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

May 22, 2024 • 10 min read

Switzerland really is this stunningly beautiful here in the Bernese Oberland region © fokke baarssen / Shutterstock

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.

This article was first published Sep 20, 2021 and updated May 22, 2024.

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here's where to go on your next Swiss vacation.

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Switzerland's natural beauty and breadth are astounding — snow-capped mountains with some of the world's best skiing, verdant valleys speckled with wildflowers, and quaint cities filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants.

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," says Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history."

• Best tourist destination: Interlaken
• Best for wine tasting: Lavaux Vineyard
• Best for families: Stoos
• Best for hikers and skiers: Zermatt
• Best for solo travelers: Geneva

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

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Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn — arguably the #1 tourist attraction in Switzerland — is another car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

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“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as she noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany; you can reach the top by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles; hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. Whether you're an outdoorsy type or would rather sit lakeside with a cup of tea, Lake Lucerne is where you should go for the first time in Switzerland.

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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If you love to tick off UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit Ticino, the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland and home to the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is among the top tourist attractions in Switzerland and worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and wander its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape, one of the most beautiful parts of Switzerland.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an unbeatable art scene . 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots to help us determine next year's ranking.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking or biking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and an array of activities at the top.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Those with expensive taste can join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to splurge on the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an Old City (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and the tallest cathedral in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and the Appenzell Chapel Trail, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Mürren, a small alpine town in the Jungfrau Region, is an ideal getaway for movie buffs and adventure seekers. A little more difficult to reach than other destinations on this list, Mürren's car-free status means travelers must arrive on foot, by bike or via public transportation. Once here, travelers can take a cable car to the summit of Mount Schilthorn, whose iconic revolving 360-degree restaurant was featured in the 1969 James Bond film, "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." In winter, Mürren is a hot spot for cold-weather sports like skiing and snowshoeing, while summer beckons hikers and rock climbers.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick to lower altitudes, prioritize a hike on a valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to mount Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Sitting just south of Lake Constance near the Germany and Austria borders, St. Gallen dazzles travelers with its fairy-tale old town and rich history. The first item on your itinerary will likely be the outstanding Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the Baroque-style Cathedral of St. Gallen and the Abbey Library. When you're done wandering through one of the world's oldest libraries, check out one of St. Gallen's fascinating museums, which include the Textilmuseum and the Naturmuseum. Just remember to save time for visiting the gorgeous Drei Weieren (Three Ponds), a popular swimming destination.

Head to Switzerland's third-largest city if you appreciate art. The legendary Art Basel event started here and has since migrated to other cities around the world. What's more, Basel's top attraction, Kunstmuseum Basel, houses the country's largest public collection of art, with works from legends like Paul Cézanne and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. You can find additional museums (roughly 40 in total) and galleries throughout the city. When you need a break from admiring art, Basel's picturesque old town is a beautiful place for a leisurely walk, or you can hop on a ferry for a scenic ride on the Rhine.

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The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

It's no secret that Switzerland has scenery in spades. The small European country is big on towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, storybook villages, and vibrant cities. For active vacationers, Switzerland offers virtually every winter sport, including, of course, some of the world's best skiing, plus hiking, biking, climbing, hang-gliding, and other temptations for adrenaline junkies. There's also plenty to fill a more leisurely vacation, with hearty cuisine, including what some say is the world's finest chocolate, high-end shopping, first-rate museums, and, at every turn, another gobsmacking panorama.

Switzerland is a year-round destination, and it would take many, many trips to see all that it has to offer. But assuming you don't have a lifetime to explore the country, here's our list of the top 17 places to see in Switzerland.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Switzerland's largest city is a stunner—at once historic and modern, cosmopolitan and bohemian. Divided by the Limmat River and wrapping around Lake Zurich's shores, Zurich offers some of Switzerland's best museums, Swiss and international dining , and Bahnhofstrasse—rightfully called the world's most expensive shopping street. Plan to spend much of your time in the Altstadt, or Old Town, and enjoy at least one traditional meal in a restaurant housed in a former medieval guildhall. Many a tour of Switzerland begins or ends here, as the city is seamlessly connected to the rest of the country and Europe, thanks to the ultra-efficient Swiss Rail System .

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Switzerland's second-largest city, French-speaking Geneva sits at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva and has a long lakefront promenade on two shores offering views of the famous Jet d'Eau fountain. Geneva is one of Europe's most expensive cities in which to live; that prosperity is felt in its elegant streets and parks, high-end shopping avenues, and five-star hotels with luxury sedans parked out front. But the city is also rich in history, as the center of the Swiss Reformation and, today, the home of the International Red Cross and the United Nations.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Swiss capital of Bern sits on a sharp bend in the River Aare in the western part of the country. Its Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to so many well-preserved medieval buildings. But the undisputed star of the show is the Zytglogge, the fascinating astronomical clock that Einstein is said to have studied when developing his Theory of Relativity. Bern Minster has the tallest church spire in Switzerland and a stunning main portal. Those with more modern tastes can head to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the country's most famous artist.

Like so many Swiss cities, pretty, walkable Lucerne occupies a magnificent setting—this time on Lake Lucerne with the Alps as a backdrop. The 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland, and Lucern's medieval Altstadt (Old Town) looks much the same as it did hundreds of years ago. The innovative Swiss Museum of Transport  is the most visited museum in Switzerland.

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

With one shore in Switzerland and one shore in France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is a sparkling, half-moon shaped international playground. On the Swiss side, it offers the elegant city of Geneva; relaxed Montreux , famous for its jazz festival; and Lausanne, home of the International Olympic Committee. The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux wine region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—some date back to the 11th-century. Last but definitely not least, 12th-century Chillon Castle is everything a castle should be—complete with a (partial) moat, dungeons, and a keep.

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The smallest Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden is set in the rolling hills south of Lake Constance. This is storybook Switzerland, complete with villages of brightly painted houses, folk traditions, and residents in traditional costume. In the fall, the cows literally come home, as herdsmen bring their cattle—decked out in bells and flower garlands—down from the mountains for the winter. Appenzell's car-free village is a center for folk-art, traditional festivals, baked goods, and yes—yodeling.

St. Moritz & the Engadine

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St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set, and its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and tony apres-ski scene are fun to dip into. Non-one-percenters might prefer some of the smaller, more down-to-earth towns and villages of the sunny Engadine Valley, known for its glaciers, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forest, and folk culture. Listen closely, and you may hear Romansch being spoken—the ancient Latin-based language is still taught in the Engadine schools. The area is also a summer paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and windsurfers.

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, the pleasant town of Interlaken is the most convenient base for exploring the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland—the region of glaciers, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes that offer postcard views at every turn. From Interlaken, a system of trains, cable cars, and cogwheel rails connect to the region's major ski areas and the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. For more than a century, it’s been the highest railway station in Europe. There, a high altitude playground awaits, with observatory platforms offering multi-peak views, the Eispalast (Ice Palace) walk inside a glacier, plus restaurants, and, of course, more skiing.

Lugano and Ticino

You'd be excused for thinking you've crossed over into Italy once you reach Ticino, the region wedged between the Alps and the Italian border. There's a distinctly Mediterranean vibe here, and Italian, not Swiss, is the first language. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore shares shores with Italy and offers a summertime playground for hiking, sailing, and swimming, with a touch of la dolce vita thrown in. Lugano's lakefront city is the bustling regional hub, but climb—or take a cable car—up any mountain to discover sleepy, rustic villages, clean air, and traditional country inns and restaurants.

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Something looms large over the car-free, stylish-yet-traditional mountain town of Zermatt—the Matterhorn. Europe's most famous mountain peak draws hordes of visitors to this otherwise sleepy town in the valley for skiing, ice-climbing, and arduous summer hikes and mountain biking. There's plenty of passive sightseeing to do here as well, and the views never disappoint. A mountaineering museum, traditional restaurants, luxe spas, and cozy—if not cheap—hotels can keep you pleasantly occupied here for a few days.

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Near Lake Constance and the border with Liechtenstein, historic St. Gallen has a car-free center, a UNESCO-listed abbey and cathedral, and a textile-making tradition more than a thousand years old. The Rococo-style abbey library, stocked with 170,000 priceless volumes and documents, is a must-see here. There's a full cultural program in this important university town, as well as easy access to biking, hiking, boat rides on Lake Constance, and jaunts into Germany, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

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Pass the cheese, please. Though there's more to this charming medieval town than its namesake cheese, it would be a shame to leave Gruyères without sampling traditional raclette or fondue and visiting the Maison du Gruyère, where they make—you guessed it. In-between bites of cheese, visit the imposing 13th-century Gruyères Castle and take in the pastoral countryside. Oh, and did we mention there's a chocolate factory here, too?

Great St. Bernard Pass

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Connecting Italy to Switzerland, the Great St. Bernard Pass has been a strategic gateway for the continent—long before the Romans first laid claim to it. The St. Bernard Hospice is still here, as are the iconic St. Bernard dogs—though they perform fewer mountain rescues than they once did. You can drive over the scenic pass or spend the day crossing it on foot, stopping at cozy village inns for hearty sustenance along the way.

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

It's all about the journey rather than the destination when you climb aboard one of the Rhaetian Railway trains, the network of scenic Alpine train rides that includes the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express . Panoramic train cars allow for sweeping views of passing glaciers, glacial lakes, mountain passes, and dense forests. The astonishing engineering feats of these high-altitude train tracks are reason enough to make the trip on at least one leg.

Trümmelbach Falls

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If you're visiting the Jungfrau, be sure to stop and see where all that spring snowmelt goes. Trümmelbach Falls are a series of falls that crash through a scenic gorge, carrying waters of the Jungfrau as they roar through underground caverns and pools. A series of elevators, bridges, and pathways puts visitors right in the spray of the mighty falls, which are closed in the wintertime.

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Palm and lemon trees give Locarno a nearly tropical feel. Switzerland's warmest city sits on Lake Maggiore and is the relaxed alternative to busy Lugano. Wandering the narrow streets of the town, strolling along the lake, and having a coffee or aperitivo on Piazza Grande—these are the simple pleasures of Locarno. A hike or funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage church rewards with breathtaking views of the lake, the town, and the surrounding mountains. From there, explore the villages and streams and waterfalls of the surrounding Valle Verzasca.

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

Literary Lausanne has inspired writers and artists through the ages, no doubt inspired by Lake Geneva's views, the city's pedestrian-only medieval center, and, perhaps, its mighty Gothic cathedral. Divided between upper and lower towns connected by a subway, Lausanne the smallest city in Europe with a metro system. It's the International Olympic Committee's home and a sporty vibe pervades—as evidenced by all the bikers, walkers, swimmers, and sailors.

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Inspiration Calendar

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We need Switzerland.

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• Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch The Jungfrau-Aletsch Region was chosen as the first Alpine UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2001. Learn more
• Glaciers Venture out onto eternal ice and explore our country’s many glaciers. Learn more
• Oberhofen Castle - Living Museum and Park The castle, which dates back to the early 13th century, houses a living museum. Learn more
• Lake Thun Lake Thun is especially popular amongst sailors and windsurfers who appreciate the prevailing light breeze. Learn more
• Swimming in the Rhine through the historic old town Thousands of people cool off by leaping into the refreshing water during the warmer months of the year. Learn more
• Basel Home to 40 museums, the city of culture for connoisseurs has the highest concentration of museums in the country. Learn more
• Nationalpark Bike-Marathon In four one-day stages you experience the unique countryside on the National Park bike marathon route. Learn more
• Swiss parcs The Swiss parks are not just great spots for rest and relaxation, but also play a key role in the preservation of natural habitats. Learn more
• Geneva With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the «capital of peace». Learn more
• Jet d'Eau In Geneva harbour, known as “La Rade”, this water jet up to 140 metres high is a real eye-catcher. Learn more
• Appenzell The village of Appenzell and the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden are situated in a singularly beautiful landscape of rolling hills. Learn more
• Appenzeller® Cheese The country’s spiciest cheese has been made by hand in the same way for more than 700 years. Learn more
• Alpine Panorama Route The Alpine Panorama Route crosses the northern Alpine foreland with its many passes and gorges, tradition-rich culture, settlements and mountain farms. Learn more
• Hallwilersee Like the Baldeggersee lake a little further south, Lake Hallwil is located in the Seetal, a north-south valley that leads from the Lucerne hinterland to Lenzburg. Learn more
• Monte Generoso At the southern end of Lake Lugano is the 1,701 metre high Monte Generoso. Learn more
• Via Albula/Bernina Through moorland and Alpine pastures to the Berninapass. One highlight follows another. Learn more
• Autumn The forests reveal a wonderful palette of colours, leaves crunch underfoot and you can already imagine the wonderful seasonal dishes that await. Learn more
• Jura Crest Trail The undisputed highlight of this tour across an extensive grazing area is Mont Tendre, the highest point in the Swiss Jura. Learn more
• Zug Zyt Tower, which offers a magnificent view of the Old Town, the Zug Mountain and Lake Zug, is the city's landmark. Learn more
• Zug Castle Museum With its many nooks and crannies, Zug Castle has been home to the museum of cultural history for the city and the Canton of Zug since 1983. Learn more
• Creux du Van – Natural Spectacle Impressive 160 meter high vertical rock faces surround a four kilometer long and over one kilometer wide valley basin. Learn more
• Val de Travers The Val de Tavers is characterised by the watch industry and extends from Lake Neuenburg across the Jura all the way to the French border. Learn more
• LAC Arte e Cultura The building by Ticino architect Ivano Gianola offers visitors art across 2500 square metres Learn more
• Lugano With Mediterranean flair, Lugano offers all the advantages of a world-class city, combined with the cachet of a small town. Learn more
• Art & culture Switzerland is brimming with cultural surprises. Learn more
• Fribourg / Freiburg Over 200 unique Gothic facades from the 15th century impart incomparable medieval charm to the Old Town. Learn more
• Cathedral of St. Nicholas Climb the 368 steps and you will be rewarded with an unforgettable view of the town of Fribourg. Learn more
• Val Calnègia It can only be reached on foot, but the reward in the form of a submerged creek, unusual buildings and spectacular scenery is well worth the effort. Learn more
• Rochers-de-Naye: mountain with a view No two worlds could contrast more than those at the beginning and the end of the thrilling train ride from lively, sophisticated Montreux to the austere summit of Rochers-de-Naye.
• Schwarzsee The vacation region around the Black Lake and in the Eastern Freiburg Pre-Alps (Voralpen) is well-known for its authenticity and its wild, romantic natural landscape. Learn more
• Zurich The cosmopolitan city by the water combines creative urban life with nature in all its glory. Learn more
• Zürich West In the last 10 years the industrial wasteland to the west of Zurich has grown into a new bright lights district. Learn more
• Patinoire du Flon Lausanne The ice rink in Flon is a great place for outdoor ice skating. Learn more
• Europe’s highest suspension bridge The suspension bridge stretches spectacularly from one rock face to the other. Learn more
• Hikes to suspension bridges Thrills over the abyss Learn more
• Freestyle Academy In Europe’s first Freestyle Indoor Base, jumps and tricks can now be practiced all year. Learn more
• rockresort From bed to board. Learn more
• Panorama view Sweeping views extend from part of Lake Lucerne as far as the Black Forest. Learn more
• Gstaad Gstaad attracts a charming mix of visitors. Learn more
• Gstaad Saanenland ... ... a highlight on the Grand Tour of Switzerland. Learn more
• Snow and piste report Daily updated information on 250 winter sports stations. Learn more
• Matterhorn – Symbol for Switzerland The Matterhorn and Switzerland are inseparably linked to each other. Learn more
• Zermatt The vacation destination is a car-free zone and has preserved its original character. Learn more
• Bernina Express Fresh mountain air and stunning views from the Albula and Bernina rail lines. Learn more
• Train, Bus, Boat – Grand Train Tour The way of travelling that is as exciting as it is relaxing. Learn more
• St. Gallen The compact metropolis of eastern Switzerland between Lake Constance and Appenzellerland with a charming, traffic-free old town. Learn more
• St. Gallen Abbey District In St. Gallen you'll find history at every turn. Learn more
• Saas-Fee 13 four thousand meter peaks surround the glacier village, which is located at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level. Learn more
• Jungfraujoch On the Top of Europe: A visit to the Jungfraujoch puts a jewel in the crown of any visit to Switzerland. Learn more
• Crans-Montana Sun-drenched plateau high above the Rhone Valley. Learn more
• Albert Heim Hut The views of the Galenstock and the crystalline rock-climbing routes are stunning.
• Rigi Kaltbad Swiss Quality Hotel Enjoy the hospitality in an inspiring alpine setting. Learn more
• Highland hike from Rigi-Kaltbad to Urmiberg The highland tour from Kaltbad via the Scheidegg to Urmiberg can only be described as absolute top!
• Lucerne Gateway to central Switzerland. Learn more
• Switzerland’s cities ... ... want to seduce you into discovering something new or experiencing something old in a new way. Learn more
• Chapel Bridge and Water Tower At the outflow of the river Reuss, a historic needle dam, built in 1860, regulates the water level of the lake. Learn more
• Giessbach Falls The Giessbach brook tumbles in 14 stages, over a length of 500 meters and out of the high valleys of the Faulhorn area down to Lake Brienz. Learn more
• Waterfalls You can feel the sheer force of the water as it thunders down into the depths. Learn more
• Swiss Historic Hotels Unique accommodation options from an unpretentious historic guesthouse to the luxurious grand hotel. Learn more
• Emmentaler AOP The king of Swiss cheese. Learn more
• Scenic nature Thanks to its unique geographical location at the heart of Europe, Switzerland is endowed with an extraordinary variety of scenic countryside. Learn more
• Rhine falls circular route The Rhine Falls are the centrepiece of this circular hike. Learn more
• The Rhine Falls By ship one can reach castles, the Rhine Falls Basin and even the mighty rock in the midst of the waterfall. Learn more
• Oeschinensee – gondola rail One of the most attractive and imposing mountain lakes, namely Oeschinensee, is reached by gondola rail from Kandersteg. Learn more
• Kandersteg Kandersteg is located at 1,200 meters in the Bernese Oberland and offers a fantastic view of the Blümlisalp Massif. Learn more
• Rivers and lakes Discover the most beautiful lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls and gorges in our country. Learn more
• Chäserrugg – and the Churfirsten From Chäserrugg, the mightiest of the seven peaks of the Churfirsten mountain range, you can enjoy unsurpassed views into six countries.
• Wildhaus Nestled between the mighty Säntis massif and the seven Churfirsten peaks, the resorts of Alt St. Johann, Unterwasser and Wildhaus are among the highest-lying municipalities in Toggenburg. Learn more
• Ruinaulta - Switzerland's Grand Canyon 10,000 years ago, 10 billion cubic metres of rock thundered into the valley. Learn more
• On a raft through the Swiss Grand Canyon The Rhine gorge is among Switzerland’s most beautiful locations for rafting. Learn more
• Brissago The lowest and oldest part of the village is clustered around the beautiful Renaissance church of St. Peter and Paul, surrounded by centuries-old cypresses. Learn more
• Brissago - Ronco - Ascona Strong fragrance of mimosas, well-tended Palm Gardens and simply unsurpassable views of the deep-blue Lago (Lake) Maggiore.
• Around the Churfirsten This moderately challenging loop takes you to the Wildhaus ski resort along a minor, little-known road and skirts magnificent Lake Walen. Learn more
• Donkey trekking The first item on this special walk is “donkey knowledge” before everybody prepares their “own” donkey. Learn more
• La Gruyère The Gruyère region, with its rolling green landscape and the peaks of the Fribourg Pre-Alps, is home to the world-famous Gruyère cheese. Learn more
• HR Giger Museum As tourists savor a fondue outside on the square, the surreal works of H.R. Giger come alive inside the Château St. Germain castle. Learn more
• Fribourg Region The Pays de Fribourg is somewhat a world turned upside down: cold, limestone summits are found in the south and mild, even Mediterranean-like lakesides in the north. Learn more
• Viamala Gorge The Viamala is full of history and stories. 2000 years ago, the Romans passed through the gorge. Learn more
• Canyoning in the Viamala Gorge The tour is led by experienced guides who assist the visitors with this nature adventure.
• CabriO Stanserhorn Enjoying the wind in one’s face and the perfect view. Learn more
• Mountain railways The journey to the top is an attraction in itself, be it onboard a cogwheel train, a cable car or the world’s steepest funicular. Learn more
• Hiking and Äscher cliff restaurant Nowhere else in Switzerland is the change from the hilly landscape of Central Switzerland to the craggy alpine scenery so abrupt or impressive as in the Alpstein area. Learn more
• Ebenalp and Wildkirchli Already Neanderthal men were here where today a cableway sweeps visitors up. Learn more
• Montreux Riviera The town of Montreux nestles in a sheltered Lake Geneva bay, surrounded by vineyards and against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-covered Alps. Learn more
• Bern Cathedral The Bern Münster Cathedral of St. Vincent is the most impressive late-Gothic building in the city. Learn more
• City breaks City breaks are a brief escape from everyday life – and our Swiss Boutique Towns are perfect for the occasion. Learn more
• Bern Not many cities have managed to retain their historic features quite as successfully as Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Learn more
• Dream route Airolo - Gletsch From Airolo, the historic pass road snakes around hairpin bends up to the Gotthard. Learn more

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• Aletsch Arena
• Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Albulatal / Bergün
• Jura & Three-Lakes
• Fribourg / Freiburg
• Stoos – Fronalpstock

Jungfraujoch

• Crans-Montana
• Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• Unterwasser
• Brissago Island
• Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Aletsch Arena Aletsch Arena
• Basel Basel
• Zernez Zernez
• Geneva Geneva
• Appenzell Appenzell
• Seengen Seengen
• Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Albulatal / Bergün Albulatal / Bergün
• Jura & Three-Lakes Jura & Three-Lakes
• Noiraigue Noiraigue
• Lugano Lugano
• Fribourg / Freiburg Fribourg / Freiburg
• S. Carlo S. Carlo
• Veytaux Veytaux
• Schwarzsee Schwarzsee
• Zurich Zurich
• Lausanne Lausanne
• Engelberg Engelberg
• Stoos – Fronalpstock Stoos – Fronalpstock
• Gstaad Gstaad
• Zermatt Zermatt
• Engadin Engadin
• St. Gallen St. Gallen
• Saas-Fee Saas-Fee
• Jungfraujoch Jungfraujoch
• Crans-Montana Crans-Montana
• Andermatt Andermatt
• Lucerne Lucerne
• Brienz Brienz
• Emmental Emmental
• Neuhausen am Rheinfall Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• Kandersteg Kandersteg
• Unterwasser Unterwasser
• Flims Flims
• Brissago Island Brissago Island
• Wildhaus Wildhaus
• Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Viamala Viamala
• Stans Stans
• Wasserauen Ebenalp Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Montreux Montreux
• Airolo Airolo
• Aug Aletsch Arena
• Sep Appenzell
• Sep Seengen
• Sep Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Oct Albulatal / Bergün
• Oct Jura & Three-Lakes
• Nov Noiraigue
• Nov Fribourg / Freiburg
• Nov S. Carlo
• Dec Veytaux
• Dec Schwarzsee
• Dec Lausanne
• Jan Engelberg
• Jan Stoos – Fronalpstock
• Feb Zermatt
• Feb Engadin
• Feb St. Gallen
• Feb Saas-Fee
• Mar Jungfraujoch
• Mar Crans-Montana
• Mar Andermatt
• Apr Lucerne
• Apr Emmental
• Apr Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• May Kandersteg
• May Unterwasser
• May Brissago Island
• Jun Wildhaus
• Jun Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Jun Viamala
• Jul Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Jul Montreux

List Inspiration Calendar

Something happens in a video. A bird's eye view of the beauty of Switzerland.

• Hallwyl Castle (Schloss Hallwyl)

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Europcar e-grand tour, top destinations, grindelwald, recommendation summer, grand train tour of switzerland, summer: vacation and excursion tips, everything about hiking, the grand tour of switzerland.

The most scenic road trip

City: tips for holidays and outings

Recommendation winter, winter holidays, wellness & spa hotels, winter sports resorts, winter magic, winter in the city, matterhorn (4,478 a.s.l.) - symbol for switzerland.

The Matterhorn and Switzerland are inseparably linked to each other. The pyramid shaped colossus of a mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the most-photographed mountain in the world. The Klein-Matterhorn ("Little Matterhorn"), which can be reached via a funicular, lies adjacent to the Matterhorn.

The Rhine Falls

To stand high above Europe's largest waterfall, feeling the roar and vibration of the water over one's entire body - this can be experienced at the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen. By ship one can reach castles, the Rhine Falls Basin and even the mighty rock in the midst of the waterfall.

On the Top of Europe: A visit to the Jungfraujoch puts a jewel in the crown of any visit to Switzerland.

Château de Chillon

Chillon Castle is located on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva. The water castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland. For nearly four centuries Chillon was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy.

Creux du Van

"Creux du Van", a natural rock arena of immense proportions, is located at the border of the cantons of Neuenburg and Vaud. Impressive 160 meter high vertical rock faces surround a four kilometer long and over one kilometer wide valley basin.

Aletsch - the Largest Alpine Glacier

Incredibly immense, incredibly beautiful: the Large Aletsch Glacier is the Alps' mightiest ice flow. And the most popular, for it is easily accessible and is ideally situated for extensive hikes, winter sports and special nature excursions.

Swiss Museum of Transportation

Switzerland’s most visited museum showcases the past, present and future of mobility with interactive and varied exhibits. In addition to the museum, unique attractions found nowhere else in Switzerland, such as the film theatre, planetarium, Swiss Chocolate Adventure and Media World, are just waiting to be discovered.

10,000 years ago, 100 billion cubic metres of rock thundered into the valley. Known as the Flims Rockslide, this event created the Ruinaulta, a canyon-like gorge in the Anterior Rhine Valley that can be reached on foot, over water, by train or by bike.

Zurich – for inquisitive urban explorers

Expert tips, waterside hikes.

What could be lovelier than a hike to a lake, along a river or even near a glacier? Water is a constant companion on these nine hikes. Immerse yourself.

Highlights by Train, Bus and Boat

Switzerland by train, bus and boat: The way of travelling that is as exciting as it is relaxing. Swiss public transport carries travellers away to the most fascinating panoramic routes, the most beautiful mountain summits and the most romantic boat tours.

Encounter local wild animals, sample traditional delicacies and learn all there is to know about handicrafts and architectural witnesses to history in our country. And, if that is not adventure enough, you should absolutely explore our adventure and theme trails.

Experience Switzerland on the golf course, at a highwire park, on a climbing wall or on inline skates.

Eight tips for a money-saving holiday in Switzerland

A holiday in Switzerland need not be expensive. Using these eight tips, a stay in Switzerland is possible whatever your budget.

• 18 Aug SlowUp Seetal 2024 Hochdorf, 18.08.2024
• 18 Aug Schwägalp-Schwinget Säntis - Schwägalp, 18.08.2024
• 18 Aug Open Air Gampel Gampel-Jeizinen, 18.08.2024
• until 1 Dec Chaïm Soutine. Against the Current Bern
• until 15 Sep Lucerne Festival in Summer Lucerne, 13.08. - 15.09.2024
• 22 Aug Athletissima Lausanne, 22.08.2024
• From 23 Aug Matterhorn Ultraks Zermatt, 23.08. - 25.08.2024
• From 23 Aug Im Dialog mit Benin Zurich

Gd Hôtel Bella Tola & St-Luc, St-Luc Fit for the mountains

Price per person in double room valid: 18.08.2024 - 31.08.2024

Golfhotel Les Hauts de Gstaad & SPA ****(Superior), Saanenmöser A man's thing

Kartause ittingen, warth-weiningen enjoy nature and peace.

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Beau-Rivage Genève, Geneva Grand Tour of Switzerland - Genf

Camera con letto matrimoniale valid: 18.08.2024 - 31.10.2024

Langnau i.E. Heartroute Highlights Emmental & Zugerland

Price per person in double room valid: 18.08.2024 - 31.12.2024

Hotel Daniela, Zermatt Discover Zermatt

Price per person in double room valid: 18.08.2024 - 20.10.2024

Brig Hike: Aletsch panorama trail Wallis

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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?

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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

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.

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!

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

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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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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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The Perfect 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary

By: Author Charles

Posted on December 4, 2023

When researching what to do and where to go for my 10 day trip to Switzerland, I came across a lot of different information on what would be best for an itinerary.

Switzerland is not that big of a country but there is just so much you can do and see while visiting. From picturequese cities to mountainous landscapes, there is a vast variety when it comes to the best places to visit.

I put together this itinerary to explain exactly what can be done with 10 days in Switzerland, as well as walk through all the different logistics and important things to know. Of course this will not hit every attraction or city but it will give you a great taste for what Switzerland has to offer.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Switzerland Itinerary Overview

You will find that the itinerary is a mix between exploring cities and wandering the Alps, with a little bit of everything sprinkled in throughout.

I had a one of a kind experience during my trip there and am hoping this can help you experience the same.

A few things to note before jumping into the itinerary:

Helpful Travel Guides : You should check out some of the Switzerland guides I put together that go over train travel , weather , and helpful tips . All of these should be very useful when preparing for your trip.

When to Visit : This itinerary is best during the months of June to October but can be altered for other times of year (mostly due to the hiking aspect of the itinerary).

Train Pass : You should purchase either a Half Fare Card or 8 Day Swiss Travel Pass for this itinerary. You can read more about these options under the train travel guide mentioned above. If you do buy a Swiss Travel Pass, you will begin using it on day 2 so it will be active for the days where you will be traveling the most.

10 Full Days : Day 1 assumes a full day – either landing the previous night or early on day 1. Same goes for day 10 – either a late evening flight or flight on day 11.

Start & End Points : The itinerary assumes you will be flying into Geneva and out of Zurich. It is important to note that you can do the itinerary backwards, or you can take one last train at the end of your trip if you were flying into and out of the same city.

Be Flexible : Do not expect everything to go perfectly according to plan. Weather in the Alps is truly unpredictable at times and can ruin some activities. Always have options in case something will not work out.

Switzerland Travel Guides : Throughout the itinerary you will see links for different guides I put together for portions of the trip. Since I did not want to include every piece of information in the itinerary itself as that could get a bit overwhelming, you can check out the guides for many more details on each place.

Cities & Mountains : This itinerary is a good mix between cities and mountains, splitting the time between the two. Expect a lot of time enjoying outdoor activities & attractions throughout.

Feel free to also check out some of the other Switzerland itineraries up on the site:

• Longer Trip: 2 week Switzerland itinerary
• Shorter Trip: 5 day Switzerland itinerary
• Cities Only: 7 day Switzerland itinerary

Swiss Travel Pass : For this 10 day itinerary, consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass to make things more convenient!

2) Map & Itinerary Route

The map shown below shows the 10 day Switzerland itinerary starting in Geneva on the bottom left before stopping in Montreux , Zermatt , Interlaken ( Jungfrau Region ), Lucerne , and finally Zurich to end the trip.

I have also pinned down some of the main cities that you may want to stay in when visiting the Jungfrau region such as Murren, Wengen and Grindelwald.

What you won’t see here is each and every attraction that is mentioned in the itinerary (those can be found in the linked guides throughout the page).

The map below is more so giving you a sense of where the itinerary takes you throughout Switzerland.

3) 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary

Below you will find a detailed guide for what exactly you will be doing on a day to day basis. Each day gives you a good overview of what to do and what to expect along the way, with some high level logistics of the itinerary.

If you want more details for any given day, you can click on the relevant Switzerland guides found throughout the page. These guides will go into greater detail and give you everything you need to know about a city or attraction.

4) Day 1 – Explore Geneva

On the first day of you 10 day Switzerland itinerary, you will make your way around the city of Geneva . Located on the western end of the country and right on Lake Geneva, you will have a full day of exploring the ins and outs of what this great place has to offer.

Learn More : The Things to do in Geneva travel guide will walk you through it all in greater detail.

You can also opt for a Guided City Tour of Geneva if you are interested in having an expert taking you around.

Some of the best things to do in Geneva include:

• Treille Promenade
• City Center
• Jet d’Eau
• Lake Boat Trip Option
• United Nations
• Broken Chair

Once you are all done wandering around Geneva, make your way back to your hotel and prep yourself for an amazing day trip to Montreux on day 2.

Note : if you purchased the 8 Day Swiss Travel Pass, you will not have access to it on Day 1 in Geneva. If you do take public transportation on your first day you will have to pay the full fare (trams and busses).

Book Your Geneva Hotel for Nights 1 & 2 

You cannot really go wrong with where you stay in Geneva. As long as you in walking distance to the lake you should be in good hands.

The main two areas though would be near the lakefront on the western side of the lake (same side as the train station and airport) or just across the bridge(s) on the east side of the lake near the Old Town. As you get farther away from the lakefront, you will find some cheaper alternatives if you are on a budget.

For the best views (but most expensive price) a hotel overlooking the lake and the Jet d’Eau would be your best bet. It is a truly spectacular view to wake up to the lake and its waterfront every morning.

Take a look at Booking.com below for some of the best value hotel options in Geneva:

• Hotel N’vy
• Tiffany Hotel
• Hotel d’Alleves
• Hotel Kipling
• Eastwest Hotel

5) Day 2 – Montreux Day Trip

Note: If you purchased the 8 Day Swiss Travel Pass , day 2 would be the first day you will be using it to go back and forth to Montreux.

Make your way to the eastern end of Lake Geneva to the lakeside town of Montreux . A short 45 train ride away, it makes for the perfect day trip.

Montreux is a charming small town that ramps up in the summer time where locals and tourists gather to take advantage of activities on the beautiful lake and enjoy a view of the Alps at the same time.

You can spend the day roaming the town center, walking the promenade, exploring the lake, and then making your way out to Chateau de Chillon – a medieval castle that is must do around the area.

Learn More : For more info about these activities and more check out the Day Trip Guide to Montreux .

Once your day in Montreux is complete you can hop back on the train to Geneva, where you can rest up before an early morning out to Zermatt.

Important Weather Note

Before jumping into the Alps and hiking section of the trip I want to refer back to one of the tips I mentioned at the beginning – do not expect that every day the weather will be perfect to do each and every one of these hikes / activities at the given time.

Feel free to move things around and have alternative options if the weather is not cooperative.

You can read up in the Weather in Switzerland Guide for more details about how to prepare.

Since there are several hiking options in this itinerary it would be helpful to take a look at the below hiking resources list.

Hiking Resources & Checklist Before heading out for the trails, be sure to read up on some of the hiking resources up on the site. These are here to better prepare you for all types of outdoor adventure. Gear : Hiking Packing List Weather : How to Prepare for Hiking Weather Navigation : Hiking GPS & Navigation Tips : 20+ Hiking Tips & Tricks for the Trail Accommodation : Book Your Hotel Today Rental Car : Book Your Car Rental Today

6) Day 3 – Train to Zermatt & 5 Lakes Hike

The 10 day Switzerland itinerary will now switch on over to the Alps.

Take an early morning train to Zermatt so you can have plenty of time to complete one of the top hikes around the area – the Five Lakes Trail .

The earlier you get out the better as the train ride does take about 3.5 hours. Getting to Zermatt before noon will give you enough time to check in, grab some food and head out for the hike.

Once you are all ready to go, make your way to the Zermatt – Sunnegga funicular and onwards to Blauherd, where the trail begins.

As you walk the trail you will pass by five unique lakes around the area with the Alps and the famous Matterhorn in the backdrop.

The hike should take approximately 2.5-3 hours before ending back in Sunnegga, where you can take the funicular back down (depending on time of year the funicular closes around 5:00-6:00PM, so be sure to time it correctly as you don’t want to hike all the way down to Zermatt instead).

Learn More : For plenty of information about this hike, take a look at the Five Lakes Hike overview I put together.

Book Your Zermatt Hotel for Nights 3 & 4

Zermatt is a pretty small village and you can get from one side to another in less than 20 minutes. There are a couple areas to choose from when deciding where to stay.

Either right in the main village itself, or you can cross the bridge and stay on the other side of the river, where you will be able to take in some great views of the Matterhorn ( check out some of the best hotels with views of the Matterhorn ).

Below are some more highly rated options to choose from:

• Hotel Firefly
• Hotel Perren Superior
• Hotel Daniela

Looking for a value option? Check out Hotel Elite

7) Day 4 – Exploring Zermatt & Suspension Bridge Hike

Wake up on your second day in Zermatt and take some time to explore this quaint mountainside town and all it has to offer .

Make your way towards the river, where you can get some of the best views of the Matterhorn from down below, and maybe even take in a visit to the Gorner Gorge .

After walking around the city for a bit and grabbing some lunch it is time to head off to Randa – the start of one of the best hikes around the area.

Although not in Zermatt, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge Hike should really be added to your hiking bucket list in the area. It is not an easy hike by any means, but it will sure be worth the effort.

After a quick 10 minute train ride from Zermatt you will arrive at the small town of Randa. Start following the signs into the forest and after two hours or so you will arrive at the one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world .

Once back in Randa, hop on the train back to Zermatt, where you can get a well deserved rest.

Learn More : The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge Hike guide will walk you through all you need to know about completing this trail.

8) Day 5 – Zermatt Options & Train to Interlaken / Jungfrau Region

On your last day in Zermatt, you can pick from several options depending on what you are most interested in.

Summer Skiing

One of the most fascinating things about Zermatt is that it truly offers year-round skiing. This means even in the summer months, you can grab some skis and head up the mountain for a morning of fun.

Since you are skiing on a glacier, the ski area does close around 1:00PM due to poor conditions. Even though it would only be for ~4 or so hours, you should definitely look into it if that is something you want to do.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Some of the best mountain views of the area can be seen all the way up top at the Glacier Matterhorn Paradise.

It takes a few lifts to get up top but once you are there, you will be able to take in some incredible views. You can also visit the Glacier Palace and have some lunch at the restaurant up there.

Another great viewing opportunity of the Alps is taking the train up to Gornergrat. You will get fantastic views as you make your way up of all the 4,000 meter peaks alongside the Matterhorn.

Once up top there will be a viewing platform and the opportunity to explore the area a bit. Instead of training all the way back down, you can hike to one of the stops along the way.

Travel to the Jungfrau

Once you have completed any of the above you can check out of your hotel and head to the train station. Your next stop will be Interlaken / Jungfrau Region , which is part of the larger Bernese Oberland.

The train takes about 2.5 – 3 hours so you should try to leave Zermatt by mid afternoon if possible.

The Jungfrau Region is split into a few different areas. I have set up the itinerary so each of the next three days will be dedicated to exploring one of these three areas.

• You have the Lauterbrunnen Valley on one end with the famous Schilthorn, and towns such as Murren to stay in.
• In the middle there is Wengen , a great central town to be based in, alongside Mannlichen, Kleine Scheidegg and the Jungfraujoch.
• And finally on the other end of the valley is Grindelwald , and is the base for the area around First .
• Read up on the Murren, Wengen, Grindelwald guide I have to learn more about each one.

Interlaken Note : you can also stay in the main hub of Interlaken, which sits between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. While not in the mountains, Interlaken is still a great place to access the Jungfrau from.

Book Your Jungfrau Region Hotel for Nights 5,6,7,8

There are several accommodation options to choose from in each one of Murren, Wengen, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken. Below are some different options to browse through when deciding what is best for you and your budget.

• Top Murren Hotel: Eiger Murren Swiss Quality
• Top Wengen Hotel: Hotel Edelweiss
• Top Grindelwald Hotel: Hotel Belvedere
• Top Lauterbrunnen Hotel: Hotel Silberhorn
• Top Interlaken Hotel: Hotel Bellevue

Additional Resources

• Where to Stay in Murren
• Where to Stay in Wengen
• Where to Stay in Grindelwald
• Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen
• Where to Stay in Interlaken

9) Day 6 – Schilthorn and the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Day 6 is going to be a long one but you will enjoy every last second of it.

As I was planning my trip and looking at pictures from on top of the Schilthorn and down in the Lauterbrunnen valley , I could not believe that these views were real. But believe me they are and you will not want to miss out on them!

The logistics to get to Schilthorn will depend on where you are staying, but at the end of the day you will want to make your way to Murren. From Murren you will be able to take a set of two cable cars all the way to Schilthorn.

Once up at Schilthorn you will see sweeping panoramic views of the Alps with the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau all in site.

Spend a couple hours roaming the viewing platforms, having a drink at the rotating restaurant and checking out Bond World (yes a James Bond movie was filmed here).

Birg Thrill Walk

Once finished with Schilthorn, take the cable car one stop down to Birg, where you can take part of the Thrill Walk – a platform alongside the side of the mountain with a few exhilarating aspects to it.

This first portion of the day can be read up in more detail in the Complete Guide to Schilthorn  I have up on the site. It will take care of logistics (from towns all over the area), tickets, and top things to do and see.

Transport Info

Note that with the Swiss Travel Pass , all transportation up to Murren would be free. From Murren to Schilthorn you will need to pay 42.80 CHF round trip (50% discount). This is a change from previous years when all transport was free.

Also good to note is the ride up to Jungfraujoch has only 25% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass, if you were thinking about heading up there. Of course if you have the time in the region and want to do both, that is definitely possible as well.

Explore Murren

You can then head back down to Murren, where you can grab some lunch with a view – my top spot here is Hotel Edelweiss – one of my favorite meals of the trip.

You can also take some time to explore this car free town and take in some of the amazing views of the valley below.

Lauterbrunnen Valley

After lunch it is time to head down to Stechelberg, the start of your Lauterbrunnen journey .

To get to Stechelberg from Murren, you can take two cable cars (Murren – Gimmelwald & Gimmelwald – Stechelberg) or you can hike 45 minutes from Murren to Gimmelwald and then cable car down to Stechelberg from there.

Once down in Stechelberg, you can begin your walk down the valley back towards Lauterbrunnen. It is one the most beautiful valleys in Switzerland with waterfalls coming down off the sides of the mountain as you pass by small villages along the way.

Trummelbach Falls

After about 30-45 minutes you will come across Trummelbach Falls – a powerful waterfall inside of the mountain. There is a small entrance fee here but is well worth the visit to the top.

After visiting the falls, you can either continue to walk the valley back to Lauterbrunnen or hop on the bus back to the train station. Once there you can make your way back wherever you are staying.

Learn More : Take a look at the best things to do in Lauterbrunnen and Lauterbrunnen Valley overview learn about the valley.

Day 6 Notes

This day can easily be done in reverse order:

Lauterbrunnen – Trummelbach Falls – Stechelberg – Schilthorn – Birg – Murren.

The reason I have Schilthorn first is mostly due to having more time to make sure the weather will be cooperative. If you leave Schilthorn for last, then you risk having a smaller time window for weather to be good for a visit.

Via Ferrata : If you are looking for a great adrenaline option, why not try out the Via Ferrata from Murren to Gimmelwald . It is definitely one of the more adventurous things to choose from in the Jungfrau

Alternative Option : Like I mentioned previously, the weather is not always guaranteed to cooperate in the mountains. If you do have a very poor weather day, consider taking a day trip to Bern instead sitting inside all day.

10) Day 7 – Exploring First & Bachalpsee Lake

The second day in the Jungfrau region brings you to First , the base of some great hikes and activities to take part of. To get to First, you must initially get to Grindelwald.

Once you reach Grindelwald you just need to hop on the 25 minute cable car all the way up into the Alps. Getting off the cable car in First, you will then be welcomed to some incredible Alps views in every which direction.

You can then make your way to the Bachalpsee Lake hiking trail (1.5 – 2 hours round trip). Although one of the more popular hikes around the area, the views along the way and at the lake itself are some of the best there are.

Taking in the views of the Eiger north face was one of the best moments of my trip. If you want to continue hiking onwards there are also plenty of other options to extend the hike from Bachalpsee instead of turning right back around.

Learn More : The Bachalpsee Lake – First trail guide will go over the hike in more detail as well as everything you need to know about the area.

Once done hiking you can take part of the First Cliff Walk , have lunch at the mountainside restaurant, and enjoy the relaxing view.

You will also have the chance to take part of some of the paid First activities – the First Flyer, First Glider, Trottibike and Mountain Cart. The guide mentioned above goes over those as well.

Once you are finished in the First area, make your way back to Grindelwald to explore a bit and then back to your hotel for the night.

11) Day 8 – Mannlichen – Kleine Scheidegg Panorama Trail & Wengen

Day 8 of the 10 day Switzerland itinerary brings you to the town of Wengen . Once you arrive in Wengen (if staying elsewhere), make your way to the Mannlichen cable car station . Here you will take the quick ride up the mountain, where the base of some great trails are located.

As you arrive, to your left you will see a short trail up a hill. This trail is called the Royal Walk and can be completed in about 30-45 minutes (the way down can be much quicker).

Once you finish up the Royal Walk, you can make your way to the start of the famous Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg Panorama Trail .

The trail starts right at the cable car station and you will see signs pointing you in the right direction.

What I loved most about this 1.5 hour trail is that the whole time you are walking, you are either looking down at the beautiful valley to your left or you are looking straight at the famous three mountains of the Alps – the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.

Learn More : For more info about logistics, pricing and things to know, check out the Mannlichen to Kleine Scheudegg Panorama Trail guide I put together.

After taking in the trail, you can either hike back the same way to Mannlichen and take the cable car back to Wengen, or hop on a train in Kleine Scheidegg that will take you back to Wengen. Once back in Wengen you can grab some lunch and spend some time exploring the town a bit more.

12) Day 9 – Day in Lucerne & Travel to Zurich

It is time to head out of the Jungfrau region and off to a couple of cities to end the trip. On day 9, check out early from your hotel and catch a train to the beautiful city of Lucerne .

Note that you will not be staying overnight in Lucerne – rather you will just spend the day there before heading back to the train station later on and making your way to Zurich.

Important Luggage Note: since you will have luggage, you can store it for a few francs in one of the train station lockers for the day. Once back at the station, you can grab your luggage from the locker and head off to Zurich.

Lucerne is a picturesque town with beautiful architecture, incredible scenery, and amazing river running through it that opens up into Lake Lucerne. The city is very walkable and you can spend several hours just roaming the streets.

A few of the highlights that I made my way to during my day there included:

• Kapellbrücke Bridge & Water Tower – a historic bridge crossing the Reuss river with paintings drawn throughout
• Museggmauer – the old city wall with the opportunity to check out some of the clock towers, as well as great views overlooking the city
• The Lion Monument – a huge lion carved into a rock facade dedicated to the Swiss Guards who passed away in the French Revolution
• Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) – an indoor / outdoor exhibit with ice age glacial potholes, a mirror house, viewing platform, among others (cost is 15 CHF but free with the Swiss Travel Pass)
• Church of St. Leodegar
• Lucerne Town Hall
• Jesuit Church
• Enjoy Lake Lucerne!

Beyond all of that I just spent my time wandering the town. The murals on the buildings were just some of the highlights I came across, along with exploring the whole riverfront area.

Tour Option: You can for a Guided City Tour of Lucerne alongside an expert who will teach you all about the town. They will be able to pick you up from the station and show you all around in just a few hours (and it includes a boat ride!).

Learn More : Check out the One Day in Lucerne overview for additional info

If you have additional time in Switzerland, Lucerne is one place you can add another day or two.

Day trips to Mount Pilatus , Titlis and Rigi are all popular options . Since the last 6 days have been more mountain based, I decided to leave those out for now and just focus on exploring the city itself.

After your day in Lucerne is complete, make your way back the train station, grab your bags and head off to Zurich , where you will complete your 10 day Switzerland itinerary.

Book Your Zurich Region Hotel for Nights 9 (and maybe 10)

For your last stop on this itinerary you can stay right in the city of Zurich. There will be plenty of options to choose from right in the city center. Some recommendations include:

• citizenM Zurich
• 25hours Hotel Langstrasse
• Boutique Hotel Helvetia
• Greulich Design Hotel
• Hotel Adler Zurich

For the budget traveller: easyHotel Zurich

13) Day 10 – Explore Zurich

Note : if you bought the 8 Day Swiss Travel Pass, it will no longer be valid for your time in Zurich. Most of the city is walkable so that should not be an issue. Getting to the airport later on day 10 or on day 11 will just require a short and cheap train ride.

Your last day in Switzerland will end in the city of Zurich. Another beautiful old charm feel city, with a picturesque river running through it, Zurich has plenty to offer its visitors.

Similar to Lucerne, I just wanted to spend the day walking around and exploring the city and its historical buildings. Some of these highlights included:

• Grossmunster Church – not only a beautiful church but also one where you can climb to the top for a small fee (5 CHF). It offers some of the best views of the entire city of Zurich.
• Fraumünster Church – another iconic church with a large plaza off to the side. There are events happening time to time which really fills up the area nicely
• Zurich Opera House – just taking in the beautiful architecture from the outside was an incredible site to be seen
• Bahnhofstrasse – one of the main shopping streets of Zurich
• Walk through the Old Town – beyond checking out the churches, most of my day was filled with getting lost in the Old Town (Altstadt). There are plenty of streets to check out and explore.

This Guided City Tour of Zurich is a great way to see the city’s highlights from a different perspective – it includes a walking tour, boat ride, and cable car experience!

Once all wrapped up with Zurich, it is then to the airport to end a fun filled Switzerland itinerary.

14) Swiss Travel Pass & Train Travel

When it comes to travel throughout Switzerland, odds are you will be frequently using the very reliable public transportation network. Whether that includes trains, busses, boats, cable cars, or other mountain transport, there are plenty of options to go around.

Now, to make things more convenient and less expensive for an overall travel route, you will want to consider purchasing a Switzerland train pass.

There are three main options to consider as you go about your itinerary:

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is an “all in one” type of option. For one price, you will get to take unlimited public trains, busses, and boats throughout Switzerland (in addition to free access to hundreds of museums).

What makes it even better is that you don’t need to purchase individual tickets for each one of these journeys. Just hop on the train and be on your way.

Now, there are some caveats to the Swiss Travel Pass. The pass does not include most mountain transport. Instead you will need to purchase individual tickets at a discounted fare (usually 25%-50% off). In addition, the pass must be purchased for a set amount of days – either 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days.

So, to recap, here is what is included with the Swiss Travel Pass:

• All public train routes, bus routes, and boat routes in the country are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.
• You do not need to purchase individual tickets for these routes, rather you can just pick & choose your routes as you desire.
• Most mountain transport is 50% off with select routes at a 25% discount (and some mountain transport is completely included – Rigi, Stoos, and Stanserhorn). Tickets must actually be purchased for these routes.
• There are also over 500 museums in the country that are covered with the Swiss Travel Pass.
• Seat reservations for panorama trains are not included, and must be purchased separately.

If the Swiss Travel Pass sounds good to you, you can purchase the pass ahead of time to get you all set for your trip.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

The Swiss Travel Pass Flex gives cardholders the same exact benefits as the Swiss Travel Pass. However, instead of it being 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days, these can be non consecutive days over a longer 30-day time period.

This is great for those that are not necessarily traveling constantly each day. But rather those who are traveling a lot on only certain days of a longer trip.

You can purchase the Swiss Travel Pass Flex using the same link above.

Half Fare Card

Lastly, we have the Half Fare Card. This is different than the other two passes as you are required to purchase tickets for each and every trip you take.

The Half Fare Card gives you the ability to get a 50% discount on all public train routes, bus routes, and boat routes in the country. Similarly, most mountain transport will be 50% off, with select routes at 25% off (there are even some routes that offer better discounts than the Swiss Travel Pass).

The card is valid for 30 days, giving you a bit more flexibility than the normal Swiss Travel Pass.

Learn More : You can learn all about these passes & which one is right for you in the Swiss Travel Pass vs Half Fare Card overview up on the site.

For this itinerary in particular, you will find that purchasing the Half Fare Card is going to be slightly less expensive the 8-day Swiss Travel Pass. However, you must also consider the convenience factor of the Swiss Travel Pass. By not needing to purchase tickets for each route and having the flexibility to change things at the last minute, gives the Swiss Travel Pass the edge in my opinion.

15) When is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?

As I mentioned earlier on, this itinerary is best done from mid-June until mid-October. The main reason here is the ability to take full advantage of the hiking in the Swiss mountains.

You will find that many of the higher elevation hiking trails are not clear of snow until the end of June. While you can certainly visit outside of these months, just be aware you may not be able to complete some of the hikes mentioned.

Visiting in the summer time also gives you the chance to take advantage of the longer days. You will have plenty of time to take part of hikes, have some scenic lunches, and spend an afternoon taking part of other activities on your list.

Now, you can certainly visit Switzerland at other times of the year depending on what your main preferences are.

The winter time gives you the chance to take part of some skiing instead of hiking, while still being able to take advantage of what the cities have to offer.

You can also visit in April, May, October, & November which will be the non-tourist times of the year. Much of the itinerary can still be complete, besides some of the hikes. However, I will mention that some cable cars may not be fully up and running during off season.

16) 10 Days in Switzerland Budget

If you were not fully aware already, Switzerland can be a very expensive country to visit. While there are some ways to save some cash, such as by purchasing a travel pass, you will still find the country less affordable than others.

Below are some of the main cost considerations at play (currency in USD) . Check the latest Swiss Francs to USD conversion before your visit.

Hotels : on average you should be able to find a mid-range hotel in the $200 dollar range per night. Budget options can be found for less, and luxury hotels can easily be $1000 or more.

Meals : in Switzerland you will find many hotels that include breakfast in their rates, which can help save you a bit. However, when It comes to lunch and dinner, be ready to spend. A mid-range lunch will come in around $25-$35, with dinners closer to that $30-$50 range. Fast food & cooking yourself can be a way to keep to a budget, so you may want to think of that as well.

Water : Switzerland is one place where you really should not be purchasing too much water. In some cities you can find fountains, while the mountains offer an unlimited amount of fresh water.

Transport : as we talked about, transport costs will come down to your exact itinerary and whether you purchase a travel pass. For an itinerary like this, expect to pay around $650 for your transportation budget. That considers an 8-day Swiss travel Pass ($435) and some additional mountain transport ($200).

Activities & Tours : depending on interest, you may be taking part of other activities and tours throughout. These may include skydiving in the Swiss Alps, bungee jumping, or a canyoning experience. If you add these into a trip, expect the overall budget to increase.

17) Is 10 Days Enough for Switzerland

When it comes to an optimal amount of time to spend in Switzerland, I feel like 10 days is the perfect number. You will be able to visit several different places throughout the 10 days with a great mix between cities and mountains.

Given that Switzerland is so well connected by public transport you should not have much issue wasting precious time with logistics.

I also feel like it is a great middle ground when it comes to budget. As we know Switzerland is not the cheapest of places. And if you spend too much time there, you may quickly find out your budget doesn’t allow. However, 10 days seems to be a sweet spot between amount of time and cost of your trip.

Overall 10 days in Switzerland is enough time to get a great sense of what the country is all about. If you find yourself loving your time there (which I’m sure you will), then there are always more places to add to your next trip.

That about wraps up the Switzerland 10 day itinerary, taking you from Geneva to Zurich with plenty of stops and thrills along the way .

I feel that this trip was a great mix for me between cities and nature but at the same time, it can be altered to have even more of one or another.

There is just so much to do and see in Switzerland and I am hoping this 10 day itinerary can be a great starting point for your trip planning.

As always feel free to comment below with any questions and check out all the Switzerland travel guides I already have up on the site. Safe travels out there and enjoy!!

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Monday 8th of May 2023

Hi Charles,

I love your itinerary and myself and my friend are planning to follow it. However, we have some questions about the Swiss Travel Pass. We've read some of the other questions from other people already, but we just wanted to make sure.

For most of the trains in your itinerary we do not have to book/reserve them in advance, am I correct to assume this? In addition, when would be the case we have to book them in advance - ie. the panoramic train and what time would you suggest we do this?

Thank you so much in advance!

Best regards, John

Tuesday 9th of May 2023

Hi John - glad you enjoyed reading through the itinerary. The only trains you would need to book (not necessarily in advance, but just at the ticket office) would be those in the mountain regions such as Zermatt and the Jungfrau. These could include the Gornergrat train, Sunnegga tram, First cable car, Schilthorn cable cars, etc.

If you are looking to book a panorama train between cities, then you may need to purchase just a seat reservation in advance. If you are going in the peak summer season, then I would recommend booking sooner rather than later.

Hope that helps!

Thursday 27th of April 2023

HI! I am planning our trip to Switzerland this coming September and I find your itinerary very helpful. Thank you very much for sharing this!

I am planning for a 14 day trip. Do you have any suggestions for my extra days? Where do you think I should spend my extra days?

Thank you very much!

Hi Elaine - feel free to check out the 2 week Switzerland itinerary up on the site. That should help out. Enjoy your trip!

Tuesday 21st of June 2022

Thank you so much for this post. I am planning to visit Switzerland this summer. This is actually exactly what I am looking for. The combination between city and nature. The first question to you is do you think I can do it by car? we are ok with driving 2.5 hours if we need to .....

Friday 24th of June 2022

Hi Orit - yes, you can certainly do the itinerary with a car. There are a few things to note though..first off is you cannot drive into Zermatt. Instead you must park in nearby Tasch and take the train in from there. In addition, if visiting the Jungfrau region, you most likely will be using public transport (busses, cable cars, mountain railways, etc). Some towns like Murren and Wengen are car free, and other hiking areas would need some type of public transport to get to. Hope that helps!

Mayank Hora

Friday 20th of May 2022

Beautiful. Expalained in details. Since iam planning to visit in August end, will be happy if you can plan our for me for 15 days where I want even othe big cities as well as Lugano, Davos and St. Moritz.my email is [email protected]. Thanks.

Monday 16th of May 2022

Hello Charles! Thank you SO much for this amazing post...so helpful. I do have a question for you...if only doing 8 days (19-year-old boys) which days/locations would you skip? And since they are doing it backward and starting in Zurich and ending in Genieve...what is the best way to get to Paris from Genieve? Thank you in advance!

Tuesday 17th of May 2022

Hi Talin - glad you found the itinerary useful! I would be hesitant to remove any days from the Jungfrau/Zermatt portion of the trip, just due to the fact that those were some of my favorite parts of the country (and you want to give yourself the additional time there in case the weather isnt great the entire time). If I had to remove two days, I would choose between Zurich and Lucerne at the beginning of the trip, and then maybe combo Geneva/Montreux into one day at the end. You can easily get to Paris from Geneva by train or a quick flight, so that shouldn't be an issue at all. Hope that helps!

Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in Switzerland (2024 Update)

In Switzerland, train travel is more than a simple mode of transportation. Granted, thanks to the world’s most dense public transportation network, the Swiss travel more kilometers by train than any other country.

The Swiss trains, trams, buses, and boats are meticulously scheduled so that transfers are smooth and efficient. Almost all railway lines run at least once an hour, and the busiest routes run every half hour or even every 15 minutes. And for the so-called last mile from the station to the door, a bus, tram, or cable car awaits the arriving passengers.

Regardless of the operating company, all modes of transport are integrated into a single master timetable across the country. It truly is a Swiss travel system .

But in this country boasting nearly 5000 km of railway tracks, train travel is also a major leisure activity. Numerous scenic railway journeys are part of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, a network of routes that connect the major sights. It allows tourists to see the best of Switzerland while traveling by train from one destination to another.

This ultimate guide to train travel in Switzerland showcases how the Swiss Travel System works: from types of trains to popular itineraries and ticket options.

All About Train Travel in Switzerland

Grand train tour of switzerland, train itineraries in switzerland, how to travel by train in switzerland, faqs about train travel in switzerland, train types in switzerland, panoramic trains.

In a country known for its scenic mountains, glaciers, and lakes, it only makes sense to run trains that offer the best views out the window. There are several noteworthy panoramic train lines in Switzerland, each offering oversized window panes to reveal every mountain peak to those seated in their cushy coaches.

Here are the top panoramic trains in Switzerland:

• Bernina Express : This train takes you through the Swiss Alps from Chur to Tirano, Italy. It crosses the Landwasser Viaduct, one of the world's most famous and picturesque railway bridges. And it passes the Bernina Pass, the highest rail crossing in Europe, before presenting views of the Lago Bianco reservoir.
• Glacier Express : This train is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. It travels between Zermatt and St. Moritz across southeastern Switzerland, passing 91 tunnels and 291 bridges. Highlights of the route include alpine meadows, typical Swiss villages, the 2033-meter Oberalp Pass, and the Vorderrhein valley. And since it takes about 7.5 hours to complete, it is often touted as the slowest express train in the world. Lunch is served in first class, seat reservations are mandatory, and the trip runs year-round in both directions.
• GoldenPass Express : The latest panoramic train service runs up to four times daily between Interlaken and Montreux. Thanks to unique technology, the GPX can change the gauge of its wheels and the height of its coach bodies, making a transfer in Zweisimmen a thing of the past. The Prestige and first-class seats offer sweeping views of the diverse landscape between Switzerland's German and French-speaking parts.
• Gotthard Panorama Express : This journey starts with a serene steamboat ride across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen. From there, a panoramic train coach with Switzerland’s largest windowpanes picks up the course, then passes cliffs and cascading waterfalls en route to Lugano.
• Luzern–Interlaken Express: This train takes passengers on a journey through the heart of Switzerland. The route connects Lucerne and Interlaken, two popular tourist destinations in less than two hours. From the shores of Lake Lucerne, it passes Lake Lungern, crosses the Brünig Pass, and finally arrives at Lake Brienz in the Bernese Alps.
• Treno Gottardo : This fairly new line runs hourly and connects Basel, Zurich, and Lucerne to Locarno. As the name suggests, the train line runs along the 120-year-old Gotthard route and stops at the historically significant village of Göschenen. After passing through the Leventina valley, it runs along Lake Maggiore before arriving in the southern town of Locarno.

Jaw-Dropping Swiss Train Journeys (2024)

Memorable train lines in switzerland in 2024, intercity and regional trains.

A network of high-speed trains connects Switzerland’s cities. The ICN InterCity train lines run non-stop between major hubs such as Basel, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne, Lucerne, and Zurich.

Meanwhile, the regional lines of the Swiss rail network play a crucial role in connecting the smaller towns and villages. These lines often run through more rural and remote areas, providing access to lesser-known but equally beautiful destinations. Since the locals use these lines to commute, they are an authentic place for tourists to learn about Swiss culture.

Specialty Trains for Foodies

Switzerland has a variety of special train services catering to foodies, such as the Chocolate Train, Cheese Train, and Cookie Train. These trains offer a one-of-a-kind and memorable experience for any food lover.

The Chocolate Train is an absolute must-see for chocolate lovers the world over. The journey aboard the historic Belle-Epoque coaches lasts from Montreux to Montbovon. The chocolate bus connects to the Gruyère region, where you will visit the Maison Cailler chocolate factory in Broc and stroll through the charming Gruyère old town. Admission to the show dairy, as well as coffee and chocolate bread, are included.

The Cheese Train provides a one-of-a-kind experience for cheese lovers. The journey also begins in Montreux and continues to Château-d'Oex, where you can enjoy a delicious cheese fondue. Two museum visits are included: "Espace Ballon," about the history of hot-air ballooning, and the new Swiss Museum of Papercuts.

And finally, the Kambly Cookie Train is a must-try for any sweet tooth. The train line connects Bern and Lucerne through the Emmental valley. The idea is that you can take an entire day to enjoy the scenery along the way. A definitive highlight is a visit to the "Kambly Experience," a cookie bakery in Trubschachen. And there’s an optional boat cruise from Brienz to Interlaken Ost.

International High-Speed Trains

Thanks to a dense network of international trains, Switzerland is conveniently connected to European destinations. Cutting-edge high-speed trains provide amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey. Business travelers will appreciate the on-board business centers equipped with power outlets and Wi-Fi. Those looking to unwind will appreciate the bistro coaches and restaurant cars - some of which even serve local specialties from the carrier’s country.

International high-speed trains from Switzerland:

• EuroCity: Bologna, Genova, Milan, Venice
• ICE : Berlin, Dortmund, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hannover, Mannheim, Munich, Stuttgart
• RailJet : Bregenz, Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Vienna
• TGV Lyria: Paris, Marseille

Interactive map of international train connections to Switzerland

Overnight Trains in Switzerland

Thanks to a growing network of overnight trains across Europe, you can see a musical and put on your PJ in Amsterdam, then sip your morning coffee in Zurich.

The increasing demand for climate-friendly travel alternatives has launched a rebirth of overnight train connections. They provide a comfortable way to travel to and from Switzerland - with significantly fewer emissions than airplanes.

Overnight train compositions come in different setups. There are sleeper cars with private compartments featuring beds, sinks, and breakfast service. Sleeper car compartments have space for one to three persons. Deluxe rooms include a shower and toilet.

So-called couchette cars have compartments with four to six bunk beds and shared facilities.

Women-only sections, plus family-friendly and accessible compartments, are available. And finally, overnight trains have regular coaches with seating.

Overnight trains and destinations from Switzerland:

• ÖBB EuroNight: Budapest, Dresden, Leipzig, Ljubljana, Prague, Vienna, Zagreb
• ÖBB Nightjet: Amsterdam, Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg
• From 2024: Barcelona, Rome

Interactive map of overnight trains in Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the ultimate train journey through the heart of Switzerland. This round trip offers a complete and comfortable experience, taking visitors to the country's most popular sights and landmarks.

Along a staggering journey of 1280 km, train lovers can check the top experiences of Switzerland off their bucket lists. Consider it “two birds with one stone”: an epic train journey to highlights such as Lucerne, impressive natural spectacles like the Rhine Falls, and majestic peaks like the Matterhorn.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland passes no less than 11 lakes and includes five panoramic train lines, making it a unique and unforgettable Swiss train journey. This experience is available year-round, and you can start and finish your journey wherever it is most convenient.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is divided into eight sections:

• Zurich – Lucerne – Interlaken (131 km, 2:45 h)
• Interlaken – Montreux (120 km, 3:15 h)
• Montreux – Visp – Zermatt (148 km, 2:30 h)
• Zermatt – Chur – St. Moritz (291 km, 7:45 h)
• St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano (183 km, 6:30 h)
• Lugano – Flüelen – Lucerne (182 km, 5:30 h)
• Lucerne – St. Gallen (125 km, 2:15 h)
• St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zurich (133 km, 2:30 h)

Download the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland map

Switzerland's train system is like a journey through a storybook, with popular routes like the Glacier Express as the main chapters. Each route offers a different tale, taking passengers across historic viaducts and past mighty glaciers. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic way to travel, Switzerland's trains provide an immersive soundtrack for your journey.

Most Popular Train Lines in Switzerland

The Glacier Express , often heralded as the world’s slowest express train, wins our nomination for the most popular train line in Switzerland. It is regularly booked down to the last seat, treating the lucky passengers to a visual extravaganza through the large panoramic windows.

Here are other popular train lines in Switzerland that we have covered in detail:

Switzerland Train Itinerary for Rail Lovers (2024)

How to travel switzerland by train in 5 days, lesser-known train lines in switzerland.

Switzerland is a dream destination for railway enthusiasts. Apart from the usual suspects, there are numerous lesser-known train lines in Switzerland.

Alpine Cruise: We had the pleasure of experiencing the Alpine Cruise train experience that winds through the canton of Graubünden. The idea is that your luggage is shipped from one hotel to the next - just like on a cruise ship. Meanwhile, you get to travel on the iconic red trains of Rhaetian Railway to places like Bergün, Chur, Davos, or St. Moritz. At the end of each day, simply check into the hotel at the destination.

Centovalli Line: For those looking to explore the Italian-speaking region, the Centovalli Line is a must-do. This route runs between Locarno and Domodossola and offers breathtaking views of the Centovalli region, including the famous Centovalli viaduct.

Chemins de Fer du Jura: This hidden gem of a train line passes through the sparsely populated Jura plateau. Between Glovelier and La-Chaux-de-Fonds, the narrow-gauge train stops in many small towns, each presenting a new chance to enter one of the many hiking trails.

Léman Express: This relatively recent train connects Geneva to the cities of Lausanne, Nyon, and Gland. It’s unique in that the Léman Express passes the vineyards of Lavaux and even crosses the border into France.

Planning a Train Trip in Switzerland

When planning a trip by public transportation, it's important to consider that the Swiss rail network is extensive. Planning the itinerary in advance helps ensure the most effective use of your time (and money.)

Some random hints for planning a train trip:

• The Swiss Travel Pass is synonymous with unlimited travel on the Swiss public transportation network. Activate it and forget about it while you transfer from trains to buses, and from boats to mountain railways.
• Make seat reservations in advance if you plan to travel during peak travel season, generally from April to September.
• Unlike most of the world’s train stations, Switzerland’s train platforms are freely accessible by anyone - even without a valid ticket. There are no turnstiles or ticket gates whatsoever.
• Ticketing on Swiss trains is based on an honor system where it is assumed that each traveler has a valid ticket when boarding a train. During random checks, travelers have to be able to produce a fare card or travel pass, or else they will be fined.
• Conveniently ship your luggage from one hotel to the next. This service is not very expensive and gives you flexibility during the day.

Switzerland Train Map

The official Switzerland train map is updated annually by Swiss Federal Railways. Available in print or digitally, the Switzerland train map is the most comprehensive overview of Switzerland's train network. A single Swiss map contains all train stations, major and minor train lines, mountain railways, and even boat lines.

Access the Switzerland Train Map

Train Companies in Switzerland

Their trains and coaches can be recognized by the abbreviation “SBB CFF FFS.” These abbreviations cover three of the four languages of Switzerland, but they all stand for Swiss Federal Railways:

• SBB: Schweizerische Bundesbahnen
• CFF: Chemins de Fer Fédéraux Suisses
• FFS: Ferrovie Federali Svizzere

In addition, a few other companies cover large areas of Switzerland, such as BLS and SOB. Finally, several regional lines provide connections from hubs to smaller train stations.

Notable train companies in Switzerland:

• Appenzeller Bahnen
• Berner Oberland-Bahn
• Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon (BLS)
• Chemins de fer du Jura
• Montreux-Oberland-Bernois (MOB)
• Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB)
• Rhätische Bahn (RhB)
• Schweizerische Südostbahn (SOB)
• Zentralbahn

Travel Classes on Swiss Trains

Swiss trains offer two main travel classes: first class and second class. The primary distinction between the two classes is the level of comfort and available onboard amenities.

Second-class coaches are rather nice, with cushioned seating arranged in sets of four. Most seats do not have dividing armrests, which removes some privacy. Especially during peak travel times, such as during weekday commuting or on Fridays and Sundays, second-class coaches can get quite crowded. As a result, seats are not always available.

First-class coaches on Swiss trains offer more comfort and privacy. For one, they are roomier with fewer seats per carriage, but each seat features more space and ample legroom. Armrests between seats provide more privacy. Other amenities include power outlets for every seat and business sectors for working in a quiet environment. 

Information about the sectors where first and second-class coaches are located on a given train is shared on overhead boards or over the loudspeaker. First-class coaches might not be available on some private train lines, and amenities vary by type of train.

Tickets and Train Passes

There are a range of options for planning train travel logistics in Switzerland. Some visitors may prefer to look up all the destinations on a map and buy individual point-to-point tickets for each leg. Others prefer the blanket coverage of a travel pass. Here is an overview of Switzerland's various tickets and train passes.

Point-to-Point Tickets

Point-to-point tickets can be purchased at the train station ticket booths and vending machines, on the train company's website, or in the official SBB mobile app.

While this approach may be the ultimate money-saving option in Switzerland, it is unlikely to be the most efficient. It is also not the most flexible way because the regular point-to-point tickets require you to follow a schedule.

Regional Passes

Regional passes are an ideal alternative for those travelers who plan on spending most of their time in a particular region, such as Central Switzerland or the Bernese Alps.

Some regional passes offer free transportation coverage for the entire pass duration, while others restrict free travel days but offer discounts on the remaining days. They are available to both residents of Switzerland and visiting tourists.

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass presents the ultimate option. Unlike single tickets or regional passes, it provides unlimited blanket coverage for most Swiss public transportation for a pre-determined number of travel days. The “hop on/hop off” nature of the pass is perfect for those who want to stay flexible.

The Swiss Travel Pass includes most trains, buses, and boats in Switzerland. Five top-tier panoramic train lines and any trains operated by Switzerland’s major carriers are covered entirely.

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass at GetYourGuide

Benefits of the Swiss Travel Pass in 2024

Swiss Travel Pass Overview and Insights for 2024

Swiss Travel Pass FAQs: Helpful Answers for 2024

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It in 2024?

Get our ultimate free guide swiss travel pass: how to make it work in 2024.

The free guide includes a round-trip itinerary starting in Zurich for budget travelers. It “hacks” a three-day Swiss Travel Pass to make it last for a five-day stay…

Digitally savvy and flexible travelers can uncover saver fares in the SBB Mobile app. These individual tickets are contingent on a particular date and train connection, but they offer the cheapest way to travel by train. Travelers who wish to remain flexible regarding train connections may prefer the Swiss Travel Pass. Using included mountain railways, boat cruises, and museums, they could maximize the upfront cost and come out cheaper than with individual tickets.

The cost of train tickets in Switzerland can vary depending on the type of train and the route. Regional trains tend to be the most affordable, while scenic trains like Glacier Express can be more expensive. Many Swiss subscribe to the Swiss Half Fare Card, which reduces the price of individual train tickets by 50 percent.

Yes, discounts are available for train travel in Switzerland. On the one hand, discounts may be available for children, students, and senior citizens. It is also possible to purchase a Swiss Half Fare Card, which allows for a 50% discount on most train tickets. And finally, the SBB Mobile app and website offer limited saver fares for particular connections - usually during midday.

Yes, train tickets can be purchased in advance in the SBB Mobile app, on the Swiss Federal Railways website, or through a travel agency. Advance purchases can often result in lower fares. Look out for discounted tickets labeled with a percentage sign on the SBB website; they can result in significant savings.

Seat reservations are not required for most intercity and regional trains in Switzerland. However, reservations are recommended for scenic trains such as the Bernina Express and are mandatory on the Glacier Express.

Yes, it is possible to travel by train with a bike. Bicycles can be taken on most trains by paying an extra fee . On some trains, it is mandatory to make a prior reservation for bicycles as space is limited during peak seasons.

Except on mountain railways, first-class seating is available on all trains in Switzerland. First-class compartments usually provide more comfortable seating and more space. Some trains, such as the GoldenPass Express , offer a VIP section with oversized panoramic windows and private-jet quality seating.

Switzerland is considered safe for rail travel, but CCTV cameras are generally on most trains. In the case of an emergency, the onboard emergency button will alert the train driver and the nearest police station. As anywhere in the world, savvy travelers will always watch their luggage. Here are additional precautions and resources for safe traveling in Switzerland .

Purchase the Swiss Travel Pass online at the most reputable vendor starting at CHF 244. You will receive an immediate email confirmation with a PDF ticket.

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Story Goes Viral of Wife Cheating After Husband Donated His Kidney, but Some Commenters Have Heard That Before

In a post on Reddit, the user wrote that he was "extremely angry" after learning of his wife's one-night stand

Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty

Numerous commenters on Reddit were quick to weigh in on a viral story of a man who donated a kidney to his wife — only to find out she cheated on him years earlier.

In a since-deleted post shared on Tuesday, Aug. 13 , the user explained that they are a 30-year-old man who had donated one of his kidneys to his 30-year-old wife of six years, who felt motivated to tell him one month after the transplant that she had been unfaithful and had a one-night stand.

“She said she couldn’t keep it in anymore, especially after the massive sacrifice I made,” the Reddit user wrote. “She seemed extremely remorseful, and I believed her that it was a one-time thing.”

But the man became “extremely distraught,” “frustrated” and “extremely angry” — all of which then made him demand that his wife call her family members and confess to them that she cheated on her husband, according to the post.

“All my pent-up emotions bubbled up and I said a lot of horrible things to my wife,” the Reddit user wrote. “I wanted my wife to say something, but she just said nothing and was crying and that angered me even more.”

Per the post, the man also told his wife that if she was going to get emotional about the situation, she should “not cry when our son is there and to do it alone in the bathroom or somewhere else.”

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The user asked his fellow online community “AITAH,” which translates to “Am I the a------ here,” and wondered if his marriage could survive.

More than 3,000 commenters weighed in on his situation, offering opinions about how the post described the relationship — with some not buying what the user was selling.

“I swear this plot twist sounds straight out of a drama series. Next episode: husband requests a return policy on the kidney,” wrote another user.

“Is this you OP (original poster)?” another added and  included a link to a 2009 article in the  National Review  in which a man trod the same territory and tried to sue his soon-to-be ex-wife for his kidney back.

Another commenter flagged the story’s unlikely conceit, beginning with the fact that the husband and wife were a perfect match for the transplant.

According to the National Kidney Foundation , siblings have the greatest likelihood of matching, with a 25% chance of being an “exact match” and a 50% chance of being a “half match,” but unrelated donors are far less likely to match.

All of which had one user singing about the premise: “Set to Chili's theme: I want my kidney back kidney kidney back.”

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10-Day Switzerland Itinerary — 6 Cities Under S$2.3k with the Swiss Travel Pass

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

Just imagine waking up to this view every day 😍

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.

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.

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

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 

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

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)

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

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”

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.

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.

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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.

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

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 

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 .

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

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.

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

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 

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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’

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 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

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

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

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

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

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 .

For more travel inspiration, follow our adventures on Facebook , Instagram , Youtube and Telegram !

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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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Home » Europe » Switzerland » Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Switzerland: The COOLEST Spots in 2024

Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I visit Switzerland to double check that it’s actually real.

Home to some of the most INCREDIBLE landscapes in the world, Mother Nature has absolutely outdone herself here. With beautiful mountain views and crystal clear lakes galore, there are so many epic places to visit in Switzerland.

Switzerland is a land known for its incredible skiing and chocolate, and it doesn’t disappoint in either area. Whether you are in for an action-packed adventure or to wine and dine your way around the country – Switzerland has it all (and more!)

Switzerland is actually a relatively small country, however, it’s packed with loads of epic areas to stay in that each offer something unique. This can make deciding where to stay in Switzerland a difficult task.

But never fear! That is why I am here. In this guide, we will go through the top places to stay in Switzerland depending on your travel style and budget. There is something for every traveller in here.

So, let’s get into it and find out which area is best for you!

Quick Answers: Where is the Best Place to Stay in Switzerland?

Zurich – overall best place to stay in switzerland, bern – best place to stay in switzerland for families, lucerne – most romantic place to stay in switzerland for couples, lugano – coolest place to stay in switzerland, geneva – where to stay in switzerland on a budget, basel – one of the most unique places to stay in switzerland, interlaken – where to stay in switzerland for adventure, zermatt – where to stay in switzerland for hitting the slopes, map of where to stay in switzerland.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

If you’re looking to experience quintessential Switzerland, then stay in Zurich . There are loads of things to do in Zurich; winding city streets, charming old architecture, and the river Limmat make Zurich a dream come true for those wanting to get a real taste of all things Swiss.

Even if you’re staying outside of the city center, you can hop on a tram and head downtown. Most of the popular tourist sites are in Zurich’s old town, which is filled with picturesque cobblestone streets and cute cafes. Make sure you visit the Fraumunster church and step inside to admire its delicate stained glass windows. And definitely plan some time to wander along the riverbanks of the Limmat River. Walk across the Munsterbruke bridge to capture the best views of the Limmat.

If you want to do a bit of window shopping, walk along one of the absolute most expensive and opulent streets in the entire world— the Bahnhofstrasse. We’ve all heard of the Champs-Elysees in Paris, but the Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich gives it a run for its money— lots and lots of money…

Needing a little break from city life? Walk to Lindhof Hill and find a little spot to sit down with a book, or just daydream while taking in the city views below.

There are also heaps of amazing Zurich day trips to take as well.

Best Places to Stay in Zurich

While hotel rates in Zurich are quite high, you will find better deals if you stay closer to the airport, and outside of the city.  However, there are always some incredible Zurich Airbnb when looking for affordable lodging in Switzerland.

Boutique Hotel Seidenhof | Best Hotel in Zurich

The Boutique Hotel Seidenhof is indeed a splendid hotel! Just a short walk from several points of interest, the hotel was built to impress and oozes opulence. Offering a sun terrace for guests and other activities such as cycling and a walking tour, this is one of our favorite luxury hotels that Zurich has to offer.

Youthhostel Zurich | Best Hostel in Zurich

The funny thing about hostels in Switzerland is that they don’t always have dorm room options. What is great about YouthHostel Zurich is that they offer both private and dorm rooms, so you can have a more budget-friendly option. Free breakfast is available each day, regardless of which room type you choose. Moreover, you’ll be situated close to the lakeshore, in District 2, which puts you just a stone’s throw away from most of Zurich’s top attractions!

Penthouse with Rooftop Terrace | Best Airbnb in Zurich

This Airbnb is a must-visit! This charming penthouse is split over 3 floors with a sun terrace in the heart of Zurich, surrounded by many cafes, restaurants, and shops which is perfect for your morning coffee and croissant run. From the terrace, you have the most beautiful view of the river. From here, you are within walking distance to everything all the amenities available.

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Bern is the capital of Switzerland despite the fact that nobody has heard of it. If you are backpacking around Switzerland, then you may well pass through. It was constructed around a bend in the circuitous Aare River and you can still trace the city’s original curve. The town has been in existence since the 12th century, and plenty of that gorgeous medieval architecture has been preserved in the Old Town.

Since it is the capital city, there are lots of federal buildings to visit, like the Bundeshaus, the Federal Palace, and the Parliament Building. If that doesn’t sound like a walk in the park for you and your family, why not take a stroll down through the Bear Pit.

The kids might also love checking out the Einstein Museum and the Einsteinhause, which is Albert Einstein’s preserved home. The Museum of Natural History is also quite a fun place to walk through with the kids— you’ll get to see lots of dinosaur bones and life-sized dioramas!

Bern is also known for being the “City of Fountains” and they are strewn across the city. Why not play a game with the kids and see how many fountains you can spot on your walk through the city?!

Best Places To Stay in Bern

Save yourself and your family some walking and stay right in the Old Town of Bern . Or order up a hefty dose of peace and quiet by staying a few miles outside the city in some more affordable options, like in the district of Mattenhof-Weissenbühl.

Metropole Easy City Hotel | Best Hotel in Bern

The Metropole Easy City Hotel comes in at an affordable rate for those looking to stay inside the Old Town of Bern. You’ll be very close to everything you and your family can need. When staying in Switzerland, hotels can get pricey! This hotel provides great value at an unparalleled location, and even offers family rooms!

City Studio in Old Town of Bern | Best Airbnb in Bern

Believe it or not, this modern apartment actually has room for up to eight guests! The apartment sits on the first floor of a gorgeous historic building and has a small kitchen inside with modern amenities. Keep in mind that this room itself is for rent but the host does have an office that is connected to the apartment that is in use during the daytime. However, if you and your family of eight are looking for a bargain Airbnb rate in the heart of Bern, then this is the place for you.

Habsburg B&B | Best Bed and Breakfast in Bern

Habsburg B&B embodies everything I love about an Airbnb – it’s homely, welcoming and offers up a hearty breakfast to kick start the day! The surroundings are elegant and peaceful, you’ll be located just a 20-minute walk from the city centre. The rooms are cosy, spacious and clean. Oh, and did I mention they have a pool on the property? Yep, it keeps on getting better!

Lucerne is positively gorgeous, nestled right on Lake Lucerne and on the river Reuss, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The Old Town, also called Altstadt, is filled with colorful buildings and is renowned for its abundance of medieval architecture. Also, the centuries-old wooden bridge is a real treat to walk across.

From Lucerne, you can take a day tour up Mount Stanserhorn in a cable car to save you the exercise. If the thought of that frightens you or your significant other, then opt for the steamer and cog railway trip up to the top of Mountain Pilatus. Talk about romance! You and your honey will get to bask in views of Lake Geneva, Simmen Valley, Montreux, and beyond!

Best Places to Stay in Lucerne

Lucerne is a very compact city. It’s densely populated and designed to be easy to walk around. That means that pretty much wherever you stay in the city, you’ll be close to everything else! Keep your costs of living low by staying in a hostel or cheap Airbnb!

ibis Budget Hotel | Best Hotel in Lucerne

While it’s nearly impossible to find a good hotel in Lucerne for under $100 a night, the ibis hotel is as close as you get. It’s a crisp, clean hotel that is designed to offer travelers a comfortable stay. There is a free daily breakfast buffet provided, which makes sleeping in late a great idea when there are croissants and coffee right downstairs waiting for you and your other.

Youthhostel Luzern | Best Hostel in Lucerne

The Youthhostel Luzern is located just a half a mile walk from the city and it’s close to a bus stop too, if you don’t feel like walking. As part of your stay, the hostel will provide you with an inclusive public transit pass which makes getting around extra easy! This hostel is perfect for couples who are traveling as it offers private rooms at affordable rates.

There are a lot of hostels in Lucerne that offer a comfortable stay.

Pleasant living in a historic house | Best Airbnb in Lucerne

This gorgeous flat is quietly located on a cul-de-sac and surrounded by LUSH greenery. It feels like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle however, you’ll be a stone’s throw from the action if you’re after it.

It is just a minute’s walk from the lake promenade which is the perfect way to start or end your day!

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Lugano is a city in the southern region of Switzerland. What makes Lugano really unique is that it’s a blend of both Swiss and Mediterranean culture, as is evidenced in everything from the food to the architecture. This is probably because the town is a stone’s throw from Italy and the lake shores straddle both Switzerland & Italy.

Moreover, Lugano has mountains and a lake. When looking for the best city to stay in Switzerland for cool vibes, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the lakes or the mountains. Lugano sits right on the shore of the glacial Lake Lugano, which is encompassed by mountains.

Enjoy a beautiful hike up Monte Bré, Lugano’s closest mountain, which has plentiful hiking and biking trails! Or maybe you want to do something more unusual like visiting the Swissminiatur, a miniature version of Switzerland that spans nearly 14,000 meters.

Best Places to Stay in Lugano

When staying in Lugano, make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to bask in a green oasis. With properties usually backed by gardens or flower-filled courtyards, these Switzerland accommodation options are drool-worthy. Plus, if you can score a room with a view, even better!

One and Only Penthouse – Best Penthouse in Lugano

Set in splendid Gandria (one of the most evocative places in the Canton Ticino) stands the new Penthouse Il Cammino. This high standing and truly gorgeous apartment comes with extraordinary 180 ° views over the roofs of the village, the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Not quite the right Apartment for your trip to Lugano? Then check out more over at Homes & Villas by Marriott .

Hotel Victoria | Best Hotel in Lugano

Hotel Victoria is perched right on the shore and gives guests beautiful views of the lake and of Mount Bre. While it is located in a jaw-droppingly beautiful historic building, you won’t find any tacky furniture or dusty corners here! This luxurious hotel is perfect for those who want lake views and to be just a short walk away from all that Lugano has to offer.

Youth Hostel Lugano Savosa | Best Hostel in Lugano

This hostel looks like something from the Hollywood hills; it’s a beautiful hostel that has an outdoor pool, and expansive greenery surrounding the property. The transportation is free from this hostel to the train station or the city center, so you won’t have to worry that you’ll be a couple of kilometers away. Additionally, the complimentary daily breakfast buffet is truly spectacular!

Il Cortile Fiorito – Room with a View on the Lake | Best Airbnb in Lugano

It’s all in the name! This Airbnb in Switzerland is for a private room and private bathroom that offers stunning lake views. You’ll even have your own private balcony to enjoy the views. Plop down in the chairs and enjoy a glass of wine. When staying in Switzerland, it’s hard to find a room at this low of a price! Don’t miss out on staying in this slice of paradise in one of the best cities in Switzerland!

Geneva is surrounded by both the Alps and the Jura mountains, making it an amazing place to visit. Geneva boasts loads of Roman-era buildings and there are also some medieval structures.

Make sure you walk around the lake and catch a good view of the ‘Jet d’Eau’ – a 140-meter high water jet that shoots up over Lake Geneva. Also, be sure to pick up a little bread at a bakery before you head on over, so you can feed the swans and ducks before enjoying a nice walk through the city to St Pierre’s Cathedral – the 12th-century cathedral is truly stunning of all, all those things to do and see are free!

If you’re up for an artsy experience, the ‘Musée d’Art et d’Histoire’ is incredible! It has a massive art collection from throughout the ages.

Best Places to Stay in Geneva

Well, let’s be honest. Switzerland isn’t known for being a budget-friendly country. That’s why it’s best to take advantage of all the deals and steals in Geneva— the best city to stay in Switzerland on a budget!

Auberge de Prangins | Best Hotel in Geneva

We’re sorry to break it to you, but staying in a hotel room in Geneva for under $100 is nearly impossible and even $150 per night is a stretch. If you are dreaming of fluffy white hotel pillows in a luxury boutique hotel, then it’s best to stay outside of Geneva city center. I recommend the lovely Auberge de Prangins in Prangins, Switzerland. Which is around 13.7 miles from Geneva itself. However, you’ll be close to the bus stop, and under two miles from the train station. On the other hand, you’ll be just 1,650 feet from Lake Geneva!

City Hostel Geneva | Best Hostel in Geneva

Remember that not all hostels in Geneva have dorms, and private rooms can cost a pretty penny. Never fear; City Hostel Geneva is here! City Hostel offers affordably priced dorm-beds, and they’ll even pick you up from the airport for free. Moreover, City Hostel is located just a seven-minute walk from the main railway station and is just over two kilometers from the city center. When solo-traveling on a budget, this is the place for you!

Studio in Pâquis | Best Airbnb in Geneva

Right in the heart of Geneva , this one-bedroom studio is a steal bargain. The studio is fully furnished and the central location is totally convenient, with the train station and lake within walking distance. Perfect for a weekend away with your significant other, the local area is lively, and you will find plenty of good dining options nearby.

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Basel sits on the Rhine River in the northwest of Switzerland. It’s quite close to the borders of both France and Germany, which means that if you’re doing a euro trip, Basel is a great city to stay in to launch your Switzerland leg. What makes Basel so unique is that it has a bevy of art galleries, opera houses, theatres, and performing art venues, as well as museums. While you won’t be close to the Swiss Alps, the vibrant arts and culture scene really make Basel a worthy city to visit.

From the Museum Tinguely to the Fine Arts Museum of Basel to the Kunstmuseum, there’s so much to see! Speaking of the Kunstmuseum, this is actually Switzerland’s largest art museum with the widest spectrum of art on display! Plus, the entire room dedicated to Picasso is a real treat!

Furthermore, walking around the Altstadt, Basel’s old town, is a true delight and an Instagram oasis! You’ll see a wide array of unique Swiss national heritage sights! There are some high-caliber hostels in Basel .

Best Places to Stay in Basel

Ideally, it’s best to stay as close to Basel city center as possible. However, if you decide to stay a little further out to save money, then note that most accommodation options will provide you with a free city transportation card.

Hotel Rheinfelderhof | Best Hotel in Basel

Hotel Rheinfelderhof is a beautiful, luxury hotel in a supremely central location in Basel. You’ll be just a short three minutes walk from the city center! A huge buffet breakfast is served each morning, free of charge. While the room comes at a more mid-range cost, under $150 per night, you’ll love the location of this hotel, plus the giant breakfast. The hotel also provides a free transportation card and a 50% discount city card to guests as well!

Hyve Hostel Basel | Best Hostel in Basel

Hyve Hostel Basel is a great choice for those not just those traveling on a budget in Switzerland, but also for those out there who want a more social experience. It’s certainly not a party hostel, but it’s a pleasantly social hostel that has lots of common spaces, including a kitchen and a courtyard. You’ll love getting to relax in the cozy rooms; both private rooms and dorm rooms are available. Also, even though the hostel is three kilometers from the city center, the hotel sits right near the railway station!

Modern Room in Central Location | Best Airbnb in Basel

This Airbnb in Basel is for a private room and private bathroom rental. It’s a spacious room that is centrally located. You’ll just be a quick five-minute walk from downtown! The hosts will provide you with breakfast each morning and a BaselCard. The apartment itself is sparkling clean and very comfortable. You’ll enjoy having this well-stocked room and a host that really goes above and beyond!

Read our  safety guide for Safety in Switzerland before planning your trip so you will be extra prepared when you arrive.

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Interlaken is a picturesque resort town in central Switzerland. It’s actually built on a small stretch of the valley between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Completely encased in thick forests, meadows, and lakes makes any trip to Interlaken positively idyllic. Plus, there are plentiful glaciers and you know what that means… if you want to do some serious skiing or hiking in Switzerland , this is the place to be!

If you have the energy, hike up to Harder Kulm (the harder they Kulm, the harder they fall) , also called House Mountain – the views from up there are unparalleled! If you’re feeling sore from your hike, catch a boat tour and enjoy cruising along the water. If the idea of a boat ride bores you, then go ahead and head on over to Hohenmatte to go paragliding!

Best Places to Stay in Interlaken

Since Interlaken is a tiny, traditional resort town, it’s best to stay in the downtown area so that you have easy access to restaurants, shops, and cafes!

Chalet Sunnmätteli | Best Hotel in Interlaken

This chalet is run by a couple who are quite possibly the best hosts to ever exist. They go above and beyond to make sure you enjoy your stay. The chalet itself is clean, comfortable and close to local transport options. My favourite aspects of this stay are the incredible mountain views from the property and the chorus of birds that ease you into your morning. This is a special place to stay.

Balmers Hostel | Best Hostel in Interlaken

Balmers Hostel is epic. It’s a social hostel known for its live DJ shows, hot tub, and party events. If you’re not the party type, they do have fondue nights! Balmers Hostel sits at the bottom of Jungfrau mountain and is a great spot to go for hikes up to Harder Kulm. There are dorm rooms available, complete with key-card access and private lockers.

Private Loft Downtown | Best Airbnb in Interlaken

This private loft in Downtown Interlaken is beyond perfect. It’s in a central, yet quiet, area close to downtown. You’ll be just a quick three-minute walk to a supermarket. Inside this loft, there is one king bed, one single bed, and one sofa bed in case you are traveling in a group! Coming in under $70 a night makes this Airbnb a great option for those budget travelers out there!

Zermatt is legendary! It’s a mountain resort town famous for its incredible ski slopes. It’s in the south of Switzerland in the Valais canton and sits at an elevation of 1,600 meters. It also just happens to be directly below the celebrated but deadly Matterhorn mountain .

The ski area Zermatt-Matterhorn and Breuil-Cervinia is actually the absolute highest ski area in the Alps. There is no better place to ski in Switzerland than Zermatt!

Best Places to Stay in Zermatt

The main street, Bahnhofstrasse, has plenty of Zermatt’s hostels , hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s best to stay close to the main street so you can have easy access to all you need!

Le Petit Charme-Inn | Best Hotel in Zermatt

Le Petit Charme-Inn is a lovely hotel located just a seven-minute walk from the ski lifts. You’ll love hanging out on the rooftop terrace and checking out the panoramic views of the slopes and Matterhorn mountain! There is ski storage available, as well as a delicious breakfast buffet! You’ll be situated right on the main street— close to all the action!

Zermatt Youth Hostel | Best Hostel in Zermatt

The Zermatt Youth Hostel is the perfect place to stay in Zermatt for a ski trip! It’s located right in the village in a cosy abode. The rooms are comfortable and warm, and there are both dorms and private rooms available.

Matterhorn Valley Rental | Best Airbnb in Zermatt

This rental is for a private room in a bed-and-breakfast-styled Airbnb. It’s a warm and welcoming home that offers a complimentary breakfast each morning. You’ll be snug as a bug in a rug at this cozy rental!

Top Places to Stay in Switzerland

Faq about finding a place to stay in switzerland, what to pack for switzerland, don’t forget travel insurance for switzerland, final thoughts on where to stay in switzerland.

Whether you’re heading to Zurich or Bern, or Basel, there are so many beautiful places in Switzerland to stay! The lodging in Switzerland is so unique and chock filled with plenty of gems. Here are my top three choices for the best places to stay in Switzerland.

Hotel Victoria – Lugano | Best Hotel in Switzerland

Right on the shore of Lake Lugano, Hotel Victoria gives guests truly dramatic and beautiful views of the lake itself and of Mount Bre too. This historic hotel is a dream come true. During the summer months, you’re also able to dine outside on the terrace. Inside the hotel itself, there are two restaurants and even a dancing club that is completely soundproofed!

Hyve Hostel Basel – Basel | Best Hostel in Switzerland

Hyve Hostel Basel is a warm and cozy hostel that is known for its calm, chill vibes. There are plenty of shared spaces that guests can take advantage of, from a coffee shop to co-working spaces to a courtyard! There is also a well-equipped kitchen that you are welcome to cook in! This hostel is perfect for all different types of travelers, from couples to budget travelers to groups!

Books to Read While Traveling in Switzerland

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Switzerland, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

Frankenstein  – One of my favorites of all time. This iconic novel, about a scientist playing god, was written on the banks of Lake Geneva.

Swiss Family Robinson  – The adventurous story of a Swiss family that was marooned in the East Indies while traveling to Australia. Well-known around the world.

Unbearable Lightness of Being  – Though more concerned with Czechia and the Iron Curtain, a large portion of the novel takes place in Zurich, which acts as a foil to angsty Prague.

Einstein’s Dreams  – A fine novel that explores the concepts proposed by Albert Einstein in some very creative ways. Many of the genius’ most brilliant ideas came about while he was a patent clerk in Berne.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Switzerland and where to stay.

Which city in Switzerland is the best to stay?

Our personal favorite has to be Zermatt, if not for the Matterhorn and the surrounding scenic views, then for the epic skiing!

What is the prettiest city in Switzerland?

Lucerne is the most beautiful city in Switzerland, and possibly even Europe. This medieval town sits on the side of Lake Lucerne and is surrounded by some of the most impressive mountains in the country.

Is 1 week enough for Switzerland?

Of course you won’t be able to see everything, but thanks to the country being so well connected by smooth highways and speedy rail connections, a week is just enough time to visit most of the areas we’ve spoken about today.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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As the land of incredible mountains and milk chocolate, planning a trip to Switzerland is definitely a good idea. Whether you want to soak up some romantic vibes in Lucerne, or check out the art scene in Basel, or go skiing in Zermatt, you’re sure to have an incredible trip! Hopefully, one of our Switzerland accommodation options caught your eye! The lodging in Switzerland can get a bit pricey, it’s not Indonesia, after all, but we hope that you found your dream hotel, Airbnb, or hostel on our list!

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Switzerland .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Switzerland .
• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Switzerland instead.
• Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe . 
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
• Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

Updated December 2022 by Megan Christopher

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Tourist in Swiss Alps left in tears after capturing viral post of massive glacier melt

An english software developer's vacation photograph has gone viral, showing the effects of climate change on switzerland's rhône glacier.

Glaciers in the Swiss Alps don’t look like they used to, with one tourist’s viral vacation photo illustrating the effects of a warming planet at one of Switzerland’s natural wonders. 

Duncan Porter, a software developer from England, took to X over the weekend to share a before and after composite photograph taken 15 years apart at Rhône Glacier with his wife, Helen. 

There’s a “staggering” difference between the Rhône Glacier the couple visited in August 2009 and the Rhône Glacier they returned to this month, Porter said. The large mass of ice that once coated the mountain range has melted quickly since Porter’s last visit, leaving behind pools of gray water right at the surface. 

“Fifteen years minus one day between these photos," Porter wrote in the caption. "Taken at the Rhône glacier in Switzerland today. Not gonna lie, it made me cry."

Over 4 million people have come across Porter’s post since Sunday, which has garnered thousands of comments from climate change deniers to people who are equally heartbroken by the development.

‘Drastically different’ circumstances documented over a short period

Porter’s intention was to share the “drastically different” circumstances captured in the recent photograph, telling The Guardian that “these things are supposed to happen over really long time periods.

"What people should focus on is the speed of change," he says.

The region is warming about twice as fast as the global average, with scientists documenting that Swiss glaciers have lost 10% of their water volume in the last two years alone, according to reporting by The New York Times. 

The last time that much ice had melted in the region occurred over a period of 30 years, between 1960 and 1990, according a news release from the Swiss Academy of Natural Sciences. 

Rhône Glacier’s latest look hasn’t come as much of a surprise to glacier scientist Daniel Farinotti, who has witnessed the glacier retreat by about a third of a mile since he began to study it in 2007, the Times reported. 

The Swiss government is actively searching for solutions to address the changes in climate, which are set to threaten Swiss alpine customs as the country’s largest glaciers, Aletsch and Rhône, shrink, the newspaper reported. 

There’s a ‘huge amount’ you can do, English tourist says 

While Porter’s picture may have left a lot of people “feeling quite helpless,” he says that based on his experience there’s a “huge amount” you can do day to day, The Guardian reported. 

Porter, who is part of a local climate action group committee, says that taking part in local community projects is just one of many “wonderful” ways you can make a difference.

He also advocated for people to push for systemic change through the ways they vote and shop, according to The Guardian. 

Local News | Hamas hostage tunnel exhibit comes to Boston:…

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Local News | Hamas hostage tunnel exhibit comes to Boston: ‘The hostages must have visibility’

‘an exhibit against terror’.

As Hamas terrorists still hold more than 100 people hostage — including Americans — the exhibit on Boston City Hall Plaza intends to provide insight into the hostages’ experience.

People going to the exhibit starting Sunday will walk through a shipping container that’s covered with the faces of hostages — and hear audio from body cameras worn by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7 and video from inside the tunnels. The exhibit was designed in consultation with hostages who were released in November.

“There’s a mattress on the floor and a bathroom area, so visitors can appreciate the extremely harsh conditions that individuals have experienced in the tunnels since Oct. 7,” Douglas​​​​ Hauer, the lead organizer of the exhibit, told the Herald.

He emphasized the importance of raising awareness of the vulnerability of the hostages.

“We need to speak out. Silence is unacceptable,” Hauer said. “We need to amplify the situation of the hostages, and speak out for people who can’t be heard right now.

“This is not a political exhibit. It’s an exhibit against terror,” he added. “We reject terror, and we believe that the hostages must have visibility.”

The exhibit appeared before the UN in Geneva, Switzerland, in February, and at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., in March.

There were no counter-protests at those locations earlier this year, but “we’re on the heels of a period of extreme disruption,” Hauer said.

“The concerns about the vulnerability of the exhibit have been increased by the conduct of anti-Israel and antisemitic protesters,” Hauer added.

He has been working with local law enforcement to ensure they have security in place.

“The City of Boston has been a tremendous partner in helping us realize this exhibit,” Hauer said. “The Boston Police Department has been receptive and helpful since the very first meeting.”

The exhibit will be in Boston from Sunday to Tuesday.

The audio-visual simulation of the hostages’ experience is a project developed by The Forum for Families of Hostages. The exhibit is wheelchair accessible.

For security reasons, backpacks and personal items will not be allowed into the exhibit area.

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Sudan’s paramilitary fighters killed 85 people in an attack on a central village, residents say

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Fighters from Sudan’s paramilitary group rampaged through a central village, burning and looting and killing at least 85 people, including women and children, authorities and residents said Saturday, the latest atrocity in the country’s 18-month devastating conflict.

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces began attacking Galgani in the central province of Sennar late in July and in recent days the fighters “indiscriminately opened fire on the village’s unarmed residents” after they resisted attempts to abduct and sexually assault women and girls, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. More than 150 villagers were wounded, it said.

The RSF has been repeatedly accused of massacres, rapes and other violations across the country since the war started in April 2023, when simmering tensions between the military and the group exploded into open fighting in the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere.

Describing the hours-long attack, three residents said hundreds of RSF fighters stormed the village Thursday, looting and burning houses and public properties.

The offensive came after the residents put up resistance and repelled an attack by a small group of RSF fighters, according to a healthcare worker at the local medical center.

The small group retreated, then hundreds of RSF fighters returned in dozens of pickup trucks with automatic rifles and heavy weapons, according to the worker and another resident.

As of Friday, the medical center had received at least 80 bodies, including 24 women and minors, said the worker, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of fears for his safety.

Villager Mohamed Tajal-Amin said he saw seven bodies — six men and one woman — lying in the street midday Friday.

“The Janjaweed are in the street and people are not able to recover their dead and bury them,” he said, using the name of the Arab militias that became synonymous with genocide and war crimes in Darfur two decades ago. The RSF grew out of the militias.

RSF spokespeople didn’t return requests for comment Saturday.

In June, the RSF assaulted Sinnar’s provincial capital, Singa, about 215 miles southeast of Khartoum. They looted the city’s main market and took over its main hospital, forcing thousands of people to flee.

The latest attack came as the United States has led efforts to resume peace talks between the military and the RSF. The talks, which are boycotted by the military, began last week in Switzerland.

Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations were attending the talks. The RSF sent a delegation to Geneva but didn’t take part in the meetings.

“The RSF remains here ready for talks to start; SAF needs to decide to come,” U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello posted on X on Friday, using the acronym for Sudan’s Armed Forces.

The talks were the latest international effort to settle the devastating conflict that killed thousands of people. Famine was confirmed last month in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the western region of Darfur.

The conflict has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the United Nations and international rights groups.

Sudan’s war has also created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. More than 2 million of them have fled to neighboring countries.

Magdy writes for the Associated Press.

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A Unique Switzerland Campervan and Road Trip Itinerary

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on January 31st, 2023 at 02:00 pm

A re you curious about the best way to see Switzerland? Well, then, this road trip campervan itinerary is just for you! Ganesh and I took a lovely trip through Switzerland this spring with our trusty campervan. Living in Munich, I’ve visited Switzerland several times, but slower traveling with a campervan was ideal for seeing this picturesque country. Switzerland has some great campsites ranging from well-maintained holiday parks to more rustic farms, which are perfect for a campervan, tent, or those renting a cabin. We loved our campervan road trip itinerary, which allowed us to experience some of the highlights of Switzerland but also got us off the beaten path for unique experiences.

Switzerland is a gorgeous country that gives you a sample of the very best of Europe. With 4 national languages, including French, German, Italian, and Romansh, each region has a distinct flair. When you’re in the French-speaking cantons, you’ll find rustic chateaus and rolling vineyards. In the German region, you’ll find delicious cheese and towering mountains, and in the Italian-speaking region, there’s great food, and locals extend their hospitality. The diverse landscape, language, culture, and cuisine packed into a safe and easy-to-drive country make Switzerland the perfect destination for a European campervan road trip. 

This campervan road trip itinerary for Switzerland is fully customizable, so whether you have 7 days or 14 days, you can pick and choose the best stops and campervan campsites that work with your schedule.  Before you follow my itinerary, make sure you head over and save/read my post about the best driving and camping tips for a Switzerland road trip with a campervan, which includes essential planning tips, what to expect at campsites, and recommendations for where to rent a camper.  For this itinerary, you can rent a camper from IndieCampers which is located in Zürich. For a more budget-friendly option, you can also rent RoadSurfer from Munich or Freiburg and enter Switzerland near Zürich or Basel. We are based in Munich and drive a RoadSurfer.

WHAT WE’RE COVERING

Stop 1: Zürich

Stop 2: Bio Farm in Neuchâtel

Stop 3: La Fouly Glacier Camping

Stop 4: Interlaken Lake Camping

Stop 5: Lauterbrunnen Waterfall Camping

Stop 5: UNESCO Biosphere Camping

Discuss and Share

• Unique road trip itinerary for exploring Switzerland by campervan
• Discover hidden gems and still see the highlights
• Focus on nature-based and agricultural camping
• The perfect way to see a new side of Switzerland

Stop 1: Zürich – 1-2 Nights

If you’re renting based on my campervan tips post, you have a variety of entry options. If you’re coming from Munich as we did, Zürich is a great first stop. Zürich has a special place in my heart. It was the first place in Switzerland I ever visited while backpacking Europe in 2010. While I’ve come a long way from only being able to afford to stay in a spaghetti factory on my budget (that’s a story for another time), Zürich remains one of Europe’s most impressive urban sustainability hubs. As a modern European city with an upscale hipster vibe, my favorite thing to do when visiting the city is exploring the more grungy and artistic side, which is often overlooked. 

Where to Stay in Zürich

Fischers Fritz is the closest and most popular campsite for the Zürich area. However, it can get very crowded, especially during peak season. So, I would suggest parking near Zürich to see the city for the day and then heading to Camping Sihlwald to access a beautiful nature reserve. You could also choose Camping Strandbad Turlersee , which is right on a lake with access to walking trails, lake swimming, and nature. 

Of course, you can also choose to stay at a hotel in the city and park the van with them if you want to enjoy the most of your urban setting. I always stay in a recommend 25 Hours Hotel which oozes unique Zürich charm. In fact, with these campsites away from the city, you could easily spend 2 days in the area – one exploring the nature reserves near your campsite and the other seeing Zürich.

Things to do in Zürich

Alternative Tour of Zürich – In Zürich, I always recommend the alternative side of things. I suggest you visit the industrial district, the viaduct, and Rote Fabrik, which houses locally-owned boutique stores, art galleries, bars, and restaurants. Of course, the Alt Stadt can’t be missed for its authentic European charm. If you’re camping at Frischers Fitz, you can even walk along the lake into the city, stopping at some of the sights along the way.

Embrace Sustainability & Nature – Zürich is one of Europe’s sustainability hubs. A few zero waste shopping centers are a great option for filling up your campervan with packaging-free products. This helps reduce your waste while on the road and honestly makes cooking so much easier. Sihlwald Nature Reserve has some easy hikes, and Thurlersee has a fantastic walking trail that circumnavigates the entire nearby lake. 

Driving: Zürich -> Lac de Neuchâtel

The drive from Zürich to my recommended campsite in Neuchâtel is pretty short, which means there is plenty of time to explore some of the surrounding nature during your drive. I do recommend leaving the Zürich area early to get a spot at the campground I recommend for Neuchâtel. If you want another city break, you can hop over to Bern, but there are three impressive nature parks on your way, and I would suggest getting out and stretching your legs in one of them. 

The largest of the three, Doubs Natural Park is a great place for hiking, biking, and cultural immersion. The park is known for its impressive sustainability practices balancing traditional lifestyle with conservation. The park is home to impressive biodiversity, including the endangered checkerboard flower (Fritillaria meleagris ). There are two hikes in the region and sections of a long-distance bike trail. It is recommended you stop at the visitor center for maps of the two hikes. 

If you want more of a challenging hike or opportunities for wildlife viewing, then visit Thal Nature Park . Finally, in Jurapark Aargau, you’ll find some great themed walking trails for opportunities to learn about rural agriculture, biodiversity, and sustainable development in the region. You can even plan a route and drive through all three!

Stop 2: Bio Farm in Neuchâtel – 2 Nights

When we first entered the Neuchâtel region, I stuck my head out the window like a dog, gaping at the beautiful rolling vineyards. Each vineyard had an impressive château with a stunning lake view. If you are a big fan of wine, this is the place for you! After we checked into our bio farm accommodation and got the campervan set up, we offloaded the bikes and took off on a bike tour through the vineyards. There are plenty of spots to taste wine and many mountain ruins to visit along the bike trails if you don’t have a bike or don’t like wine, no worries.

On our second day, we also took time to stroll through some nature trails and poked our heads into small towns filled with museums, cobblestone streets, and boutique shops. We spent two nights here fitting in everything we wanted to do but also scratched the surface. You could easily spend three nights at a more relaxed pace and have the opportunity to see more castles and museums and enjoy long hikes. If we were to stay longer, we would have left the bio farm and checked into a campsite along the lake for a change of scenery. You get a taste of the very best of Switzerland in this hidden gem of a region. Whether you prefer to spend the day indulging in a wine tasting in a French-style wine cellar, cooling off by the lake, or have an action-packed day with hiking and biking, there is something for everyone. 

Where to Camp in Neuchâtel

The Coue: One of the reasons we choose this region is because of a specific camping spot. The Coue is a family-owned bio-farm near the sleepy town of Travers. This exclusive and off-the-beaten-path spot was a highlight of our Swiss campervan road trip. They don’t take reservations, so I recommend adjusting your itinerary to visit on weekdays or arrive just after check-in (around 2:30 pm). As soon as they open their gates, you can drive in and see if they have space for your campervan. Those on a road trip without their campervan can book one of the eco-pods or treehouse accommodations, which must be booked ahead of time on AirBnB. 

We loved relaxing on the farm, watching the chickens, goats, sheep, horses, rabbits, and baby cows frolicking – they legit had baby cows frolicking through the campsite. There is a small shop with local beer, cheers, wine, farm-fresh eggs, and daily bio-baguettes. You can even order some pizza and have a sit-down dinner if you need a break from camp food. The bathrooms and showers were comfortable and clean. While this campground is marketed as a great place for kids, with a play barn and farm animals, we enjoyed our time as an adult couple. The farm is located on one of the main bicycle routes, and you can easily walk to Travers, a quaint town.

The owners both spoke French. Whether they spoke much German (our second language) or English wasn’t apparent. Ganesh got by with his basic French, and they never offered to switch to another language.  If The Coue is full, you can try Hotel Camping Sutz, TCS Camping Gampelen Neuenburgersee, or any of the dozens of sites available in Neuchâtel.

Things to do in Neuchâtel

Wine Tasting: As you drive along Lake Neuchatel and Lake Bieler, you’ll be tempted to stop at every vineyard you see. We visited Château d’Auvernier, which was an excellent decision. This gorgeous winery offers a fantasy wine tasting, exploring their wines from traditional Chardonnay to premium Pinot Noir. You can even tour the wine cellar or take a moment to enjoy the sweeping views.

Explore Auvernier : After (or before) your wine tasting, I recommend just wandering the charming cobblestone streets of Auvernier. This small village has cute local shops and restaurants, medieval structures, and colorful doors framed with wisteria. 

Bike Tour : If you’re like us and brought your bikes, I recommend doing a bike tour in the region. From the Eco farm campsite, you can quickly access a trail that runs from Travers to Les Verrières, a hilly but relatively easy ride exploring smaller towns and farmland and runs along a scenic river. There are chances to get off and do small nature walks to add some steps to your day. You can also do the wine road, which runs along the lake and take you from the winery to the winery for a day of biking and wine tasting. 

Museums and Castles: If you prefer a little more hustle and bustle, you can head into the main capital to see the impressive Neuchâtel Castle. You can book an afternoon tour of the castle for about 5 CHF. There are also dozens of castles in the region, so if you are castle obsessed, this is the place to go bananas. Before or after your castle visit, explore the capital city. There are about 25 museums and dozens of castles in theCanton, so this is an excellent place for history buffs. 

Driving: Lac de Neuchatel -> La Fouly

The next stop after Neuchatel is La Fouly, a mountain town surrounded by glaciers. Of course, we took our time getting there because there is plenty to see along the way. The beauty of a Swiss road trip with your campervan is stopping wherever your heart desires, so feel free to stop as you please or follow along with our recommended stops.

Montreux is a great option to stop for lunch. We’ve been eating most of our meals in our campervan, but we liked to stop for lunch at a restaurant on transit days. There are some great lakeside options along Lake Leman, like Le Fouquet’s or more casual eats. Don’t miss Château de Chillon , which is the castle that inspired Prince Eric’s castle in the Little Mermaid. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed lunch stop, I can recommend La Terrasse du Port in the small harbor town of Port-Valais.

Pissevache is a stunning waterfall you’ll see on the side of the road. If you want to hop out and take a look, it’s a great place to stretch your legs. 

Amphithéâtre Romain: We stumbled on this hidden gem of a Roman ruin and were so excited we did – as Ganesh loves ruins! There is free parking across from the ruin, and the ruin itself is free to explore. It’s not much, but it is a reminder of the expanse of the Roman empire. If you’re into St. Bernards and kitschy tourist stops, there is a St. Bernard museum at the same stop, which honors the legacy of St. Bernards in the region. We didn’t visit the museum as it was not our cup of tea, but it looked cute. 

Enjoy the last stretch on your way to La Fouly. You’ll be heading up the mountain through winding roads and alpine farmland. Be prepared for narrow and winding roads, switchbacks, and the possible cow crossing, depending on the time of year.

Stop 3: La Fouly, Camping Among Glacier – 2 Nights

La Fouly is a mountain town that operates as a ski resort in the winter. This tiny yet charming village is an excellent hub for camping among glaciers and scenic hiking in the summer. Once again, we planned this stop around a campsite. I mean, who doesn’t want to camp among glaciers? We arrived later in the afternoon after spending the day sightseeing during our drive. We checked into our campground and found the perfect spot that suited our needs. Once settled in, we took off on a very short 1km educational trail walk before hunkering down at camp. Since it was rather chilly in spring at the high elevation, we cooked a hot meal, busted out the wine and whiskey, and allowed ourselves to take in the glacier views.

The next morning we woke up and headed out to hike, taking in the 360 mountain views. We packed lunch for the hike and took our time observing the flora. After another relaxing night, we got up early before packing up and hitting the road again. You probably don’t need more than two nights here, as the activities are limited and it is a very small area.

Where to Camp in La Foley

Camping Des Glaciers : The highlight of this stop is the campsite, where you camp among glaciers. You check in, order your morning baguette, and find an available pitch that suits you. We were traveling off-season, so we got an entire field to ourselves. You can choose a plot on a grassy field or rocky terrain underneath the glaciers. Each campground section has a bathroom, dishwashing station, and laundry sinks. Not every spot has power, so ensure your cord can reach the green power supplies. The bathrooms and showers are pretty good, but they aren’t close to some pitches. We made sure to stay near one as I frequently pee at night. Reception has great tourist and activity advice to help you plan your active outdoor holiday. There’s also a nice playground and cabins for rent.

Please offset your Switzerland campervan road trip itinerary through carbon offsetting with Swiss-based MyClimate or carbon-capturing with Tomorrow’s Air  so we have glaciers to continue to camp underneath.  

Things to do in La Fouly

Hiking, hiking, and more hiking: La Fouly is a hiking region, so you’re in the right place if you enjoy hiking. There are a handful of trailheads starting at the visitor center. We had planned on making the Chemin du Bouquetin trail. This is a more challenging day hike where you can hike up and down the mountain in a circular route or ride the gondola up and hike down for a more accessible option. However, when we arrived, there was still quite a lot of snow in the higher elevations, and the cable car wasn’t operating, so we opted for a lower elevation, Chemin du Bisse . This was a circular 5-6k trail that allowed for great views and a bit of forest traversing. We lost the trail through and ended up making out own way. Another lower elevation option is the Chemin des Places which takes you more through the forest. The region also has longer multi-day hikes such as the St. Bernard Trail and Tour du Mont Blanc.

Mountain Biking and ‘Extreme’ Sports: The region is ripe for mountain biking, paragliding, mountaineering, and mountain climbers. If you are more of an adrenaline junkie, you will certainly get your fix in the La Fouly region. 

Nature Walk and Tree Tops: For those looking for a softer adventure, there are many nature-based options, including a zipline and tree obstacle course, which is part of the campsite. Also starting at the campsite is the Charlotte the Marmot nature trail. This trail is marketed for kids, but honestly, even as adults, we enjoyed learning about the region’s ecosystem. This light walking trail meanders through the woods, and you’ll learn about the wildlife and nature in the region. 

Driving: La Fouly -> Interlaken

The drive from La Fouly to your next stop in Interlaken is a bit longer, but there are many great stops along the way. I’ve provided two options, plus an overall itinerary variation so that you can tailor the drive and next stop based on when you are traveling or your interests. 

St. Bernard Pass is a must-do for those on a summer campervan road trip. The pass is hailed as one of the most amazing drives in the world. The easiest way to make the drive is to navigate to St. Bernard Hospice, but make sure you take the correct route, as there is an express tunnel to Italy or a scenic drive. You want the scenic drive. The pass is only open June-October, and you’ll want to check road conditions before you head out. If you reach the hospice and lake, there are hiking opportunities with St. Bernards, lunch, and views of high alpine lakes and mountains. For tips on mountain passes with a campervan, head over to read my Swiss campervan tips.

The Cheese Trails: If you are traveling during the offseason, like us, I recommend heading straight to Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Nature Park . This is a lovely area known for its long history of cheese making. You’ll find plenty of great stops for cheese and scenic hikes. Better yet, you can even hike the Cheese Trails and follow in the footsteps of mountain people who used to carry cheese from village to village. I recommend hiking sections of the Via Le Gruyere AOP for more leisurely walks ranging from 4km – 10km; however, if you prefer to swing by a fromagerie and pick up some cheese for the road, then F romagerie Bio des Moulins is the best place.

It is important to support bio-farming and agriculture in Switzerland to protect pollinators and healthy crop yields for the future .

I thought a few campsites in this nature park looked nice. You could certainly stop and camp in this region for the night if you want more time to hike the cheese trails and learn about agriculture in the region. 

ALTERNATIVE ROUTE : We prefer to visit Zermatt for our skiing holidays, so we skipped the Matterhorn on this campervan itinerary for Switzerland. If you have your heart set on seeing the Matterhorn, this is the perfect spot to divert, driving from La Foley to the Zermatt region. I recommend camping at Camping Attermenzen, which views the Matterhorn for one night, before reconnecting with my itinerary in Interlaken. However, you’ll see plenty of impressive mountains and glaciers in Lauterbrunnen on my itinerary.

Stop 4: Lake Camping at Interlaken – 2 Nights

The Interlaken lake region is world-famous for its stunning lakes and scenic mountain views. After a long day of driving, we arrived at our lakeside campground in the late afternoon. We had enough time to check in, grab a spot on the water, and head out for an evening nature walk. The campground connects with the Weissenau Nature Reserve. The reserve was set up to protect rare nesting birds and restore their natural habitat. We lucked out; since we visited in May, the baby chicks had just hatched, and we spent hours bird-watching and taking photos.

Eventually, we made our way to the Weisenau Castel Ruin and the Thunersee Viewpoint. The following day we inflated the paddleboard and spent most of our time on the lake, paddling, picnicking, and exploring the nature trails connecting the camp to Interlaken. We stayed here for two nights and felt we had enough time to enjoy the region. However, you could easily stay longer and explore Interlaken.

Where to Camp in Interlaken

Camping Manor Farm is a superb location. The facilities were a bit dated, and the better spots could get grabbed up during peak season. However, we snagged a pitch right on the lakefront during the shoulder season and enjoyed a primarily crowd-free stay. The campsite has access to a nature reserve, ferry terminal, walking trails, ruins, Interlaken, observation decks, and more. The receptionist spoke English and was very helpful with tours and ideas in the region. The camp does require a J plug if you need electricity, but you can get one from reception for a deposit. There was a bar and restaurant available, but we made most of our food in our campervan, so we didn’t try it out. 

Things to Do in Interlaken

Nature, Birding, and Ruins: Spring is the best time for birding, but there are opportunities for bird viewing throughout the summer. Historically the Thurnsee was an important lake for transportation, and over the years, humans built up the shores with fortresses, housing, and shipping terminals. This had an unfortunate impact on wildlife, as birds no longer had marshy areas for nesting. To rewild the region, the nature reserve was set aside to restore the marshy wetlands. Dozens of rare bird species moved back in. From your campsite, you can walk the reserve length, stopping to view birds from observation decks and with binoculars. 

At the end of the nature reserve are ruins of an old fortress. It is free to enter, and you can go to the top for a stellar lake view. Make sure you go to the Thunersee View Point for the best view of the lake. It is a great spot to watch the sun begin to set before heading back to camp. The Lombach nature walk is a very easy trail that starts at the camp. The trail is flat and only runs for a few kilometers, making it a very accessible nature walk. 

Lake Activities: If you brought your SUP, kayak, or any other boating activities (unfortunately, there are no rentals), then you can enjoy the proximity to the lake and spend the day SUPing. If you don’t have anything to take to the lake, picnic and spend the afternoon relaxing on the lakeshore.  

Explore Interlaken: Interlaken is primarily a region but also a town nestled between two lakes. The town itself is a bit overrated, but there are a few things worth doing, most notably the funicular to the Harder Kulm observation deck. 

Take the Ferry: If you want to explore more of Thunersee without your car, the ferry system is the perfect way to do so. I recommend taking the ferry from your campsite to Beatushölen Sundlauenen for a scenic viewpoint. There is then a walking trail along the cliffside that will take you to Merligen. From there, you can catch the ferry back to camp.

Driving: Interlaken -> Lauterbrunnen

If you didn’t take advantage of the ferry system to circumnavigate Thunersee, then today is a great day to drive the route. We circumnavigated the lake visiting the viewpoints and stopping in Thun. We parked for 2 hours and did a lovely walk along the river, visiting the Jakobshübeli observation deck and the Thun castle. We didn’t spend too much time meandering as we wanted to get to our next camp and explore the Lauterbrunnen region – a definite highlight of our Swiss campervan itinerary. 

Stop 5: Lauterbrunnen, Camping Under Waterfalls 2-3 Nights

Lauterbrunnen is really the crem de la crem of this itinerary. The campsite we picked is literally at the base of several of the iconic waterfalls in the region. On top of that, the area is a home base for visiting Jungfrau, a towering glacier-filled mountain and Europe’s highest train ride.

We arrived in the later afternoon and geared up for a panoramic hike of the valley. After making our way through fields of wildflowers, cow pastures, and scenic compounds, all surrounded by powerful waterfalls and gigantic mountains, we ended up in downtown Lauterbrunnen. We grabbed a few drinks at the Hotel Horner and met some friendly locals before heading back to camp for the night.

Where to Camp in Lauterbrunnen

Camping Jungfrau: The campsite is large and modern, with ample pitches and rentals for all campers. The front desk was so friendly and gave us tourist information, we would even buy our Jungfrau tickets from then on another day. Most amenities were still closed due to the pandemic, but the campsite had a rec room, a small store, and plenty of fun in-house activities. Once we checked in, a camp employee escorted us to our spot. They gave us additional space on our pitch to follow covid requirements, so we had a whole row to ourselves. The bathrooms and showers were some of our best on this trip. From our camp spot, we could see multiple waterfalls and often fell asleep to the sound of cowbells and water crashing against rock. The campsite was close to town, the train station, and the waterfall experience, and overall had a good vibe.

Things to Do in Lauterbrunnen

Panorama Valley Walk: When you check into your campsite make sure to ask for a little map of the area. The map will include a 5km circular route around the valley. We were able to do this in just over an hour and it was fairly easy, but offered stunning views and a quiet intimate look at life in the valley.   

Trümmelbachfälle: If you love waterfalls, this is the place for you. One massively powerful waterfall has carved out a channel through the mountainside, effectively creating 12 smaller waterfalls in a unique cave system. There is an entrance fee, and kids under 4 are not allowed in, even with an adult. There are thousands of stairs, dangerous water, and steep drop-offs. Once you pay and enter, you can take an elevator up, but if you’re physically able, I suggest the stairs. After 12 waterfall views, you’ll reach the top with absolutely breathtaking views of the valley. It’s no wonder Tolkien was inspired to create Rivendell after visiting. 

Jungfraujoch: Visiting Jungfrau is a full-day adventure. You can buy tickets from the camp reception and catch the train from Lauterbrunnen station. The train ride alone takes almost two hours, and you must change trains once as you climb to the top of Jungfrau. Once you arrive at the top, you can explore the ice museum and exhibits. You can enter an observation deck, learn about glaciers, drink prosecco on ice, or if you’re prepared for hiking in the snow, you can even venture out to a hut for lunch before slowly working your way back down the mountain. 

Cable Cars, Hiking, and Endless Views: The Lauterbrunnen valley teems with gondolas, hiking trails, observation decks, and just views for days. You could spend an entire week or more traversing the region and taking photos. Ask your receptionist for recommended hikes and routes based on your interest to make the most of your stay.  

Grindlewald: While I suggest just staying in Lauterbrunnen and soaking up the region, you can access the popular Grindlewald from Lauterbrunnen by taking some gondolas and train. Grindelwald is picturesque and offers more alpine views. 

Driving: Lauterbrunnen -> UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch

Once you leave Lauterbrunnen, you’ll want to take the driving route along Brienzersee and then take the mountain pass called Panoramastrasse near Giswil to reach the UNESCO Entlebuch. The mountain drive is slow going, so take your time and use the scenic pull-outs for photos, or get out and stretch your legs at any of the countless walking and hiking trails. If any of the tourist offices are open, perhaps you can stop in and get some help planning your time in the region.

Stop 6: UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch

This is the perfect spot for UNESCO and nature lovers alike. Entlebuch is a role model for UNESCO sites fostering gentle tourism to protect nature while revitalizing rural communities. The management model of Entlebuch is so successful it is renowned among UNESCO sites winning awards. Unfortunately, when we visited, many things were closed from the pandemic, but there were plenty of hiking opportunities regardless. The UNESCO site was founded to protect unique alpine marshland (moors) and stunning geological features (karst) while preserving traditional lifestyles. 

Where to Camp in Entlebuch

If there is room at the inn, and you enjoy rustic and rural camping, then I hope you consider camping at Hof Grosschreie. There are only two places, and the owner is a full-time farmer, but camping here is a genuinely unique agricamping opportunity. You’ll get local knowledge about the best things to do in the biosphere and be able to buy direct from the farm. Even though the camping experience is more off-the-beaten-path, there are still facilities and even a little BBQ pit for cooking. If there isn’t room at the farm there’s a handful of campgrounds like Camping Thorbach and stellplatz (parking lots) in the area. 

Things to Do in Entlebuch

Hire a Local Excursions Guide: Local guides can help introduce you to the area while sharing their years of knowledge on excursions such as bat viewing. You can even sign up for courses including mushroom collecting, painting, or yodeling classes. The courses are temporarily on hold, but when they resume you can learn about them online.  

Hiking and taking a dip in the Kneippe: There are countless regional hikes. Your campsite or visitor center can help you find a route ideal for your fitness level, or you can explore some options here. After a hike, it is common in the Alps to cool your feet off in cold water. If you end your hike near the Kneippanlage Schwandalp , then you can enjoy this tradition if you’re brave enough to get in!

Environmental Education: If you want a more gentle day focused on learning about the biodiversity of the marshland, then check out the newly opened large moor path. With loads of informational signs, you’ll take extra steps and learn about alpine marshland. We have similar ecosystems here in Germany, which are some of my favorites. 

Marbachegg: Take a gondola to the top of Marbachegg, where you can picnic, take a food tour, paraglide, or try mountain co-karting.

Driving: UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch -> Zürich

Your unique and off-beat itinerary for Switzerland is coming to an end :(. From the Biosphere, you can drive back to Zürich. Along the way, you can take the gondola to the top of Mount Pilatus for views of Lucern. If you want more city breaks, then Lucern has plenty to offer. 

Alternative Routes and Options

Of course, there are several opportunities to expand your trip. Instead of returning to Zürich, you can navigate down to Lugano via the Gotthard pass – another of Switzerland’s famous passes. I’ve driven to Lugano on a separate trip itinerary, and the drive is stunning. You can easily find camping spots using tips from my Switzerland campervan road trip tip post. Some ideal places for camping would be in the Naturpark Beverin or continue to the Appenzell District to see the Wildkirche. From there, you could continue back to Germany, if you’re based in Munich, like us, head back to Zürich, or drop down to Italy for my Italian Campervan Itinerary (coming soon).

Finally, suppose you want to keep following my European campervan itineraries into Spain (coming soon). In that case, you can reverse this unique campervan itinerary, dropping into France after staying at La Coue eco-farm.

I hope this alternative and off-the-beaten-path campervan itinerary for Switzerland helps you plan an epic road trip. With a focus on nature and hidden gems while still seeing the highlights this itinerary offers a fresh look at Switzerland. 

• What part of this road trip itinerary looks the most exciting to you?
• Let me know if you have any questions to help you plan your dream campervan road trip through Switzerland

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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19 comments.

This is what offbeat travel is all about – the special experience. I have followed your journey on Instagram and it was satisfying to read through it in detail. You came across some really special places and all of it is so stunning.

Thanks for following along on Instagram! I really enjoyed seeing a different side of Switzerland with the campervan.

Switzerland is heaven! I have been there once and I think one can never get enough of the beauty.

It is hard to forget the beauty of Switzerland. You’ll have to return and see a different season – it’s beautiful in summer, winter, and even the shoulder seasons.

What an amazing road trip! I would love to do this. A very useful guide and itinerary, so saving this just in case I ever get the opportunity.

I hope you are able to visit! Seeing it all by campervan on a road trip is a great way to experience Switzerland.

I had no idea they made wine in Switzerland! This sounds like an amazing road trip!

Yeah, they make some great wine! Their shared border with the wine regions in France and Germany means they produce some great quality wines! A great reason to visit.

Okay, camping on Lake Interlaken would be a DREAM! I visited that area of Switzerland for 2 weeks and completely fell in love with it. Now, I love camping just as much so having both of those experiences together would be incredible! Thanks for sharing!

Yeah, it really was the perfect area to go camping. Many of the campsites are right on the shores of the lake.

Wow, this looks like an amazing trip! I love the mountains in Switzerland, and this looks like a great way to see the scenery. The Lauterbrunnen waterfall looks amazing!

Oh my gosh, that view of the waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland was jaw-dropping. It was a walking distance away from our campsite, which made it even more special.

I remember this from your Instagram’s stories! This looks like a fantastic itinerary; the landscapes in Switzerland are straight out of a dream, so beautiful!

Hi, this itinerary is inspiring, thus I will follow quiet the same route. Do you have the estimation of driving distance (in kms) for this itinerary? I would love to know it, to arrange my booking plan of the campervan. Thank you very much

Hey Mita, since we had our campervan on a long-term lease and were paying by the year, we didn’t keep a close eye on kilometers, especially since we drove in from Germany. I also have a few variations listed in the itinerary, so it depends on if you go to Zermatt, the St. Bernard Pass, or want to explore the eastern part of the country. I suggest you plug in the stops you want to make in Google maps and use the multi-destination feature or run the itinerary by the campervan rental company to ensure you are covered. Hope you have the best time in Switzerland.

Hi again, Mita, I just did a rough calculation, and this road trip was about 700-800 kms. But, again, the number greatly depends on the route you choose, and any alternative stops or detours you might make. It is an excellent reminder to keep track of stuff like this for the blog, and I’ll look at updating the post with an interactive map.

An schedule for a campervan road trip in Switzerland may be found in this post on the Curiosity Saves Travel blog. The author offers advise on selecting a suitable campervan, mapping out your travel route, and reserving campsites based on their own experiences and those of other travelers. Anyone considering a road trip through Switzerland in a campervan and looking for advice from a seasoned traveler should read this piece.

Hi, can you please recommend campervan rentals based on your experience?

Hey there, the campervan company we used while living in Europe is mentioned in the post itself under “where to rent a campervan” including a link to their site. We used RoadSurfer. Hope you have a great time in Switzerland!

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