days In Switzerland Cost

As a mid-range traveler who wants to enjoy everything Switzerland offers, you can expect to spend around $200 per day per person .

So a 3-day trip to Switzerland costs about $600 per person if you want to stay in a nice mid-range hotel with a spa, do all the activities, get a travel pass, and enjoy panoramic trains with cruises.

Here is a budget breakdown for each traveler type :

➡ 3-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $200 ➡ 3-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $600 ➡ 3-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $1500

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending on a 3-day trip to Switzerland. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

👉 READ ALSO: Is Switzerland Expensive? Ultimate Guide To Budget Your Trip

I’ve also answered some of the frequently asked questions. Check my answers below:

How Many Days Do I Need In Switzerland?

8 to 10 days is the perfect amount to spend in Switzerland. This way, you’ll enjoy all the highlights, including hiking, mountain excursions, cheese and wine tasting, panoramic trains, and cruises on the stunning Swiss lakes.

What To Do In Switzerland In 3 Days?

I recommend spending 3 days in Switzerland in the Jungfrau region as it’s the perfect Swiss location you picture when planning a trip to the country.

Besides, add at least one panoramic train and a cruise on a Swiss lake to your itinerary.

Is It Better To Visit Geneva Or Zurich?

Zurich is better to visit than Geneva as it has more to offer. Zurich has the Lindt Chocolate Museum that you can visit, take a cruise, and see the nearby largest waterfalls in Europe ( Rhinefalls ). Geneva is better for those who like to add wine tasting to their itinerary.

Should I Visit Lucerne Or Zurich?

Lucerne is more charming than Zurich. You can do similar activities in each city, but Lucerne is cozier and more beautiful than Zurich. Besides, you can enjoy excursions to the Swiss Alps , closer to Lucerne than Zurich.

WRAP-UP: 3 Days In Switzerland Itinerary

These are my 3-day itinerary suggestions to maximize your time in Switzerland. Even though it’s not enough, you can see a few highlights and enjoy the country if you plan and create a great itinerary. So plan, get a travel pass to be flexible , and visit as much as you can within 3 days in the Swiss places.

If you have any more questions or need a customized travel itinerary , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Switzerland Travel

Looking to get more tips for Switzerland? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Switzerland Itinerary: 8 Days By Train

22 Amazing Day Trips From Interlaken

23 Incredible Things To Do In Jungfrau Region

Is Jungfraujoch Worth It? Ultimate Guide

5 Best Panoramic Trains In Switzerland

8 Best Mountains In Switzerland To Visit

Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimites Travel In Switzerland

Is Switzerland Expensive? All You Need To Know

Brienz Switzerland: Best Things To Do & Places To Visit

Switzerland In Winter: Best Places To Visit & Things To Do

How Swiss Cheese Is Made

voices of travel about me photo

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SWITZERLAND : Interested in more articles for Switzerland? Check out my Switzerland Travel Page .

Switzerland Travel Page

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The Ideal 7-Day Itinerary for Switzerland (With Alternatives)

best travel itinerary for switzerland

One week in Switzerland – so many things to see, so little time. If it’s your first trip to Switzerland you’ll want to start with the best and most famous places – Zurich, Lucerne, Top of Europe, Zermatt, etc. This detailed itinerary will help you plan every little detail of that journey, from buying plane tickets to looking for souvenirs. 

What to do and see, where to stay, and how much you should plan to spend in each of the locations are all included in this itinerary. I’ve also covered the overall cost of the journey, the best travel passes for Switzerland, and more.

Keep in mind this is just a rough guide. Switzerland is a bigger country than you might think and you can explore it any way you like. But if you’re not sure where to begin, this 7-day Switzerland itinerary is a great start!

Table of Contents

Arrival in Zurich

best travel itinerary for switzerland

The best place airport to fly to is Zurich Airport. It is the largest and busiest airport in Switzerland so is ideal for international visitors like you. You’ll find the most flight connections to Zurich, and tickets will probably be more affordable than to Switzerland’s smaller airports. 

Getting from the airport in Zurich to the city center is as simple as boarding a local train. Here are the details:

  • run every 5-10 minute
  • journey time is 10-15 minutes
  • full-price tickets are around 7 CHF

It’s also possible to take a taxi from the airport to town. The ride can cost anywhere from 30-45 CHF, and it can sometimes take longer than the train because of traffic.

Day 1: Zurich

Lindenhof above the Limmat in Zurich

  • Zurich Airport to Zurich HB Train: 10-15 minutes 
  • Accommodation: 50-100 CHF (budget), 150-300 CHF (mid-range), 400-1000+ CHF (luxury)
  • Average Restaurant Meal: 25 CHF
  • Zurich 24-Hour City Card: 24 CHF

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the best place to start your trip. It has a lot to offer new visitors, so I recommend booking a guided walking tour if you’re unsure where to begin with your exploration of Zurich . 

Most walking tours of Zurich cover the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including

  • Bahnhofstrasse
  • Fraumunster
  • Grossmunster
  • St. Peter’s Church
  • The Opera House

I would – highly recommend finding a condensed tour of the city’s most famous sights so you have plenty of time to discover some other hidden gems. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

One such lesser-known gem in Zurich is the Chinese Garden. I recently recommended it to a friend who was staying in Zurich for the first time, and she was stunned. While you’re there, you can also see the Pavillon Le Corbusier, which is just a 5-minute stroll away. 

If you’d like to visit a museum in Zurich, you should pick just one if you’re in the city for only a day. My top picks are

  • The Swiss National Museum
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
  • The Zoological Museum of Zurich

On the other hand, if you want to see something entirely different, consider one of the following museums: 

  • WOW Museum – museum of illusions with lots of opportunities for weird photographs
  • FIFA Museum – a must for any football lovers in Zurich 
  • Uhrenmuseum Beyer Zürich – a fascinating exhibit on the history of clocks and watches
  • focusTerra – a science museum with an earthquake simulator and exhibits on geology

I could go on and on about Zurich museums, but these are the best for first-time visitors. 

Beyer Watch Museum & Shop, Zurich

Zurich is the most expensive city in Switzerland, so hotels aren’t cheap. Even hostels with shared bathrooms are 70-80 CHF, and you’ll spend at least 150-300 CHF for a night at a mid-range hotel. It’s best to stay near the train station because the inner city area will be a short walk away, plus you won’t have to travel far with your luggage when you arrive in Zurich. 

Luxury hotels are abundant in Zurich and the best one, in my humble opinion, is the Dolder Grand Hotel, with fabulous views of the city’s rooftops.  

Lucerne is cheaper, so if you want to save money, head to Lucerne once you’re done discovering the sights of Zurich. 

Day 2: Lucerne

best travel itinerary for switzerland

  • Zurich to Lucerne: 40-50 minutes
  • Accommodation: 40-100 CHF (budget), 150-250 CHF (mid-range), 300+ CHF (luxury)
  • Average Restuarant Meal: 25-30 CHF

For me, Lucerne is the most picturesque city in Switzerland. It’s known for its medieval architecture that dominates this small city and impressive natural surroundings. That’s why I’ve allocated two days for Lucerne –

  • One for exploring the top sights in the city
  • The second one is for a day trip to one of the majestic nearby mountains 

If you stay at a hotel near the train station in Lucerne (which there are loads of) you can leave the luggage at the hotel and be ready to explore the city in 10-20 minutes. Also, you won’t have to waste time traveling to the main station for day trips or heading to the next destination in Switzerland. 

Lucerne Old Town

Kick off your stay in Lucerne with a walking tour of the city. Book a guided tour if you want, or do a self-guided tour if you’re trying to save money. Lucerne is significantly smaller than Zurich and it will be easier to see all the top sights on your own. 

Walk to the Old Town – it’s only about 10 minutes from the train station, and you can cross the iconic Chapel Bridge . It’s the city’s most famous landmark, known for its unique artwork inside its roof. The old town of Lucerne is full of medieval buildings, and the best way to explore it is just to roam around and get lost in it. 

Then head all the way north to the Panorama Terrace, where you can experience a fabulous view of Lucerne’s rooftops. The Musegg wall with its nine towers is also close to this area, so be sure to spend some time there. You can climb the stairs to the top of the city walls to enjoy an even more impressive view of Lucerne. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Next, make sure to visit the Lion Monument. It’s an iconic Lucerne landmark and a special place for many locals. This part of the city is also home to the Glacier Garden of Lucerne (a museum with exhibits on ice age glaciers) and Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne. The latter is a museum with a cylindrical painting of the Franco-Prussian War and an attraction you should try to incorporate into your Lucerne itinerary, as it only takes about 30 minutes to tour the entire museum. 

Other popular landmarks in the city are

  • the Jesuit Church (on the southern bank of the Reuss River)
  • the 19th-century Needle Dam
  • the Franciscan Church known for its Gothic style, paintings, and large pipe organ.

You can see all of them during a walk through the city. 

Museums In Lucerne

best travel itinerary for switzerland

As for the best museums in Lucerne, you’ve got quite a few options. My favorite is the Sammlung Rosengart because its collection heavily focuses on the works by Picasso and has some fascinating pieces. Gameorama Spielmuseum is another unique museum in the city and it’s quite nostalgic. It’s a museum about games where you can play old arcades and even play board games at the museum cafe. 

Other popular museums in Lucerne are: 

  • Natur-Museum Luzern — natural history museum known for its collection of gold wasps
  • Kunstmuseum Luzern — a vast art museum
  • Diorama of the Alps — a museum with models and landscape paintings of the Alps
  • Historisches Museum Luzern — a museum with an exhibit on the local history of Lucerne
  • Swiss Museum of Transport — a fascinating technology museum with trains, cars, airplanes, and more

Hotels In Lucerne

Hostels and budget hotels in Lucerne start at 40 CHF for a single bed in a dormitory but are around 100 CHF for a night in a double room. Some 200 CHF can get you a night at a mid-range hotel, but you’ll need at least 300 CHF for a night in one of the city’s upscale hotels. 

Day 3: A Day Trip From Lucerne

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus are excellent destinations for a day trip from Lucerne. Each has its own unique attractions, so let’s start with a quick comparison of the two to help you decide where to go on your day trip from Lucerne: 

Option 1: Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is excellent for a round trip because you can ride on all the different types of public transport. Regional trains, boats, cogwheel railways, and cable cars are all part of the journey from Lucerne to Pilatus and back, but only if you travel between June and October.

Note; Boats don’t run between Lucerne and Alpnachstad the rest of the year, so you can only travel by train. The upside is that the journey will be shorter – 40-50 minutes total. 

The mountain is a great destination for adventure seekers thanks to a variety of fun and exciting things to do. You can ride the longest summer toboggan in Switzerland (Fräkigaudi toboggan), visit the stunning observation decks at the summit, explore the numerous hiking trails, have fun at the adventure park, and even see where a dragon used to live (according to local legends.) 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Enjoying a fondue during a gondola ride to the summit is possible! So, let’s see if Mount Rigi can beat the pot of melted cheese with a side of spectacular views. 

Option 2: Mount Rigi

Mount Rigi is situated on the northern shore of Lake Lucerne, overlooking the water, nearby towns, and other summits in the Bernese Alps. It’s accessible by boat and cogwheel train from Lucerne, and the entire journey is wonderfully scenic. The summit features hiking trails, a cheese dairy, observation decks, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children. There’s also a luxurious spa center at Rigi Kaltbad, perfect for anyone who wants to spend some time relaxing in thermal baths, with a view of the Alps. 

Rigi is a better destination if you’re primarily interested in hiking or skiing in the winter. But if you want a wider variety of things to do on the mountain, Pilatus is the better choice. 

Also, Pilatus is steeper and more rocky (so more like a “mountain”) if that makes any difference to you!

Lucerne City Guest Card

You should get the Lucerne City guest card for free if you stay at any accommodation in the city registered with the Lucerne Tourist Board. The card entitles you to 10-20% discounts on museum tickets, boat cruises, and train tickets to the nearby mountains. You can also get discounts at certain restaurants and free access to the public transport network in the city of Lucerne. 

Day 4: Interlaken 

Interlaken from above

  • Lucerne to Interlaken: 1 hour 50 mintues
  • Accommodation: 80-150 CHF
  • Average Restuarant Meal: 20-30 CHF

The train ride from Lucerne to Interlaken is impressively scenic, offering views of surreal blue lakes and countless summits in the Alps that tower over them. It’s just under two hours, but it will feel much shorter because of the jaw-dropping landscapes that make the time fly. 

Interlaken is named after its geographical location. The name of the town means “between lakes” which refers to its position between lakes Thun and Brienz. It’s one of the best destinations in Switzerland for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts because there’s a huge range of things in the nearby Jungfrau region!

Interlaken

Grindelwald, Wengen, and Lauterbrunnen are close to Interlaken and can be visited on day trips. The same goes for Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Schynigge Platte, and Grindelwald First, – all impressive summits with many activities to keep you occupied. 

But before you can go on day trips from Interlaken, you should at least explore the town a bit. Walking tours of Interlaken ’s top sights usually take 1-3 hours, with the longer ones including a trip to Unterseen, which is the cute old town portion of Interlaken. Some will even include a ride to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the town. 

Harder Kulm viewpoint

Harder Kulm is also a great destination for hiking. It’s famous for its ridge hike, one of Switzerland’s most deadly ridge trails. But more importantly, it gets you high enough to see epic views of the Bernese Oberland mountains – Eiger, Jungfrau and Monch.

Adventure Sports

On top of that, Interlaken is known for countless adventure sports. I can’t think of any other place in Switzerland with so many different companies operating such a wide range of adventure sports, including:

  • paragliding
  • parasailing
  • helicopter skydiving

And many more of course! 

Go on a scenic flight over the lakes, and then jump out of a helicopter from a height of more than 4,000 meters – how does that sound? Or, maybe do what most visitors do in Interlaken, and paraglide back into town from the nearby hills. Then run off on your next adventure!

If it sounds like something you would enjoy, Interlaken is doubtless a top Swiss destination for you. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Then there are also all the towns on the shores of lakes Thun and Brienz. Thun, Iseltwald , Brienz, and Spiez all have their own attractions and landmarks and are great alternatives to a standard Interlaken itinerary.  I just did a walk from Thun to the nearby suspension bridge via a stunning panorama walk just a few months ago!

Accommodation

In terms of places to stay, Interlaken has some of the most affordable accommodations in Switzerland. Hostel beds start at 40 CHF per person, and mid-range hotels are around 120-180 CHF for two people. There are plenty of luxury hotels in town as well, with prices of 300-600+ CHF per night. 

Day 5: Jungfraujoch

best travel itinerary for switzerland

  • Interlaken to Jungfraujoch: Approximately 90 minutes 
  • Seasonal Availability: Open year-round
  • Tickets: 187.8 CHF without discounts, 10 CHF seat reservation (not obligatory)

Jungfraujoch is a mountain saddle in the Bernese Alps and a truly special place you should absolutely visit if you have the time. It’s home to the highest train station and post office in Europe, both situated within a visitor’s complex known as Top of Europe. 

Traveling to the Top of Europe from Interlaken is straightforward and you can read all about it in our detailed guide to Jungfraujoch . You will need most of the day for this excursion and it’s best to head to the train station early in the morning because the last train from Jungfraujoch is at around 4:45 PM in the winter or 5:45 PM in the summer. My pro tip is to bring postcards, so you can mail them from Europe’s highest post office. 

Plan to spend 4-5 hours at Top of Europe (aka Jungfraujoch) to see everything at the top.

  • Walk through the Alpine Corridor,
  • Visit the Ice Palace
  • Head up to the Sphinx Observation Deck
  • Hike to Monschjochhutte if the weather allows it.

You can even ride a zipline or ski at the summit, although these experiences will cost you extra (20-25 CHF per experience). 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

There are 3-4 different restaurants at Jungfraujoch, but you’ll want to bring your own snacks if your budget for Switzerland is tight. There’s also a Lindt Chocolate Shop where you can buy sweets and even see a master chocolatier creating desserts, and it’s the highest Lindt shop in the world! 

If you take the last train home from Jungfruajoch, you should arrive in Interlaken before 7:30 PM (or 6:30 PM in the winter). You’ll likely be back in town even earlier, especially if you catch one of the early-morning trains to Top of Europe, so you’ll have plenty of time to continue exploring Interlaken. 

Use the time to do some of the things that you didn’t manage to do on day 4 – maybe it’s a quick trip to Harder Kulm or a tour of the Interlaken Castle. You can even go to Weissenau Nature Reserve to see the ancient ruins and chill long the river or near the lake. 

Day 6: Zermatt

Zermatt

  • Interlaken to Zermatt: 2 hours 12 minutes
  • Accommodation Cost: 60-150 CHF (budget), 250-300 CHF (mid-range),  800-1200 CHF (luxury)
  • Average Meal At Restuarant: 30 CHF

Head to the train station in Interlaken and board a one-way train to Zermatt. The journey to the car-free village is amazing, and you get to see some stunning Swiss landscapes while on the train. You’ll pass through the long Lötschberg Tunnel, then climb up the Mattertal Valley for sprawling views of villages, all the while being surrounded by summits higher than 4000 meters. 

Zermatt is a car-free resort so there are loads of pedestrian walking paths throughout the town. 

Regarding things to do in Zermatt , I’m honestly unsure where to begin. The Matterhorn Museum is a good place for a crash course on local history, including tales of many Alpinists who have completed the ascent on the pyramid-shaped peak. On the other hand, the museum is situated right next to the Mountaineer’s Cemetery, where many of those who failed at the attempt and faced fatal consequences are buried. 

Then there are all the hiking trails most easily accessible in the summer. Some trails start at the downtown area of the resort, and you can begin hiking as soon as you get off the train. But leave your luggage at the hotel first since most trails from Zermatt include a lot of uphill walking. 

zermatt

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most famous hikes near Zermatt. It takes about two and a half hours and is moderately challenging but stunning in views and landscapes. The trailhead is at the Blauherd funicular station, and the trail is almost a loop to Sunegga, the bottom station of the same funicular. The trail’s highlights are the five lakes you pass during the hike, which are

In that order. 

The Gorner Gorge is another beautiful natural landmark just outside the town. It is around 20-30 minutes walk from the edge of the village. The stunning ravine is accessible from May to October and visitors can explore it by following a wooden walkway for an entrance fee of just 5 CHF. You can complete this entire excursion in about an hour, an hour and a half, so don’t miss out! If you’re not in the mood for the walk to the gorge, just grab an electric taxi from the village. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Believe me, I’ve only scratched the surface of fun things in Zermatt. You could also cross the Furi suspension bridge (accessible by the Furi gondola), visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (near the border with Italy), hike to the tiny chapel at Schwarzsee, and more. 

Moving on to the accommodation options in Zermatt – hostels and campsites are the cheapest, at least 60 CHF per person. Mid-range hotels are around 200-300 CHF, although on the lower end are 2-star hotels with the bare necessities. Zermatt has a huge selection of luxury hotels, the best of which are at least 500 CHF per night. 

I recommend something a little wild – don’t book a hotel in Zermatt. Instead, catch the last train to Gornergrat or Rotenboden and set up camp on the shore of Riffelsee Lake for an epic conclusion of your week in Switzerland. 

Day 7: More time in Zermatt, Return to Zurich

best travel itinerary for switzerland

  • Zermatt To Zurich: 3 hours 30 minutes

Make the most of your last day in Switzerland by exploring the attractions you didn’t get to see previously, either in Zermatt or Zurich. I’m operating under the assumption that you’re flying out of Zurich Airport; you can either spend most of your day in Zermatt and then take the train to Zurich, or head to the bigger city early in the morning and spend the rest of your day roaming around the city streets. 

The train ride from Zermatt to Zurich takes about three and a half hours, and an extra 10-15 minutes to get from the city center to the airport. I advise booking late-night plane tickets so you can make the most of your day while still managing the almost four-hour train ride. 

But let’s go back a few paragraphs – I advised you to spend your last in Switzerland sleeping in a tent near Riffelsee. Why? Because it’s the only reasonable way of witnessing the sunrise over the Matterhorn and getting an epic shot of the mountain’s golden peak reflected in the lake. Yes, I’ve included the shot at the start of this section. 

Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge

The trains don’t start running before 7 AM, well past sunrise, so camping is the only way. Then you’re just half an hour away from the train station in Zermatt, and you can be on your way to Zurich in no time! Just keep in mind that nights in the mountains are very cold even in the summer, so if you’re going to do this, you will need warm sleeping bags, waterproof tents, and all the best gear. 

Back To Zurich

Back in Zurich you can pay a visit to the Old Botanical Garden in the Old Town, or head to the ETH University Complex for panoramic city views. Visit one final museum, play chess with locals at Lindenhof, or head to Teddy’s Souvenir Shop at Limmatquai to pick up a few final souvenirs for friends and family back home. Just enjoy your last few hours in Switzerland fully until it’s time to board the train to the airport. 

Tweaking Your Itinerary

bernina express

Everything I’ve listed above is a rough guide for a week in Switzerland. Feel free to extend time in any location or skip some locations entirely. 

Panoramic Train Rides

If you’re not into adventure sports or hiking, maybe skip Interlaken and do a panoramic train ride instead. The Bernina Express, the Gotthard Panorama Express, and the Glacier Express are all fabulous panoramic trains in Switzerland, which will wow you with stunning landscape views. 

Lavaux Vineyards on lake Geneva

You could also stay in Zurich or Lucerne for an extra day and explore more museums, or do another day trip. Another option is to begin this journey in a completely different country – why not land in Paris, stay in the city for a day, and then head to Zurich? It’s only four hours by train.  Or ride the train to Basel, stay there for a day, and then travel to Zurich. You can even end your journey in Milan, just four hours from Zurich.  

An alternative itinerary for a week in Switzerland would be to start in Zurich or Geneva and then explore the towns and cities in the country’s southwest, such as

  • Montreux & Vevey

Maybe include a day trip to Gruyeres, or Le Locle and Neuchatel Lake. It’s an entirely different vibe, but there’s plenty to discover and love about this region of Switzerland as well. Let me know how that sounds, and maybe I’ll do an alternative itinerary for that route too!

Useful Information

It’s worth it to buy a travel pass for Switzerland. I did the math so you don’t have to, and the verdict is that the one-month Half-Fare Card is the best value for money for this itinerary. With it, the cost of (train) tickets for everything in the itinerary is approximately 451.1 CHF.

The full price of the train and mountain tickets is 662.2 CHF, and with a 6-day travel pass, the entire trip will cost you around 527.2 CHF. Remember that those prices include both Rigi and Pilatus, so the trip is cheaper if you’re only making a single-day trip from Lucerne. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

It is a complicated calculation that really depends on your specific itinerary as more mountain trips cost more, and museum entrance is only included in the Swiss Travel Pass, most of the time anyway.

Download the SBB app on your phone to buy tickets and see timetables. The app is easy to use and it will help you get around Switzerland. 

The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). If you have Euros you might be able to use them in major shops and in some areas of big cities. But in general, they are not accepted in Switzerland.

Cards are widely accepted in bigger cities and popular resorts, but it’s still smart to carry cash for emergencies. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

All major train stations in Switzerland offer luggage storage services . If you arrive in a city before check-in, you can leave your luggage at the train station and go out and explore. 

Don’t waste money on bottled water. Tap water in Switzerland is perfectly safe for drinking, so there is absolutely no need to buy tap water at supermarkets. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at your accommodation so you can always have water while you’re out. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is seven days enough in switzerland.

Yes, seven days is enough in Switzerland. You will be able to discover the city’s most famous cities and landmarks, but a lot will be left undiscovered so you can always come back. 

What is the required budget for a 7-day trip to Switzerland?

The minimum required budget for a 7-day trip in Switzerland is 1100-1500 CHF. That’s if you’re staying at the cheapest hotels that are no more than 120 CHF per night and not eating your every meal at restaurants. A budget of 2,000-3,000 CHF will allow you to travel much more comfortably through Switzerland. 

Which season is the most ideal for a 7-day trip to Switzerland?

Summer is the ideal season for a 7-day trip in Switzerland. More specifically, the period between May and October is perfect for this itinerary.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

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Switzerland Itinerary: 5-Days Without a Car (From Geneva)

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Home » Switzerland Itinerary: 5-Days Without a Car (From Geneva)

Embark on an unforgettable journey with this 5-day Switzerland itinerary, exploring the enchanting towns of Montreux and Lucerne.

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Lake Geneva, explore the charming lakeside town of Montreux, and finally, venture along the Golden Pass scenic railway into the heart of the Swiss Alps, where Lucerne awaits with its mountainous landscapes.

Switzerland itinerary 5 days including Lucerne

Having spent extensive time in Switzerland over the years, this itinerary is based on my own experience doing this exact route during my most recent visit.

Tip: The route is entirely using public transport and would benefit from a Swiss Pass .

Switzerland Itinerary: 5 Days from Geneva

Geneva in Summer, Switzerland

For this itinerary, you will start in Geneva (one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland ).

Here is a quick overview of your trip:

  • Day 1 – Arrive in Geneva, Travel to Montreux (Via Lausanne)
  • Day 2 – Full Day in Montreux
  • Day 3 – Golden Pass Train Journey (With a Stop in Interlaken)
  • Day 4 – Lucerne
  • Day 5 – Day Trips From Lucerne, Depart from Zurich or Bern

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva, Travel to Montreux (Via Lausanne)

This 5-days itinerary in Switzerland assumes that you are flying in and out of Switzerland and will be using public transportation to get around.

Geneva is one of the cheapest airports in Europe to fly into so that’s where we’ll begin the journey.

Unfortunately, there’s not a lot to do in Geneva, but if you have time to spare, I recommend checking out the St. Pierre Cathedral, you can go inside for free and you can climb the tower for 5 Swiss Franc.

If they want to visit a country near Switzerland , France is easy to reach, however, I would suggest adding at least an additional day to your itineraries to fit it in!

View from Cathedral in Geneva by got my backpack

How to Get From Geneva to Montreux (Via Lausanne)

There are several ways to get from Geneva to Montreux, the easiest and fastest is using the train, this takes around 1 hour and costs around 25CHF.

However, if you are willing to pay a little more, instead of going around the lake, you can head straight across using the Lake Geneva ferry service.

Boat-trip-on-lake-Lucerne-by-Got-my-Backpack

You won’t be able to go straight from Geneva to Montreux on a ferry, you’ll need to change in Lausanne.

But instead of hopping off one ferry and straight onto another, I recommend aiming to fit in an hour or two for exploring Lausanne.

Keep in mind that the boat trip is far more expensive than the train, you’ll end up paying more than twice as much, so it’s not for those on a budget.

Things To Do in Lausanne

If you do manage to stop in Lausanne, here are some attractions to check out during the afternoon:

1. Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Pretty Lausanne in Switzerland

Take a walk through Lausanne’s charming Old Town, filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and quaint shops.

Don’t forget to stop by at the Gothic Lausanne Cathedral which offers the best views from the tower.

2. Visit the Olympic Museum

Lausanne is most famous as the home of the International Olympic Committee so there are several landmarks around the town recognizing this as well as the Olympic Museum which has interactive exhibits showcasing the history, achievements, and memorabilia of the Olympic Games.

Remember that we are only spending a few hours in Lausanne, you will need to make your way to Montreux, where you will spend 2 nights.

Where to Stay in Montreux

After Lausanne, head to Montreux and check in to your accommodation where you’ll be spending the next two nights .

It’s only small so everything is within walking distance, plus all hotel stays come with free use of public transport thanks to a local scheme.

For your stay, we recommend you stay at the super popular  Eurotel Montreux .

Eurotel Montreux

Centrally situated, Eurotel Montreux offers luxurious 4-star accommodation with spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

It’s the perfect choice for a summer escape, providing an ideal setting to enjoy all that Montreux has to offer, with sights, restaurants, and a train station close by.

Day 2: Montreux

Montreux in Summer

Today, you’ll be waking up in Montreux, a charming small town on the shore of Lake Geneva renowned for its breathtaking scenery and cultural events such as the Montreux Jazz Festival.

The town is captivating to explore all year round, but it holds an extra charm in the summer – which is why we recommend it on our list of the top places to visit in Switzerland in summer .

Things To Do in Montreux

Here are some of the top things to do in Montreux :

1. Walk along the Lakeside Promenade

Montreux promenade with Freddie Mercury Statue by got my backpack

The promenade is lined with flowers, palm trees, and sculptures. Look out for the statue of Freddie Mercury, one of Montreux’s most famous past residents.

2. The Queen Studio Experience

As well as living in Montreux, Freddie Mercury recorded siz queen albums there at Mountain Studios.

Today, there is a museum dedicated to Queen at Casino Barrière de Montreux. It includes memorabilia and information about the band and is free to visit.

3. Relax on This 2-Hour Riviera Cruise

Take-a-summer-cruise-on-the-Swiss-Riviera

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Swiss Riviera with a 2-hour paddle steamer boat ride.

Admire striking views of Lake Geneva, the Swiss and French Alps, and Chillon Castle.

Book your cruise here.

4. Visit Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle at sunset by got my backpack

Chillon Castle is a medieval castle built on a tiny rock island just off the shore of Lake Geneva. It’s one of the most-visited historical sites in the whole country.

Save this gem until the end of the day so that you can enjoy the view of the sunset behind the castle.

However, the last entry is either 5 pm or 6 pm depending upon the time of year so arrive before this to be able to visit the castle.

Make your life easier and  grab your entrance ticket online here .

Day 3: Ride the Golden Pass Train (via Interlaken)

Today, you’re going to ride the Golden Pass, one of Switzerland’s iconic scenic train journeys.

Thanks to an upgrade in 2022 which allows the train to jump between tracks (yes – this is true), there are now only two legs to this journey. Montreux to Interlaken then Interlaken to Lucerne.

I recommend leaving Montreux on the 9:35 am train which runs year-round (this is your only option in off-peak season between December and June so you can’t miss it).

The first leg takes around 3hrs15 so you’ll arrive in Interlaken in the early afternoon.

Things To Do in Interlaken

Interlaken Switzerland

Interlaken is a beautiful little alpine town in the Swiss mountains, nestled between two stunning lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

It’s known as the adventure capital of Switzerland where you can do paragliding, rafting, bungee jumping, and more.

With only a short stop in the town, you won’t have much time for any of these, however, you can still spend time exploring the town’s charming streets and enjoying the quaint Swiss atmosphere.

Old City of Interlaken, Switzerland

There are numerous cafes and restaurants within walking distance of the train station where you can grab a bite to eat on your layover.

Traveling From Interlaken to Lucerne

The second leg of your journey, from Interlaken to Lucerne, takes 2 hours with trains departing every hour at 4-past the hour until the final service at 20:04.

Judge for yourself which one you’d like to take based on how much time you want in Interlaken.

Where To Stay in Lucerne

Whilst there are several luxury resorts around Lucerne, this is a jam-packed itinerary so it’s best to stay in Altstadt (Old Town) where you’ll be within easy reach of everything.

This area contains most of the city’s historical buildings and iconic landmarks.

You need to book for three nights here in Lucerne.

Grand Hotel National Luzern

Grand Hotel National Luzern

If you’re willing to splash out a little more for a super comfortable stay, then consider the 5-star Grand Hotel National Luzern which has been designed to the highest standards with Italian marble floors and silk-style wallpaper to name a few.

Day 4: Lucerne

Lucerne in Switzerland, river and buildings

After a busy day of travel, you’ll be waking up in Lucerne and will have the whole day to explore. It’s a beautiful city found in the heart of Switzerland on the shore of Lake Lucerne.

All around, the city is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks which is why it’s sometimes referred to as the gateway to the Swiss Alps.

Things To Do in Lucerne

Here are the best things to do in Lucerne:

1. Free Walking Tour

The best way to discover any city in a short amount of time is with a guided tour from a local.

Free Walk Lucerne offers free walking tours at 11 am every day except Tuesday and Thursday. If it’s not running today, you’ll have time to fit it in the next day instead.

Although this is a free walking tour, the model is for you to leave a tip according to what you think the tour was worth.

The tour should take you to some of Lucerne’s top landmarks, but if you’d rather discover these for yourself, make sure to stop by Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a famous wooden bridge with a tower that dates to the 14 th century.

Old-bridge-Kapellbrucke-in-Lucerne-Switzerland

And the Lion Monument which is a moving sculpture carved into a rock face to commemorate the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution.

2. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

Old town street in Lucerne city, Switzerland

Take a stroll through Lucerne’s charming Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architecture.

Explore the colorful buildings, boutique shops, and small cafes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the charming Weinmarkt Square and the Rathaus (Town Hall).

3. Swiss Museum of Transport

Lucerne Museum of Transport by got my backpack

The Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and development of transportation in Switzerland.

Exhibits include everything from vintage cars and trains to airplanes and even space rockets.

This is a great family-friendly attraction that people of all ages can enjoy. There are interactive displays, simulators, and fun activities to keep you entertained.

Day 5: Day Trips From Lucerne, Leave from Zurich or Bern

On your second day in Lucerne, it would be a good idea to take a day trip up one of the nearby mountains.

You have two options to choose from:

Option 1: Mount Rigi

Mount Rigi Switzerland

Mount Rigi is easily accessible from Lucerne.

Not only does it have incredible views and leisurely hikes for all abilities, but there are several hotels up there that have spa facilities.

To reach the summit, catch a boat from Lucerne to Vitznau and then take the cogwheel train up to Rigi Kulm which is the best viewpoint with panoramic views.

In total, it takes around 2 hours to reach Rigi Kulm from Lucerne, but make sure you check the latest timetables to plan your trip.

You can return the same way, however, some people choose to catch another train to  Rigi-Kaltbad and return via the cable car.

If you want to make life super easy for this last day, then I highly recommend you book this 7-hour tour which includes the scenic boat cruise, the cogwheel train, and cable cars.

Click here to book your tour to Mt Rigi from Lucerne.

Option 2: Mount Pilatus

mt Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is known for its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque landscapes.

It’s more adventurous than Rigi, not just in terms of getting there, but also in terms of the activities at the top. It’s a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and paragliding.

The easiest way to visit Mount Pilatus from Lucerne is to take the 15-min bus to Kriens and then take a cable car up the mountain.

Mt. Pilatus and Lake Lucerne view in Switzerland, cable car

Alternatively, you can take the train or ferry to Alpnachstad and then go up on the cogwheel train. This option is only available during peak season.

Many people like to go up on the cable car and down on the cogwheel train, this is known as the Golden Round Trip. You can get a ticket to do this by yourself on Get Your Guide , or you can take a guided tour .

Getting Home From Lucerne

Lucerne doesn’t have its own airport, but luckily you’re now close to both Zurich and Bern which have lots of international flights.

To finish your trip, head straight to the airport of your choice (Zurich is much easier to reach):

  • Lucerne to Zurich Airport: Zurich Airport has a railway station with regular direct trains from Lucerne that take around an hour.
  • Lucerne to Bern Airport: To reach Bern airport, you’ll first need to catch a train from Lucern to Bern Hbf which takes around 1hr20. You’ll then need to take the S-Barn to the airport which takes another 30 minutes.

FAQs About Visiting Switzerland in 5 Days

Chillon Castle Montreux, Switzerland

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about traveling around Switzerland for 5-days.

Yes, 5 days in Switzerland is enough time to get a taste of the country and see a good number of attractions, but you’ll only have time to make a few stops and it will leave you wanting to come back again.

The best time to visit Switzerland for good weather is between April and October, however, you may want to avoid July and August if you don’t want it to be overcrowded. Switzerland is also great for Winter sports, the season for this tends to be between December and March.

The best way to travel across Switzerland is using the railways. Switzerland has an excellent network of public and private trains that are well-connected and faster than driving. If you are traveling by train, a Swiss Travel Pass would be helpful.

Although Switzerland’s four official languages are German, French, Italian, and Romansh, English is widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas you are likely to be visiting.

Switzerland is a small country, so the best way to travel within the country is by train or bus. However, if you wish to have more freedom and independence to travel without worrying about a timetable, then renting a car in Switzerland is a great idea.

Final Thoughts On Our 5-Day in Switzerland Itinerary  

In conclusion, this Switzerland 5 days itinerary begins in Geneva and includes overnight stays in Montreux, a charming town on the bank of Lake Geneva, and Lucerne, a city with plenty of activities and day trips.

You’ll also get to see other towns in Switzerland such as Lausanne and Interlaken.

After more itineraries? We also have a 4 days in Switzerland itinerary which is a fast-moving itinerary to see some of the most beautiful highlights in Switzerland.

Guest Blog Post Written by Kieran from Got My Backpack.

Further Reading:

Here are some of our other blog posts that you might be interested in when you plan your vacation in Switzerland :

  • Find out why Switzerland is beautiful
  • What are things that Switzerland is known for?
  • Most beautiful places to see in Switzerland
  • Soak up in one of the Swiss hot springs
  • Check out the little town of Gruyeres
  • Is Switzerland worth visiting?
  • 20 Reasons to Visit Switzerland
  • Find travel insurance for Switzerland

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Jolene Ejmont

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10-Day Switzerland Itinerary — 6 Cities Under S$2.3k with the Swiss Travel Pass

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Money-saving tips for planning your next Switzerland itinerary at the end — from food to accommodation and using the Swiss Travel P ass !

First published: 9 Nov 2018

Mountain View - Switzerland Itinerary

Just imagine waking up to this view every day 😍

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Majestic mountains, deep forests, and azure blue skies. Switzerland truly lived up to our expectations.

Its beauty aside, it’s no secret that it can be an expensive destination. Even a standard meal at McDonald’s can set you back around S$15. But this itinerary will prove that you don’t have to be crazy rich (or Asian, for that matter) to experience the best of Switzerland under a S$2.3k budget.

Switzerland Itinerary Map - Rail Route

In this extensive 10-day Switzerland itinerary, we explore six captivating Swiss cities under a budget of S$2.3k, all made possible with the convenience of the Swiss Travel Pass.

From wandering through valleys that inspired scenes in The Lord of The Rings movie, to witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at the iconic Matterhorn mountain, and even indulging in exhilarating adventures like sliding down the Fräkigaudi Sommer with the majestic Swiss Alps as our backdrop — this Switzerland itinerary has it all.

View of Lauterbrunnen Church - Switzerland Itinerary

Budget Breakdown for 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary Across 6 Cities

Accommodation:  ~S$558 Activities:  S$365.31 Transport:  S$1,057.39 (incl. Swiss Travel Pass ) Food & Miscellaneous:  S$304.70

Total: ~S$2,285/pax  Click here for full breakdown

This Switzerland itinerary starts off in Zürich. Flight prices aren’t included in the budget since they fluctuate all year round.

Travelling with the Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Travel Pass - Switzerland Itinerary

Unless you’re renting a car to drive (petrol is crazy expensive btw!), the Swiss Travel Pass is an absolute essential for getting around Switzerland without busting your budget.

Apart from train rides, the Swiss Travel Pass also covers an extensive network of buses, boats and 500 museums across the country. For more details on what’s covered and what’s not, check out our guide to maximising the Swiss Travel Pass .

The Swiss Travel Pass is available in 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 days. For our Switzerland itinerary, the 8-day pass works best! We flew into Zürich, rented a car to cover our first day of transport to Lucerne and surrounds, before activating the pass for days two to nine.

Once back in Zürich, you can get around the city either by walking or with the ZVV day-pass — valid for 24 hours. Using the pass only within Zürich meant we covered two zones, which set us back at CHF17.60/pax for the day.

Read also: Getting around Switzerland — How to Maximise Your Swiss Travel Pass

Day 1 – 3: Lucerne 

View of Lucerne form above - Getting around Switzerland

An hour away from Zürich Airport, we spent two days in the historic city of Lucerne. Highlights include its charismatic old town, getting to the top of Mt Pilatus via the famous Golden Round Trip, and its panoramic view of the Swiss Alps from Mount Rigi .

Transport:  Commute via public trains with the 24-hour  ZVV day-pass  or rent a car from Zürich Airport and drop off in Lucerne (~CHF100/day) Accommodation:  Airbnb  — private room in a shared apartment for three pax at ~S$178/night, 15mins from Lucerne main station

Lucerne Old Town

Night view of Kapellbrücke - Switzerland Itinerary

Admire Lucerne’s medieval architecture including Europe’s oldest wood-covered bridge of Kapellbrücke , and the nine fortified towers of Musegg Wall . You could spend the afternoon enjoying coffee by the Reus riverside at Mill’feuille , or get a drink with a bird’s eye view of Lucerne at the elaborately-decorated Hotel Château Gütsch bar at night.

How to get there:  Walk across the Bahnhof Luzern (main train station) to the old town area. The old town is situated along the Reus river.

Make Your Own Swiss Army Knife: Victorinox Brand Store (Brunnen)

Making a swiss army knife at Victorianox - Switzerland Itinerary

While there are Victorinox stores all around Switzerland, this particular Victorinox Outlet in Brunnen is a store, museum and visitor centre all in one. But the highlight for us was getting hands-on and  making our own Swiss Army Knife  from scratch — the process only takes 15 minutes, and you can even get your name engraved at the end. Advanced bookings via  e-mail  for this experience is required.

Besides wandering around the museum, there’s also a 1.5-hour tour to learn all about the family business and its products, including a visit to the chocolate factory and winery! Go big or go home — spice up your tour experience by adding on fringe activities to the agenda.

Think: A round trip on the Urnersee cruise to see Lake Lucerne, a half-day hike in historic Switzerland, or drinking brandy at the Arnold Dettling AG Kirsch Distillery tour, just to name a few.

Cost:  CHF35/customised knife (~S$48) — Entrance to the museum is free Opening hours (Visitor Center):   Varies Address:  Bahnhofstrasse 3, 6440 Brunnen Switzerland (There are a few Victorinox outlets in the area so be sure to key in the exact address!)

Visit the Highest Outdoor Lift in Europe: Hammetschwand Lift

Group photo at the top of Hammestschwand Lift - Switzerland Itinerary

Located at the top of Bürgenstock mountain, the  Hammetschwand lift is the highest outdoor lift in Europe and offers a panoramic view of Lake Lucerne. Unfortunately, this one’s only accessible by car but is a much cheaper option to go to Pilatus or Titlis (especially without the Swiss Travel Pass ).

Cost:  CHF13 (two-way on the lift), CHF10 (one-way) Opening hours: 9:30AM – 6PM How to get there:  Park your car at  Hotel Villa Honegg  and hike one hour along the Felsenweg (Rock Trail) Address:  Bürgenstock Resort, Felsenweg, 6363 Bürgenstock

Ascend to Mount Pilatus via the “Golden Round Trip”

View along Tomlishorn hike in Pilatus - Switzerland Itinerary

The famous Golden Round Trip takes you to various points of Mount Pilatus  through five different modes of transport — by boat, cogwheel train, aerial cable way and cable car up, followed by a bus back to Lucerne Station. Check out the Golden Round Trip interactive map to understand how the route works (more details in our Swiss Travel Pass guide )!

At the peak, there are many hiking trails available but our favourite is the 40-minute Tomlishorn hike. A ‘low effort, high returns’ hike, this trail is an easy one with endless photogenic views that get better as you walk on. To get to the starting point, walk past the restaurant area, and you’ll see the signage to the start of the hike.

POV of Fräkigaudi Toboggan in Pilatus - Switzerland Itinerary

On the descend, take the aerial cable way and get off at Fräkmüntegg station for the Fräkigaudi Toboggan  (CHF8/ride) — Switzerland’s longest Summer Toboggan Run at 1,350m long. Adjust the handle to suit your need for speed as you zoom down the curves of the slide. Once at the bottom, don’t worry about lugging your Toboggan back up because you’ll get pulled back up to the top.

If you intend to take photos or videos, strap your GoPro to your body because both hands are needed to manoeuvre the Toboggan.

Cogwheel ride up from Alpnachstad to Mount Pilatus - Switzerland Itinerary

The total travelling time up and down Mount Pilatus takes ~2.5 hours. Factor in one hour to ride the Fräkigaudi Toboggan and extra time to explore Mount Pilatus itself, so set aside about 4-6 hours for the whole experience.

Cost: CHF108 or CHF36 with Swiss Travel Pass . Transport hours: First cogwheel ride up from Alpnachstad to Mount Pilatus at 8:30AM. Last connection down to Kriens on the cableway leaves Pilatus Kulm at 5:30PM. Starting point: Luzern (main station) for the train or boat ride to Alpnachstad OR Kriens (take bus no.1 from Luzern main station) 

Picnic With A View at Mt Rigi

View of Mount Rigi - Switzerland Itinerary

The train ride up to Mount Rigi is entirely free for  Swiss Travel Pass holders. So when planning your Switzerland itinerary, you’ll want to visit this on the day your pass is activated. There are two routes up and down Rigi Kulm  — either take the cogwheel train from Arth-Goldau (37mins) or Vitznau station (32mins).

From there, it’s a 15-minute hike to the top where you can view over 13 lakes and the whole of the Swiss Alps in a full 360-degree panoramic view. The clear skies, vast grass plains, and fresh Swiss air make for a perfect picnic!

Cost: CHF72 (Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm), CHF45 (Rigi Kulm to Vitznau). Free for Swiss Travel Pass holders Opening hours: Varies Starting point:  Arth-Goldau OR Vitznau station

Day 3 – 5: Interlaken

View of Handeck Bridge Front - Getting around Switzerland

Interlaken is a must-add to your Switzerland itinerary if you’re a backpacker, and serves as the perfect base for day trips to surrounding adventures.

What to expect: Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen  — between valleys that inspired the LOTR movies, riding the Gelmerbahn — Switzerland’s steepest open-air Funicular, challenging your vertigo on the Thrill Walk — 200m-long walkway made of glass and metal wires, and last but not least, making it to Jungfraujoch — the highest train station in Europe.

From Lucerne – Interlaken: Ride the Luzern-Interlaken Express (~120mins). It departs every hour from 7:05AM to 3:05PM except 8:05AM Accommodation:   Backpacker’s Villa Interlaken (Hostel) — ~S$75/bed per night in a 7-bed mixed dorm, 10mins walk from Interlaken OST Station, or 5mins ride on Bus 102 (towards Interlaken West) alighting at Sonnenhof Station

Ride Switzerland’s Steepest Open-air Funicular: Gelmberbahn

Gelmerbahn Furnicular - Switzerland Itinerary

A cargo-railway historically built to transport heavy materials for the construction of the Gelmer Dam, the Gelmer Funicular  is now a cable railway attraction, the steepest of its kind with an inclination of over 106°. Open air and securing its passengers with only one bar across, this funicular ride is for the acrophiles out there.

Queue early to get seats in the first two rows for unobstructed views as you ascend!

Views of Gelmer Lake - Switzerland Itinerary

At the top, take a short 5-minute hike to see the Gelmer Lake and its turquoise waters. It’s possible to hike around the whole lake (~2hrs 50mins) but the best views are probably from the right side, towards the dam and only a 5-minute hike.

Once back down, continue your adventure by hiking to the Handeck Suspension Bridge . It hangs 70m above the Handeck gorge, with a view of the beautiful waterfalls.

Cost:  CHF32 CHF (two-way), CHF16 (single trip) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM (Jun, Sep – Oct), 9AM – 5PM (Jul – Aug) How to get there:  Take the Line 470 Train from Interlaken OST, followed by Bus 171  (2hrs 17mins). Alight at the Handegg, Gelmerbahn bus stop

*Pro-tip:   Book two-way tickets 3 days in advance as tickets sell out quickly! If you only have a one-way ticket to the top, the only way down is a 2-hour hike.

Explore Iseltwald and Lake Brienz

Lake view at Itselwald - Switzerland Itinerary

Looking for a hidden gem to add to your Switzerland itinerary? The small fishing village of Iseltwald is a lesser-known destination with cosy holiday chalets and leisure activities like kayaking.

Walk down the quaint streets and see the Iseltwald Castle across the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. While most people go to the Lake Brienz Station to take in the view, we feel that it’s more magical to eye it from Iseltwald. Have a picnic here, and watch the sun set across the horizon!

How to get there:  From Interlaken Ost station, take bus 103 to the last stop of Iseltwald Dorfplatz (15mins)

Paraglide over Lauterbrunnen

Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen - Switzerland Itinerary

There are a few paragliding spots from Interlaken but nothing beats the experience of flying between the valleys of Lauterbrunnen . Running off from Mürren, we flew really close to rock faces, waterfalls, and over the scenic village huts of Lauterbrunnen, all while enjoying the Swiss Alps in the distance. I don’t think there’s anywhere else in the world with an experience like this.

If you’re confident, you might even get a chance to take over the flight for bit! For the daredevils, you’ll even get to enjoy their signature “roller coaster” as they spend the last minute or two making sharp drops and swerves before landing safely on the ground. Your heart is sure to get a good healthy dose of adrenaline for the day.

We signed up with Airtime Paragliding , which entitles you to a free drink (a coffee, hot chocolate or even a beer!) at the  Airtime Cafe in Lauterbrunnen town.

Cost:  CHF170 (~S$232) (additional CHF40 for GoPro rental) Bookings: E-mail , or call +41 (0)79 247 84 63 Meeting point:  Airtime Cafe — 10-minute walk from Lauterbrunnen station

The James Bond Experience: Schilthorn

Schilthorn Mountain Views - Switzerland Itinerary

Right next to the landing spot for paragliding is the cable car station that brings you up to Schilthorn .  Swiss Travel Pass holders get to ride this cable car for free! Just show your tickets at the counter to collect your ticket.

Glass walkway at Schilthorn Thrill Walk - Switzerland Itinerary

After that, hop on the next cable car to head further up to the Piz Gloria Schilthorn Summit  — the actual set of ‘ James Bond: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service ‘. Walk around the James Bond museum or dine above the clouds at the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant .

Cost:  CHF82.60 (roundtrip), free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Opening hours: 7:25AM – 4:25PM How to get there:  From Lauterbrunnen, take bus No. 141 to the Stechelberg Schilthornbahn. The cable car to Mürren departs every 30mins. Alternatively, take a cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp, then a train to Mürren

Visit Europe’s Highest Train Station: Jungfraujoch

Views along the Jungfrau Railway - Switzerland Itinerary

Get 3,454m above sea level at Jungfraujoch  for icy air and views of Switzerland’s 4,000m peaks. While there’s a high chance that the view above will be foggy, the ride on the Jungfrau railway is arguably one of the most scenic in our Switzerland itinerary!

At the top, walk through the Ice Palace , Alpine Sensation and watch the Jungfrau Panorama .

Before leaving, send a postcard at Europe’s highest mailbox. Stamps can be purchased for CHF2 and postcards for CHF3, but you can bring your own postcard.

Cost:  CHF197.20 or CHF137.40 with  Swiss Travel Pass Opening hours:  First train leaves Interlaken OST at 6:35AM (arrives every 30mins).  Click here for detailed timings. How to get there:  From Interlaken OST Station, take the Bernese Oberland Railway to either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald (20/35mins). At either station, take the Wengernalp WAB cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg Station (30–45mins). Finally, transfer to the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch (50mins with two sightseeing stops)

Hike Grindelwald First for stunning lake views 

Views at Lake Bachalpsee in Grindelwald - Switzerland Itinerary

Located in the heart of the Bernese Alps, Grindelwald First is a place adventurous people would love to place in their Switzerland itinerary.  Be it on the way up to Grindelwald’s peak, or on the way down, — there are hiking trails and thrill-activities populating the whole area, promising non-stop alpine excitement. 

Ride the gondola up to the Mount First Top Station , and start your Grindelwald Hike to Lake Bachalpsee . This is an easy hike that crosses alpine meadows to the Bernese Alps. The reward: the crystal-blue, (literally) glistening Bachalpsee Lake , with the peaks of Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn in the distance!

Grindelwald First Flyer - Switzerland Itinerary

Back at the Mount First Top Station station and on the way down, there are five adventure activities you can try to satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie. Try out the  First Cliff Walk by Tissot ,  First Flyer (zipline) ,  First Glider (Eagle glider ride) , Mountain Kart (go-kart/sled vehicle)  or  Trotti Bike (scooter)  all the way back to the base of Grindelwald.

Wanna try everything? Go for the cheaper  4-in-1 package (Grindelwald First Top Adventure) , which sets off from Zürich and gives you a full day of thrill activities and sightseeing at the same time.

Grindelwald Firstbahn Gondola Cost: CHF30 (50% discount with  Swiss Travel Pass ) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 4:30PM.  Check website for updates How to get there:  SBB Train from Interlaken OST to Grindewald (~33mins)

Day 6: Montreux

Alimentarium in Vevey - Getting around Switzerland

Crossing into Montreux, you’ll first realise the stark difference between the German-speaking cities of Lucerne and Interlaken and French-speaking Montreux. Other than its French-influenced architecture, it has the Swiss Alps as a backdrop and Lake Geneva at its doorstep.

It’s a place to unwind due to its serene atmosphere and slower pace of life. Even getting to Montreux via the Golden Pass Line is an experience in itself. See Switzerland’s grandest castle Château de Chillon , stroll along the romantic streets of Vevey, and take a detour to the Leukerbad Thermal Baths before hitting the next city (Zermatt).

Accommodation: Airbnb — private room in a rental unit fit for 1 pax — ~S$85/night, 10mins walk from Montreux main station

Ride the Golden Pass Line to Montreux

 Views along the Golden Pass Line - Switzerland Itinerary

A famous route between Interlaken to Montreux is the Golden Pass Line  which brings you along the dreamiest sights across Switzerland, complete with panoramic ceilings on the two-hour ride. The service runs once every two hours.

If you miss this train, there are various local trains that go from Interlaken to Montreux but via Bern instead of Zweisimmen.

Cost: CHF74, free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Schedule:   Varies Route:  Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

Château de Chillon

Lake view of Château de Chillon - Switzerland Itinerary

Château de Chillon  is known as Switzerland’s grandest castle for good reason. Rich in history, the castle has been inhabited by three royal families. Take a guided castle tour or explore the highlights for yourself — be sure to check out the courtyard, great halls and chapel.

Outside, take an idyllic stroll along the riverside. There’s a small beach to the left of the castle for photo opportunities, or a quick dip in the summer.

Entrance fee:  CHF12.50, free with  Swiss Travel Pass . Opening hours: Varies How to get there:  Take Bus 201 from Montreux station (9mins). Drop off at Chillon Station and you’ll be able to see the castle.

Day Trip to Vevey

Vevey Fork - Switzerland Itinerary

A charming small town right next to Montreux, Vevey  is known as one of the ‘Pearls of the Swiss Rivera’ with vineyards, holiday accommodations and alfresco restaurants all over.

Spot the Charlie Chaplin statue at the promenade as the iconic actor spent his last years there. The Nestlé Headquarters and the  Alimentarium   (CHF13, free on Swiss Travel Pass ) — the world’s first food-themed museum — are also found here.

Look out for the “symbol” of Vevey at the promenade — the world’s tallest fork standing at 8m high!

How to get there:  From Montruex, take Bus 201 to Vevey (30mins), or a train from Montreux Station to Vevey Station (10mins) and walk to the main promenade area (9mins)

Soak in the Leukerbad Thermal Baths

Leuk Thermal Bath - Switzerland Itinerary

After exploring Montreux and Vevey, we stopped by the Leukerbad Thermal Baths en-route to Zermatt. It’s the largest thermal spa resort in the Swiss Alps with natural thermal waters rich in minerals — just what you need after days of hiking and adventuring. Plus point: the bus ride there is free on the  Swiss Travel Pass !

Indulge in 10 thermal baths (28 – 44°) at the Leukerbad-Therme  while being surrounded with mountainous views — especially fairytale-like in the winter. Not many tourists know of this gem, so enjoy the bubbling jets, cold tubs and saunas undisturbed!

Entrance fee:  CHF25 for 3 hours Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM How to get there: Train from Montreux to Leuk. Change to the LLB bus (30mins ride) to Leukerbad. The bus has sufficient luggage storage at the bottom and there will be luggage storage rooms at the spa

*Pro-tip:  Bring your own towel or you will have to rent towels at CHF5/towel.

Day 7: Zermatt

Getting around Switzerland_Zermatt

Home to the  Matterhorn , a.k.a. the “Toblerone Chocolate Mountain”, Zermatt is a car-free town that has ski slopes open all 365 days of the year. And if you’re thinking of adding a hike to your Switzerland itinerary, know that Zermatt is the gateway to some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Plot your route around the vast Matterhorn landscape with this full map of the Matterhorn Paradise .

Where to Eat Switzerland_Du Pont Cheese Fondue

Highlights here obviously include seeing the Matterhorn up close, but it’s also a great place to enjoy affordable cheese fondue ( Cafe Du Pont )!

Transport:  Take a train from Montreux to Leuk (1hr 20mins) and stop at the Leukerbad Thermal Bath. Thereafter, take the train to Visp (~30mins). The final leg is Visp to Zermatt (~1hr) Accommodation: Zermatt Youth Hostel — 8-bed dorm room at ~S$81/bed per night, 15mins walk from Zermatt Station (incl. a long flight of stairs just before the hostel)

Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise

Matterhorn at Sunrise from Rifflesee - Switzerland Swiss Travel Pass Guide

Of all the beautiful views in our Switzerland itinerary, the Matterhorn sunrise outshone them all (pun intended). You’ll see the clearest reflection of the Matterhorn in the still water of the Riffelsee.

For this view, we took the first train at 7AM on the Gornergrat Bahn (Matterhorn Railway) from Zermatt village to Riffelboden Station. Riffelsee is only a 5-minute hike from the station.

3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat at Gornergrat Peak - Getting around Switzerland

After sunrise, take the train to Gornergrat Peak , where Switzerland’s highest hotel, the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat stands. At the top, admire the whole range of 29 4,000m-tall peaks!

Cost: CHF49 (one-way) (50% discount with the  Swiss Travel Pass ) Operation hours:  First train up at 7AM ( full schedule ) How to get there:  Take the Gornergratbahn from the Bahnhofplatz Base Station (~15mins to Riffleboden, 33mins to the Gornergrat peak). The station’s located near the Zermatt train station and is easy to spot

Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike

Views along 5 Seenweg Hike - Switzerland Hikes

An alternative hike is the 5-Lakes Walk , where you’ll see the Matterhorn in its full glory at every turn. The five alpine lakes are Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, Leisee, and Stellisee (tongue twister much?), with Stellisee offering the clearest view of the Matterhorn.

The whole hike is ~9.3km long, and takes about four hours to complete. It’s not difficult either, manageable even for families with children!

Zermatt Bergbahnen Cost: CHF40 (50% discount with the  Swiss Travel Pass ) Operating hours:  ( Full schedule ) How to get there:  Take a funicular from Zermatt Station to Sunnegga (2,288m). Transit to the gondola up to Blauherd (2,571m). Start the hike from Blauherd downwards towards Sunnegga, then take the funicular back to Zermatt

Day 8: Glacier Express to St Moritz 

Swiss Travel Pass_Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is the queen of Swiss railways and the 8-hour picturesque ride is so popular that you’re advised to  make reservations  at least one month in advance to secure seats!

*Note: Bookings open three months ahead.

On the trip, plug into the train commentary for information about various stops along the route.

Swiss Travel Pass_Glacier Express View

Beginning from Zermatt and ending in St Moritz, highlights of the route include passing through the Oberalppass at 2,033m above sea level, the Rhine Gorge (a.k.a the Grand Canyon of Switzerland), and the famous Landwasser Viaduct .

*Pro-tip: Sit on the right side for the best views!

Cost:  From CHF185 (second class). Pay a top up of only CHF33 (for the reservation) if you have the Swiss Travel Pass . Timetable: Check schedule for specific timings

Day 9: St Moritz

Getting around Switzerland_Moritzsee-wordpress

The final stop of the Glacier Express is St Moritz, a popular town with luxurious alpine resorts. From here, you can take a day trip to the town of Filisur where you can hike to the famous view point of the Landwasser Viaduct.

Transport:   Glacier Express (8hrs) Accommodation:   Youth Hostel — single bed in quadruple room for ~S$92/night, ~15mins bus ride from St Moritz station

Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint

Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint - Switzerland Itinerary

With 65m-high pillars towering over Graubünden, the Landwasser Viaduct is one of the most photographed railways in the world. You may have glimpsed it while on the Glacier Express, but seeing it from above is a different experience.

From St. Moritz, alight at Filisur Village  on the Rhätische Bahn. The first viewpoint just 15 minutes from the station is a frontal view of the viaduct. But our personal favourite is the the Aussichtsplattform Landwasserviadukt, which is a 40-minute hike to see the train from above.

Cost: CHF21.80 (free with  Swiss Travel Pass ) Timetable:  Check schedule for specific timings Coordinates (Aussichtsplattform Landwasserviadukt):  46.680606, 9.67496387237543 How to get there:  Board the  Rhätische Bahn between St Mortiz and Chur (arrives every hour). Choose the last cabin, specifically designed with windows you can roll down for photos. Alight at Filisur Village, and walk to the viewpoint.

Day 10: Zürich

Getting around Switzerland_Zürich

The last day in our Switzerland itinerary is none other than Zürich, a bustling city with historical charm that offers a change of pace after days spent amidst nature. We arrived in Zürich from St Moritz at night, and started the next (and last) day exploring the city. Besides taking a day trip out to see the Rhine Falls , we explored Zürich Old Town and caught the sunset at Lindenhof .

At this point, our  Swiss Travel Pass had expired, so we got around either by public buses or by foot.

When leaving the city en route to the Zürich Airport, there’s a direct train from Zürich HB station (~10mins, CHF6.80) or you can opt for a private car transfer  to get straight to your flight with convenience.

Transport:  Local SBS train from St Moritz to Zürich (3hrs 6mins) Accommodation:  Hotel Bristol Zürich — Various room configurations are available at ~S$95/pax. 5mins walk from Zürich station.

Tour Rhine Falls

Rhine Falls - Switzerland Itinerary

One of the best day trips out from Zürich is to the Rhine Falls,  Europe’s largest waterfall at 23m! We signed up for a half-day tour  beginning with a pick up near Zürich main station.

The drive is about 40 minutes before arriving at the entrance of Rhine Falls. Ride the panoramic elevator at the top of the Laufen Castle, down to the viewing platforms. For a more intimate experience, take a boat ride to the Rhine Falls Basin to feel the full force of the falls at close proximity. Note that you’ll have to pay an extra fee for the boat ride (CHF10).

If you’d like to top your visit to the Rhine Falls with exploring Zürich City as well within the day, you can opt for an all-in, full-day tour which includes a cogwheel train ride.

Cost: ~S$83  (for the half-day tour) Meeting point: Zürich Central Station, Sihlquai Car Park at 8 1, 8005 Freienbach. Airport pick-ups available

Explore Zürich Old Town

Zurich Old Town - Switzerland Itinerary

Zürich Old Town offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and retail experiences. Look out for the twin towers of the  Grossmünster  (entrance fee of CHF5), one of Zürich’s most prominent historical landmarks, which you can climb up for a panoramic view of the city. Sightsee at  St Peter’s Church , which houses Europe’s largest clock-face.

Stroll along Lake Zürich and enjoy views over ice-cream from Niederdorfstrasse , a shopping street filled with lively cafes. If you’re feeling fancy, head to the high street of Zürich — the Bahnhofstrasse , just to switch it up from the old town vibes.

If you’d like to experience Zürich City while learning more about its history with a guide, go for this Zürich Day Tour .

Shop the Latest Trends at ‘IM VIADUKT’

Shopping at IM Viaduct - Switzerland Itinerary

Featuring a 500m stretch of stores sitting underneath a viaduct, IM VIADUKT is a shopping concept that’ll impress the trendiest of people.

The shops here are carefully curated, gathering ‘hipster’ vendors from all over the world to create a refreshing retail experience selling everything from clothes, bags, and sneaker-fashion to household/decorative ornaments.

Opening hours: 11AM – 7PM, 10AM – 6PM (Sat), closed on Sun How to get there:  First head to the main railway station (Zürich Quartierweg). Then, take the Sihlquai exit and walk in the direction of Zollstrasse. Cross Hafnerstrasse to Josefstrasse, and you’ll arrive (~20mins walk)

Visit the FREITAG Flagship Store

Freitag Flagship Store - Switzerland Itinerary

FREITAG is famous for fashionable bags made from recycled truck tarps. The flagship store in Zürich is iconic for its storefront design as the tallest shipping container structure in the world! The 26m structure is made by reclaiming shipping containers, and you can climb all the way up for a bird’s eye view of the city.

For dinner, you can head next door to the  Frau Gerolds Garten , a beer garden where you can dine alfresco while exploring artsy installations.

FREITAG Store Opening hours:  10:30AM – 7PM (Mon – Fri), 10AM – 6PM (Sat), closed on Sun. Address:  Geroldstrasse 17,  8005   Zürich,  Switzerland

Frau Gerolds Garten Opening hours:  11AM – 12AM (Mon – Sat), 12PM – 10PM (Sun) Address:  Geroldstrasse 23/23a, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland

Catch the sunset over  Zürich  at Lindenhof

Sunset view at Lindenhof - Switzerland Itinerary

Walk up to Lindenhof Hill to see the cityscape of Zürich, particularly of the Limmat River and Niederdorf (medieval quarter). It’s a favourite spot for locals and travellers alike — sit on the ledge and catch the sun setting over Zürich city.

How to get there:  Take a short uphill hike from the riverfront. The lookout point is quite easy to spot from the bottom

Budget Considerations for 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary

Getting around Switzerland_Vevey

Eating out anywhere in Switzerland sets you back at least S$20 per meal. For perspective, a simple main at an inexpensive restaurant costs at least S$22, water at restaurants cost S$5 a glass, and a McDonald’s meal goes for S$19. Our wallets would have experienced a money crisis scarier than ‘The Nun’ (more like ‘The None’).

The solution: Good ol’ supermarkets of Coop and Migros, which are found all over Switzerland. There are so many picnic-worthy spots in Switzerland anyway — great excuse to enjoy supermarket food outdoors! Think CHF4 salad pastas and CHF3 tuna sandwiches. Croissants, ham, and spreads in Switzerland are fresh and delicious for breakfast and lunch.

Opt to cook dinner instead of eating out too. We were kids in a candy store (kitchen, rather) trying out different recipes!

To our surprise, we actually managed to keep to a budget of ~CHF20/day. This was spent on groceries with a few restaurant meals of Cheese Fondue in Zermatt, a traditional Swiss restaurant in Lucerne and a comforting meal of McDonald’s. To be honest, food isn’t a highlight in Switzerland so we didn’t feel like we were missing out on much!

2) Accommodation

Getting around Switzerland_Accommodation

The cheapest accommodation options for any Switzerland itinerary are hostels and  Airbnbs . Renting a whole Airbnb apartment can be pretty costly, but a room is usually good enough, even for the three of us!

Hostels are great because they’re not only affordable, but also often conveniently close to train station and offers access to travellers’ necessities — kitchen, laundry, and  free breakfast.

Plus point: You also get to mingle with other like-minded travellers! Hostels in general cost about S$50–70/pax per night in a shared dorm, which is considered reasonable by Swiss standards.

3) Transport in Switzerland

People on the Train in Switzerland - Switzerland Itinerary

Travelling within or between cities inevitably incurs heavy expenses — one ride from Lucerne to Interlaken could easily cost S$41. We overcame this by planning our route around maximising the Swiss Travel Pass .

For a flat price, we got all unlimited rides on buses, trains and even discounted entries (many up to 50%) to some attractions! After doing the math, we realised we saved a whopping total of ~ S$971  with the pass. Seriously!

The cheapest and most fuss-free option is to get the E-ticket Swiss Travel Pass via Klook . Confirmation is almost immediate and you have the convenience of accessing the ticket on your phone. Not to mention, they’re also 5% cheaper than getting physical tickets!

*Pro-tip: If you’re staying with an Airbnb host or hostel, ask for a Visitor Card. This gives you free transport within the city for the whole duration of your stay.

Planning your Switzerland Itinerary

Getting around Switzerland_Lake Brienz Drone Shot

Every city and town in Switzerland was so unique from each other — and every day was a surprise. Also, travelling across the country via rail, and waking up to a new destination each time felt magical. We hope this Switzerland itinerary inspires you to try out this Swiss adventure — an experience filled with unfiltered natural beauty, amazing outdoor adventures, and rich cultural offerings!

If you can’t see the widget above, find the cheapest flight tickets from Singapore to Zurich here .

Have any questions about our Switzerland itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

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95 comments.

Does it includes 2 way plane ticket from Sg to Switzerland?

Hi Nikita, we didn’t include flights this round because flight prices tend to vary a lot and there wasn’t a flight promo we could share this round 🙁 hope it’s still helpful!

Hi Cherie, may i know which date/month for your trip at Switzerland ? also your return ticket is from the same airport?

Yup it is! They were in Switzerland the first 2 weeks of October.

Hi Tabitha, we were there around the 1st week of October so the weather was comfortably cool. & yes we flew in and out from Zürich but I’ve seen itineraries that recommend an open jaw between Zürich and Geneva.

Can you share itinerary with me? I’m going there with my children in March 2019.

Thanks Jacely

Hi Jacelyn,

This is our itinerary! 🙂

HI, THANK YOU for the details in your itinerary. You mentioned that for Days 1-3, we could use ZVV 24-hour day pass or drive . Which did you use? If it was the day pass, please advise the zones which you bought – as I am likely to follow your itinerary closely. Much appreciated. Jeannie

Hey Jeannie, we rented a car from Zurich airport and dropped it off in Lucerne. Hope that helps! 🙂

Hi Cherie, can i go from Zurich airport directly to lucerne for free with the swiss pass?

Hi Tabita, may I know which agency you r attached with before?

Hi Guys, just wanna let you know that this itinerary was really useful for our trip! We just came back from Switzerland and it was really helpful as we followed quite closely to your itinerary. Thank you so much for all the detailed info and tips! we had a great time in Switzerland!

Awwwww. Glad it helped. 🙂

When is you trip to Switzerland?

Heading Switzerland this July! And this posts really help. We have budget around 4k per pax.

Is the package apply for year end school holiday above 20th Nov?

Hi Luna, this itinerary was created just to share our own experience, we’re not selling any packages. However, in November, many of the mountain access will be closed due to heavy snow so do check them out beforehand!

Hi, Can I check, do you still need to purchase the GEX pass even if you had purchased the Swiss Travel Pass? Hope you can clarify on this. thank you.

The Swiss Travel Pass includes your basic ticket on the GEX but you’ll need to top up CHF33 for a seat reservation!

You have mentioned that you went there by first week of October, and we’re also planning to go there at the same time. But I’m worried because I have read in another blog that some of the places were closed. Did you have problem with it? We’re planning to go to Zermatt and Grindelwald.

I think we were there a week before everything was closed! We managed to take all the transport up Grindelwald First as well as the Gornegrat Bahn but to be sure, you might want to double check: https://www.gornergratbahn.ch/en/ and https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/grindelwaldfirst/

Can i check with you, that the reservation for Glacier Express, after i reserve the seat, and choose no meals, i click next and it just brought me back to the first page. Is it successfully reserved ? Or i am suppose to receive any confirmation email and itinerary? Thanks!

You should receive a confirmation email from Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn

On the Glacier Express website to book, how do i ascertain that the booking of seat is on the ride side? , there is no indication on the website . Do we assume that class 1 is the front of the train

Oh man, that’s tricky. But if you’re heading towards St Moritz, the bottom of the train would be the right side — does this make sense?

Thanks so much for your detailed post.

As I am planning to travel to Switzerland next year May with my teenage daughter after she finished her JC, can you advise me if it is safe to travel around Swiss just for two of us (ladies) ? ( we will also try to stay out late at night )

That is my main concern since there are only 2 of us and I heard pick-pocket and crime rate is increasing.

Appreciate your kind advice.

Best regards Belinda

Hi Belinda! Switzerland is perhaps one of the safest places in Europe! — ok, don’t take my word for it since I haven’t been everywhere in Europe 😛

But generally the Swiss are super honest and very friendly so there wasn’t a time we felt unsafe or cheated. That said, I wouldn’t keep my luggage out of sight when taking the trains. Either stow it above if it’s not too big or under the chairs. Hope you both’ll enjoy Switzerland as much as we did! 🙂

Hi! Where did you buy your sim card from and what plan did you get?

Hi Talia, we got our Europe Sim Card off Qoo10! The exact link we used is no longer available, you can do a simple search and see what suits you! Just searched Europe Sim Card and there were quite a few options.

Do you mind to share your itinerary for Zürich? Or isit just a stopover for you to take flights?

Hi Phillip!

We covered a bit of Zürich on day 10! It’s not much but if you hit “read more” there’s a few interesting things we covered 🙂

Is the glacier express one-way? Planning to travel from Zermatt back to Zurich but cant really find this train route. Also, can we hop on with heavy luggages? And do people usually take glacier express as a one-day itinerary?

Hey Jan, the Glacier Express runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz both ways but if you’re planning to head back to Zürich, there are no direct trains so you you need to switch at Visp. Check out this article for more tips on planning your route: https://thetravelintern.com/swiss-travel-pass-guide/

Hi Cherie, I am going for 8 days. Arriving at Zurich in the morning and going to Lucerne on the first day from the airport. I guess i can somewhat follow your itinerary. But i was thinking of going to the following: Day 1 Lion Monument, Chapel bridge & old town as i wont have as much time on the first day since everything seems to close at 6pm. Day 2 Hammetschwand Lift, Mount Pilas and golden round trip & mount rigi. Day 3-5 I will probably follow yours for Interlaken . (I noticed that you didnt go to Trummmelbachfall & stubbachfall) I am wondering if it is doable in 3 days for all of this. Day 6 Zermatt can i go directly from Interlaken? I am thinking of doing a hike there. (any suggestions?) Day 7 Glacier express – should i book that now? Is it better to get window seat? i cant seem to find one. Day 8 Zurich and my flight back during afternoon. Do you think this is doable? Thank you so much Cherie!!

Hi Phil, will you be renting a car? The Hammetschwand Lift is a little inconvenient to get to without one. Other than that, this plan sounds alright. We didn’t go up to the waterfalls but we saw it up close during our paragliding ride (this was one of my favourite experiences)! Definitely try the gornegrat hike mentioned in the article (it closes in winter though so I hope you’re going early). From Zurich to Interlaken, there’s a change of trains. We used https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html to plan our routes.

Glacier Express MUST be reserved early. Locals usually book 2 months in advance but you’ll be able to enjoy the view all the same even if you don’t get a window seat.

Hi Cherie, I am going for 8 days. Arriving at Zurich in the morning and going to Lucerne on the first day from the airport. I guess i can somewhat follow your itinerary. But i was thinking of going to the following: Day 1 Lion Monument, Chapel bridge & old town as i wont have as much time on the first day since everything seems to close at 6pm. Day 2 Hammetschwand Lift, Mount Pilas and golden round trip & mount rigi. Day 3-5 I will probably follow yours for Interlaken . (I noticed that you didnt go to Trummmelbachfall & stubbachfall) I am wondering if it is doable in 3 days for all of this.

Hi which website u use to check train price and weather it cover in the Swiss travel pass? Thank you!

We used https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html

More info in this Swiss Travel Pass Guide! https://thetravelintern.com/swiss-travel-pass-guide/

Hi Cherie, so sorry for the late reply . Thank you for your info but im going in early September. I am wondering what the weather will be like. So its probably best not to go for Hammetschwand lift since i wont be renting a car. Hmm i m wondering if going to zermatt for one day is enough…….yes i got the glacier express reserved but it wont be a window seat unfortunately. However, i still havent purchased my swiss travel pass yet. Do i just show them the pass when i get there since i already paid for reservation fee? Thank you so much Cherie.

September is perfect because all the hikes will still be open and it’s starting to get cooler. If you’re planning to do the hikes in Zermatt, it’s worth spending at least a night so you can watch the sun rising over Matterhorn. The weather isn’t always great so buffer a day or two if you can. For the Glacier Express, there will be someone walking around to check the passes so just show them your Swiss Travel Pass and a print out of your reservation slip.

I just realized from the weather forecast that it will be raining a lot the next two weeks. That is somewhat unfortunate. when i looked the weather forecast initially a month ago it was supposed to rain 1 day out of the time im coming but now that i look at it closer it is raining almost every single day. oy vey hah. I guess no sunrise moment over matterhorn then 🙁

oh man 🙁 We were there for 3 days, on the first day it was pouring so heavily we couldn’t get anywhere, the second day we caught the most magnificent sunrise and on the last day, it was so gloomy that Matterhorn was no where in sight! So don’t lose hope!! The good news is that Zermatt is still incredibly gorgeous even when the weather is terrible 😉

it is unfortunate and im sad that it will be raining almost all the days i am visiting according to the weather forecast. 🙁

Hi I am planning a 14 nights trip to Switzerland in Dec and will follow your route quite closely except we will stop over in Bern. Can I ask your 8 Day travel pass is flexi pass or consecutive ? What do you advise if for a 14nights in Switzerland, should we get a 15 days? In Zurich is it the pass is not really necessary as we will be in Zurich for 2-3 nights thereafter will fly back to Sin.

Thank you. Vanessa

Hi Vanessa! Glad you found our itinerary useful 🙂 Our 8-day pass was consecutive since we were travelling between cities almost everyday. Will your 15-day itinerary be covering 12-13 different destinations? If not, the 8-day flexi will be more worth it since it’s cheaper and you’ll get to spend more time in each location. We didn’t use the Swiss Travel Pass in Zurich so we saved that city for the last when our pass had expired.

Hi, Should I reach juangfrauch by helicopter? Train ride prize is 190chf and helicopter is 250chf so which is more preferable?

Hi Alok, it’s really up to you! We wanted to save money so we went by train! 🙂

Thank you very much for your reply. I will look into my itinerary and take note of your advice in regards to the flexi pass.

Regards Vanessa

Just curious, which was more enjoyable and enriching between Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi?? We may only have time to do one. Thanks!!

Hey Van! The team preferred Mt Pilatus and would recommend that if you only have time for one. 🙂

Hi, from your itinerary from paragliding to hiking Gliderwald. Did you do it on the same day?

I can’t remember exactly but I believe it was done on 2 separate days because of the weather. But if you’re taking the first slot for paragliding in the morning, there’s more than enough time to do another hike before the sun sets.

Thank you very much for your reply.

Hi Cherie may I have your itinerary pls. Thinking of going there in the beginning of May. Is it a good time to visit the places you covered?

I am planning for a switzerland trip on December. May I know if the hikes and all will still be opened?

A lot of them close in October up till Feb/March so I think there’s a pretty high chance it’ll be closed. Which hikes are you planning for? There’s usually a section on the official website that has info on the opening periods.

Hello thank you fr your lovely post.

Can i just ask, is the visitor card necessary even when i have the Swiss pass?

And also, the activities like paragliding do i need to book in advance or can i book when im there?

Thank you in advance 🙂

Hey Faliq, the visitor card is useful if you’re on the flexi Swiss Travel Pass! So on day where you’re just staying in the city, you can use the visitor card to get around on public transport for free while saving the days on your Swiss Travel Pass.

Paragliding can be really popular especially during summer so best to book in advance! 🙂

hi, can we pay with credit card for the cable car or train to jungfraujoch or pilatus?

yup! credit cards are accepted almost everywhere

Hi, not sure if you will be able to help. I’ve bought the Swiss Travel Pass and intend to pre-book my train tickets (Lucerne-Interlaken, Interlaken-Zermatt) via Trainline. Does not seem to have an option for that Discount Pass though. Did you guys pre-book those as well? Or you guys managed to get the tickets at the train station on the day of travel? Or are those train tickets via those cities free if we have the Swiss Travel Pass?

Yup those routes you mentioned are free with the Swiss Travel Pass. Just have them on hand when the conductors do their routine checks. The only train we pre-booked was the Glacier Express between Zermatt to St Moritz. Hope that helps!

Thank you very much for the lovely and detailed post. I am planning 10 days trip to Switzerland in Mid to Late June 2020. My itinerary looks like following: Day 1-2: Lucerne (1 day for Lucerne City Tour + Mount Rigi and 1 day for Mount Pilatus) Day 3-4-5-6: Interlaken (1 day each for Schilthorn and Jungfrau, 1 day for Lauterbrunnen + Paragliding and 1 day to visit other villages) Day 7-8: Zermatt (1 day for Gronergrat ride and 1 day for 5-lake hike) Day 9: Zurich (City tour with Rhine falls) Since I will be traveling from India, 1.5 days will be taken by flight. Do you think I need to add anything else? I am confused between spending 6th day in Interlaken and Montruex. What is your suggestion? Also where should I stay for Day 3-6 (Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen or somewhere else?) I am thinking to book whole Airbnb apartment. And finally if I book flights and Airbnb 3 months before, will there be any issue with price hike or should I book early? (I am not sure about the dates as of now)

Thanks in advance!

Hi Jaymeen, this looks pretty similar to what we did! We managed to cover both Schilthorn and Jungfrau on the same day so perhaps you could just play by ear. If you manage to fit them on the same day, you could visit Montreux on day 6. Montreux feels quite different from the rest of Switzerland so it was quite a refreshing change in environment. We stayed 2 nights in Interlaken because that’s where all the cheaper options are but if you have more to spend, a night in in the Jungfrau/Lauterbrunnen area would be great! That way, you can take the earlier train up to Jungfrau too. I’m not too familiar with the Airbnb rates as they differ quite a bit but the prices at the Youth Hostels are quite consistent up till the day.

Hope this helped and have an amazing trip! 🙂

Wasn’t very clear on how many nights you stay on each city, would you mind sharing? For example you mentioned Day3-5 Interlaken, I was assuming 3 nights but you comment stated you stayed 2 nights only. I am planning the activities around these cities but not sure which city I should cater more nights so as not to be too rushed.

Hi Shann, we stayed 2 nights each in Lucerne, Interlaken, and Zermatt and single nights in the rest! Day 3-5 = 3D2N, hope that clarifies! It’s a little packed but it’s because we wanted to maximise the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass. Some attractions can be taken out to allow more time to soak in the charms of each city.

Hi, where do you purchase the tickets for the Golden Round Trip? Understand that we just need to top up CHF36 if we have the swiss travel pass. Do I purchase the tickets online or can I purchase the tickets a day before/actual day itself from Lucerne? Also, do I just show the swiss travel pass when I board the boat from Lucerne to Alpnachstad?

That’s right! It’s CHF36 for Swiss Travel Pass Holders. You can buy tickets at the entrance, no need to purchase in advance. & yes for the boat rides, they will come around to check for tickets when the boat is moving off.

Hello! I was thinking of where to go for my honeymoon in June and was so happy to chanced upon this itinerary! Thank you so much for all the details but I’m still confused of where to start and all. Could you please help? Thank you 🙂

Hey Zu! Happy to help with queries 🙂

When I reach Zürich, I need to rent a car to get to Lucerne? Where do I rent the car at and which exact destination I need to head to?

May I check with you if it’s possible to travel to Pilatus and Rigi within the same day? Many thanks for your advice in advance!

Yes it is! That’s what we did. Took the first train to Pilatus and visited Rigi before sunset

Hi Travel Intern,

My friends and I are travelling to Switzerland in the late April. I would like to know if the plan is feasible and smooth for the 10 days trip in Swiss?

Also, is your 8-days Siwss Travel Pass activated on the Second day when at Lucerne?

Day 1 – Zurich To Lucerne *Day 2 – Lucerne – Pilatus (Cogwheel Railway operation closed till early May) – is it worth the CHF 36? or Rigi ? Day 3 – Lucerne to Interlaken Day 4 – Interlaken – Lauterbrunnen (Paragliding) & Schilthorn Is it possible in 1 day? Day 5 – Interlaken – Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) & Hike Grindelwald First for stunning lake views?? Possible?? Smooth Day Trip? Day 6 – Interlaken to Zermatt Day 7 – Zermatt (Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise & Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike) Day 8 – Glacier Express to St.Moritz *Day 9 – St.Moritz (St.Moritz to Zurich by night) *according to your guide, is it still covered by Swiss Travel Pass when travelling to Zurich? Day 10 – Zurich

*8-Days Swiss Travel Pass Consecutive Activated Start/End Im looking using AirBnb for the entire Swiss Trip rather than mix w Hote/Hostel

Alright, here goes: – Yes, we rented a car and drove from Zurich airport to Lucerne so we didn’t activate the pass on this day. After splitting up the cost of the car rental, this is much cheaper than using a day on the Swiss Travel Pass. – Day 2: Pilatus is one of my favourites so personally, I do think it’s worth it. Rigi was so so for me but it’s free! – Day 4: This is what we did! Book the first slot for paragliding (the weather in the morning is usually calmer too) and there should be enough time. – Day 5: It’s a bit of a squeeze. I could spend an entire day at Grindelwald. We actually managed to squeeze in Jungfrau on the paragliding day although that was a squeeze too. – Day 6: you might be able to squeeze in an early trip to Jungfrau before travelling to Zermatt (depending on train connections though, not sure if it’ll be different in other seasons. We went in Oct) Day 9: Yes, from Day 2 – 9 is 8 days

Thank you for the reply.

Ya, I also looking into gg to visit Pilates but not so sure if it fit into our budget due to various places to go.

Will look into it to find a way that is smooth and worth the pockets, as we are tagging along with luggage as well. 🙂

Hey Cherie,

Please do bear with me as I’m finishing up the itinerary for the last remaining days for swiss.

Just to check, on y’all trip to ‘Catch the Matterhorn’s beauty at sunrise’. How did y’all manage to make y’all way up to catch the sunrise? Not through tour right?

Kind of confuse when I read it. “For this view, we took the first train at 7AM on the Gornergrat Bahn (Matterhorn Railway) from Zermatt village to Riffelboden Station. Walk to Riffelsee (~5mins)

Also the Go on the 5-Seenweg Hike, y’all also did the hike? If I were to plan, i will need to travel back down to Zermatt and Zermatt to Sunnegga and transit to Blauherd. At Blauherd hike downwards towards Sunnegga and return to Zermatt.

This is very helpful ! Planning to have a vacation trip in Switzerland after pandemic ! This 7 day itinerary and your blogs is such a big help and great 🙂 Hoping pandemic ends as soon as possible ! Looking forward for your next blogs.

Did you check how much one can save by using Interrail Global Pass instead of Swiss Travel Pass?

https://www.myswissalps.com/interrailglobalpass/validity

hmm, just looked through, the Swiss Travel Pass we got from Klook still seems to offer more savings! It costs S$382 for the same 4-day consecutive pass, whereas the Interail Global pass costs €246 (S$398). Also for the Swiss Travel Pass, you get a free ride up Schilthorn but only 25% off on this pass

Its really a great post. Thanks for sharing

Hi there, I appreciate the valuable information you have shared. Switzerland travel will be easier for a new traveler after studying the information uploaded here.

Hello there, firtsly thank you so much for the very helpful post. May i know on the first day you rent a car from zurich to lucerne what route did you take? Any tips for which stops that shoud visit? Thank you again

I am hoping to go to Switzerland in the middle of the year. So many years, I know someone who always wanted to go to there but because of the price, they did not even consider it. I studied your entire trip and came up with this below. Not sure whether is it correct but is possible to share your exact itinerary with me? The order of the places in which you all travel and do in each day. I was hoping to squeeze in as much good places as possible. Most prob, we will follow the exact itinerary that you all go but mainly change the lucerne, Zurich and the Interlaken part a bit to fit our physical limitations. And also some of the food places. Thank you very much

Day 1: Fly to zurich airport Rent a car to drive from airport to lucerne -Visit workshop to make swiss army knife at brunnen -Visit the Highest Outdoor Lift in Europe, Hammetschwand Lift Drive back to Lucerne to explore the city area Eat at Wirtshaus Taube Luzern for dinner Check in to lucerne airbnb near main station for 2 nights – day 1 to 3

Day 2: Activate the swiss travel pass on day 2 Mount pilatus (around 6+ hours whole trip) -Travel to Alpnachstad from lucerne by boat -Travel to pilatus kulm by railway at 8.30am from Alpnachstad -Go hiking or the 40-minute Tomlishorn hike -Take Panorama Gondola cable car to kriens from pilatus kulm, along the way stop at Fräkmüntegg to take the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Slide -Travel back to lucerne from kriens kriens Mount rigi -Take train from lucerne to Arth-Goldau -Take cogwheel railway from Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm -15 minutes hike to the top to see the 13 lakes and the whole of the Swiss alps -Take cogwheel railway from rigi kulm to Vitznau -Take boat back to Lucerne from vitznau Cook dinner at airbnb

Day 3: Leave airbnb at Lucerne Take train to interlaken Put down luggage at hostel Gelmerbahn -Take train and bus from interlaken ost to Handegg, Gelmerbahn -Ride Switzerland’s Steepest Open-air Funicular: Gelmberbahn -At the top, go see the Gelmer Lake and its turquoise water -Then go Handeck Suspension Bridge -Go back interlaken same way Take train nearby from interlaken to Iseltwald along Lake Brienz Go back to hostel

Day 4: Stay at hostel from day 3 to day 5

Paragliding at murren -Go Lauterbrunnen by train from interlaken -From Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg by bus -From Stechelberg to muren by cableway for paragliding Schilthorn -Afterwards, go Schilthorn famous james bond place by cableway from murren -Go for the trail walk on the way up the cableway -When at the Piz Gloria Schilthorn Summit, walk around the james bond museum -Then go back down Jungfrau -Then go wengen -Go Jungfraujoch via Kleine Scheidegg -While at the Jungfraujoch top -Walk through the Ice Palace and Alpine Sensation -Watch the Jungfrau Panorama -Send a postcard at Europe’s highest mailbox -Take train back to interlaken hostel from wengen

Day 5: Airbnb stay on day 5 to day 6 Leave interlaken hostel Grindelwald in interlaken -Go Ride the gondola up to the Mount First Top Station -Start the Grindelwald Hike to Lake Bachalpsee -Back to interlaken Take golden line train to montreux from interlaken Leave luggage at airbnb Visit Château de Chillon Travel vevey to see hq of nestle and the world tallest fork in the lake geneva Go back to airbnb

Day 6: Hostel from day 6 to day 8 Take train and bus to leuk and then leukerbad Go Leukerbad Thermal Baths and soak Then travel to zermatt Settle down then explore zermatt city area Go cafe du pont to eat cheese fondue

Day 7: Go Gornergrat Peak from zermatt by railway at 7am to see matterhorn toblerone chocolate mountain sunrise Go highest hotel in switzerland for the view Then go 5-Seenweg Hike Go back zermatt from Riffleberg

Day 8: Take glacier express from zermatt 8am to st moritz 6pm St moritz hostel from day 8 to 9

Day 9: Hotel from day 9 to day 10 at zermatt Explore st moritz a bit Go filisur by train to see the Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint Come back to st moritz and go to zurich Last day of swiss travel pass

Day 10: Go for half day tour to rhine falls Go shop the Latest Trends at ‘IM VIADUKT’ Visit the FREITAG Flagship Store Catch the sunset over Zürich by hiking up Lindenhof hill Take train to zurich airport Fly back to singapore

Cool read! How were you able to take that photo of Landwasser Viaduct Viewpoint with a train passing by? Any tip where I can take off my drone? 😀

Hi, able to share the extact itenary as I watched the YouTube video you uploaded. It’s like a tour package with all the activities I want to do. I was thinking I just follow yours, stay the same hotel etc.. since u have researched and happy with it. 🙂 If hotel you dont recommend after staying there.. perhaps also can let me know. Are u able to see my email or I can also paste in the next comment if need. Thank you in advance!

Hi Yap! You can check out the places we stayed with in the breakdown sheet here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15fLZ376uxru2khSOwuo9kFDPR1NVgjLPUqLss9WXbTg/edit

Hi, Wanted to know if you stayed a night at Montreux? I was trying to follow the itinerary, but it sounded like you just took the train to Montreux, visited the chateau and Veveyand continued onto Zermatt and stayed the night at Zermatt for Day 6?

Hi Vanessa! We stayed a night in Montreux as we arrived pretty late from Interlaken the day before!

Hi guys, thank you so much for this article, it’s a lifesaver! About the Swiss Travel Pass Promo of getting extra 2 days, If we are planning to book the 8 day pass now (to travel on 24 April 2023), do we get it automatically after we made the purchase? if you don’t mind explaining it to us, we would really appreciate that! Looking forward to hearing from you. Cheers.

We will be carrying 25’inch with us. How did you handle the luggage transport services ?

What is the best way to transport the luggage from one place to another place ?

on trains, we generally could fit our luggages in the overhead compartment where we were seated and could wheel it around almost everywhere as there were lifts and escalators around.

When thinking about travelling in Switzerland I can recommend to go to the Berner Oberland. The nature and the lakes like the lake thun are awesome.

Hi, may I know how did you guys travel from St Mortiz to Zurich?

Hi Han Ying, the team took the local SBS Train from St Mortiz to Zurich!

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

4 days in Switzerland, Arzo Travels

HOW TO SPEND 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND ITINERARY IN 2024

PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN 4 DAYS

Table of Contents

Are you looking for exciting 4 days in Switzerland ? Look no further! In this 4-day Switzerland itinerary, I’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the best landmarks that the beautiful country has to offer.

From stunning mountain views and crystal clear alpine lakes to traditional Swiss villages and world-famous chocolate, I’ve got something for everyone. So grab your passport, and some extra Swiss Francs (because Switzerland is not the most budget-friendly place), and get ready to explore Switzerland in 4 days!

Flag Iseltwald in Switzerland

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it  here .

TRAVEL TIPS FOR A 4-DAY SWITZERLAND ITINERARY

Before jumping to your itinerary for 4 days in Switzerland, here are some very important tips to have a smooth trip.

ARE 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND ENOUGH?

Is it even possible to explore Switzerland in just 4 days?? Absolutely! Well, in all honesty, you would need weeks or months to see the great, beautiful places in Switzerland but with careful planning, you can make the most of your time and see many of Switzerland’s highlights.

This itinerary will help you to get the most out of your four days in Switzerland and make the most of your short visit!

HOW TO GET AROUND

When it comes to getting around Switzerland over four days, I’m torn between road-tripping and trail travel. You cannot go wrong with any of these two options. Picking which mode works best will depend on where exactly you want to go but whatever path (literally!) that you choose is sure to be unforgettable.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION / SWISS TRAVEL PASS  

Though I love road-tripping Switzerland, for this Switzerland itinerary, I strongly recommend that you use the Swiss Travel Pass – just because this is such a busy (and amazing) itinerary that you will be out all day. And you can still enjoy these wonderful window views while getting from one destination to the other.

There are different Swiss Travel Passes available regarding flexibility and duration. Flexible passes allow you to use the pass for a certain amount of days within one month or the regular, more affordable option, which means you have to use the pass on consecutive days of travel.

ℹ️  Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is quite expensive but it will pay off.

ℹ️  You can use buses and trains without any extra costs.

ℹ️  Also, most boat cruises and some mountain excursions are included.

ℹ️  The Swiss Travel Pass also covers most museums and entrances to castles.

ℹ️  The great thing about it is that you never have to worry about finding parking spaces and instead use buses and trains. 

ℹ️ The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days. You could choose the “Flexi” or “consecutive” ticket, but for a 4-day Switzerland trip I recommend just choosing the consecutive ticket.

➡️  Click here to find the rates for a Swiss Travel Pass .

ROAD TRIPPING SWITZERLAND FOR 4 DAYS

If, however, you prefer to drive around yourself, take advantage of my personal experience as I have driven through this majestic land 12 or 13 times and read my Switzerland road trip itinerary or my driving tips for Switzerland!

Renting a car in Switzerland? No problem, check out this company for your rental car  for stress-free rental bookings so you can start experiencing hidden gems without any hassle.

➡️ Click here to find the rental prices for your Switzerland road trip.

MONEY / CURRENCY IN SWITZERLAND

ℹ️  Switzerland is not part of the European Union and does not have the euro (€). They use Swiss Francs. At the moment, 1 Swiss Franc equals about 1€ or $1,04. 

ℹ️  While euros are widely accepted, the exchange rate is terrible , so I recommend exchanging money at home or withdrawing cash from an ATM (if you don’t have to pay the fees or withdraw money just once to avoid paying fees several times).

ℹ️  Credit cards are widely accepted (especially Visa and Mastercard). Still, I recommend always having cash on you for the smaller things you need to pay for (especially in smaller towns and shops).

ℹ️  As mentioned, the country is not known as a backpacker’s paradise, mainly because accommodations are costly. Also, food is not cheap (though the quality is often better than in other European countries).  Ideally, you can save money by reducing your meat, alcohol, and cigarette consumption for those seven days – and find out more about Switzerland’s budget tips here .

WHEN TO VISIT SWITZERLAND FOR 4 DAYS

Switzerland is great to visit at any time of the year. But here are my two cents on what time might be the best time to visit Switzerland for 7 days for you.

For winter sports lovers , the best time is obviously in winter. Any time from December to early March is probably a good time to visit if you want to hit the slopes. If you are not into winter sports but love Christmas Markets , visit in the first three weeks of December . The Christmas Markets in Switzerland are top-notch. From December to February, the temperature range is -2 to 7 °C (28° – 45° F).

Landwasser Viadukt in winter

Summer in Switzerland can be amazing. I experienced some very rainy days (and weeks) in summer, but often, the weather tends to be nice. Days are long, and you can squeeze more activities into your itinerary. From July to August, the daytime temperature range is 18 to 28 °C (65° – 82° F) 

If you want to avoid the tourist crowds and save some money on hotels, then from late  April to June and from September to early October would be the best time to visit Switzerland. In spring and autumn, the daytime temperature range is 8 to 15 °C (46° – 59° F). 

However, there can always be certain events and activities – also outside of the busy season – which make a place more crowded, and hotel prices can thus increase.

MY OPINION : I loved Switzerland in winter, but if I had only one more chance to revisit Switzerland, I would choose late spring, summer, or early fall . Here is my more detailed post about the best time to visit Switzerland .

However, there is never a guarantee about the weather in Central Europe .

✈️ TIP: If you have not booked your flights to Switzerland yet, check out this site to find the best deals .

PLACES TO VISIT IN 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND 

Let´s get started, here is what to do and see on a 4-day Switzerland trip .

  • DAY 1 – Arrival in Zurich, getting to Lucerne
  • DAY 2 – Lucerne – getting to Interlaken
  • DAY 3 – Interlaken Region
  • DAY 4 – Interlaken – departure

DAY 1 – LUCERNE & MOUNT RIGI

Day 1 of your amazing trip will start in Lucerne .

🚆 ZURICH TO LUCERNE

Most likely, you will arrive in Zurich . And Zurich (or Zürich as it is written and spelled in Swiss German) is a beautiful city – do not get me wrong. Zurich is like my second home BUT with only 4 days in Switzerland, we have to skip Zurich. Do not be too sad though, Lucerne is an amazing alternative.

If you get to Zurich airport, take the train from there to Lucerne. Ideally, you arrive in Zurich early in the morning, so you would have almost the full day to explore stunning Lucerne. But even if you get to Lucerne in the early afternoon, you still have time to explore the area.

ℹ️ I t takes about 60-90 minutes from Zurich Airport (Flughafen) to Lucerne city center and there is even a connection where you do not have to change trains. This train ride is included in your Swiss Travel Pass – so, no extra costs for you today.

The trains run frequently (2-3 times an hour), the one without changing trains once an hour.

🛥️ BOAT CRUISE TO VITZNAU

The first few hours in Switzerland might have been stressful so you will enjoy some relaxing time on the boats.

Steam boat on Lake Lucerne

Board one of the regular boats that leave right from in front of the Lucerne train station and take a leisurely boat ride along Lake Lucerne, ending up at Vitznau .

This scenic journey takes about an hour and gives you breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the crystal clear waters of Lake Lucerne, as well as picturesque villages along the shore. Enjoy some fresh Swiss air and take in the beauty of Switzerland’s stunning nature.

Once you reach Vitznau, hop off the boat – this boat cruise was just the beginning of an amazing day of exploring Lucerne´s outdoor beauty.

❕There are several boats leaving from Lucerne. Make sure to get the correct one – the one that is included in the Swiss Travel Pass and the one to Vitznau. They leave several times a day.

🚞 MOUNT RIGI

Now, that you have arrived in Vitznaz, continue your trip. For an unforgettable experience, take the iconic cogwheel railway up Mount Rigi, also known as The Queen of the Mountains .

Once you get off the boat at Vitznau station, you will see the funicular station already. Also, this is where basically everyone will go, so you cannot miss the funicular station.

This one-hour journey features incredible panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and surrounding mountains and Alpine meadows – all while traveling on tracks built in 1871!

Once at the summit of Mount Rigi (or Rigi Kulm in Swiss German) – which is 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level – you can explore the area on foot. There are several hiking trails for all levels of experience.

Views of Lake Zug from Mount Rigi, Switzerland, Arzo Travels

Enjoy lunch with a view, visit one of the mountain restaurants, or simply soak in the scenery from many of the observation points scattered around the summit.

Whatever you choose to do on Mount Rigi, it will be an experience you will never forget!

If you are lucky and spend your evening on a clear, sunny day, you most likely will experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in Switzerland. Here at Mount Rigi, sunsets are extra pretty!

And if you prefer more physical activity , you can also hike down/up instead of just using the cogwheel that beams you up!

ℹ️  The boat tour as well as the train journey to Zurich and the train/cogwheel ride up Mount Rigi is ALL INCLUDED in the Swiss Travel Pass . Yes, right! Even the mountain excursion is covered by this little pass.

ℹ️  So, by now it should not surprise you that I love the Swiss Pass and almost always buy them when I am in Switzerland myself.

🛏️ WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE FOR A 4-DAY TRIP

With only one night in Lucerne, I highly recommend staying in the old town. Accommodations there are – no surprise – pricy – but with only one day in the area, you do not want to spend too much time traveling. I have stayed in several hotels in Lucerne, and here are some tips.

LUXURY: Schweizerhof Lucerne  –  If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend this beautiful 5* hotel.

➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.

MID-RANGE: Hotel des Alpes  –  On my last Lucerne trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes. The room view was amazing (and included views of the Chapel Bridge and Mount Pilatus).

BUDGET: The Bed + Breakfast  –  If you want to stay in a budget hotel, have a look at this B&B. Some rooms have a shared bathroom, and some have a private one.

➡️  Book your stay at The Bed & Breakfast here.

Click here to read my full post on the best hotels in Lucerne.

DAY 2 – LUCERNE CITY CENTER AND TRAVEL TO INTERLAKEN

Since you are in the beautiful Lucerne, it is time to explore one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland.

LUCERNE OLD TOWN

Lucerne, a city located in Central Switzerland, is traversed by the winding Reuss River and is encircled by snow-capped mountains. On the eastern shore of Lake Lucerne lies the Old Town, where cobbled streets and the iconic Chapel Bridge, a wooden covered bridge lined with 17th-century paintings, converge.

Chapel Bridge in Lucerne

Start by visiting the famous Chapel Bridge – one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe. Cross the bridge and take a walk along the banks of Lake Lucerne.

I highly recommend having a peek at the Jesuit Church which is just a 5-minute walk from the Chapel Bridge before heading to the old town of Lucerne – as Lucerne´s historic city center is one of the best ones in Switzerland.

The Old Town of Lucerne is filled with amazing sights and attractions. Visit the iconic Lion Monument , located in a small park near the old city wall. This impressive sandstone sculpture commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. Along with this iconic monument, there are plenty of other sights to explore in the Old Town.

Dying Lion Monument- One of the tops things to do in Lucerne

Stroll through picturesque lanes lined with colorful wooden shutters, explore medieval buildings and narrow cobblestone pathways, or admire the city’s beautiful fountains. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to check out in the Old Town, so if you need a break – and lunch – this is the place to enjoy it.

When you’ve seen what Lucerne has to offer, make your way to Interlaken, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.

CHECK OUT GUIDED WALKING TOURS IN LUCERNE HERE

🚆 LUZERN – INTERLAKEN EXPRESS

It is time, to get to your next destination where you will spend the rest of your time.

Take the Luzern-Interlaken Express and enjoy one of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland. This 2-hour journey will take you through some of the most beautiful lake and mountain landscapes in the country.

Luzern Interlaken Express window view

As you pass by small villages, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountains, you’ll get a glimpse of what makes Switzerland so special. Lake Lucerne, Lake Sarnen, Lake Lungern, Lake Brienz , the Swiss Alps, the countryside, and more – this all is what you will see during the scenic train ride.

ℹ️  I have more good news for you: This ride is also included in your Swiss Travel Pass . There is no reservation fee, nothing – just a scenic free ride if you are a Pass-holder). The trip takes a bit less than 2 hours and these two hours are pure eye candy.

ℹ️  The train runs once an hour. For the best view, sit on the right side of the direction of travel (Lucerne to Interlaken) and be at the train 10-15 minutes prior to departure. The trains tend to be full and to snatch a window seat I recommend being on the train early.

ℹ️ The Lucerne train station is rather small (nothing compared to the Zurich train station) and easy to navigate around!

🍛 DINNER IN INTERLAKEN

After this amazing Luzern-Interlaken train ride, you can check in at your hotel in Interlaken and explore the small town center of the world-famous Interlaken. Built on a narrow stretch of valley, between the gorgeous lakes – Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – it is a must-see in Switzerland .

From stunning views of the surrounding Alps and glistening nearby lakes, this area offers a little something for everyone! However, the town itself is rather small, so 1-2 hours of Interlaken sightseeing should be enough.

Interlaken Where to go, Höhenmmatte

You might want to have a nice dinner in Interlaken and end your day!

For a nice picnic, get some snacks and drinks at a supermarket on the main street Höheweg  and enjoy it then at the Höhematte Park , which is right in the heart of Interlaken. On sunny days, you´ll see plenty of paragliders above you – making this park even more special (as if the views of Jungfrau Mountain were not amazing enough).

But whether you are looking for international – including Arabic, Indian – Swiss food, or fine dining experiences – you will find all options here in Interlaken. 

🛏️ 4-DAY VACATION IN SWITZERLAND – WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN

I suggest staying in Interlaken because its central location allows to you get around easily.

LUXURY: VICTORIA JUNGFRAU GRAND HOTEL & SPA – The most luxurious hotel in Interlaken is the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. I have not stayed there myself, so I can only repeat what I heard: This hotel is amazing. If you are looking for a fancy place in Interlaken, this is probably the best pick.

➡️ Book your stay at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa here

MID-RANGE: HOTEL DU NORD  – For your stay in Interlaken, I recommend this hotel – Hotel du Nord – which is centrally located and is quite nice. It is one of my favorite accommodations for your 5-day Swiss itinerary.

➡️ Book your stay at Hotel du Nord here

BUDGET: BACKPACKERS VILLA SONNENHOF  –  If you are on a budget, I recommend staying in Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof next to the Höhenmatte. It is not the cheapest hostel but definitely worth the money and one of my all-time favorite hostels.

➡️ Book your stay at Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof here

DAY 3 – LAUTERBRUNNEN + MUERREN + SCHILTHORN

From Interlaken, you can do an easy day trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley . You might think that “Easy is boring”, but I can assure you: A trip to Lauterbrunnen is anything but boring, so buckle up and discover one of the best places Switzerland has to offer.

🚆 To get to the Lauterbrunnen Valley , you’ll need to take a train from Interlaken Ost station to Lauterbrunnen station. The journey takes about 20 minutes and your Swiss Travel Pass will cover the tickets. It is a short yet scenic train ride!

LAUTERBRUNNEN

Lauterbrunnen is a small village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The village lies on the floor of an impressive U-shaped valley, surrounded by jagged peaks and thundering waterfalls .

Nicknamed the ‘ Valley of 72 Waterfalls ’, Lauterbrunnen is a must-visit for anyone wanting to take in the beauty of Switzerland’s natural landscapes.

Lauterbrunnen Staubbach waterfall a top activity in Interlaken with Arzo Travels

Lauterbrunnen is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in Switzerland. The largest and most famous waterfall is the Staubbach Falls , located just outside of town. This dramatic waterfall cascades 300 meters and is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe.

Just a few minutes’ walk away is the view of another impressive waterfall, the Trümmelbach Falls . This waterfall is unique because it is actually hidden inside the mountain, with tunnels and walkways leading visitors to various sections of its cascades.

The town center of Lauterbrunnen is also a great place to explore. Visit the old church, take in the views of the valley from the many viewpoints, or explore the narrow pathways lined with traditional wooden chalets. 

Lauterbrunnen village

Lauterbrunnen however, is also known as a base jumpers paradise . Base jumping in Lauterbrunnen is a very risky activity. Known as one of the most dangerous sports in the world, base jumping has claimed many lives over the years.

The valley of Lauterbrunnen is a favorite spot for experienced base jumpers due to its steep cliffs, deep ravines, and impressive waterfalls.

I have been to Lauterbrunnen many times but luckily never seen anyone doing it, let alone seen anyone jumping to death. But apart from this risky activity, Lauterbrunnen is heaven!

Given Lauterbrunnen´s small size, I recommend combining a trip to Lauterbrunnen with Mürren .

MÜRREN / MURREN

Mürren (or Muerren/Murren) is an idyllic mountain village situated (at 1,650 meters – 5,413 feet – above sea level ) above Lauterbrunnen and at the foot of the Schilthorn peak in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The village is well known for its stunning views of the Alps and meadows, as well as its many ski slopes in the winter months.

Hiking from Grütschalp to Murren

Once you arrive in Mürren, you’ll be rewarded with views that take your breath away. The village itself is quite small and quiet but there are many things to do here.

And if you visit on a clear – and longer summer – day, then this should not be your last stop on this 4-day itinerary for Switzerland.

🚆 Getting to Mürren from Lauterbrunnen is a piece of cake. All you have to do is take the gondola from Lauterbrunnen station to Grütschalp. From there, you’ll catch a train up to Mürren. The journey takes about 30 minutes in total and is included in your Swiss Travel Pass (no additional cost). What should I tell you??? This journey from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren is just…drop-dead gorgeous. Impressive. Beautiful. Stunning!

If you want to be more active, just get up via gondola to Grütschalp and then do an easy but incredible hike to Mürren. This slightly uphill hike takes about 90 minutes!

SCHILTHORN – PIZ GLORIA, SWISS SKYLINE, AND MORE

Schilthorn is a 9,744-foot (almost 3,000 meters) mountain peak  – known for its spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.

One of the best things about Mürren is that it provides easy access to the Schilthorn Peak. The Schilthorn Peak is a must-visit destination for any James Bond fan. If you know, you know!

Swiss Panorama in Schilthorn

From Mürren take two gondolas to get to Schilthotn. Get your thrills on the Schilthorn journey with a daring stop at Birg . Take in spectacular views from above as you bravely explore the Thrill Walk – its steel structure clinging to rock walls and wriggling under observation decks, topped off by awesome obstacles like rope crossings, tunnels, and glass floors!  

Schilthorn and Piz Gloria from cable car

Then continue your journey to the top. The summit also houses the famous “Piz Gloria” revolving restaurant – known from the James Bond movie  On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

You can even visit the James Bond Walk of Fame , which is a museum dedicated to Mr. 007 himself. It also houses memorabilia from the film and offers an interactive tour of the mountain peak.

James Bond trail on Schilthorn mountain

And though I am not a James Bond fan (I have not even watched the movie yet), I highly recommend this day trip because of 1) the views and 2) more activities, which include skiing, snowboarding in the winter, and hiking in the surrounding trails in the summer months.

This is also a beautiful place to watch the sunset – so, if you are there on a clear, sunny day make sure to enjoy that spectacle before returning to Murren/Lauterbrunnen and then to Interlaken.

ℹ️  The trip to Mürren is free with a Swiss Travel Pass . The return ticket from Mürren to Schilthorn is about 88 CHF for adults – you get a 50 % discount with a Swiss Pass.

DAY 4 – DIFFERENT OPTIONS

Let´s talk about day 4 in Switzerland – here I have a couple of options for you!

JUNGFRAUJOCH

One popular attraction on many Switzerland itineraries is the famous Jungfraujoch. Visit the highest railway station in Europe and take in spectacular views of the  Aletsch Glacier , Bernese Alps, and more from its observation deck at  almost 3,500 meters (about 11,000 feet)!

Jungfraujoch station view of Aletsch Glacier in April

Not only is it an amazing feat of engineering, but Jungfraujoch also offers visitors a wealth of attractions and activities. This includes the  Alpine Sensation,   the  Ice Palace (yes, a tunnel made out of ice) , several  viewing platforms (from which you have a fantastic panorama of the Aletsch Glacier) , a  Lindt museum, and more .

In the  summer  months, you can explore the breathtaking alpine meadows and glacier valleys or take in the spectacular views from its many observation decks. At The Snow Fun Park, you can even do winter sports in the summer.

In  winter,  the opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowing are endless – though, Jungfraujoch is also special because you can also do winter sports in the summer months! Yes, it is true. There is always snow on the top of Jungfrajoch, and this always you to do some winter sports at the Snow Fun Palace.

Arzo Travels at Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is definitely one of those special places that deserve to be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Not only does it offer breathtaking views and unique activities for all seasons, but it’s also a great way to get close to the heart of the  Swiss Alps ! Check out my guide about  Jungfraujoch  for more info.

ℹ️  From Interlaken, get from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg and then you have to change trains one more time. The ride is one of the  best train rides in Switzerland,  so do not mind that the whole journey (one-way) is about 2 hours in total. On your way back, you can take the gondola which stops at Grindelwald Terminal station. The gondola – via Eiger Express – is the faster way to get up/down the Jungfraujoch, but a bit less scenic in my eyes.

ℹ️  The trip to Wengen is free with your  Swiss Travel Pass . From Wengen to the top of Junfraujoch you get a 25% discount with a pass.  

The Jungfrajoch excursion is quite expensive – so, if you have to watch your budget closely, you can skip it and do one of the many other activities near Interlaken which are free or way cheaper. Thus, I have a few more recommendations for your last day in Switzerland.

GRINDELWALD & GRINDELWALD FIRST

Stunning views and activities to please every type of traveler await you in Grindelwald.

Grindelwald is a small village about 30 minutes from Interlaken. After a leisurely stroll through this traditional Swiss village with beautiful wooden chalets,  it is time to get up Grindelwald First at 2,166 meters (7,106 feet) above sea level.

Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland

Whether you hike up or take the cable cars – at the top, you have panoramic vistas of Eiger Mountain and a variety of activities you can choose from.

What tours in Switzerland

The best way to experience this area is with a hike to Bachalpsee Lake – one of the most beautiful Swiss lakes.  Hiking to the lake just takes about one hour – and the best is that it does not even include a steep uphill/downhill hike, which makes it very family-friendly.

Bachalpsee near Grindelwald one of the most photogenic spost in Interlaken

Other popular activities in Grindelwald First include skiing, and snowboarding in the winter months , or hiking and mountain biking in the summer . Grindelwald First is also known as the Top of Adventure , as there are many activities like the Cliff Walk, First Glider , and more.

When you are in Switzerland for 4 days, then this is a great way to spend a day. 

ℹ️  Just hop on a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald – it takes about 30 minutes to get there by train. Just make sure you sit in the right compartment – the train splits and one part of the train will continue to Lauterbrunnen, and the other part of the train will get to Grindelwald. This train ride is also, as you might have guessed, included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

ℹ️  The ticket to Grindelwald First is about 64 CHF – with a Swiss Travel Pass you enjoy a 50% discount.

LAKE THUN & THUN & SPIEZ

Interlaken is located on the northern shores of the stunning Lake Thun. With its majestic mountain views, blue-green waters, and quaint villages, Lake Thun is the perfect destination to explore.  Hop on a boat and enjoy a scenic boat cruise.

Best things to see at Lake Thun, boat tour Lake Thun

I recommend taking a day trip to this charming town situated at the north end of Lake Thun – Thun. Explore Thun´s Old Town , its castles , shops, and other attractions. It surely is one of the most beautiful Swiss cities (or towns) and is a perfect mix of beautiful scenery and cultural sights. 

Surfing in Thun Arzo Travels

If time allows, visit also Spiez village! Spiez is different compared to the rest of the country! Here you have a gorgeous promenade as we know it from many other Swiss destinations because of its Mediterranean Flair.

Spiez Promenade, French Riviera

You could believe you are somewhere on the French Riveria. You have also some of the best views of the uniquely shaped Niesen Mountain – which looks like a pyramid! As if that was not enough, Spiez is also home to a gorgeous castle, vineyards, and more!

And if you’re feeling brave enough (and why wouldn’t you?) dive into some exciting water activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddling on the lake before taking one of those famous boat trips around town that will leave lasting impressions long after your visit ends! Check out my detailed guide on Lake Thun and Thun for more info.

ℹ️  At Interlaken West, hop on the boat towards Thun. You can get out at any station (like Spiez , St.Beatus Caves etc.) – this boat ride is scenic! From Thun, you can get to Spiez by bus or boat.

ℹ️  TIPS:  Whether you get to Thun/Spiez (or any village in between) via boat or train – it is included in your Swiss Travel Pass . Also, the entrance to Thun Castle is included.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON A 4-DAY SWITZERLAND TRIP

So, if you’re looking for 4 days full of adventure and exploration, then this Switzerland itinerary is just the thing for you. With its breathtaking alpine scenery, medieval architecture, and vibrant cities, there’s something here to suit everyone. I added a mix of everything, which makes this itinerary pretty perfect in my eyes :).

Whether it’s exploring the lakeside towns or taking in the stunning views from atop a mountain peak, 4 days in Switzerland is sure to be a memorable experience. 

You can also check out my other itineraries for more ideas on how to make the most of your days in Switzerland.

GET YOUR SWISS TRAVEL PASS HERE

  • ℹ️  10 days in Switzerland
  • ℹ️  7 days in Switzerland
  • ℹ️  5 days in Switzerland
  • ℹ️  Review: Swiss Travel Pass
  • ℹ️  Where to stay in Switzerland

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Traveling Switzerland by rail gives you a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Its mountain ranges are ideal for skiing or hiking and provide amazing backdrops to the cities. If the scenery isn't enough, try the country's world-class products. Just think: Swiss cheese, Swiss chocolate, Swiss watches - they sure know how to improve the quality of life! Experience it all with a Global Pass where you can include Switzerland in your choice of 33 different countries.

Itinerary in short

For this itinerary, we recommend:

  • Eurail pass: Global Pass
  • Travel days:  5 days within 1 month

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner

Switzerland map

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is an international business capital. With several identities – historical and traditional, young and cool, wealthy and cosmopolitan – it’s a city that appeals to all tastes. This is your chance to explore one of the most livable cities in the world!

Stroll along the Bahnhofstrasse , a world-class shopping boulevard, then visit Grossmünster church, a symbol of the Swiss Reformation. The Old Town is a pedestrian zone with surprises all across its hidden alleyways. At night, enjoy the energetic nightlife.

Fraumunster Church and River Limmat, Zurich

Travel time:

Lucerne, Switzerland

Luzern (Lucerne)

Lucerne (Luzern), Switzerland

A visit to Lucerne isn't complete without visiting the Chapel Bridge . Built in the 14 th century, it's known as the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. The bridge runs past the Water Tower , which was originally part of the medieval city wall. These two structures form a key attraction and a picturesque photo opportunity!

Another remnant of medieval times is the Musegg Wall . Three of its towers can be climbed for a panoramic view over Lucerne. Can’t get enough of the scenery? Then make your way up Mount Pilatus , a landmark steeped in legend. It was once thought that a dragon lived on the mountain.

wooden_bridge_in_lucerne

Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken Ost

Interlaken is Switzerland’s (and perhaps Europe’s) adventure-sport mecca, where anything goes - from world-class snowboarding and skiing pistes to paragliding and skydiving above the sparkling Brienz and Thun lakes  or plunging through white rapids aboard a raft.

The Jungfrau Railway chugs its way to the Jungfrau mountain , which towers dramatically over the town. Once you get there, you'll be rewarded with mind-blowing views of the mountain giants Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch. You'll get a discount on this private railway attraction with your Eurail Pass.

Breathtaking views at Interlaken

Bern, Switzerland

Bern (berne), switzerland.

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, will have you marveling at its beauty. It’s idyllic, no matter the season. In summer, you can swim in the perfectly blue Aare River , and in winter, you can go sledding at Gurten Hill and enjoy views over Bern.

The layout of Bern’s medieval Old City has been preserved since its founding in 1191 and can easily be explored on foot. Check out the Zytglogge , the medieval astronomical clock tower. Also important is the Cathedral of Bern , which provides magnificent views over the city.

Aare River in Bern

Geneva, Switzerland

Genève (Geneva)

Geneva (Genève), Switzerland

Geneva is a global city with both brains and beauty. It’s home to some of the brightest minds on earth, including those at the research organization CERN – the birthplace of the World Wide Web. The United Nations and International Red Cross are also stationed there. Guided tours are available at their offices and museums.

It’s hard to miss the Jet d’Eau , a large fountain that lies where Lake Geneva meets the Rhône River. Its stunning backdrop of the French and Swiss Alps is definitely photo-worthy. Nearby, the famous Flower Clock (L’horloge fleurie) is a living tribute to Switzerland’s watchmakers.

The Flower Clock (L’horloge fleurie), Geneva

Experience this itinerary with the Eurail Global Pass!  

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Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days - In-depth Swiss itinerary for 2024

If you are looking to get the most out of your Switzerland itinerary for 8 days, then you have come to the right blog. This itinerary is from my personal, unforgettable experience. I am sharing a step-by-step, comprehensive Switzerland itinerary for 8 days .

Before you go any further, let me forewarn, this is not a leisure or relaxing Switzerland itinerary, it is more of an adventurous trip, aiming to explore and discover as much as possible in Switzerland in just 8 days.

Places you will cover in the Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days: 3 Nights in Montreux

  • a. Montreux
  • i. Lake Geneva and Promenade of Montreux
  • ii.Freddie Mercury Museum
  • i.Chillion Castle
  • i. Zermatt Village
  • ii.Mountain - Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
  • i. Famous Gstaad street where Bollywood movies were shot
  • i. DDLJ - Famous Bridge, Church, and Railway Station
  • i. Cheese Factory
  • ii.Gruyere Village
  • iii.Gruyere Castle
  • i.Cailler - Chocolate Factory
  • a. Jungfrau
  • a.Jungfrau mountain - Top of Europe
  • b. Ice Palace
  • c. Alpine Sensation
  • b. Grindelwald
  • c.Lauterbrunnen
  • d.Grindelwald First - Adventure Activities
  • e.Interlaken
  • a. Lake Thun
  • b. Lake Brienz
  • c. Interlaken region
  • d. Mountain - Schilthorn
  • a. Lake Lucerne
  • b. Old Town
  • c. Lion Monument
  • d. Musegg Wall - View of the entire Lucerne from the top
  • e. Chapel Bridge
  • a. The Rhine falls
  • b. Zurich city
  • a. Bahnhofstrasse
  • c. Lake Zurich

Day 1 - Montreux and Chillion Castle

MontreuxChillion_img

Even before you reach Switzerland, make sure you have bought your Swiss Travel Pass . It will allow you to unlimited travel across Switzerland, give you free access to 500+ museums and up to 50% discount with Swiss Travel Pass on mountain excursions.

Once you land in Zurich or Geneva or enter Switzerland by train, head straight to your hotel in Montreux. Freshen up, eat something, and relax for some time.

Try to leave your hotel between 2-3 p.m. for Chillion Castle. It is just 15 mins away by bus from Montreux. (Castle closes at 5 p.m., therefore first head to Chillion rather than getting distracted by the beauty of Montreux)

Find yourself in the medieval era as you enter the Chillion Castle. The castle is over 1000 years old.

Again board a bus from Chillion to Montreux.

Once reached, it is time to walk around Montreux. Start from the famous Casino and head towards the spotless old town and back to the Lake Geneva area. This walk will take around 1 hour or more, but totally worth it. Especially when you reach at the top of Montreux Old Town to get a mesmerizing panoramic view of the quaint town of Montreux. It is truly picturesque.

This will mark the end of your Day 1.

Day 2 - Matterhorn and Zermatt Village

MatterhornZermatt_img

Any Switzerland itinerary is incomplete if it doesn't include playing in the snow on a snow-clad mountain. And on the very next day, it is time your experience that.

Wake up early in the morning, and catch a train to Zermatt (you will have a couple of train changes, and it takes nearly 2 hrs 45 mins to reach).

Zermatt is a car-free village, where, by the way, only 5000 people inhabit, but it can accommodate up to 50,000 visitors.

In Zermatt, head towards the Gondola station that will take you to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . Out there, you will get as close as possible to the famous Mt. Matterhorn, most famously recognized as the Toblerone mountain (Matterhorn was the inspiration to the creator of the Toblerone chocolates. Hence, the mountain shape).

Post your trip to Matterhorn, walk around to enjoy the car-free village. If you want to, you may hire a cycle to explore the area, but it will be a costly affair.

That's all on Day 2 of your Switzerland itinerary for 8 days. Now head back to Montreux. You will have a long train journey.

Day 3 - Gstaad, Saanen, Gruyere, and Broc

GstaadSaanenGruyereBroc_img

After an exhilarating day, reaching all the peaks and playing in the snow, it is best to visit the famous places around Montreux.

Gstaad - Take an early morning train straight to Gstaad. Explore the picture-perfect town, which is also among the most preferred holiday destinations by many celebrities and royalties.

Saanen - From Gstaad, take a bus to Saanen - the DDLJ village. As soon as you reach the Saanen bus stop, you will see the DDLJ Bridge right across, literally hop skip and jump away. Click beautiful pictures and then walk towards the Church where Raj had prayed for Simran. Saanen is a small village, it will take you not more than 45 mins in Saanen.

Gruyere - A train will take you from Saanen to Gruyere. Just outside the station, you will see La Maison Du Gruyere, aka Gruyere Cheese Factory. Even before you begin the factory tour, you are spoilt with a cheese tasting packet which consists of three types of aged cheese. The tour is quite informative, fun, and moreover, it is all by ourselves, at our own pace, since you will get a mobile-type device which explains everything instead of a guide. Well, that's technology.

After gaining super knowledge on cheese making processes, walk towards the Gruyere village. It is an uphill 15-20 mins walk. Once you enter the Gruyere village, it will feel like a fairy tale land. The open blue sky, cobblestone streets, absolutely no noise of any vehicle, and the medieval structures preserved in its pristine condition will make it hard to believe such an elegant world like this still exists, especially for the city dwellers. You may get a feel you are at a movie set.

At the end of the village, stands a majestic castle, you can see around the castle, take a glimpse of it. Like me, you may not spend much time in the castle, as you have already seen a castle, but more importantly, the chocolate factory awaits you, which is included in Swiss Travel Pass cost .

Broc - Again a train from Gruyere, Maison Callier aka Chocolate Factory is right outside the Broc Fabrique station. With every step marched towards the factory, the aroma of fresh chocolate being prepared gets even stronger, you may get an impulsive urge to eat chocolates even before reaching the factory.

The 200-year-old chocolate factory is among the oldest chocolate factories in the world and also the founder of Cailler is among the pioneers of modern chocolate making. Quite a factory to be at.

The tour is fantastic, fun, engaging, and informative. Here as well, there will be no personal guide, audio is to be heard in a chocolaty mobile-type device.

The best part of the tour will be the chocolate tasting. Unlike Gruyere cheese factory, here you will bask in the goodness of fresh chocolates at the end of the tour. Eat as many as chocolates you can. More than 10 types of Cailler chocolates are offered for tasting. It is a complete overdose of chocolate. Sweet.

All the above four destinations are a must if you have the luxury of 8 days itinerary for Switzerland.

Day 4 - Change of Hotel | Grindelwald and First Activities

GrindelwaldActivities_img

The day 4 of your Switzerland itinerary is going to be an adventurous one. Make sure you have a substantial breakfast and carry some munchies in your handbag because it will take nearly 2 hrs 45 mins to reach Interlaken. You can also stay in any of the beautiful villages around Interlaken. I stayed at Hotel Baren, Wilderswil.

Leave early in the morning and try to reach your hotel before 12 p.m. Once reached, freshen up, eat something, and leave for Grindlewald First .

Experience some of the most thrilling and adrenaline-rushing activities of Switzerland at Grindelwald First. Once you reach the highest station by a cable car, you will also bask in a breath-taking view. Sightseeing and activities will take around 3-4 hours.

After you are done with activities, walk around Grindelwald. Post which, you can head back to your hotel and rest. It will be a tiring day.

Day 5 - Jungfrau - Top of Europe

JungfrauTopofEurope_img

Today you set out to conquer Jungfrau - Top of Europe. It is the highest railway station in Europe at 3454 m and the most visited mountain in Switzerland.

Now, like every day, leave early in the morning. It will take around 2 hrs 30 mins to reach Jungfrau.

At Jungfrau, you can not only play in the snow but also enjoy a chilling visit of the Ice Palace, learn about the history of Jungfrau Station, get lost in the Alpine Sensation, buy Lindt chocolates and do many more things at 3454m. To see everything at Jungfrau, it will take a good 3-4 hours.

When you get down from Jungfrau, catch the Lauterbrunnen train - and not the Grindelwald. Lauterbrunnen is a different town. Therefore, on your way back to the hotel, you can check it out.

Be it a Switzerland itinerary for 1 day, 3 days, 6 days or 8 days, Jungfrau is always a must!

Jungfraujoch with Jungfraujoch with Swiss Travel Pass comes at a steep discount.

Day 6 - Interlaken - Lake Brienz & Lake Thun - Mount Schilthorn

Interlaken_img

On Day 6, you can keep it a relaxing day by just seeing around in the Interlaken region from Ost to West. When you walk around the pleasant town, you will come across some of the world's most expensive brands of watches. Well, something that Switzerland is world-famous for.

Do walk on the sidewalks of the Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. You can also take a boat ride on one of the lakes. I didn't as I had planned one in Lucerne.

Now, if time permits and if you also have enough energy and zeal to conquer another mountain, you can head towards Mt. Schilthorn - famous for the James Bond shooting.

Day 7 - Lucerne - Swiss Travel Museum - Boat Ride - Musseg Wall - Lion Monument

Lucerne_img

Needless to say, leave early in the morning. A train ride with a couple of train changes will take around 2 hrs 45 mins to reach the most flocked tourist destination of Switzerland - Lucerne.

Right outside the Lucerne station, you will finally come face to face with the Chapel Bridge of Lucerne. Built-in the 1800s, it is one of the world's oldest bridges. Don't worry, it still stands strong. Just don't be tempted yet to head towards the bridge. We recommend, first, take a boat ride to Verkehrshaus-Lido to visit the Swiss Transport Museum. In this journey, enjoy your much-awaited scenic boat ride in Switzerland.

Swiss Museum of Transport - It is among the world's largest transport museums. There are individual buildings for every mode of transport. Bus, train, tram, planes, even out of space transport is present at this gigantic museum. If you decide to see the entire museum, it may take your whole day or even more. Therefore, see any one or two museums and headed back towards Lucerne. The museum comes at a discounted rates with Swiss Pass. Just one of the many benefits of Swiss Travel Pass .

Now is the time you head straight towards the Chapel Bridge and stand on the mighty old bridge. Walk around the old town, maybe stop for your lunch. Then head to the Lion Monument and finally then to the Musegg Wall. At Musegg Wall, climb up the tiring staircase to reach the top of any one of the towers. As you see the entire skyline of Lucerne from the top, your tiredness will just wash away in no time.

Now you have covered everything in Lucerne. So, it's time to treat yourself with some shopping and then treat your taste buds with some authentic food.

By this time, it will be around 7:30-8:00 p.m. in Lucerne. Take a train and head back to the hotel. You may reach Interlaken by 10:30 p.m.

Day 8 - Zurich - Rhine Falls - Shopping - Night Life

SwissReturnJourney_img

Bid your final goodbyes to the place you are staying in Interlaken and head to Zurich. It will be a long way, around 2 hrs 45 mins, also depends on where you are staying in Zurich. I preferred to stay near the airport for two reasons: central location (not prime) and close to the airport.

After checking in at the hotel/apartment, first, go to rejoice in Europe's second-largest waterfall - Rhine Falls. You can reach it through Neuhausen Rheinfall or Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall. I will advise to getting down at the Schloss Laufen and walk from there towards the boat ride area in Neuhausen. Don't worry. Once you reach there, you'll figure out your way. There are signboards and an information centre.

Things to do at Rhine Falls: Boat ride and standing in the centre of the waterfall.

I took a bit longer than the planned time at the Rhine falls as it was just amazing to sit at one of the benches to hear the roaring sound of the waterfalls

After spending around 2 hours at the Rhine falls, you have to head to the shopping street - Bahnhofstrasse by taking a train to Zurich HB.

Once you reach there, pat on your back to be proud to be standing at one of the world's most expensive shopping streets. You have achieved it. Even you may not buy anything.

Walk from one shop to another. Check out some of the luxury watches, chocolates, beauty products, and everything that Bahnofstrasee has to offer. Don't stop until your legs give out. Don't forget, it is your last day in Switzerland.

The shops start shutting post 8 p.m., and the nightlife begins opening up. Right in the adjacent street and around Bahnhofstrasse, you will find many pubs and bars. Choose the best that suits your mood. It can be a quiet bar or a loud pub. It's up to you. If you are on a honeymoon in Switzerland , explore the nightlife to its fullest.

Well. What I can say now. The journey in the paradise has to come to an end. You can either take a flight at night or rest at your hotel to catch a morning flight.

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Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days – How to spend 7 days in Switzerland

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Switzerland is one of the most stunning places on earth. With a high quality of life, gorgeous mountain views, clear lakes, and modern amenities, the Swiss landscape will surely win you over. In this best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days, we will discover some of the most beautiful places to explore in 7 days in Switzerland.

Girl in Lucerne, Best 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary

Area wise Switzerland is not huge, it’s like 4 times smaller than the size of Michigan in the US.

And a smart way to explore Switzerland in 7 days is to keep 1 or 2 cities as your base and then venture out to the countryside with day trips. That will also help to keep accommodation costs low as you save on multiple night stays, stock up on groceries, and take public transportation to explore.

This one week in Switzerland itinerary can be done without a car as well. We hope you enjoy these handpicked beautiful places in Switzerland for your itinerary.

Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days – Visit beautiful places in 7 days in Switzerland

Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

For the purposes of this 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary, we will use Zurich as the starting point. Zurich and Geneva are the two popular cities for arriving in Switzerland .

If you are arriving in Geneva, read our modified day 7 of the Switzerland itinerary which includes sightseeing activities and tips for the city.  

7 days in Switzerland Itinerary: Snapshot

  • Day 1 : Arrive in Zurich
  • Day 2 : Berne
  • Day 3 : Lucerne
  • Day 4 : Interlaken and Jungfraujoch 
  • Day 5: Basel
  • Day 6 : Zermatt
  • Day 7 : Return to Zurich 
  • Alternate day 7: Return to Geneva from Zermatt

Before we proceed with the Switzerland itinerary, here are some important items to keep in mind as you start planning your trip.

Travel documents and visa

Switzerland is not part of the European Union, but they follow the Schengen agreement for non-visa-exempt countries. So if you are traveling with an Indian or any other non-visa-exempt passport, apply for a Schengen visa ahead of time from your country of residence. Read our detailed guide to applying to the Schengen visa.

Passport holders from the US and Canada can stay up to 90 days in Switzerland visa-free. From 2023, they are required to apply for eTIAS – online entry authorization prior to arrival in Switzerland.

Swiss Countryside

Currency and Credit Cards

As Switzerland is not part of the EU, they use its own currency which is the Swiss Franc. Euros are accepted but change will be provided back to you in Francs.

Currency exchange/conversion for Euros and Francs are almost at par. Well, almost – when we were in Switzerland, francs were stronger than euros.

Credit cards are widely accepted especially in high-end boutique stores and restaurants, including train stations.

Packing Tips for Switzerland

Depending on your month of travel and the activities you will be indulging in Switzerland, your packing list will differ. But here is what you MUST carry.

  • Comfortable walking shoes – If you are planning a lot of city exploration and shopping, carry comfortable shoes. Both Zurich and Geneva’s old town is best explored on foot. Click to shop this my favorite walking shoe
  • Light jacket – A light, all-weather jacket is a MUST for all times of the year. You will find this super handy during the cross over or shoulder seasons when temperatures suddenly drop in the evenings or early mornings. Buy my lightweight travel jacket here
  • Universal adaptor – Our North American or Asian electronics won’t charge in Switzerland without a universal adaptor. Invest in one today. Buy this universal adaptor – convertor duo that works in over 150 countries .
  • A day pack – Carry a day pack with your travel essentials and camera as you embark on sightseeing. Anti-theft bags are not a necessity here. Instances of theft are very rare (reminds me of my good ol’ Canada – It’s true, Switzerland reminded me so much of Canada, but that’s another story, another post). So yes, take a good day pack or travel purse. Click here to view my favorite travel bag.
  • Travel Insurance – No matter where you go, get travel insurance. We get insurance on all of our travels. Get insurance travel quotes for your trip to Switzerland here.

Swiss Travel Pass

To explore all of the beautiful places in Switzerland in 7 days – purchase the Swiss Travel Pass . The Swiss Travel Card allows you to take unlimited train rides across the country (for a set duration of time) and also comes with discounted entry fees to many iconic landmarks in the city.

Without a Swiss travel card, for a week in Switzerland, you will end up spending up to $600+ USD on train/ public transportation alone. Buy your Swiss Travel Card here.

Day 1  – Arriving in Zurich Switzerland and city sightseeing 

Zurich Airport to City Center or hotel

Trams/Trains – 25 minutes, 13.50 Francs, or free with the Swiss Travel Pass. 

Private Transfer/Cab –   Book a private taxi for two here.

On day 1 of your Switzerland itinerary, arrive in Zurich. Zurich International Airport is 25 minutes away from the city center (by tram). Here are some options to get to the city center or to your hotel.

  • Public Transport – Trains are very efficient in Switzerland and Zurich is no different. You have to pay for tickets at the station (credit cards accepted, cash accepted in some). 
  • Private transport or taxi – If you wish to arrive in luxury, you can book a chauffeur-driven transport to your hotel. This is a good option if you have tons of luggage and are traveling in a big group. Book a taxi here

Zurich old town restaurant

Recommend hotel in Zurich:

We stayed near the airport in Zurich. Hotel rates are expensive in Zurich regardless of the area or time of travel. Their low range starts at $120 USD per night. You might be able to find hostels for cheaper, but when we booked our trip even hostels were averaging $100 USD+. 

  • Storchen Zurich (Luxury) – This is a lifestyle boutique – a 5-star hotel, located in the old town. A central location, it is perfect for exploring the prime attractions in the city and taking day tours. A riverfront hotel, it also offers free breakfast. Book your stay here 
  • Zurich Marriott Hotel (Mid-range hotel) – This is a 5-star hotel, with good accessibility to the city center. Nightly rates for this hotel are a little bit cheaper than the ones in the old town. Zurich Marriott Hotel is located in District 6. The hotel is within a 15-minute drive from Zurich Airport and is quite accessible to the Central area via tram. Zurich’s main train station is only a 7 minute walk away. Book your stay here
  • Ibis Budget Zurich Airport (budget option) – This is a 2+ star local located near the airport. The benefit of staying here is that the trams are located right outside the hotel. They have a laundry and a restaurant on-site . Book your stay here.

READ : Hotels guide to Zurich

For your one day in Zurich, we recommend heading straight to the downtown area. Take the tram and get down at the Central station. Here are a few highlights of Zurich city that you should explore

Walk the Altstadt aka the old town center of Zurich – The old town of Zurich is filled with cobblestoned lanes , pretty cafes, and shopping areas that you shouldn’t miss. Put on your comfy walking shoes and join in and explore the old town.

Girl in Zurich in 4 days in Switzerland itinerary

In the old town, you will see important churches in Zürich that keeps following you everywhere in the city center. One of them is the Fraumünster church which was built on the remains of a former abbey for aristocratic women. The church is very beautiful with its stained glass windows – a characteristic trait of any medieval European church.

The second and probably the most iconic one is the Grossmünster , which is a Romanesque-style Protestant church.

Zurich old town and church lanes Zurich Itinerary 2 days

There is a bridge located near Grossmünster called the Münsterbrücke . Standing at the Münsterbrücke bridge, you can capture some amazing views of the river Limmat.

Admire the Limmat River and join in the activities near it – The Limmat River flows through the city of Zurich and it makes the city center even more picturesque with its presence. Stroll the river banks and if you are visiting during the summer months, go on a river cruise. 

If you wish to add a museum or two to your Zurich itinerary then consider adding the Swiss National Museum or the FIFA Museum.

Zurich and Lindehof Hill in Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

Lindenhof Hill is located a few minutes away from Altstadt and it is an amazing place to relax whilst soaking in the river and the city views. This spot also makes for great Instagrammable photos. Lindenhof Hill is free to explore.

In the evening head to one of the most expensive streets in the world – the Bahnhofstrasse – take a stroll, window shop, or shop in this street. Some of the world’s finest luxury brands can be found here – Cartier, Rolex, Chanel, YSL, etc.

Pro-Tip: If you are short on time, use this city tour of 4 hours that combines the best of the city center, a boat cruise, and more. This sightseeing tour starts in the afternoon – so it is perfect if you are arriving on day 1 of the Zurich itinerary and want to cover more of the city. Book the city sightseeing tour here.  

For dinner, you will find a lot of options near the riverside in the old town. Our favorite was  Niederdorfstrasse Lane near the Steakhouse. The area is touristy, but oh so pretty!

All the restaurants here take credit cards and serve local and international cuisines.

Read our 2 day Zurich itinerary if you are extending your stay in the city. You can also opt for a Zurich day pass if you not using Swiss trains but are planning to explore city highlights intimately.  

Day 2 of 7 day trip Switzerland – Spend a day in Bern – the Swiss capital

On day 2 of your 7 day Switzerland itinerary, explore the capital city of Bern on a day trip.

Zurich to Bern Distance

Bern is the capital of Switzerland. This European capital city is unlike any other on the continent. Bern has stood the test of time and has remained still since the 12 th century – when the city was laid out. The Old City in Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Zurich to Bern

Trains – 1 hour. Freeride with Swiss Travel Card .

Tour –  Here is a recommended one day tour to Bern from Zurich  

Bern is also known as the city of fountains due to the existence of a myriad of fountains – sprinkled across town. Being the capital, a visit to the Parliament Building is a must. Spend an hour or so and take a guided tour if interested.

Also, don’t miss out on the Zytglogge – an Astronomical Clock from the 15 th century. It is Bern’s famous clock tower, which features an intricate clock face and mechanical figures that perform every hour.

After that head to the Old Town – Altstadt of Bern – which is filled with cobblestone lanes. As you wander the cobbled streets of Bern’s Old Town ( Altstadt in German), you’ll find many covered arcades that house the shops, cafes, and galleries. 

There are about six kilometres of covered arcades here, making this the longest-covered shopping arcade in Europe.

Bern in 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary

Stop to shop at any of the medieval arcades in the old town or head to the Kirchenfeld bridge (at the south end of the city) to admire the city skyline.

For more wonderful views over the city, head to Berner Munster, the city’s cathedral that was built in the 15th century. This landmark cathedral is impressive with its 12-meter-high stained glass windows inside the cathedral. You can climb up the church tower for amazing views. 

Remember Einstein’s theory of Relativity? Bern is home to Einstein’s House . This was Albert Einstein’s residence when he developed the theory.

In the evening, pop by a Bernese rooftop restaurant to see some of the amazing views of the city and the Aase River.  

You can also take a day tour to Bern from Zurich, which includes round trip transportation, a sightseeing guided tour, and free time to explore on your own. Book your day tour to Bern from Zurich here.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL: If you wish to spend the night in Berne, consider staying at Hotel La Pergola located close to the old town. 

Day 3 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days  – Explore Lucerne 

On day 3 of one week Switzerland itinerary, take a day trip to Lucerne from Zurich.

Zurich to Lucerne Map - Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

Lucerne , also known by its local German name as Luzern, is located at Lake Lucerne and on the river Reuss. It is a compact, lively town with 80,000 inhabitants.

Zurich to Lucerne

Trains – 1 hour 10 minutes. Ride free with Swiss Travel Card .

Tour – Day tour to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus with lunch    

There are lots of things to do in Lucerne. With its location at the lake, the place is an ideal starting point for boat trips, including the Gotthard panorama tour.

The nearby mountains of Rigi, Stanserhorn, Bürgenstock, and Mount Pilatus attract thousands of visitors every year. As the town is not big, you can explore it on foot doing your own Lucerne walking tour .

Lake Lucerne defines and makes this compact city, very picturesque. You can enjoy an hour cruise across Lake Lucerne (seasonal) and ride the world’s steepest cog railway up to Mount Pilatus. 

It is also possible to visit Mount Rigi from Lucerne, via a boat and a cog railway ride.

Iconic landmark places of Lucerne include the Chapel Bridge or Kapellbrücke , which is named after the St. Peter’s Chapel, dating back to the 14th century, and the Spreuer Bridge which is also a must-visit to explore the 67 paintings dating from the 17th century and representing the “Dance of Death”. 

Chapel Bridge Lucerne in 7 days in Switzerland

Lucerne has many military structures in the city. There is a monument of the Dying Lion of Lucerne – which is carved out of stone and it commemorates the fallen Swiss guardsmen who died in 1792 while serving the French king Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

Bourbaki Panorama is another important military attraction in Lucerne, depicting General Bourbaki’s Eastern French Army entering Switzerland in the winter of 1871 to save their lives.

Other important attractions include the Lucerne Town Hall; a defensive Musegg Wall from the 15th century and a majestic Jesuit church from the 17th century. 

Lucerne in 7 days in Switzerland

If you wish to extend your stay, take a day tour from Lucerne to the 1,900-meter mount Stanserhorn and because it has a double-decker cable car with an open upper deck it allows you to take the best pictures.

The CabriO cable car is the world’s first cable car with a roofless upper deck.

The guests can enjoy 360° panoramic views as well as fresh mountain air. The ride up to Stanserhorn has two parts: first, you take the old-time funicular from Stans to Kälti, then the new CabriO will bring you to the mountain for stunning views. 

Day Tour :  Visit Stanserhorn and Lucerne in one day tour

Another option is to take the Golden Round trip to see Mount Pilatus and back. You have to start from Lake Lucerne – take a steamer and then get on the cog railway to the top. This is perfect for people who love to hike and enjoy scenic views! (This trip is included in the Swiss Travel Pass ). 

Or here is a day tour which includes Mount Pilatus and Lucerne.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL : If you decide to stay in Lucerne, here is a recommended hotel: Hof Apartments by Keyforge on 16 Hofstrasse . This hotel is close to all the attractions in Lucerne. 

SCENIC TRAIN : The Golden Pass is a train route that starts here, in Lucerne. On this train route, you will see Montreux, Brünig Pass, the lakes of the Bernese Oberland, the Simmen Valley, upper-class Gstaad, and Lake Geneva. The duration is for a day.

You can start in Lucerne, switch trains in Interlaken, and end in Montreux (located 75 minutes away from Geneva) – all in a day. 

Golden Round Trip: The Golden round trip is different from the Golden Pass. The Golden Round trip takes you to Mount Pilatus’s scenic spots from Lucerne.

Day 4 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days  – Explore Interlaken & Jungfrau Region

Head to Interlaken from Zurich, on day 4 of Swiss Itinerary. 

Zurich to Interlaken Map - Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

Interlaken is considered one of the prettiest places in the world. The town itself is small but holds a few attractions to keep you busy.  

Zurich to Interlaken

Trains – 2 hours 10 minutes. Ride free with Swiss Travel Card .

Tour – Or book this day tour from Zurich to Interlaken and Grindelwald

In Interlaken itself visit the “house mountain” – Harder Kulm . Whether you hike up or take the cable car to get up – the views from there are stunning! It is also a great spot to watch the sunset.

Also, make sure to do at least one boat tour – since Interlaken is located between two lakes (Lake Brienz and Lake Thun), it is almost difficult to decide which boat tour is better.

In the end, both lakes are just impressive and after a boat ride (given the size of the lakes, they will take a few hours) head to Höhenmatte and watch all the paragliders. Interlaken is beautiful but so are the places near Interlaken . 

Interlaken Views in Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

If you wish to extend your stay in Interlaken, here are some options. You can visit many cute towns and villages near it – especially Thun is worth a visit. It is located at the end of Lake Thun and is actually a nicer place than Interlaken with a beautiful old town.

On the way from Interlaken to Thun also stop at St. Beatus Caves for the views. And if you are into hiking make sure to enjoy some of the best mountain views in the country – hike up Brienzer Rothorn, Schynige Platte, Niesen, or one of the many mountain peaks.

If you are not into hiking, then plan a full day to enjoy the Jungfraujoch – one of the most popular places in the region where you have snow throughout the year (and afterward stroll Grindelwald). 

Interlaken in Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

Jungfraujoch is Europe’s Highest Train Station and from here you can view the Jungfrau mountain. It is easy to reach Jungfraujoch by train from Interlaken (travel time is 2 hours one way).

You can start from Interlaken Ost station towards Lauterbrunnen Valley or Grindelwald (Bernese Oberland Railway) and from there change for the Wengernalp railway and then to Kleine Scheidegg. Hop on the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.

Other options to reach Jungfraujoch: 

  • Here is a day tour from Zurich to Jungfraujoch.
  • Or take a tour to explore Interlaken and Grindelwald in a day

RECOMMENDED HOTEL: Stay at Hotel du Nord in Interlaken so you are close to the main attractions. Or Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa (luxury option).

Day 5 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days  – Head to Basel

Zurich to Basel Map

For city lovers like us, visiting Basel is a must. It is Switzerland’s third-largest city in terms of population and it is also the last navigable city on the river Rhine. However, very often visitors overlook Basel, as it is sort of “unswiss”, due to the lack of mountains nearby.

But did you know, it is ONE of the most beautiful historic centres in the country and, as far as art is concerned, it boasts over 40 first-class museums!

We are SOLD on the historical gems, I mean why not? Nature and history = LOVE! Here is a detailed one day in Basel itinerary !

Zurich to Basel

Trains – 55 minutes to 1 hour, Ride free with Swiss Travel Card .  

Basel is divided into two parts: the large town (Gross Basel) where you will find the railway station, and the small town (Klein Basel), on the other side of the Rhine. 

It can be visited in a day if you decide to stick to the main sights, but we assure you that you won’t be disappointed. 

Basel Switzerland

As you soon as you arrive in Basel from Zurich, from the railway station (Centralbahn Platz) head towards Barfusserplatz, taking a small detour to admire the fountains created by the eclectic local artist Jean Tinguely (Tinguely Brunnen). His bizarre iron sculptures are located in Theatervorplaz and they move gracefully in the water. 

From Barfusserplatz, walk to the  Spalentor Gate Tower , which in the 15th century was the main entrance to the city. This is perhaps one of the most impressive monuments, with its square main tower, flanked on each side by two round towers.

The next stop is the market square  – Marktplatz where, today like in the past, you will find flowers, fruit, and fresh vegetable merchants. This market is only open on weekdays. 

The last stop in the Old Town is  Münster, Basel’s large Romanesque cathedral. Behind it, you will find the Pfalz, a large panoramic terrace from where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city.

After exploring the old town, head to the St Albans Gate . The gate itself is nothing to drive home about, but the area is particularly quiet and charming. People call it the little Venice of Basel because it is crossed by a small canal. For those with a romantic soul, this is a place not to be missed. 

Basel Beach

After St Albans Gate, make your way down to the river and cross it by Färi, an old wooden boat without an engine that movies using only the current of water. Färis is symbolic of the city. Tickets for the Fari ride are available onboard. 

Once you reach the other side of the river Rhine, you are not too far away from the city’s most bizarre museum, the Jean Tinguely Museum .

The museum is home to strange-looking, huge mechanical machines – all created by using recycled materials – and it is a treat to explore. There are kinetic sculptures that can be activated with a press of a button.  

best travel itinerary for switzerland

With a day full of sightseeing, it’s time to head back to the old town to take the train. Of course, you can travel by bus, but here’s an alternative… do it like many local people do: swim back! 

Yes, that’s right! In order to do that, you need to have one of those floating and watertight bags that you can buy from anywhere in the city. Change into your swimsuit inside the (Jean Tinguely) museum’s toilets, walk down to the river, by the museum’s restaurant, and just wade into the Rhine.

Relax, let it float… and within minutes you will reach the city center without any effort.  

RECOMMENDED HOTEL: Hotel Teufelhof , an old but finely restored hotel in the heart of the Old Town. Each room of the hotel is uniquely painted by different artists. 

Day 6 -7 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days  – Explore Zermatt & back to Zurich

For many travelers, exploring Switzerland means checking off the Matterhorn. Now because one way trip to Zermatt city, which is the base to explore Matterhorn is about 3-4 hours, we recommend staying in Zermatt for the night with 2 days of sightseeing.

Zermatt is the highest ski resort in Europe and boasts of 365 days of ski activities. Whether you are visiting Zermatt in summer or winter, this fairy tale charming town will win you over.

Zurich to Zermatt

Trains – 3 hours 10 minutes. 

To reach Zermatt, we highly recommend taking the train using the Swiss Travel Card, as Zermatt is a car-free town. This resort town is located in the southern part of Switzerland.

Once you arrive in Zermatt, head to the Gornergrat which is located at an altitude of 3,089 metres to soak in panoramic views of the mountains. Gornergrat Bahn which is Europe’s highest open-air electric clog railway transports visitors from Zermatt to Gornergrat in 33 minutes.

Zermatt in 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary

Panoramic views are everywhere as you reach the summit and if you love mountains as we do, you will be welcomed by 29 mountain ranges snow-capped and all pretty, including the Matterhorn.

Gornergrat’s observation platform is open all year round. You can stay here for the evening if you like – enjoying fine dining on the mountaintop (known as sunset dinners in the summer and moonlight dinners in the winter).  

Or you can explore the old town and dine in their finest restaurants whilst enjoying the views of Matterhorn.

If you are visiting in winter, you can enjoy the many outdoor rinks in the city, with natural and picturesque backdrops.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL : Stay at a laid back alpine hotel located close to ski lifts, with breakfast and free wifi included for nightly stay – Best Western Hotel Butterfly.

For day 7 of your Switzerland itinerary, ride the Matterhorn glacier paradise cableway to get into the cradle of the mountain range. This is a newly opened cableway (2018) with gondola style cabins to transport to the observation platform, which provides a very different view than the Gornergrat.

Zermatt in 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary

Adventurous hikers and mountaineers choose the Matterhorn to scale the Brithorn . But if you prefer soft adventure like us, you can visit the ski resort that is open 365 days and go snow tubing (also open in summer).

The Glacier Palace , which is one of its kind in Europe, is also located here and is accessible all year round.  

The cableway to the viewing platform only takes 9 minutes.

After taking in those panoramic views, finish the day by shopping at the Bahnhofstrasse – a shopping street filled with Swiss souvenirs and high-end retailers, to take something back home.

In the evening, hop on a train to return to Zurich for your return flight.

SCENIC TRAIN ROUTE OPTION: The Glacier Express Train is a popular train route in Switzerland, starting from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

The journey takes about 8 hours, making it through the Swiss Alps and stunning landscapes and bridges.

You can take the train in the morning on day 7 and arrive at St. Moritz.

St. Moritz to Zurich is about 3.50 hours by train. 

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Alternative Option: Day 7 to Geneva & modified 7 days in Switzerland Itinerary suggestion

If you wish to add another city to your Switzerland 7 day itinerary, then consider returning to Geneva from Zermatt on day 7 and skip the Matterhorn cableway. You will be able to see the Matterhorn on day 6 using the Gornergrat railway.

Zermatt to Geneva Map

On day 7, take the train to reach Geneva. Geneva is located an hour closer to Zermatt than Zurich. Geneva to Zurich is only 3 hours away by train or drive. 

There are many reasons why you should visit Geneva. Straddling the French border on the shores of Lac Leman, Geneva is packed with a colorful history and is a lovely place to spend one or two days exploring. 

Zermatt to Geneva

Trains – 3 hours 15 minutes. Freeride with Swiss Travel Card .  

With buildings dating back to the Roman times and many remnants of the city’s medieval past being still visible, no visit to Geneva is complete without witnessing the modern water jet fountains shooting high above the city’s skyline.

The Water Jet aka Jet d’Eau  is a 140 metre high water fountain over Lake Geneva. These  Jet d’Eau fountains have become synonymous with the city itself and are a MUST visit.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Alongside the English Garden lies a huge working Flower Clock , displaying the time as accurately as the much-loved Swiss watches exported globally from the country.

The charming old-town square of Place du Bourg-de-Four is an unmissable spot to explore (and grab a bite to eat).

Standing tall beside the St Piere Cathedral for many centuries, there are colorful narrow buildings that have witnessed countless events throughout Swiss history. It’s amazing to think St Piere’s has been a grand icon of Geneva since the 10th century!

Place du Bourg de Four

While you’re in this area, don’t forget to take a look at the lovely frescos painted within the Old Arsenal .

Inside today’s grounds of Geneva University stands the Reformation Wall. The 16th-century structure showcases sculptures of important figures during the city’s Protestant Reformation.

A short stroll from the Reformation Wall lies a number of huge chessboards in Bastion’s Park – worth a visit if you fancy a game of human-sized chess.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Geneva is home to many international headquarters. Venture into the city’s north to see the United Nations headquarters – Palais des Nations – and the League of Nations Museum .

Time permitting explore the Broken Chair sculpture nearby. It’s said the missing leg on this chair is a tribute to honor landmine victims around the world. 

RECOMMENDED HOTEL : Being one of the more pricier cities to stay in Switzerland, you will get your money’s worth by staying at Hotel des Alpes, on the northern side of the Pont du Mont-Blanc bridge. 

Map of Switzerland – Places to Visit in 7 days Switzerland Itinerary | Switzerland road trip

Most beautiful places in Switzerland Itinerary 7 days – Zurich – Bern – Lucerne – Interlaken -Basel – Zermatt – Zurich/Geneva 

How many days are enough in Switzerland?

This is one of the MOST asked questions. How many days do you need in Switzerland? Switzerland is not huge in terms of country size, but it is loaded with stunning landscapes, you can easily spend anywhere from 2 to 10 days exploring, what interests you. 

Ideally, 5 days are enough to explore Switzerland . Keep Zurich or Geneva as your base (check out the cities), make a trip to Interlaken, and visit resort towns. Taking a scenic train route for a day is a great idea – you can soak in those alpine views in less time. 

If you are really tight on time (and budget), stick to one city and use a day trip to explore smaller towns/resort areas.

Planning a trip to Switzerland Travel Guide 

Did you know – Switzerland was originally called Helvetia. Its official name is Confoederatio Helvetica in Latin.

We have covered travel documents and currency-related information above. This section is additional information on seven days in Switzerland like budget, souvenirs, tour packages, and other frequently asked questions like sightseeing in Switzerland for different seasons. 

Berne - the capital of Switzerland

Quick Facts about Switzerland:

Switzerland is a small landlocked country, located in Western and Central Europe. It is bordered by France, Italy, Austria, Germany, and Liechtenstein. 

There are four official languages spoken in Switzerland. They are German, French, Italian, and Romansch. Switzerland has a rich cultural heritage. Swiss cuisine varies by region, although dishes like fondue and raclette are popular throughout the country. 

Switzerland has a very strong economy. It is highly industrialized and ranks at the top of the Human Development Index, with one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. It has consistently been ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. 

Switzerland is home to many famous landmarks including the Matterhorn mountain in Zermatt, the Chillon Castle in Montreux, Lake Brienz in Bernese Oberland, and Lake Lucerne in Central Switzerland. It is also home to some of the most renowned ski and snowboarding resorts in Europe. 

Switzerland is recognized for its chocolate, watches, cheese, and other luxury goods. Swiss watchmaking is one of the oldest industries in Switzerland, with many famous brands such as Rolex being based there.

When should you visit Switzerland in summer or winter?

Switzerland is amazing at any time of the year. In both seasons, you can explore the outdoors in different ways – so whether it is sunbathing in the summer or skiing in winter (or even summer). So here is what to expect in Switzerland in summer and winter.

Switzerland in the winter – Switzerland does get snow in the winter and it is a beautiful time to visit. With so many medieval old towns in the country, you will be walking into a fairy tale book – when Switzerland rings in the festive season, which is usually from late November.

Definitely, Christmas Markets should be on your itinerary if you are heading to any of the Swiss towns in the winter. And not to forget the obvious, snow-related activities and skiing resorts should be visited in the winter months. 

Switzerland in summer – Switzerland is a great place to spend your summer holidays. Just like winter, summer is a popular time to visit. June- July might be too hot for city day trips (also you will see a lot of people outside), but it is perfect for hiking, picnic, sunbathing, water sports, etc. 

Read : Planning a trip to Switzerland

Is Switzerland expensive?

That’s a million-dollar question in itself. Switzerland overall is expensive. It can be compared to Iceland for hotels and day to day food, travel, and tour costs. Although flights to Iceland were cheaper from Canada, your return ticket to Switzerland may not be that cheap. We cover that in more detail below.

But keep in mind, after flights ensure you book your hotels sooner (or book than with flights). Hotels in peak season will be pricey and on average, it will be $100-$150 for 2-3 star hotels and $300+ USD and upwards for 4 or 5-star hotels in a prime location in Zurich – based on this itinerary.

Other cities mentioned in the itinerary are not behind, but those towns are small, so even if you book/get a cheaper place outside the old town you will be fine in terms of sightseeing.

Food is where you will have the most control over. The grocery stores in Switzerland sell amazing baked goods and salads to choose from, to keep the budget under check. When you are exploring via day trips, carry food with you, or eat at fast food joints – they will be there too.

But go out every now and then to treat yourself to this beautiful place. So set aside some moolah for that.  

Transportation budget for one week in Switzerland travel itinerary

Zurich Tram in 2 days in Zurich Itinerary

Swiss Travel Card

The Swiss Travel Pass provides you with unlimited travel throughout the Swiss travel network of rail, bus, and boat on consecutive days available for 3, 4, 8, or 15 days.

If you are planning to use local trams and trains extensively (and no day tours), then opt for the 8-day pass. This will cover your transport back to the airport as well. 

BUY   Swiss Travel Card .

Note: The Swiss Travel Card is different from Swiss Half Fare, which offers 50% off on train, bus, boat rides, and mountain railways. Its validity is for one month (which is beyond the scope of this itinerary). Unless you love Switzerland so much and wish to extend your stay from one week to a month, check out the Swiss Half Fare card here.

Combination of tours and Travel Card

You can certainly combine 2-3 day tours (from the ones listed in the itinerary) and add a 3 day or a 4 day Swiss Travel Pass. Use the pass either at the start of your trip or toward the end so that you are using the pass on consecutive days.

Budget (3-day Swiss pass and 3-day tours & 2 return tickets for the airport, itinerary 1, departing from Zurich): $650 – $1000 USD 

  • If you follow our 1 st itinerary sample and arrive and depart from Zurich – you will need $120 – 200 USD a day for day tours (No sightseeing on day 7) with guided sightseeing and transport. Budget : $700 -$850 USD
  • For the second itinerary with a day in Geneva, day tours will be the same, but factor in added costs for traveling to Geneva from Zermatt on day 7 as well as stay and sightseeing. Budget : $800 – $900 USD 

BUY> Swiss Travel Card .

Best of Switzerland tours – Scenic Train Routes in Switzerland 

Here are the 3 MOST popular train travel routes in Switzerland. They are also part of the Swiss Travel Pass, but a seat has to be reserved prior to departure (seat reservation is an extra charge). 

Best Switzerland Itinerary 7 days

  • The Golden Pass – This is a train route from Lucerne to Montreux. The train route is an easy one and PERFECT for those short on time. Lucerne is one hour away from Zurich and Montreaux is 75 minutes away, making it easy for transportation. The entire route can be done in 5.50 hours to a day. There 3 sections of the train – Lucerne to Interlaken Ost to Zweisimmen and Zweisimmen to Montreux.
  • The Bernina Express Train – This is a direct train from Chur in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy in just 4 hours, followed by a bus service from Tirano to Lugano. 
  • The Glacier Express – This is one of the most popular train routes in Switzerland. A direct route from Zermatt to St. Moritz – this train journey takes about 8 hours, making it’s through the Swiss Alps, narrow valleys, and stunning landscapes and bridges.

BONUS ROUTE!

  • Gotthard Panorama Express Train – This is a scenic train and boat tour/route originating in Lugano via the Gotthard tunnel to Flüelen (train), and then from Flüelen to Lucerne. The trip takes about 5.50 hours and is operational during the summer months only. 
  • Read: Most scenic train rides in Switzerland 

What is Switzerland famous for? What souvenirs should you buy?

Switzerland offers a ton of things that are Swiss made and should be bought back home (or had/eaten/stuffed) while you are in the country.

Did you know – Switzerland produces the most chocolate in the world?

And the Swiss eat more chocolate compared to any other country.

  • Swiss Chocolates – Like heaven. Eat them, bring them home, and visit workshops if you have time. Walk a store, even a grocery store and you will be welcomed with chocolates galore.
  • Swiss cheese – Swiss cheese is popular all over the world. Give them a try!
  • Swiss knives – As the name suggests, these are the popular Swiss knives found all over the world and made in Switzerland. You might see a great variety here – as it’s the land where it’s made. (If you are traveling just with a carry-on, skip the knives)
  • Swiss Watches – Swiss watches are equally popular. Brands include – Rolex, Omega, Tag Heuer
  • Luxury brands – For all of my luxury goods lovers (bags, belts, clothing), you will find everything in Switzerland’s major cities. Think Chanel, YSL, Louis Vuitton, Gucci – but the prices are not a steal. London Heathrow still has the best bang for your buck when it comes to luxury brands for less.
Coco Chanel is buried in Switzerland.

Set aside some money to enjoy what the country is famous for and take back souvenirs.

Planning a trip to Switzerland from North America, Europe or India

North America: Switzerland trip cost from USA & Canada

Traveling from major cities in the USA to Switzerland’s Zurich or Geneva is easy.

There are non-flight flights leaving from New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles every day. Return trips from New York to Zurich will be 7+ hours long (one way) and the fares start at $720 USD. Add 1-2 hours of extra flying time for San Francisco and LA.

Swiss Air flights are available from all the major cities. However, we recommend looking at IcelandAir’s stopover program for cheaper flights (not non-stop). 

For transport, take the Swiss Travel Card. And for some of the days, you can also do a few day tours that cover a guided walk and includes entry into attractions. (We covered that in our budget section).

Traveling from Canada 

Traveling from major cities in Canada to Switzerland’s Zurich or Geneva should not be a problem. The connectivity with Air Canada and Swiss Air is great.

Old town lanes Zurich in 2 days

We hopped on a direct flight from Zurich to Canada. Return trips from Vancouver to Zurich will be 12+ hours long (one way) and the fares start at $1080 CAD.

Toronto has non stop flights to Zurich for around the same price, but flight times are a bit better – 8.50 hours+ of flying time. After flights hotels and food will account for most of your budget.

For simplicity of math, if you stay in Zurich for 7 days and take day trips out, which is completely doable you are looking at $1070- 2100 CAD double occupancy for a mid-range hotel. Food, although expensive, is under your control – for 7 days, allot $100 CAD a day.

Traveling from European cities to Switzerland 

We arrived in Switzerland – Zurich from Morocco and at one time also flew from Zurich to Barcelona . Our flight from Fes Morocco was via Lisbon Portugal . So that means, flight connectivity from within Europe is great. TAP Portugal, Vueling Airlines, and other budget airlines all have flights to and from Switzerland.

One way fares from Zurich to nearby countries like Spain , France , Italy, Germany will be anywhere from 2- 3.50 hours and about $100 USD per person. 

Remember Switzerland takes Euros, but their official currency is the Swiss Francs. The currency exchange is almost on par with Euros. Traveling from Morocco to Zurich and comparing the expenses there or with Barcelona and Lisbon – tells you how expensive the country is.

Largest city in Switzerland

Switzerland trip cost from India – Switzerland packages from India

Flights from major cities in India to Switzerland will average around 40 thousand Indian rupees. Traveling within the country with day tours or discounted passes, plus staying in a 3-star hotel, will roughly cost around 50-60 thousand rupees (just an average. Will be higher for 5-star hotels).

Many tour companies in India have an organized group tour with a 3-star hotel stay for a total of 1.20 to 1.50 lakhs (no meals or shopping, just limited sightseeing plus flights, and hotels). The only thing to keep in mind here is that you will be restricted to set an itinerary of the provider.

If you are planning a trip on your own, you will be spending around the same amount, with a more flexible schedule and control over the budget.

Why do Indian movies aka Bollywood love Switzerland?

For most Indians (count me in), we LOVE gooey romantic heroes singing love songs on snow-covered mountains. Well, that explains why we got married in the mountains in Banff Canada.

Swiss villages and mountain peaks have been a TOP movie location for so many love stories and sagas in India. And no Euro dream is complete without a visit here.

We have been to quite a few countries in Europe, and Switzerland does make it to the list of our favorite places. And the entire country although located in Western Europe is not the same as its counterparts – it is not overcrowded, not dirty and scenic landscapes everywhere!

It does remind me of Canada in some ways and it felt like home.

We hope you enjoyed this one week itinerary to Switzerland. Remember to book your hotels, tickets, and Swiss Travel Pass as you plan your trip. 

Additional Travel Tips – Switzerland 7 day itinerary

Planning your trip to Europe – If this is your first-ever trip to Europe, consider reading our Europe 101 guide.

Schengen Visa – If you require a visa to travel to Europe, most likely it is the Schengen Visa (for those belonging to the Euro Zone or EU, doesn’t include the UK). Read our guide to applying for Schengen Visa.

Packing List – Read our in-depth guide to packing for Europe for all seasons and regions.

Europe Itinerary & Travel Guide  – Read our itineraries from Europe

  • Europe – Get our 27 Europe in one week itinerary samples
  • Spain : Best of Spain in 7 days
  • Central Europe in 2 weeks – Visit Munich, Budapest, Prague, and Vienna in 14 days
  • Winter Destinations – Get the TOP destinations to visit in Europe winter for Christmas markets, skiing or winter sun

Pin: Most beautiful places in Switzerland 7 days Itinerary

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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29 Comments

Well Switzerland seems to be a beautiful country. Although I have never been in the country I know of The Swiss Alps and the famous Swiss tennis player Roger Federer. It would be great if I can visit the country I really want to witness the magnificent Swiss Alps and maybe meet Roger in the streets of Switzerland, that would be super awesome.

That beautiful images of Switzerland!

This is such a comprehensive article on traveling in Switzerland! It’s just what I’d use when planning my trip, although I wouldn’t be able to relate To Hindi movie locations 😊 Thanks for sharing.

Great itinerary for Switzerland! I’ve been to most places, but your post reminded me that I must still add Interlaken to my list of places to visit in Switzerland.

Thanks so much!

I really want to go back to Switzerland. This is a great guide!

Thanks so much! Glad you found it useful!

Truly amazing switzerland! Basel and Zermatt is high on my list!!

Thanks so much!Happy travels!

This is very helpful! Planning to have a vacation trip to Switzerland after pandemic! This 7-day itinerary Switzerland and your blogs are such a big help and great 🙂 Hoping pandemic ends as soon as possible! Looking forward to your next blogs.

Thanks so much! Happy Planning!

I am impressed with the details and that comes with openness and honesty. It is so useful and practical that I will definitely use it for my next trip. What caught my attention is the ‘intent’ of Mayuri to be helpful and practical.

Thank you so much

I am in Germany planning to see all that I can of Switzerland and France. I found your site and learned a lot. Amazing work! Thank you so much for the details and the format of your plans. It was extremely helpful.

Bob AZ, USA

Thank you so much, Bob! Happy travels, and stay safe!

Awesome – thanks for doing this.. exactly what I was looking for – thanks to people like you who devote their time and energies to make it easier for everybody else. Great job.. keep it up.. Well laid out along with hotel recommendations and all the other key necessities for getting and touring Switzerland..

Thank you, Cynthia! I am so glad you found our post useful! Happy and safe travels!

this is incredibly helpful – thank you! just 1 question – just returned from Istanbul which was bustling and looking for a quiet and low-key holiday, is it quite busy/ stressful travelling to so many parts of Swit? Is there a shorter itinerary of the most beautiful/ best places to see? thank you

Thank you, Liliana. The off-season (September onwards) should not be very hectic/busy. Here is a 2-day and 5-day itinerary samples for you to consider!

2 days in Switzerland itinerary (9 Epic Samples)

Perfect 5 days in Switzerland Itinerary (with 5 samples)

Loved this article! We are planning a trip to Switzerland this summer and reading this article was such a confidence booster. We’ve never traveled Europe by train, but I think we can do it with your very detailed itinerary! Thanks so much!!

Wonderful info! Question on abroad travel though – what do you use for internet access on your phone? Or do you just rely on WiFi in cities? Curious because when we visited Iceland we had a portable hot spot with our campervan rental but haven’t been able to find the same thing since.

Hi Chelsea, I had an international data plan from my mobility provider. It included free minutes per day at a set daily rate. For Switzerland, you can also consider this pocket wifi

Hey Mayuri! Thanks for the awesome information. I am planning a trip to Italy and Switzerland in May this year. Is there any other country I can add in this mix, I would have 3 spare days after covering Italy and Switzerland. I have to return to Toronto. Thank you!

I am so glad! You can visit Liechtenstein on a day trip from Zurich. Here is a detailed guide .

If you are planning to stay/explore Basel in Switzerland you can visit France (Colmar/Alsace) or Germany. Read our Basel guide here

Happy Planning 🙂

Hello, I am planning to do a trip to Switzerland in the summer and am following this itinerary or something similar. Day 0: arrive in Zurich and sleep Day 1: do stoos ridge trail hike in the morning and go back to Zurich and explore the town in the afternoon Day 2: Lucerne Day 3: interlaken Day 4: lauterbrunnen/ wengen Day 5: Montreux Day 6: Geneva Day 7: Geneva (day trip to Matterhorn) might skip this due to long train rides in one day Does this seem doable by public transportation in your opinion? Is it too much traveling to do?

Days 0 to 6 sound good and doable using trains. You will be doing 1 to 1.50 hours train ride (one way). If you get the Swiss travel pass your ride to Wengen is also included. 

Day 7: Geneva to Matterhorn will be a long day by train. Even with a rental car to the nearby town of Täsch and then the train to Zermatt will be close to 4 hours. 

So maybe you can do a wine-tasting tour from Geneva or join a day tour to Chamonix and Mont Blanc!

Hope this was helpful!

Happy travels 🙂

Hi Mayuri, Your itineraries are very informative. We’re planning to go to Switzerland in September arriving in Zurich for 6 days, We plan to see Lucerne, Rhine river, mt Pilatus , Brienz lake, Lauter Brennen, lake Thun . so base on what I read we should go to Interlaken, Lucerne, Bern and Gruyeres. Can we just stay at Zurich the whole 6 days? also we want to take the Bernina Express on our way to Milan ( 7th day) to experience the scenic tour. Can you suggest a good itinerary for us? I would really appreciate it. Thank you so much!- Gigi

Thank you for reaching out 🙂 That sounds great! September will be a good time to visit. 

So, for your itinerary, you can visit all the places you mentioned from Zurich. My only suggestion is to check the train schedules from Zurich to Gruyeres- some routes are 3 hours long (one way), so it might be tiring for a day trip. 

Zurich to Bern –  Rhine Falls – Lucerne and Mount Pilatus (each of these places are about an hour’s drive/train ride away so perfect for day trips). 

In Interlaken, take a sightseeing cruise so that you can enjoy the lakes on a short visit.

Day 1: Zurich Day 2: Bern Day 3: Rhine Falls (maybe a day tour, with a chocolate factory visit) Day 4: Lucerne and Mount Pilatus Day 5 – 6: Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen (or Gruyeres)  Day 7: For the Bernina Express, take the train from Zurich to Chur (1 hour from Zurich). You will be in Tirano in Italy in about 4 hours. (Tirano to Milano is 2 hours and 30 minutes – fast trains)

Hope this helps! Happy Travels! 

I am planning to go to Switzerland in the last week of may for my 25th wedding anniversary for 12 days

Can you suggest a leisure itenary with 3 or 4 places( i have chosen interlaken,Zermatt,st moritz,gstaad,lake como and Lucerne )

Kindly let me know the routing for this or feel free to suggest a whole new itenary

Your views and suggestions will be of great help in my planning

Here are a few suggestions for you 🙂

***********

Fly to Zurich, take the train to Lucerne (explore)

Take the train from Lucerne to Zermatt (explore 1-2 days)

Ride the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz (8 hours, perfect for your anniversary)

From St Moritz you can drive to Lake Como Italy (2 hours) and back to Switzerland (day trip. You can also see if the Bernina Express works for you)

************

Alternatively, you can fly to Zurich and then take a day trip to Lucerne (1 hour train).

We explored Interlaken from Zurich and also stayed in the area in one of our trips – you can do either, depending on what you wish to explore.

If you keep Interlaken as a base for 3-4 days, you can add Gstaad and Lauterbrunnen to your itinerary.

Hope this helps! And Happy 25th Anniversary – this is amazing.

Much love and good wishes! Mayuri

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Wanderlust Crew

Wanderlust Guide - Switzerland

Want to make your trip to switzerland easy and memorable.

This full Switzerland Itinerary is for YOU! 

How long does it normally take you to plan a vacation?

If you’re like me, it takes weeks or even months to decide where to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to get there! Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of ALL of that!

As an avid traveler who has taken many trips to this amazing country, I have mapped out an amazing itinerary that will guarantee you see the best sites!

What’s Included in the Guide?

  • 50 detailed pages
  • Day-by-day instructions for 10-11 days in Switzerland
  • Daily schedules
  • An Interactive Downloadable Map
  • Tried and tested tours and classes
  • Transportation Links 
  • Personal Accommodation Recommendations
  • Switzerland Resources from me and locals
  • Switzerland Packing List
  • Trip Checklist
  • Personal Support from me!

Here’s a Preview of my Switzerland Itinerary

And 40+ more pages of schedules, maps, links, and information!

Which locations does this itinerary cover?

This guide covers as much of Switzerland as is physically possible to see in 10-11 days . If it’s too much for you, feel free to cut 1 or more of the days out of your schedule. Nothing is set in stone, and I’m not the boss of you ha! Ultimately, your trip schedule is up to you , but this itinerary gives you the best opportunity to see as much of Switzerland as you can in a short amount of time. Here are the locations it covers:

  • Lake Brienz
  • Lauterbrunnen

Why do I need this guide?

“Many people like to go on guided tours of Switzerland costing thousands of dollars, but you don’t need to! You can ‘virtually’ take me with you by using this detailed itinerary. This is exactly what I’d do if I was taking you through Switzerland myself. With me as your guide, you can see the best of Switzerland with confidence! “

Are you ready to invest in your vacation?

Get this complete itinerary for $24.99.

This is a digital guide. My detailed Switzerland itinerary is delivered immediately to your email inbox!

Custom Travel Planning

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Commercial use is prohibited.

If you love my itinerary please encourage your friends or family to purchase their own copy. 

If you have any questions about this itinerary, please contact me! 

The post Wanderlust Guide – Switzerland appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

Want to make your trip to Switzerland easy and memorable? This full Switzerland Itinerary is for YOU!  How long does it normally take you to plan a vacation? If you’re like me, it takes weeks or even months to decide where to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to get there! Don’t [...]

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Happy Women's Day, ladies: Here's what you should have on your itinerary

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The International Women’s Day aims for gender equality while celebrating the amazing achievements of women. This year, the Women's Day campaign's theme for March 8 is ‘Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress’. The United Nations Organisation has always addressed the problems faced by women in contemporary times. Traveling plays a major role in ensuring the participation of women in all fields while discovering a new world of equality by overcoming discrimination. There are some traveling experiences that every woman should enjoy at least once in their life. These travels would not only boost their confidence but also make them stronger and focussed.

Solo trip to a foreign country Enjoying a solo trip to any destination is a unique experience. So, an international solo trip will be a great learning experience for women. It would be amazing to plan everything, from the destination and expenses to arranging accommodation and other important stuff, on their own. Such journeys would open up a brand-new world of opportunities and experiences in front of you. Moreover, there is no greater way, than going for a solo international trip, to boost your confidence.

You should be careful while choosing the country or countries that you wish to visit. Countries like Morocco, Turkey, Mexico and China are rich in culture and traditions while Switzerland is famous for its mesmerizingly beautiful nature and landscapes. Amsterdam is a haven for foodies while Paris boasts of scintillating architectural wonders. If you wish to enjoy a tropical holiday, then the Caribbean nations that are known for their vibrant beaches would be the best choice.

Kochi Metro special offers for Sivaratri: Services till 11.30 pm on March 8 and 9

Kochi Metro special offers for Sivaratri: Services till 11.30 pm on March 8 and 9

India's first underwater metro in Kolkata: Aquatic blue light, images of fishes enthrall riders

India's first underwater metro in Kolkata: Aquatic blue light, images of fishes enthrall riders

Trekking and snorkelling Try trekking and snorkeling if you are an adventure lover. Enjoying trekking with strangers who have similar interests would be a thrilling experience. Meanwhile, snorkeling reveals the fabulous world and mysteries of the deep sea. You can choose from various trekking packages that include short trips for beginners or elaborate trekking for experienced trekkers that may last up to a few days. Snorkelling in Andaman and Maldives and trekking in the Himalayas would be unique experiences. Thiruvananthapuram is also a great place to look for amazing trekking packages.

'Glamping' with your girl gang All women may be part of a small or big girl gang. Enjoying a camping holiday with your close friends would surely elevate your mood. You could choose destinations in India or outside the country for this. Glamping with your girl gang enjoying the Northern Lights in Finland or spending the night in a luxury tent at Rann of Kachchh are going to be special.

Solo safari trips A solo trip to see the enchanting beauty of the forest is thrilling. Forests are full of amazing views and experiences that are going to give you special memories. However, do not forget to carry a good quality DSLR camera too. You may be able to click beautiful pictures of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Volcano hikes While some people enjoy scaling the mountains, others who seek an extra dose of adventure prefer volcano hiking. You will be able to see the crater that spits scalding lava and steam. In most volcanoes, trekking is allowed only at night. The Batur volcano in Indonesia is famous for trekking.

ICELAND-VOLCANO

Balloon ride Enjoying the beauty of earth from a hot air balloon hovering up in the sky would grant you the perfect holiday experience. Cappadocia in Turkey is world famous for its balloon flights. The sight of watching hundreds of colourful balloons hovering in the sky, especially during the sunrise, is truly magical. In India, you could enjoy balloon rides in Lonavala or Jaipur.

A night in the desert Travelling solo in the desert might sound a bit scary. But, you could turn it into an enjoyable experience if you plan well. The dessert safari and belly dancing in Dubai is quite famous. Jaisalmer is the best place for dessert safari in India.

best travel itinerary for switzerland

Skydiving Skydiving should be there in your bucket list if you are an adventure enthusiast. Trying sky diving alone may be the most unique experience. It takes incredible courage and mental strength to jump off an airplane that is flying thousands of feet high up in the sky. Spain and Dubai are the most favoured international destinations to try skydiving. Meanwhile, Aamby Valley in Pune and Bir Billing in Himachal offer sky diving and paragliding in India.

Road trip with the girl gang Most girls plan a road trip with their gang to some of the most amazing destinations. Now there are lots of women’s organizations and clubs that arrange motorcycle trips exclusively for women. Such trips will strengthen the bond between the participants while satisfying the adventure lover in you. You could enjoy road trips to famous tourist destinations like Ladakh, Kaza, Jaipur and Udaipur or even to a place near to where you stay. 

  • Women's Day
  • International Women's Day

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COMMENTS

  1. Switzerland Itinerary: How to Spend 7 to 21 Days in Switzerland

    Seventeen days might seem like an odd number of days for a trip, but this itinerary maximizes the use of the 15-day Swiss Travel Pass. Start the pass on day 2 and it will end on the day you travel to Geneva. Day 1: Arrive in Zürich. Day 2: Bernina Express. Day 3: Lugano. Day 4: Lugano Day Trip.

  2. The Perfect Switzerland Itinerary 7 Days

    The Best Switzerland Itinerary for 7-10 Days. Day 1 - Arrive in Zurich & Explore. Some things to do in Zurich. Day 2 - Lucerne. Some Things to do in Lucerne. Day 3 - Interlaken and Lake Brienz. Some Things to do in Interlaken. Day 4 - Lake Thun. Some Things to do in Lake Thun.

  3. 8 Day Switzerland Itinerary

    OVERVIEW - BEST SWITZERLAND ITINERARY. Here is a quick overview of an ideal Switzerland 8 day itinerary that starts in Zurich and also finishes in Zurich. Day 1: Zurich. Day 2: Luzern. Day 3: Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen. Day 4: Montreux. Day 5: Zermatt. Day 6: Glacier Express. Day 7: St. Moritz.

  4. Switzerland Itinerary: Where to Go in Switzerland by Rick Steves

    Rail Pass: The best rail pass for this itinerary is a Swiss Travel Pass, specifically for 15 consecutive days. This pass doesn't cover most higher mountain lifts, but it usually earns you a 50 percent discount. By Car: Although this itinerary is designed for public transportation, it can be done by car with a few modifications. Obviously, you ...

  5. The Perfect 5-Day Switzerland Itinerary

    Day 2: Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland. Today you'll be getting out on Lake Lucerne and journeying up Mount Rigi before hopping on a train to Lauterbrunnen. Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train to Lauterbrunnen. Today is another busy day, so pack your day bag and get ready to hit the town, er, lake!

  6. 7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary: A First-Timers Complete Guide

    DAY 1: Geneva. DAY 2: Bern. DAY 3: Zermatt. DAY 4: Jungfraujoch & Interlaken. Day 5: Lucerne. DAY 6: Mt Pilatus. DAY 7: Zurich. Buy the ad-free PDF version of this Switzerland itinerary for offline use →. Planning a Switzerland itinerary: Things to know.

  7. One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

    Day 4: Boat Ride to Rigi or Rutli. Spend at least part of the day on the waters of Lake Lucerne, with a scenic boat ride around one of Switzerland's most beautiful lakes. Your Swiss Travel Pass grants you hop-on/hop-off access to the boats of the Lake Lucerne Navigation System, which ply the lake year-round.

  8. The Ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide

    The Walker's Haute Route. The Walker's Haute Route is a 14-day trek from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. It's a challenging walk through the Swiss Alps. Along the way, you visit Swiss towns and hamlets, cross 10 mountain passes, and have extraordinary views of this part of Europe.

  9. The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary

    The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland; How to Travel Switzerland on a Budget; 7 of the Best Things to do in Basel, Switzerland; Our Best Switzerland Pictures; Unique and Crazy Things to do in Switzerland; Switzerland Travel Guide; If you enjoyed this Switzerland Itinerary, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning .

  10. The Ultimate Switzerland Itinerary: 2024 Guide

    The train from Zermatt to Gornergrat is one of the best things to do in Switzerland, and along with the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz, this ride is known as one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The journey from Zermatt takes around thirty minutes, stopping at a few places in the mountains along the way.

  11. Switzerland itinerary: 3 to 14 days [2023]

    Bern/Basel - After spending 4 days in the mountains, head to Bern or Basel for 1 day. Geneva - Catch a train to Geneva via a stop in Lausanne. Spend 2 days exploring the Lake Geneva region where you can visit Lavaux, Chillon Castle and Vevey. Luzern - From Geneva, head to Luzern for a day.

  12. One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate 2024 Itinerary

    Day 5: Zermatt. Interlaken to Zermatt: This journey takes about 2 hours by train for the 153 km trip, showcasing Switzerland's natural beauty along the way. Take an early train to Zermatt, a picturesque village at the base of the Matterhorn. Ride the Gornergrat Railway for spectacular mountain vistas.. Spend the afternoon hiking one of the many trails around Zermatt or visit the Matterhorn ...

  13. Itinerary for Switzerland for 7 Days (Plus 3, 5, 10 and 14-day options)

    Day 1 - Arrive into Zurich and travel to Lucerne. By train: 1 hour / By car: 45 minutes. Overnight: Lucerne. Lucerne is one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities. Start your trip with sightseeing in Lucerne (depending on time of arrival).

  14. The Epic Switzerland Itinerary: 10 Days In Switzerland

    Day 1: Geneva, Switzerland. Geneva is one of the most common arrival airports in Switzerland, so you'll likely find some good fares flying into Geneva. Despite its large size and airport, Geneva has a calm and beautiful feel - likely because it's right on Lac Léman, one of the most pristine lakes in Switzerland.

  15. 11 of the best places to visit in Switzerland

    Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland's geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to Rütli, birthplace of the Swiss nation. 9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland.

  16. 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary by Swiss Travel Experts [2024]

    Overview of Switzerland itinerary 10 days: Day 1: Lucerne - Swiss Museum of Transport or City Tour or Mount Pilatus. Day 2: Lucerne - Mount Titlis. Day 3: Interlaken, Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Day 4: Montreux and Gstaad. Day 5: Zermatt, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Day 6: Zermatt Village Tour or Sunnegga. Day 7: Glacier Express Trip.

  17. 3 Days In Switzerland: 11 Itineraries For All Travelers & Seasons [2024]

    So, if you land in Basel, take this 3-day itinerary to get the most out of your visit to Switzerland. 1. DAY: Basel - Bern. On the first day, visit Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. Stay in Bern and enjoy its magical atmosphere. Walk through the Old Town and the Kramgasse to see the famous Zytglogge.

  18. The Ideal 7-Day Itinerary for Switzerland (With Alternatives)

    The minimum required budget for a 7-day trip in Switzerland is 1100-1500 CHF. That's if you're staying at the cheapest hotels that are no more than 120 CHF per night and not eating your every meal at restaurants. A budget of 2,000-3,000 CHF will allow you to travel much more comfortably through Switzerland.

  19. Switzerland Itinerary: 5-Days Without a Car (From Geneva)

    Here is a quick overview of your trip: Day 1 - Arrive in Geneva, Travel to Montreux (Via Lausanne) Day 2 - Full Day in Montreux. Day 3 - Golden Pass Train Journey (With a Stop in Interlaken) Day 4 - Lucerne. Day 5 - Day Trips From Lucerne, Depart from Zurich or Bern.

  20. 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary

    The Swiss Travel Pass is available in 3, 4, 6, 8 and 15 days. For our Switzerland itinerary, the 8-day pass works best! We flew into Zürich, rented a car to cover our first day of transport to Lucerne and surrounds, before activating the pass for days two to nine.

  21. How to Spend 4 Days in Switzerland Itinerary in 2024

    PLACES TO VISIT IN 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND. Let´s get started, here is what to do and see on a 4-day Switzerland trip. DAY 1 - Arrival in Zurich, getting to Lucerne. DAY 2 - Lucerne - getting to Interlaken. DAY 3 - Interlaken Region. DAY 4 - Interlaken - departure.

  22. Switzerland Itinerary

    Switzerland Itinerary. Traveling Switzerland by rail gives you a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Its mountain ranges are ideal for skiing or hiking and provide amazing backdrops to the cities. If the scenery isn't enough, try the country's world-class products. Just think: Swiss cheese, Swiss chocolate, Swiss ...

  23. Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days

    Switzerland is at its best in summer (May, June, July). Check out our 10 best things to do in Switzerland in summer for 2024 travel. Blog by Swiss travel expert. ... 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary by Swiss Travel Experts [2024] Switzerland itinerary for 10 days travel. In-depth trip guide with places to see, stay, passes, and excursions. ...

  24. How to spend 7 days in Switzerland

    Day 1 - Arriving in Zurich Switzerland and city sightseeing. Day 2 of 7 day trip Switzerland - Spend a day in Bern - the Swiss capital. Day 3 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days - Explore Lucerne. Day 4 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days - Explore Interlaken & Jungfrau Region. Day 5 of Switzerland Itinerary 7 days - Head to Basel.

  25. Wanderlust Guide

    And 40+ more pages of schedules, maps, links, and information! Which locations does this itinerary cover? This guide covers as much of Switzerland as is physically possible to see in 10-11 days.If ...

  26. Switzerland 5 Day Itinerary : r/travel

    Looking for advice on a 5 day itinerary. We will be there for 5 days and want to make the most of it and see as much as we can. Would this route seem adequate? Also looking for tips for the best way to get around (train, car, etc). Day 1: Fly/Arrive to Zurich, go to to Lucerne Day 2: Explore Lucerne Day 3: Go to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen

  27. Happy Women's Day, ladies: Here's what you should have on your itinerary

    Women should taste these travel experiences at least once in their lives..international women's day 2024. theme of international women's day 2024. women travel 2024. where should women travel in 2024. best places for women to travel in 2024. women's day travel spots

  28. Switzerland

    164 likes, 28 comments - packedagain on March 3, 2024: "Book this trip How much longer do you want to be on the - "maybe next year" side!?..."