5 day train tour of switzerland

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Whether fascinating panoramic lines or relaxed boat cruises: Switzerland by train, bus and boat is always a wonderful experience. 

Due to flood damage, the Zermatt–Brig–Andermatt route is closed until further notice. The Glacier Express trains are only running between Chur and St. Moritz. Thank you for your understanding.

This conviction is also at the heart of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. On this tour of roughly 1,280 kilometres, panoramic trains take you to all the highlights and sights Switzerland has to offer. Get in, lean back and enjoy – whenever and wherever. 

All sections of the route at a glance:

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland (PDF, 239 KB)

Find all details about the sections here at GrandTrainTour.com Link opens in new window.

Travel suggestions.

Whether you like to plan your trip independently or prefer simply to book a package: Discover the top travel suggestions and find inspiration for your personal Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. 

• «Original» (from 8 days) 
• «Classic» (from 7 days)
• «Top Attractions» (from 5 days)
• «Glaciers & Palm Trees» (from 4 days)
• «Stunning Waters» (from 4 days)
• «Hidden Treasures» (from 3 days)
• «Winter Magic» (from 8 days)

Ticket / Reservation.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex), which is only available for guests with permanent residence outside Switzerland, and is also included in the entire ticket range for Switzerland (point-to-point tickets, supersaver tickets, 1-day travelpasses, GA travelcard, etc.). 

A seat reservation is mandatory for Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express. A reservation on trains of the GoldenPass Line is not mandatory, but recommended.

• Reservation Bernina Express Link opens in new window.
• Reservation Gotthard Panorama Express Link opens in new window.
• Reservation GoldenPass Line Link opens in new window.
• Reservation Glacier Express Link opens in new window.

The Grand Train Tour App.

Discover the most beautiful railway lines in Switzerland accompanied by the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App.

What the app offers:

• All must-sees along the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland
• Push notifications for upcoming sights
• Playful collecting and sharing of stamps and awards
• Attractive gifts and discounts with integrated digital coupons
• Personal travel overview of visited locations with the “been there” function
• Thrilling fun facts along the route

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App is available to download for free at the App Store and Google Play Store in seven languages: German, English, Chinese traditional, Chinese simplified, Japanese, Korean and Thai.

Der Reiseführer zur Grand Train Tour.

Gut geplant ist sehenswürdiger gereist..

Im eigens auf die Grand Train Tour ausgerichteten Reiseführer erfahren Sie, welche wunderschönen Sehenswürdigkeiten Ihnen auf der 1280 Kilometer langen Zugreise begegnen.

The guide to the Grand Train Tour.

Well planned is better travelled.

In the guidebook specially designed for the Grand Train Tour, you will find out which wonderful sights you will encounter on the 1280-kilometre train journey.

Further content

Swiss travel pass (only for guests with permanent residence outside switzerland)..

The Swiss Travel Pass is the all-in-one ticket for train, bus and boat all throughout Switzerland including the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Tickets Switzerland (for all guests).

The ticket range (point-to-point tickets, supersaver tickets, 1-day travelpasses, GA travelcard, etc.) is valid for the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Website Link opens in new window.

More on the topic.

• Further information about Grand Train Tour Link opens in new window.
• Grand Train Tour Route (PDF, 1,3 MB) Link opens in new window. This document is not barrier-free.

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GRAND TRAIN TOUR OF SWITZERLAND

The grand train tour of switzerland: all-inclusive train tour package.

★★★★★ The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , the official top Switzerland train tour package , offers an all-inclusive, customizable journey through scenic train routes . Covering the Swiss Alps, lakes, and charming towns, it includes the Glacier Express , Bernina Express , and GoldenPass Express , simplifying your travel planning for an unforgettable Swiss experience.

★★★★★ 5 Reasons WHY the Grand Train Tour is Your Ideal Switzerland Package Tour

1. experience the magic of swiss rail tours:.

Our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland packages, a top choice for a Switzerland train tour package , rank among the best rail tours in Switzerland, offering a comprehensive experience of the country’s stunning landscapes and cultural wonders. Discover why our Switzerland trip packages are the perfect choice for your next vacation.

2. All-inclusive Swiss Rail Vacation Packages:

Enjoy the simplicity and convenience of our all-inclusive Swiss rail vacation packages . Experience scenic journeys on premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express , along with comfortable accommodations and select attractions. We’ve bundled everything for a seamless travel experience.

3. Crystal-Clear Itineraries:

Each of our Switzerland train tours features a detailed itinerary that meticulously outlines routes, schedules, and attractions. Whether you’re journeying through the Swiss Alps or aboard the iconic Glacier Express , our clear itineraries ensure a stress-free adventure.

4. Customizable Travel Experiences:

We value the personal touch in travel. Our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers flexibility for customization. Whether you desire extended stays at specific locations or wish to add unique excursions, our packages are designed to cater to your dream Swiss vacation.

5. EXCLUSIVE 5% Discount Only at SwissASAP.com

Unlock your Swiss adventure for less! Book your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland through SwissASAP.com and enjoy an exclusive 5% discount. Use promo code SWISSASAP at checkout. Don’t miss out—your journey through the heart of Switzerland starts here!

Discover our curated packages for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Explore our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland package , offering a breathtaking journey across 1,280 kilometers on premium trains like the Bernina Express , Glacier Express , GoldenPass Express , and Gotthard Panorama Express . Start with our expertly designed itineraries below, and feel free to customize your trip by adjusting the number of nights or upgrading your hotel. Booking your Grand Train Tour is a smart and stress-free choice—get it done in just a few clicks!

Special Promotion: Exclusively on SwissASAP, take advantage of our special promotion. Book your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland and enjoy a fantastic 5% discount on your purchase. Simply use the promo code “ SWISSASAP ” during the checkout process to avail yourself of this incredible offer. Hurry, this offer is valid until July 31, 2024 !

The Original

8 days / 7 nights  from CHF 1,650/person

Interlaken – Montreux – Zermatt – St. Moritz – Lugano – Lucerne – St. Gallen

Explore Switzerland with the 8-day ‘ Grand Train Tour of Switzerland ‘ aboard Europe’s most thrilling panoramic trains. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes during your journey and immerse yourself in the diverse cultural tapestry of this four-language region. Bookable with luggage transport 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

The Classic

7 days / 6 nights  from CHF 1,330 /person

Lucerne – Lugano – Tirano – St. Moritz – Zermatt – Montreux – Interlaken – Lucerne Experience the best of Switzerland with this 7-day package, featuring travel on all premium panoramic trains across the country. Enjoy a comprehensive journey from alpine peaks to palm-lined streets, capturing the full diversity of Swiss landscapes.

Bookable with luggage transport 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

The Classic with Jungfraujoch

8 days / 7 nights  from CHF 1,53 0/person

Zurich – Lucerne – Interlaken – Montreux – Zermatt – St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano – Lucerne Switzerland is celebrated for its superb scenery and outstanding tourist trains that offer the best views of this enchanting country. Enjoy many highlights on this 8-day tour, which features several renowned trains, including the Glacier Express and the Jungfrau Railway, taking you to the ‘ Top of Europe ‘—the highest railway station on the continent.

Top Attractions

5  days /  4  nights  from CHF 790 /person

Lucerne – Interlaken – Montreux – Zermatt – Chur Explore top Swiss highlights in Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, and Chur. Marvel at the Matterhorn , traverse Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge , and visit the vineyards of Lavaux . Enjoy scenic rides on the GoldenPass Express and Glacier Express , and experience the breathtaking Rhine Gorge.

📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

Historic Tour

6  days /  5  nights  from CHF  1,360 /person

Chur – Zermatt – Montreux – Brienz – Lucerne On this special edition of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , experience historic ambiance and Swiss hospitality at select Swiss Historic Hotels, each boasting its own unique story. Travel in the historic Belle Époque carriage of the GoldenPass Line and immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era.

Glaciers and Palm Trees

4  days /  3  nights  from CHF 72 0/person

Lucerne – Lugano – Tirano – St. Moritz Journey on the Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express , traversing the Swiss Alps from St. Moritz through the Bernina Pass to Tirano, Italy, then onward to the Mediterranean ambiance of Ticino and Lugano.

Stunning Waters

3 days / 2 nights  from CHF  34 0/person

Lucerne – St. Gallen The journey begins in Lucerne. After a good night’s sleep, the next day you take the Voralpen-Express to St. Gallen. On the third day you travel along Lake Constance to the largest waterfall in Switzerland, the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen.

Hidden Treasures

3  days /  2  nights  from CHF 53 0/person

Lucerne – Interlaken – Domodossola – Locarno – Lucerne Discover hidden gems on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland . Journey from central Switzerland via the Lucerne-Interlaken Express , explore the Bernese Oberland, experience the Centovalli Express in Valais, and return on the renowned Gotthard Panorama Express .

Winter Magic Tour

7  days /  6  nights  from CHF 1,140 /person

Lucerne – Interlaken – Zermatt – St. Moritz

Explore winter wonders on the ‘ Grand Train Tour of Switzerland .’ Journey through snow-clad landscapes on the Glacier Express , with an optional Bernina Panorama Winter ride. See the Matterhorn, Rhine Gorge, and Landwasser Viaduct. Enhance your trip with mountain excursions and skiing in top resorts.

Winter Edition (Temporarily unavailable)

9  days /  8  nights  from CHF 1,560/person

Lucerne-Interlaken-Montreux-Zermatt-St.Moritz

Discover Switzerland in winter on a 9-day ‘ Grand Train Tour .’ Experience scenic highlights from Lucerne to St. Moritz, including the Eiger and Lake Geneva, aboard the GoldenPass and Glacier Express . Visit iconic spots like car-free Zermatt and Montreux’s Chillon Castle. Including Gornergrat 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

Why Choose SwissASAP for Your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?

1. Official Product Guarantee: At SwissASAP , we pride ourselves on offering only official products directly in partnership with Swiss Travel System AG and STC Switzerland Travel Center AG . This means that when you book with us, you’re guaranteed to receive an authentic Swiss Travel Pass that includes all the benefits and reassurances that come directly from the official sources.

2. Prompt and Comprehensive Information: Our commitment to your seamless travel experience extends beyond just booking. SwissASAP ensures that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips, both through our user-friendly website and our dedicated back office team. Whether you need details about train schedules, hotel options, or travel tips, we are here to help you every step of the way. .

3. Exclusive Savings with SwissASAP: To make your Swiss journey even more enjoyable, we offer an exclusive 5% discount on your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland when you use the promo code SWISSASAP at checkout. It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing us as your travel partner.

4. Expert Knowledge: Our team is not just skilled, but passionate about Switzerland. We know the ins and outs of traveling through this beautiful country and are eager to share our knowledge with you. From must-see destinations like the Jungfrau Region to hidden gems off the beaten path, our advice helps you get the most out of your Swiss adventure.

5. Personalized Customer Support: At SwissASAP, your satisfaction is our priority. We provide expert assistance tailored to your needs, ensuring your questions are answered and your travel arrangements are seamless. Our support extends through every phase of your journey, making your experience with our Switzerland travel packages as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Contact our Support Team at Email: [email protected]

Choose SwissASAP for a trusted, enriching, and hassle-free journey through the wonders of Switzerland. Experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps, iconic cities, and picturesque landscapes with the peace of mind that comes from having a reliable travel partner by your side. Home

In a delightful twist of fate, a minor confusion disrupts the itineraries of Roger Federer and Trevor Noah , setting them off on an unforgettable journey aboard the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.  Join the duo as they embark on their remarkable expedition, traversing the breathtaking vistas of Switzerland.

"Choosing SwissASAP for our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland was the best decision we made. With their exclusive 5% discount and customizable packages, we experienced the scenic beauty of Switzerland seamlessly and at an unbeatable value. If you're planning a Swiss rail adventure, SwissASAP is the way to go!"

Leigha Proctor from USA

Explore Additional Switzerland Travel Packages: Unique Theme Holidays

Beyond the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , we offer a variety of other Switzerland travel packages designed around unique themes. Dive into diverse Swiss experiences with our specialized holiday themes. Take the Palm Express for a scenic journey from St. Moritz to Lugano, enjoying expansive views aboard a post bus. Don’t forget to use the promo code “ SWISSASAP ” to get a 5% discount on your adventure.

Best of Switzerland

5  days /  4  nights  from CHF  68 0/person

Dive into Switzerland’s scenic splendors with stays in Lucerne and Interlaken. Enhance your Swiss vacation with mountain adventures to Pilatus, Stanserhorn, Titlis, or the iconic Jungfraujoch. 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

In the Footsteps of James Bond

8  days /  7  nights  from CHF 1,280/person

Embark on an 8-day Swiss rail tour reliving iconic James Bond scenes. The highlight? Piz Gloria atop Schilthorn, the infamous Blofeld’s Lair.

Famous Mountain Peaks by Train

5 days / 4 nights  from CHF 90 0/person

Experience a Swiss train tour package to renowned peaks: Jungfraujoch and Gornergrat. Revel in unparalleled views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and the majestic Aletsch Glacier.

Magical Moment

7  days /  6  nights  from CHF  1,35 0/person

Revel in Switzerland’s winter charm in renowned resorts of Interlaken and Lucerne. From alpine peaks to traditional Cheese Fondue and horse-drawn sleigh rides, it’s a winter wonderland. 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

Palm Express

3  days /  2  nights  from CHF  47 0/person

A unique panoramic journey by post bus, starting from alpine St. Moritz, through the serene Bergell, touching Chiavenna (Italy), and culminating at the shores of Lake Lugano in Lugano. 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

Furka Steam Railway

2  days /  1  night  from CHF  37 0/person

Relish a nostalgic steam ride on this Swiss train tour package, showcasing engineering marvels from Oberwald via the Furka Pass to Realp, all set against the backdrop of the Rhone and Mutt glaciers. 📌 5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Q: what are the main highlights of the grand train tour, q: what are the best switzerland travel packages available from the us, q: is the grand train tour of switzerland suitable for families.

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Who is SwissASAP.com?

SwissASAP , Yo ur Global Gateway to Swiss Travel Pass  is an online market partner  with  Swiss Travel System AG  and   STC Switzerland Travel Center AG . We are a trusted website to purchase  Swiss Travel Pass,  the best option of traveling in Switzerland .

We are honored to have received the  Swiss Travel System Excellence Expert Award for 2023 / 2024 by   Swiss Travel System AG , and to be recognized as a  Qualified Switzerland Travel Expert for 2023-2024  by  Switzerland Tourism .

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland (Itinerary, Info and Map)

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers visitors to this incredibly beautiful country a unique way to see all the highlights. 

Although it’s called a Switzerland train tour, the Grand Tour is actually a self-guided trip that combines Switzerland’s most scenic train rides with all the key sights. 

The Swiss Grand Train Tour comprises eight different legs, covering 1,280 kilometres, and visitors can choose to take as few or many of these trips as they like to create a bespoke itinerary reflecting their interests.

In this way, individual train tours in Switzerland can be designed just as the visitor pleases.

Whilst all eight sections can be completed in eight days, if time permits, we recommend you take a little longer to complete the route.

This is because taking the tour in eight days means travelling every day, leaving you short of time for seeing the sights and enjoying some time in each destination. 

Ideally, a 14 day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is recommended for those who want to get the very best out of their trip through Switzerland. 

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

The entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland visits ten destinations, passes by eleven lakes, and incorporates journeys on all five premium panoramic trains.

Travellers wishing to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience that is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can either make all their own rail and hotel arrangements, or they can book one of the Switzerland train tour packages that are based on the Grand Tour route.

We’ll cover both options in more detail below.

What's in this Article

Booking a Switzerland train tour package

The easiest way to plan your Grand Tour of Switzerland by train is to book a pre-designed Grand Train Tour package . There are a number of different packages available, ranging from 3 days / 2 nights up to 9 days / 8 nights.

These self-guided tours of Switzerland include all rail travel on your chosen route as well as accommodation. 

Travellers have the flexibility to amend the pre-designed itineraries to suit their own requirements.  Additional days can be added and excursions can be included at each destination.

Travellers can also choose the standard of accommodation and room type they prefer and choose between first class and second class train travel.

One of the most popular Switzerland train tours is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original.  This 8 day / 7 night itinerary includes rides on five of the most scenic trains Switzerland has to offer, making it the ideal way to tour Switzerland by train.

Seat reservations on the premium panoramic train rides in Switzerland are also included.

The ‘Original’ Grand Train Tour of Switzerland package can be easily extended if you have additional time and would like to spend more time in each destination. 

To make your Switzerland trip even easier, the tour can also be booked with luggage transport.

Simply leave your luggage in the hotel reception at the designated time each morning and it will be waiting for you at your destination hotel later the same day.

🇨🇭 Listen to our podcast episode about Swiss rail packages here .

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland price

Having the option to customise the itinerary to your own requirements makes a Grand train tour of Switzerland hotel package very affordable.

Prices for a 3 day / 2 night ‘Stunning Waters’ Grand Tour start from just CHF 300 per adult, whilst the 8 day / 7 night Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original package starts from CHF 1280 per adult.

> Click here to browse all 10 Grand Train Tour of Switzerland packages  

EXCLUSIVE BONUS OFFER Holidays to Switzerland readers can benefit from a 5% discount when they book one of Switzerland Travel Centre’s Grand Train Tour of Switzerland journeys . Simply quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for the discount.  > Click here to browse the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itineraries .

Planning a DIY Switzerland Grand Train Tour 

If you love the research side of planning your trips, and have the time to book each of the components of your Switzerland train itinerary separately, we recommend you consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass .

This all-in-one public transport ticket covers all of Switzerland by train, bus, boat and tram. With the Swiss Travel Pass there’s no need to purchase individual train tickets in Switzerland for each leg of the journey, as the pass allows you to hop on and off each train in Switzerland as you wish.

The Swiss Travel Pass incorporates all of the premium panoramic trains that run throughout the country, including the Luzern-Interlaken Express, Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line, Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express.  > Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

(*Note: seat reservations – which are an additional cost – are compulsory for the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Express Prestige Class, and are recommended for all premium panoramic trains.) 

Prefer to drive around Switzerland? Click here to see our 14-day itinerary of Switzerland by car.

The Original Grand Tour of Switzerland by Train Itinerary

The original 8-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itinerary visits the most popular tourist destinations in the country and includes rides on the famous Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express. (See our Transport section for detailed guides on each of the premium panoramic trains.)

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland 8-day itinerary

• Day 1: start anywhere in Switzerland > Interlaken
• Day 2: Interlaken > Montreux
• Day 3: Montreux > Zermatt
• Day 4: Zermatt > St. Moritz
• Day 5: St. Moritz > Lugano
• Day 6: Lugano > Lucerne
• Day 7: Lucerne > St. Gallen
• Day 8: St. Gallen > finish anywhere in Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Sectors

There is no official start and finish point as visitors can choose to commence their journey wherever is most convenient.  You can, of course, add additional overnight stays in your chosen locations to extend the duration of your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

As Zurich is the gateway to Switzerland for most visitors, we have used it as the start and end point for this itinerary and have provided a day-by-day itinerary so you can see just how much of the country you can cover.

Zurich – Lucerne – Interlaken

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Luzern-Interlaken Express

Distance/Journey time: 131km / 2h:45

Highlights of the journey:

After travelling from Zurich to Lucerne by a regular intercity train, passengers join the Luzern to Interlaken Express which connects two of Switzerland’s most desirable destinations.

En route, visitors pass glistening lakes, tumbling waterfalls and enjoy alpine vistas, as well as travelling over the Brunig Pass. 

This scenic train in Switzerland journeys into the breathtaking Jungfrau region, and forms the first part of the GoldenPass Line that travels on to Montreux.

What to do in Interlaken

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Interlaken , such as rafting, paragliding and canyoning. For the best views over the city and lakes Brienz and Thun, a funicular ride to Harder Kulm is highly recommended. 

Visitors can also take trips to Schnyige Platte, the Jungfraujoch or Brienz Rothorn, or take a train ride to gorgeous Lauterbrunnen.

Where to stay in Interlaken

• 3* Hotel Beausite > click here to check prices
• 4* Carlton Vintage Adults Hotel > click here to check prices

There are more hotels in Interlaken to suit all budgets in this article.

Interlaken – Montreux

Premium Panoramic Trains used: GoldenPass Express

Distance/Journey time: 120km / 3h:15

Highlights of the journey

As it departs Interlaken, the GoldenPass Express glides past Lake Thun before continuing to Zweisimmen in the Bernese Oberland, via the Simmen Valley. 

Along the way, this panoramic train in Switzerland passes a range of rivers, clear mountain lakes and waterfalls. Travellers can also see pastures where cattle graze and majestic castles. 

The glitzy resort village of Gstaad is an ideal place to stop off for a stroll and a meal, before reboarding for the final part of the journey.

The trip comes to an end when the train arrives in Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva.

What to do in Montreux

Popular activities in Montreux include lake cruises and visiting Chillon Castle, while some like to explore the nearby Lavaux vineyards. 

Other day trips from the city include the Alimentarium in Vevey, the world’s first museum dedicated solely to food, as well as excursions to Rochers de Naye, Geneva and Gruyeres. The latter is where the famous Swiss cheese originated. 

Where to stay in Montreux

• 3* Hotel Splendid > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Eden Palace Montreux > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Montreux in this guide .

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Distance/Journey time: 148km / 2h:30

This leg of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland takes visitors through the magnificent Rhone Valley. The destination is Zermatt , but before arriving in the home of the mighty Matterhorn visitors will pass through Visp. 

The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway then travels through the Nikolai Valley, climbing over 900 metres in altitude with the assistance of cogwheel technology.

What to do in Zermatt

Zermatt is famous for its car-free centre – as well as the majesty of the Matterhorn. There are spa springs and plenty of shopping to enjoy in the pretty resort of Zermatt. 

To see the Matterhorn more closely, visitors can take a cable car ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Alternatively, spending time on the Gornergratbahn is also popular. 

Hiking and skiing – which is available all year round – are also popular activities in Zermatt.

Where to stay in Zermatt

• 3* Hotel Bristol Zermatt > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Mirabeau & Spa > click here to check prices

Read more: Best hotels in Zermatt.

Zermatt – Chur – St. Moritz

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Glacier Express

Distance/Journey time: 291km / 7h:45

Train rides in Switzerland don’t come much more iconic – or scenic – than the Glacier Express . This is surely the most dramatic of all train journeys in Switzerland, not least because it’s the longest sector. 

En route, travellers can marvel at typically Swiss panoramas including deep ravines, pretty villages, vast forests, 91 tunnels, 291 bridges, and the breathtaking Landwasser Viaduct. 

The slowest express train in the world – as it is often known – also crosses the Oberalp Pass.

What to do in St. Moritz

St. Moritz is an elegant ski resort where visitors can take to the slopes in winter or hike in summer.  Trips and activities on the lake are also popular.

It’s also a great place to take in the fresh mountain air while admiring sweeping views over the Swiss landscape. St Moritz also has a leaning tower that’s well worth a visit. 

Where to stay in St. Moritz

• 3* Hotel Waldhaus am See > click here to check prices
• 4* Crystal Hotel St. Moritz > click here to check prices

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

 Premium Panoramic Trains used: Bernina Express

Distance/Journey time: 183km / 6h:30

Travel by train in Switzerland between St. Moritz and Lugano, and the journey will take you from the ski slopes of St. Moritz to the palm trees of Lugano, via Tirano in Italy and the 2253 metre high Bernina Pass. 

The Rhaetian railway line, on which the Bernina Express runs, is one of only three in the world that have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lakes, switchback tunnels, and even an alpine garden can also be glimpsed along the way. 

The Morteratsch Glacier is also a highlight. 

What to do in Lugano

Lugano is a pretty Italian-influenced resort with an interesting Old Town and an enviable lakeside position. With something of a Mediterranean air, Lugano has a lovely palm-lined promenade. 

Visitors can take a lake cruise, or sample some Italian-style Swiss dishes at the town’s fine selection of cafes and restaurants. Mountain excursions to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore are also popular. 

Where to stay in Lugano

• 3* Continental Parkhotel > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel de la Paix > click here to check prices

Lugano – Flüelen – Lucerne

Premium Panoramic Trains used:   Gotthard Panorama Express

Distance/Journey time: 182km / 5h:30

Train tours in Switzerland don’t come much more diverse than the sector between Lugano and Lucerne. As the train rolls through the scenic landscape, visitors pass through the famed Gotthard panoramic route, then the impressive Reuss Valley. 

At  Flüelen, travellers board a modern motor boat or historic paddle steamer to glide across the waters of Lake Lucerne before reaching the city of Lucerne.

What to do in Lucerne

Lucerne is a city very much at the heart of Swiss history, so there’s lots to see and do in Lucerne . Many visitors like to take a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne. 

As well as exploring the town on the shores of the lake, travellers can see Chapel Bridge or take a mountain excursion to Rigi, Titlis, Pilatus or Stanserhorn.

Where to stay in Lucerne

• 3* Hotel des Alpes > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Astoria > click here to check prices

Browse more accommodation options in our Lucerne Hotels Guide .

Lucerne – St. Gallen

Distance/Journey time: 125km / 2h:15

The Voralpen Express (Pre-Alps Express) takes travellers past some of the mightiest mountains of the Swiss Alps – including the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. 

This panorama train in Switzerland begins at Lake Lucerne, passing gentle rolling green hills as well as majestic peaks en route. 

It also passes Rapperswil and the Rothenthurmer upland moors, before crossing Lake Zurich and the 99-metre high Sitter Viaduct before arriving in St. Gallen.

What to do in St. Gallen

The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Abbey Library and District are a particular highlight of St. Gallen. Situated between Lake Constance and the Appenzeller region , St Gallen is a compact town that’s easy to explore on foot. 

The biggest draws include the open-air, art nouveau pool, the baroque cathedral and the library’s Rococo Hall.

Read our guide to things to do in St. Gallen here .

Where to stay in St. Gallen

• 3* Sorell Hotel City Weissenstein > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Walhalla > click here to check prices

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zurich

Distance/Journey time: 133km / 2h:30

Your train journey through Switzerland will reveal an interesting truth – the fact that this landlocked European nation has a real maritime heritage. Lake Constance in particular has played a leading role. 

The journey between St. Gallen and Zurich travels along the lake’s shore for 40 kilometres. After that, it traces the route of the Rhine past Schaffhausen, home of the Rhine Falls and Munot Fortress. The falls are the largest in Europe.

Should time allow, a side trip to the pretty medieval town of Stein am Rhein is highly recommended.

What to do in Zurich

Zurich is the financial and industrial hub of Switzerland, and as such is sometimes overlooked by visitors. However, it also boasts a fascinating Old Town – the Altstadt – that dates back to pre-medieval times. 

The Old Town is bisected by the Limmat River, and this has waterside promenades. The Rathaus dates back to the 1600s, and a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse – one of Europe’s most expensive shopping strips – is a must.

The city is built beside Lake Zurich which is popular for boat cruises and water sports. 

Where to stay in Zurich

• 3* Hotel Adler > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Zurich in this article .

Adding more days to your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Itinerary

As mentioned above, the original Grand Train Tour of Switzerland route can be completed in eight days, however we suggest allowing more time in some destinations.

For a 12-day Switzerland by train itinerary, add additional nights in Interlaken, Zermatt, Lugano and Lucerne.  If you have 15 days available for your journey by train through Switzerland, stay two nights in each destination.

More Grand Tour of Switzerland by train itineraries

If you don’t have a full week available or don’t want to travel the entire Grand Train Tour route, you can choose to travel on the sectors that are of particular interest to you.

To make it easier to choose an alternative itinerary, a number of shorter Grand Train Tour package options are available.  Click on the tour name below for further details and see below for our bonus offer:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Original – 8 days / 7 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Classic – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Top Attractions – 5 days / 4 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Historic Tour – 6 days / 5 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Glaciers & Palm Trees – 4 days / 3 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters – 3 days / 2 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Hidden Treasures – 3 days / 2 nights

Travel all year round

No matter what time of year you plan to take your Switzerland holiday, you can enjoy your very own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. 

The Swiss railways – and therefore the premium panoramic trains – operate year round* so even during the winter months it’s possible to enjoy these spectacular Swiss train journeys.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland in winter takes in all the seasonal highlights of Switzerland, including pure white snow, frozen lakes and glaciers.  Click the tour names below for further details:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Magic Tour – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Edition – 9 days / 8 nights

*The Glacier Express does not operate between mid-October and around 9 December. There are no Bernina Express bus services in December and January.  The Gotthard Panorama Express only operates from mid-April until mid-October. Regular trains operate on the Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express routes year round.

Don’t forget to quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for a 5% discount on package holidays. 

No matter what season you travel, touring Switzerland by train makes for the most memorable of holidays.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

Ready to plan your own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland? It is highly recommended that anyone undertaking this rail journey downloads the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app.

The free app is available in seven languages, including English, German and Chinese. 

Using the app gives travellers access to exclusive offers via digital coupons and helps to make sure you get the best from all the key sights. 

The app will guide you as you make the journey, taking in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lakes, alpine panoramas, glaciers and Swiss cities. Fun facts and top tips are given throughout, and you can tick off where you’ve been via the ‘been there’ function. 

You can also play by collecting rewards and stamps, which you can then share via social media. Those who become a ‘Master of Grand Train Tour of Switzerland’ will even receive a surprise reward at the end of the journey!

Final Thoughts about the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Following the suggested eight sectors of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a convenient way to see all the highlights the country has to offer – from north to south and east to west.

Should you not have time to cover the whole route, simply choose the sectors that connect the destinations you wish to visit and tailor your Swiss rail itinerary to suit.

Whether you prefer a DIY approach and want to purchase your Swiss Travel Pass or rail tickets and accommodation separately, or would rather book a package which includes transport and accommodation, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the ideal way to explore this scenic country.

Get your 5% discount by quoting the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking with Switzerland Travel Centre . 

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Podcast Episode

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Carolyn Schönafinger

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

Episode 62: Fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region with kids

Episode 63: Tips for planning your 2023 trip to Switzerland

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Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: A Detailed Guide

Dreaming of exploring Switzerland by train? So am I, which is precisely why I prepared this detailed guide to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland!

One travel pass gives you access to all the country’s trains, including those panoramic trains with massive windows that pass through surreally beautiful sceneries. The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a bucket-list travel experience that covers 1,280 kilometers of the country on an epic 11-day journey, and here’s everything else you need to know about it!

Table of Contents

8 Sections of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is divided into eight sections, according to the specific routes that are operated by panoramic trains. We’ll tell you about all the different sections and trains right here, so you can create your own personal Grand Train Tour of the Alpine country!

And if you want to check out the map before you start, I have added it below for easy reference.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

Zürich is usually the starting point for traveling through the country because it’s got the largest and busiest international airport in Switzerland. Most travelers who fly to the country arrive at this airport, so it makes perfect sense to begin your journey in this beautiful city.

The first leg of the journey takes you to three cities, and four lakes, and treats you to some fantastic scenery during the train journey. At Luzern, you board a panoramic train to Interlaken, and that ride is easily the highlight of this entire journey. The Luzern-Interlaken express train passes through beautiful mountain landscapes, featuring waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and mesmerizing scenery before it arrives at Interlaken, the beautiful town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Distance: 131 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

The second section of the train journey through Switzerland takes you from the beautiful town of Interlaken to Zweisimmen, where you can ride trains on the panoramic GoldenPass line to Montreux. The train passes next to castles, through pastures, and hills, for a wonderfully scenic journey full of marvelous sights.

You can choose to ride one of the two Golden Pass trains – the Panoramic or the Belle Epoque. The Panoramic train is the better option if you want to admire the scenery during the ride because it features huge windows, with windows on the roof in 1st class. The Belle Epoque train is decorated in Belle Epoque style and it feels like traveling back in time, and it’s great for travelers who want to discover a unique way to travel in Switzerland.

Distance: 120 kilometers

Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

When you’re done exploring the beautiful city on the shore of Lake Geneva, board a train to Visp. The train journey through southern Switzerland passes through several valleys, and it is incredibly scenic. Visp is one of the sunniest places in Switzerland, and after a quick exploration of the town, you can board the train to Zermatt.

The car-free village of Zermatt is a popular ski resort, but also just a magical Swiss destination overall. During the train ride, you’re treated to beautiful views of the Rhone River valley along the way, and when you can see the iconic Matterhorn, you’ll know that you’re getting pretty close to Zermatt.

The village is also popular among mountain climbers who wish to conquer this peak, and there’s even a museum in town dedicated to ascents on the Matterhorn.

Distance: 148 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in Switzerland takes you from the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt to cosmopolitan St. Moritz. You’ll ride the Glacier Express , a panoramic train that crosses over 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels.

The entire journey is around 8 hours long, and it’s by far the longest train journey of the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Time flies on the train if you keep your eyes peeled on the magical scenery, making the long journey easily enjoyable.

Chur is an optional stop along this route. The beautiful town is about halfway between Zermatt and St. Moritz, and it’s worth checking out if you have enough time in Switzerland.

Distance: 291 kilometers

Time: 7 hours 45 minutes

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From the glacial landscapes of St. Moritz to palm trees in Lugano – the Bernina Express panoramic train takes passengers on a ride through southern Switzerland and northern Italy, in an epic 7-hour journey.

The panoramic train takes you from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy, allowing you to discover some truly magical landscapes along the way. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountain passes, tall peaks, and mesmerizing lakes are just some of the highlights you’ll get to see during the journey.

At Tirano, you can board the Bernina Express Bus towards Lugano via Como. Situated on the shore of Lake Lugano, the beautiful city offers a plethora of fun and exciting things to do to its visitors, from decadent restaurants to fabulous hiking trails.

Distance: 154 kilometers

Time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Lugano – Bellinzona – Flüelen – Luzern

The Lugano-Luzern section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the main reason why you should plan to do this tour in the summer months if you want to experience all the highlights of the journey. The Gotthard Panorama Express operates only between April and October, and it’s another panoramic train that offers stunning views during the journey.

The panoramic train will take you from Lugano to Flüelen, where you board a boat that transports you across Lake Lucerne to the city. It’s an amazing experience and without a doubt one of the highlights of the entire tour, so it’s worth it to plan your trip around it.

Treno Gottardo is an alternative for travelers who can’t make the trip between April and October. It transports passengers between Lugano and Lucerne on the Gotthard route, and the train is in operation year-round. This train is also two hours quicker than the panoramic route, but the views along the way aren’t quite as amazing.

Distance: 182 kilometers

Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Luzern – St. Gallen

Board the Voralpen Express train from Luzern to St. Gallen to experience one of the most beautiful railway lines in Switzerland. During the two-hour train journey, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks, the Rapperswil damn and its castle, and the highest railway bridge in the country, the Sitter Viaduct.

And that’s all before you arrive at St. Gallen, the beautiful town near Lake Constance. The attractions in the town include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, an excellent museum, and breathtaking nature in the city’s immediate surroundings.

Distance: 125 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The final leg of this epic journey has travelers returning to Zürich from St. Gallen. The train ride offers travelers a glimpse of maritime Switzerland because the train travels next to a body of water for the majority of the ride. First, you’ll ride along the shore of Lake Constance for about 40 kilometers, and then the train follows the Rhine river downstream.

Schaffhausen is an optional stop along this route and is entirely worth it if you want to see the largest cascades in Europe. The Rhine Falls are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a quick detour on the final leg of your Switzerland tour.

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Board the train back to Zürich at Schaffhausen and you can be in the financial metropolis in 30-50 minutes. Use the time you have left in Switzerland to explore the city – walk along Bahnhofstrasse, see Lake Zurich, and climb the Karlsturm tower at Grossmünster for fabulous panoramic views before it’s time to head to the airport.

Length: 133 kilometers

Grand Train Tour Suggested Itineraries

If the idea of traveling by train for more than 1,000 kilometers is a bit overwhelming, consider doing one of the suggested itineraries. These cover certain parts of the Grand Train Tour, so they’re shorter and more affordable than doing the entire journey. Also, you can book pre-arranged packages for each of these itineraries, which will include train tickets, accommodation, meals, and even tickets to select tourist attractions!

Original Tour

The Original Tour allows you to discover most highlights of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland during one week of traveling. Your journey starts in Lucerne and ends in St. Gallen, so it differs from the full-length tour in that it bypasses Zurich entirely.

The cities you will visit during the 8 days of the Original Tour are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and St. Gallen, and you get to ride on all the panoramic trains.

Existing packages for this itinerary start at CHF 1280, and they include accommodation with breakfast in all the cities and seat reservations for the panoramic trains.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Classic Tour

The Classic Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a 7-day itinerary that allows passengers to discover 7 different cities in the country. Your journey begins and ends in Lucerne, and during the week of traveling, you get to discover most highlights of southern Switzerland.

Zurich and St. Gallen aren’t included in this itinerary, but all the other places visited on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland are. You’ll travel to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and back to Lucerne, all the while riding on the country’s iconic panoramic trains.

The prices for pre-arranged Classic Tour packages start at CHF 1140, which includes train travel, seat reservations, accommodation with breakfast, and even a 1st class upgrade on the Gotthard Panorama Express train.

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights

Top Attractions Tour

If you can’t spare the two weeks necessary to complete the full Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, consider doing a shorter version of it. That’s exactly what the Top Attractions Tour itinerary is, which takes you to five different cities in just five days.

Your journey begins in Lucerne and it includes access to two panoramic trains – the Golden Pass train and the Glacier Express. The places visited during this five-day itinerary are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, and Chur, so you can experience all the most famous attractions in southern Switzerland.

Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 650, which includes accommodation with breakfast, seat reservations, and public transport to a place of your choosing from Chur.

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Glacier & Palm Trees Tour

The Glacier & Palm Trees Tour is the best itinerary for people who just want to ride on the panoramic trains. This four-day adventure includes two of the best panoramic trains in Switzerland – the Bernina Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express.

The itinerary begins with an overnight stay in St. Moritz, the cosmopolitan village known for luxury and glamour. On day two, you ride the Bernina Express train to Tirano and then the Bernina Express bus to Lugano, and enjoy views of beautiful lakes and palm trees.

On day three, passengers will board the Gotthard Panorama Express train to Lucerne, where they will spend the rest of their time in Switzerland. Packages with accommodation, breakfast, and seat reservations for this quick Swiss excursion start at CHF 660.

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Stunning Waters Tour

The Stunning Water Tour is a short and affordable itinerary that beings in Zurich. You’re only traveling for three days and two nights, discovering the cities on the shores of Switzerland’s most impressive lakes.

Zurich, Lucerne, and St. Gallen are included in this short itinerary. Packages for this route start at just CHF 300, and they include overnight stays in Zurich and St. Gallen. This itinerary includes a ride on the panoramic Voralpen Express train, which allows you to discover spectacular scenery and UNESCO World Heritage Sites from the comfort of your train seat.

The last day of the journey includes a ride from St. Gallen to Schaffhausen. You’re riding along the shore of Lake Constance for some 40 kilometers, and then you get to tour Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Hidden Treasures Tour

The Hidden Treasures Tour is another short three-day itinerary suitable for budget travelers. The itinerary includes visits to four cities – Interlaken, Lucerne, Domodossola, and Locarno – with overnight stays in Interlaken and Locarno.

On the third and final day of the tour, you get to ride in 1st class on the Gotthard Panorama Express train and enjoy stunning scenic views while traveling back to Lucerne. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 240, which includes two overnight stays with breakfast, train tickets, and seat reservations.

Winter Magic Tour

The Winter Magic Tour is the perfect train trip through Switzerland for people who want to discover the country in the winter. Rolling hills and turquoise lake waters give way to glaciers, frozen lakes, and snow-capped mountains in this epic 7-day journey through central Switzerland.

The tour explores four towns – Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz – with multiple overnight stays in the same locations. This allows you to thoroughly explore these beautiful towns and gives you enough time to explore all the mountains you want in the Alps.

The itinerary includes a ride on the Glacier Express train and an optional ride on the Bernina Panorama Winter train. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 940, which includes overnight stays with breakfast and a seat reservation for the Glacier Express.

The Swiss Rail Pass And Packages

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can cost you anywhere from a few hundred Swiss francs to a few thousand, depending on the type of ticket/package you purchase.

A Swiss Travel Pass is all you need to be able to travel on the Swiss trains, and the prices start at 232 CHF for a three-day pass. The longer the validity of the pass, the more it’s going to cost. Also, keep in mind that the Swiss Travel Pass only covers the cost of the train rides – accommodation, meals, and tickets to attractions are all coming out of your budget. Read this guide for more info about the Swiss Travel Pass.

That’s precisely why many people choose to book package deals, which include all of the above, as well as train travel. You can purchase a package that covers any of the suggested itineraries, and even the full Grand Train Tour that covers the entire 1280 kilometers of the route.

Additionally, you will need to spend extra money on the seat reservation for the panoramic trains. Reservations are necessary, and they’re usually around 20 CHF per seat, regardless of the class.

Finally, I would encourage you to pay extra for a 1st class travel pass, if you can afford it. The panoramic trains have windows that are either on the roof or curve over the roof in 1st class, for truly spectacular views the entire time. It will bring the train journey experience to a whole new level, and it’s worth the extra money.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

If you’re going to tour Switzerland by train, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app is a great travel companion. It contains information on all the legs of the journey, as well as the highlights and top tourist attractions of all the cities and towns that you can visit during the tour.

The travel app also offers coupons that can get you anything from free drinks to first-class upgrades on trains and boats, plus you can collect points for every new place you visit. Travelers are encouraged to visit tourist information offices in each of the cities they visit to redeem unique prizes and collect codes, which they can then use to collect stamps within the app.

The app is free and it costs nothing to install it on your phone, but it has lots of benefits. In addition to all the extra features, this app can track your location and display the nearby attractions in all towns. It’s a great way to ensure you don’t get lost while discovering Switzerland, as well as a detailed journey of your entire trip.

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5 Day Switzerland Train Tour

Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt, Matterhorn and Gornergrat

details & pricing

Testimonials.

Tour Overview

Our 5-Day Switzerland Train Tour focuses on some of the most stunning landscapes in Switzerland. During this exciting 5-Day Switzerland Train Tour, you will visit St. Moritz, Zermatt and ride the famous Glacier Express. Enjoy the best of the Swiss Alps during a semi-guided rail tour. 

On this tour, you’ll travel to St. Mortiz, at the heart of the Engadine mountains, where winter tourism was born, and experience a ride on the iconic Glacier Express to Zermatt.

Here you will ride on the famous Gornergrat train cogwheel train and enjoy spectacular views of the iconic Matterhorn. Our tour is designed to showcase Switzerland’s world-class public transportation system, allowing you to relax and soak up the beauty of the Alps.

This 5-Day Switzerland Train Tour is available year-round, except from the middle of October to the beginning of December.

• Meet & Greet at the Zurich Airport
• Full Day Guided hike in St. Moritz
• Full Day Guided Hike in Zermatt
• First Class Swiss Pass
• Four nighs at 3* and 4* hotels including breakfast
• Iconic Matterhorn at a hand's reach
• Flexible itinerary
• Dedicated helpline

Featured Swiss Railways

• Glacier Express
• Gornergrat Cogwheel Train

Book the Swiss Alps rail tour today!

5-day switzerland train tour itinerary.

On this 5-Day Switzerland Train Tour you will visit two famous Swiss mountain resorts, St. Moritz and Zermatt, and ride on two legendary Swiss lines: Glacier Express and Gornergrat cogwheel railway.

Explore the essence of the Swiss Alps in just five days with this immersive experience.

One of our ECHO Rails Guides will pick you up right after customs at the Zurich Airport (alternate pick-up location might be available).

Your guide will give you all the information and details you need for your journey and escort you to the train station at the Zurich Airport. You will  board the train and enjoy a 3 ½ hour relaxed train ride to the world famous resort town St. Moritz.

Your local ECHO Rails Guide will pick you up at your hotel at 9 am. 

Today you will enjoy a relatively flat and leisurely hike boasting panoramic views of the surrounding Bernina Alps, St.Moritz, Engadin Valley and the lakes.

In summer, you can enjoy an exciting funicular ride up to Muottas Muragl, a vantage point above the Engadine valley. If the funicular is closed, your guide will suggest alternatives such as a ride up to Diavolezza glacier, a hike around Pontresina village or similar.

Hike along the sunny side of the Alps and find out why the Engine Vally has been attracting generations of hikers and nature lovers. 

Along the way, your local guide will explain the Rumantsch culture in Graubünden, artistic St. Moritz “Graffiti” architecture, and the town’s history as the world’s first winter tourism resort, as well as its current status of one of the world’s most beloved mountain resorts.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Accommodation: Hauser Hotel (or comparable lodging).

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as today you embark on a journey on the world-renowned Glacier Express. This slow express train is a masterpiece of engineering, taking you on a scenic ride through the heart of the Alps for approximately eight hours. During the ride, you’ll pass through 91 tunnels and cross 291 bridges.

Important : Glacier Express connections are suspended for the maintenance works between 13 October and 7 December, 2024. You can still travel on the route o Glacier Express but it might not be as convenient as with the dedicated panoramic train. 

With amenities such as power outlets, and free Wi-Fi, each seat is designed for your comfort and convenience. Moreover, the train features a newly built information system that allows you to track your location on the map, along with an audio guide, to learn about the incredible sights you’ll see along the way.

As you travel West up through the Rhine gorge, you’ll have the opportunity to see the Albula tunnel, Landwasser viaduct, and Switzerland’s Grand Canyon. The train will ascend 1000m / 3000 ft from Disentis to Oberalp, where you can enjoy a delicious meal in one of the few dining cars that still serve hot food.

In the evening, you will arrive in Zermatt, where you can relax and unwind in the spa area of your hotel. You’ll also have some time to explore the car-free, picturesque town of Zermatt. Be sure to go out enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant – we’ll provide some suggestions.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch on the Glacier Express.

Accommodation: Hotel La Ginabelle (or comparable lodging).

Your private ECHO Rails Guide will pick you up at your hotel at 9 am.

Today, you will experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the Alps in an excursion that combines a cogwheel train ride with an easy-to-moderate day hike of your choice.

You’ll ride Europe’s second highest railway and the highest open-air railway on the continent, the Gornergrat cogwheel train, climbing up to 10,134 feet (3089 meters) and offering incredible views of the Matterhorn along the way.

You walk up to the 360-degree platform area providing a panoramic view of 29 alpine peaks higher than 13,123 feet (4000 meters), including the world-famous Matterhorn. Depending on the season and your preference, your guide will lead you on a 1-2 hour guided hike along sign-posted trails of an alpine nature reserve featuring awe-inspiring views of the Matterhorn mirrored in pristine alpine lakes.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the origins of Zermatt and the people of the canton of Valais (French) or Wallis (German). In the evening, your guide will bid you farewell after giving you all the information you need to travel back to Zurich the next day.

Meals included:  Breakfast.

After breakfast you depart to your own destination.

Our guide will provide all the information so you safely get to your final destination.

We bid you a farewell and wish you safe travels.

Meals included: Breakfast

Details and pricing

Adult Standard:  US $3,670 per person based on 2 people in a double/twin room

Single Supplement:  100$/night

10% deposit secures the booking – balance due 90 days before the departure date

• ECHO Rails Guide Meet & Greet at the Zurich airport
• 6 Day Swiss Travel Pass First Class
• 2 nights Zermatt in a 4* Hotel
• 2 nights St.Moritz in a 3* Hotel
• Extensive Swiss breakfasts buffets daily
• Guided Full Day Tour in St.Moritz including Muottas Muragl
• First Class Glacier Express with lunch
• Guided Full Day Tour including Gornergrat Rail
• Detailed Itinerary sent to you 3 weeks before arrival
• Dedicated Helpline from 9 am to 5 pm
• Lunches and dinners (except lunch on Glacier Express)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Items for personal use

See our Cancellation Policy for more details.

Visa, Maestro, and Mastercard are commonly accepted in Switzerland. American Express is less popular and many businesses don’t accept it. The country is becoming more and more cashless with contactless and mobile payments (Google and Apple Pay). Still, it’s useful to have some cash on you while travelling. All banks provide currency exchange services at a favorable rate.

Reasonable Fitness Required

This is a private tour and the excursions can be adapted to your abilities and wishes.

However, this tour is based solely on public transportation. This means you will be walking up and down train platform stairs or ramps to make the connection platform changes. These connection times can range from 7 to 15 minutes and are usually close to another, so a regular walk pace is all that’s needed.

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Perfect 5 days in Switzerland Itinerary (with 5 samples)

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Switzerland is one of the most idyllic destinations around the world. Not only is the country politically stable and economically progressive, but the landscape is spellbinding. If you are looking for 5 days in Switzerland itinerary, you will love this guide. 

The snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes of the central European country are one of the reasons that Switzerland is such a popular travel destination. Chances are that it has made its way into your heart and onto your bucket list.

How to spend 5 days in Switzerland Itinerary and travel guide

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What can you do in Switzerland for 5 days?

As a country, Switzerland is not massive. But it surely has a ton of places to explore that may or may not be enough for 5 days or even a week. However, if you plan it really well, and know what interests you, you can definitely check off many places in Switzerland from your bucket list. 

In this post, we will share a city only 5 day Switzerland itinerary, which is perfect for all year round (especially off-season and summers), another one that is for winter outdoorsy exploration, plus an itinerary of scenic train rides, tours with a base in Zurich, and a cultural sightseeing expedition. 

So there is a lot that you can do in 5 days, just pick one that you like, and get packing! 

Switzerland Itinerary 5 days for summer: Cities and small towns (Sample 1)

• Day 1: Arrive and explore Zurich
• Day 2: Visit Bern
• Day 3: Head to Lucerne, and ride up Mount Titlis
• Day 4: Explore Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• Day 5: Return to Zurich (visit Rhine Falls) or Geneva

Switzerland Itinerary 5 days for winter: Mountains and ski/non-ski activities

• Day 2: Explore Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• Day 3 – 4: Head to Zermatt, visit Matterhorn. Ski and non-skiing activities
• Day 5: Return to Zurich in the evening

Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: 4 More Samples 

• Sample 3 : Zurich, Lauterbrunnen day trip, Lucerne, and Basel
• Sample 4: Zurich as a base, taking tours to explore other areas in Switzerland
• Sample 5 : Best train routes in 5 days in Switzerland (but can be done as a Switzerland road trip as well)
• Sample 6 : Geneva as a base, and exploring the UNESCO/ cultural side of Switzerland 

Is 5 days enough in Switzerland? 

Wondering how many days are enough in Switzerland? 5 days in Switzerland is enough to explore the highlights that the country has to offer.

Keep a city as your base (like Zurich or Geneva), and then travel via trains/tours or choose a city to stay overnight as you go through the day by day itinerary. 

Ideally, we recommend that you book a week for a relaxed Swiss vacation from North America or Asia. Use the weekends to travel overseas, add flight and time differences, and then you have awesome 5 days in hand to explore your favorites in Switzerland. 

Preparing for Switzerland 5 day itinerary: Travel Tips

If you are a first time visitor, here are essential tips for preparing for your trip to Switzerland for 5 days (or more).

Switzerland is located on the continent of Europe. Its capital city is Bern, and Zurich is the largest city.

If you are traveling from overseas, especially from Asia, the United States, or Canada, consider arriving in Zurich. Next, the best option is Geneva. Both cities have international airports that connect you to Switzerland. 

Switzerland is one of the premier destinations in Europe, it is expensive to visit and explore, but it is still possible to keep sightseeing within budget. 

Note that Switzerland is not a part of the European Union, and Euro is not its official currency. Switzerland’s official currency is the Swiss Francs (CHF), and it is almost at par with the Euros. 

If you require a tourist visa to Europe or the Schengen zone , you can use the same visa to enter Switzerland.

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

For commuting and travel within Switzerland, we highly recommend buying a Swiss Travel Pass. Pay for a 4 day card , and use it to get unlimited rides on Swiss trains and public transportation. 

Here are the top packing items for Switzerland:  

• Carry a waterproof warm/light jacket (all season), or winter parka for winters
• Wear comfortable walking shoes , they are perfect for exploring city centres and traveling in public transportation
• Backpack: 45 L backpack which is carry-on friendly, plus a cute anti-theft daypack or convertible purse
• Travel Insurance
• Don’t forget your camera and universal adaptor for charging your electronics  

5 day Switzerland Itinerary: Best of cities & culture travel (Sample 1)

The first route begins in Zurich and takes you through the capital city of Bern. You’ll visit the cultural city of Lucerne, move through the valleys of Lauterbrunnen, and pass the lakes of Interlaken. Are you ready?

Day 1 of Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: Arrive in Zurich

As far as bustling cities go, Zürich is by far one of the most beautiful. Revered around the world as a global hub for banking and finance, it’s easy to forget that there’s a lot more to Zürich than its economic reputation. 

Where to Stay 

The first establishment that serves as your home base in Switzerland should set a good example. Here are three top suggestions for affordable, modest, and luxury Switzerland accommodation options. 

• Romantik Hotel Europe : This is our favorite hotel in Zurich . Great location – you can easily walk down to the city centre, and the interiors are just so charming. Best of all breakfast is free, and there is also a restaurant on-site in case it’s too cold for you to get out! 
• Limmatblick – This is a relaxed 3-star hotel, with basic amenities and free breakfast. The location is good, pets are allowed and rooms have nice views (plus terrace access). Nightly prices are low to mid-budget. 
• Gasthaus zum Guten Glück : This hotel offers a simple and minimalistic stay on a budget
• Hotel Arlette Beim Hauptbahnhof Located in the heart of Zürich, this is a comfortable family-run hotel
• La Réserve Eden au Lac Zürich is located at a scenic lakeside location and set in a historic building

Arriving in Zürich

If you arrive in Zürich by plane, then you’ll probably land at Zürich Airport, the largest international airport in Switzerland. 

Trains run daily from the airport to the main station every 5-10 minutes from 5:00 am to 0:30 am. If you haven’t downloaded your Swiss Travel Pass beforehand, then you can buy one at the airport from any of the Swiss railway offices. 

There is also the option of arriving in the city with the airport shuttle, private transfer, or taxi. These options are noticeably more expensive than the train or tram. You can read our 2 days in Zurich Itinerary

Things to Do

Zürich boasts some impressive buildings that have witnessed interesting history over the years. Depending on what time you arrive in the city, a short architectural and historical walking tour will get you acquainted with the city’s narrative. 

Did someone say Swiss chocolate? Switzerland has a coveted reputation for producing the best chocolate in the world. A chocolate tasting walking tour is one way to indulge in the sweetness while learning about the traditions behind it. 

If you have time, the Glass Biodomes at the Botanical Gardens are a must-see. Although the botanical garden is small, it’s home to around 9,000 species. The domes serve as a home to the natural wonder and demonstrate a fine piece of architecture. 

Day 2 of Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: Visit Bern

The capital of Switzerland is built around a crook in the Aare River. Remnants of the city’s fascinating history, which extends back to the 12th century, is still evident in the Altstadt (Old Town). 

Where to Stay

If you want to be surrounded by ancient beauty, then we’d suggest staying in the Old City which is home to some of the most impressive architecture. 

• Hotel Waldhorn is a boutique-style hotel that has been complimented for its friendly staff and excellent breakfast
• Hotel Bellevue Palace Bern is a luxurious 5-star hotel set in an elegant Art Nouveau building from 1913

Arriving in Bern

Bern is a short 121 kilometers (75 miles) and one-hour-long train ride from Zürich. It’s possible to arrive by bus or rental car, but the train is the most convenient option. 

Tickets can be purchased at Zürich Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in the city. Platforms 31-34 are used for the routes to Bern, and the trains run regularly without delay. 

The Old City in Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Center, packed to the brim with stunning buildings and rich history.

One of the first activities to do in Bern is to explore the Old City and hear stories of its past. While it’s possible to do this on your own, the experience is significantly more rewarding with a guided Bern Old City Walking Tour.

As one of the world’s oldest democracies, Switzerland’s political structure is a marvel. Make sure that you stop by the Swiss Federal Assembly, the Bundeshaus, which is impressive on both the interior and exterior. 

Did you know that bears are the emblem of Bern? BärenPark is a popular attraction that is also home to three very healthy bears. Visiting BärenPark is a great outdoor activity with a dose of symbolism.

Top tip: If you visit in summer, make sure to pack your swimming gear. The River Aare is proud to be Europe’s urban swimming capital. Just make sure that you only dip your toes in areas where there is no strong current.

Day 3 of Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: Explore Lucerne

Also known as Luzern, Lucerne is picture-perfect. The city frames the lake, and the snow-capped mountains frame the city. Steeped in history and natural beauty, Lucerne is the third stop on your Switzerland itinerary. 

It would be a sin to stay in Lucerne and not be in full view of the lake. Begin your search with these two highly-reviewed hotels.

• Hotel Des Alpes is in the pedestrian zone in the heart of Lucerne and offers exquisite views of the river
• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa offers modern comfort without compromising on Swiss tradition of hospitality

Arriving in Lucerne

Once again, you can use your Swiss Travel Pass to arrive in Lucerne. The train is the most convenient (and beautiful) way to travel from Bern to Lucerne, but there is also the option of catching a bus or renting a car. 

The trains depart every hour from Bern’s station and arrive in Luzern after an hour-long journey, having covered a distance of 109 kilometers. 

There are so many iconic sights and landmarks to discover in Lucerne. Start by walking through the old town, and crossing the Chapel Bridge. Chapel Bridge or the Kapellbrücke is said to be the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, dating back to 1333

Mount Titlis is an essential stop on your itinerary. Book an afternoon tour to Mt Titlis from Lucerne and ride the cableway as you absorb marvelous views.

Another major attraction is the Glacier Garden, which is estimated to be millions of years old and contains kettle basins from the most recent Ice Age. This is one of the 500 museums accessible with the Swiss Travel Pass. 

Top tip: The Swiss Travel Pass also offers a half-price discount for some of the cableways and mountain railways such as Pilatus Kulm and Rigi Kulm . Rigi Kulm  is the highest peak on Mount Rigi.

Day 4 of Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen Valley

Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen are short 20-minute train journeys apart from one another, making them ideal destinations to enjoy on the same day. 

If you have to choose one of the two destinations to spend the night, we’d suggest Lauterbrunnen as the scenery is unparalleled. 

• Hotel Silberhorn is a cozy spot with a spectacular view and quick access to the ski slopes
• Hotel Staubbach is one of the first hotels in Lauterbrunnen and features stunning panoramic views

Arriving in Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen

There are direct trains that run from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost Station. The trip is a short two hours but as you’ll be exploring two destinations in one day, we suggest you begin your journey early. The Lucerne Interlaken Express is covered by the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex). 

When you’ve soaked up the glorious tranquility of the lakes, you can jump onboard one of the 32 daily trains that travel from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen. 

Starting off in Interlaken, you’ll have peaceful lakes to enjoy at your leisure. If you’re an adventure junkie, then there are several fun activities to get your heart racing. From a winter kayak tour on Lake Brienz to a tandem paragliding flight. 

If you want something more relaxed, then you can ride a funicular to the top of the popular Harder Kulm and enjoy the sweeping views. 

Make sure that you reserve some energy to enjoy Lauterbrunnen in the afternoon. The little village is set in the valley. Take the time to appreciate the natural wonders such as Staubbach Falls and Trummelbach Falls before wandering through the quaint village.

Day 5 of Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: Return to Zurich/Geneva

Considering that you’ve been traveling for nearly five days, the return journey from Lauterbrunnen to Zürich is not as long as you’d imagine. So, take your time soaking up the final charm of Lauterbrunnen before returning to Zürich.

Alternatively, you can change things up and return home from Geneva. 

If you’re spending the night, then the previously mentioned spots are great options for places to stay in Zürich. If you’ve shifted your itinerary to leave from Geneva, you can check out the following recommended hotels. 

• Hotel de Geneve is an endearing and affordable hotel that is conveniently located
• Hotel d’Angleterre is the perfect spot to end your Switzerland vacation in luxury 

Arriving in Zürich/Geneva

The train back to Zürich from Lauterbrunnen goes via Bern and Interlaken Ost, offering an opportunity to reflect on your newly-made memories while you enjoy the beautiful views. The train leaves hourly and takes just over 2,5 hours.

If you’re traveling to Geneva, you can expect a longer trip of approximately four hours. The route also goes via Interlaken Ost and Bern before arriving in Geneva’s only station.

If you’ve returned to Zürich, then you can treat yourself to Swiss cuisine before jetting off home. A top recommendation is Raclette Stube which is known for its delicious fondue. 

If you choose to spend your final moments in Geneva, and you have the time, then the Old Town is a must-visit. Strolling through the streets is an affordable and memorable activity. Another great option is to indulge in a meal on the waters – Oakfire comes highly recommended!

Best of Mountains: Switzerland Winter Itinerary 5 days (Sample 2)

While the first itinerary offers a fool-proof plan, it’s always handy to have a backup. This second option promises to be equally as memorable. 

Day One – Zürich

You can mimic the above-mentioned itinerary for starting out in Zürich. Once you arrive, you can get settled and begin exploring the stunning city. Find things to do in Zurich in winter

Day Two – Jungfrau

The Jungfrau region has been described as “all of Switzerland in one spot”. The area is known as being home to one of the most famous European peaks and also has the highest railway station in Europe. 

Jungfrau is home to Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen, which means that a hotel in any of these villages will give you a welcoming stay in Switzerland. But to get the ball rolling, you can have a look at these spots…

• Sunstar Hotel & SPA Grindelwald offers the perfect balance between tranquility and central convenience
• Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is nestled in the heart of Interlaken and offers complete luxury

Arriving in Jungfrau

The first step is to decide where you want to stay in Jungfrau – Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald. This will determine the ticket that you reserve from Zürich – all of which are covered with the Swiss Travel Pass. 

The train from Zürich to the Jungfrau region passes through Bern and takes approximately two and a half hours – so the earlier you leave, the better. To reach the mountain (Jungfraujoch) it’s an additional hour and a half trip and is only accessible by train. 

As you can imagine, visiting the “Top of Europe” involves a lot of mountain-centric activity. The views are to die for, and the experience is nothing short of surreal. 

The Sphinx Observation Deck and Aletsch Glacier is a great place to start as it sheds some light on the history of the area and offers a visual introduction to the region. From there, you can visit the Ice Palace and take a photograph at Glacier Plateau. 

If you have time in the afternoon or are traveling with family, then the Snow Fun Park is also a fantastic stop!

Day Three – Jungfrau

The Jungfrau region is so much more than just the summit – although the experience is very impressive. The villages and lower-lying natural wonders are equally as mesmerizing and deserve a bit of your time. 

Take your time to enjoy the tranquil lakes of Interlaken, the valley of Lauterbrunnen, and the lush green pastures of Grindelwald. If you visit in the summer months, then you can plan for a wonderful hike along one of the many Alps hiking trails. 

SWISS TRAVEL PASS

Get unlimited rides on trains, trams, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Buy it online, show your e-ticket on your phone, and start your Swiss Adventure with ease and stay on budget!

Grindelwald First Cliff Walk is a must-do here. This is a loop walk or hike that takes about 30 minutes to complete (15 minutes one way), and it welcomes you to some of the most stunning views in the Swiss Alps.

The First Cliff Walk is located just a few minutes’ walk from the First cable car station, making it easily accessible for all levels of hikers.

Day Four – Zermatt and Matterhorn

The mountain resorts of Zermatt and Matterhorn Mountain are a short 13 kilometers (8 miles) away from one another. The journey is best experienced with the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car. But we’ll get there in a bit…

The southern Swiss mountain resort Zermatt is a beautiful area that is both picturesque and filled with history. With such a rife culture, you’re in for a treat regardless of where you stay.

• Backstage Boutique SPA Hotel offers traditional Swiss hospitality in the heart of Zermatt
• Grand Hotel Zermatterhof is a historic spot that beautifully encapsulates a local atmosphere blended with luxury

Arriving in Zermatt

As with many of the other routes on this itinerary, Zermatt is easily accessible by train and the Swiss Travel Pass . The best route is to leave Interlaken and travel via Kandersteg.

From here, it’s recommended that you travel on the Regio-Express Lötschberger train. This offers a special experience as you travel over the 100-year-old mountain route.

In addition to the many opportunities to ski, climb and hike in the Zermatt mountain region, there is also the essential activity ascending the Matterhorn peak which sits at an elevation of 1,600 meters. This is done by purchasing a Matterhorn glacier paradise ticket . 

Day Five – Zürich

After an incredible few days in Switzerland, it’s time to return to your departure point. 

The best way to get to Zürich from Zermatt is, once again, by train. The train ride is approximately three and a half hours, and there are around 25 trains running per day. These trains typically stop in Visp along the way – so make sure that you keep an eye out for this change. 

The Swiss Travel Pass covers 50% of the costs of mountain transportation in Zermatt, once again demonstrating the usefulness of the pass. 

5 day itinerary Switzerland Summer | City lovers (Sample 3)

This Switzerland 5 day itinerary kicks off in Zurich, and then explores cities like Lucerne, Basel, and the countryside including the Lauterbrunnen Valley with gorgeous views of the Swiss Alps!

We recommend staying overnight in Basel (for the last leg of your Swiss itinerary), but all the places can be explored on a day trip from Zurich and return to the city to fly out. 

Day 1: Zurich

A great way to start off your 5-day tour of Switzerland is with a visit to Zurich. This beautiful city offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, as well as the stunning Lake Zurich. Here is a detailed one day in Zurich itinerary

Day 2: Lauterbrunnen Day Trip

No visit to Switzerland is complete without a trip to the Swiss Alps. A great day trip from Zurich is Lauterbrunnen, which has some of the most spectacular views in Switzerland.

From Zurich, it will be a 2 hour and 30 minute train ride to Lauterbrunnen with a stop in Interlaken. If you are on a road trip, you will be in Lauterbrunnen in an hour and 30 minutes and also stop in Lake Thun. 

Regardless, make use of your Swiss Travel Pass and their public transportation system! The train route is scenic and here is a detailed guide for Zurich to Lauterbrunnen day trip itinerary.

Once you arrive in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, walk to the Staubbach Falls, and enjoy the wonderful mountain views. Visit the charming church and then go on a short hike. 

Afterward, take a break for lunch at one of the many local restaurants that specialize in traditional Swiss cuisine. Before bidding adieu stroll through Lauterbrunnen’s charming old town and marvel at the traditional Swiss architecture.

Day 3: Lucerne

Lucerne is one of the most picturesque cities in Switzerland, located on Lake Lucerne. This city is home to some incredible sights such as the Chapel Bridge, a wooden bridge that dates back to the 14th century, or nearby Mount Pilatus. 

Other attractions include the Lion Monument, a tribute to the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution, and Richard Wagner’s house, which is now a museum dedicated to his life and works.

Take a boat tour on Lake Lucerne or take a cable car up to Mount Pilatus for some stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. After a day of sightseeing, dine at one of Lucerne’s many restaurants or explore its vibrant nightlife.

Zurich to Lucerne is just a 50 minute train ride away. Here is a detailed one day in Lucerne itinerary with travel tips

Day 4 and 5: Basel

Basel is the third largest city in Switzerland and is an underrated destination. You can visit Basel on a day trip from Zurich, or stay overnight in the city. 

Zurich to Basel is an hour’s train ride. 

If staying overnight in Basel, we recommend opting for Old Town. This way you will be within walking distance to almost all the iconic attractions as well as the public transportation system to even venture out to Germany and France. 

• Hotel Motel One Basel: Hotel Motel One Basel is 3-star mid-budget accommodation in the heart of Basel. You can walk to landmarks, restaurants, and transportation from here. Book your stay here
• Grand Hotel Les Trois : If you prefer a luxury stay, then the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois has gorgeous interiors and provides beautiful views of the Rhine River and the city. Check current prices here

Things to do

Take some time to explore Basel’s old town on day one, which is filled with cobbled streets, old buildings, and churches. As you walk through the streets, take a break for lunch at one of the many cafes or bakeries.

Basel is known as the City of Culture on the Rhine, and it is home to museums such as the Kunstmuseum and the Tinguely Museum which are worth visiting. 

Before heading home after your 5 day tour through Switzerland, be sure to take some time to indulge in some shopping. From designer boutiques and department stores to quaint local shops, you will be spoilt for choices in Basel. 

After a day of shopping, enjoy a lovely stroll by the Rhine River promenade (before returning to Zurich by evening). 

Read : 3 days in Basel itinerary

Explore with day tours: 5 days in Switzerland itinerary from Zurich (Sample 4)

It is possible to explore Switzerland in 5 days, by combining multiple day tours. We have done something like this in Seville, and Zurich is a perfect base city for that. 

We personally use GetYourGuide for our day tours , and love their customer service. They are available by phone, or email for support when you need them. Best of all you can cancel up to 24 hours before your activity starts for a full refund.

• Day 1: Arrive in Zurich, and explore . Opt for a free walking tour of the city, or get exploring with a local 2 to 6 hour sightseeing
• Day 2 : Explore Rhine Falls in a 4 hour tour , and then spend the rest of the day in Zurich
• Option 1 is Lucerne and Endelberg day tour . This includes exploring a cute Swiss village, a quick hike in the Alps, and tons of beautiful scenery in Lucerne
• Option 2 is Mount Titlis and Lucerne day tour.   Explore Lake Lucerne and embark on a city tour, Engelberg with a cable car ride to Mount Titlis. Visit an ice grotto. 
• Day 4 : Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe . This tour includes travel through Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and of course Top of Europe! Book this day tour to Jungfrau, one of the bucket list items!
• Day 5 : Day tour to the capital city of Switzerland, Bern . Learn about the city’s history and capture cultural nuances. View this tour here

If you are feeling fancy, take a day trip to Liechtenstein and stop at Heidiland and Rapperswil (Switzerland). Liechtenstein is a micro-state aka a small nation in Europe , and it can be easily explored from Zurich. Check out this day tour

For a full packaged tour, opt for G-Adventures. We are known for conducting ethical small group tours. What I liked about them is that they are a Canadian company, and they focus on cultural travel. You can view their current Switzerland tour offers here

Scenic Train Routes: Switzerland Travel Itinerary 5 days (Sample 5)

Here is a 5 day itinerary for Switzerland starting in Zurich and exploring Zermatt by train, embarking on the Glacier Express to St. Moritz, and returning to Zurich on day 5. 

• Day 1 Explore Zurich : Explore the city in the morning. Set aside 2-4 hours in the Old Town. Grab some lunch and then hop on a train to Zermatt from the Zurich Main Station. 
• The train ride from Zurich to Zermatt: Zurich to Zermatt train time is about 3 hours+ covering the 100 miles (161 km) long route. The train passes through Bern and Thun, before arriving in Zermatt. The ride from Visp to Zermatt is super scenic so make sure to stay awake 🙂 
• Day 2: Wake up in Zermatt . Spend time exploring this beautiful mountain town . There are a ton of hikes and walks of all difficulty levels to enjoy here. If you prefer to sit back and just drool at the mountains without a hike, then head up to Gornergrat. This steep train ride will take you to an altitude of 3.089 metres (10.135 feet) above sea level and you can soak in the views of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn. 

• Day 3: Next day ride the scenic Glacier Express . This train leaves Zermatt twice a day and takes you to St Moritz in about 8 hours. The train takes you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, three cantons, and two language regions. Stay in Piz St. Moritz Lodge, a no frills 2-star hotel. 
• Day 4: Explore St. Moritz for a day . There are a ton of outdoorsy things to do in St Moritz from hiking, stand up paddling, swimming, and windsurfing, to skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in winters in Switzerland. You can also explore soft adventure/light activities like strolling the town centre, eating your heart out, or taking the train from Ospizio Bernina (the highest spot of the Bernina Express Line) to nearby areas. 
• Day 5: Return to Zurich. Train from St Moritz to Zurich is only 3 hours long, so you can explore in the morning or stop at Walenstadt (Lake Walensee). This lake is the perfect stopover between the two cities, offering mesmerizing views. 

There are other scenic train routes available including the Golden Pass Train Line that goes from Lucerne to Montreux via Interlaken and Zweisimmen. 

Culture Exploration: Switzerland 5 Day Itinerary from Geneva (Sample 6)

This Switzerland 5 day itinerary starts in Geneva and goes across the country exploring the UNESCO/cultural gems along the way. 

• Day 1: Arrive and explore Geneva. Stroll the downtown/city centre area and stop by the UN buildings aka Palais des Nations. Be sure to book a guided tour to learn more about the UN formation (League of Nations) and its functioning today. The water jet –  Jet d’Eau – is a must see attraction in the city. It receives water from Lake Geneva. In the evening, leave for Bern. Stay in Bern for the night.
• Day 2: Explore Bern . Bern is a UNESCO listed city, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. choose from. Take a stroll through the old town, stop by the bear park, or visit the Bundeshaus (House of Parliament). Nature is still at your doorstep here, so take time to head to Rosengarten for the views. Or visit the botanical garden, and later go for a swim either in the River Aare. 
• Day 3: From Bern, start for La Chaux-de-Fonds in the Canton of Neuchâtel. The city is known for Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century who was born here. You will also find watches/watch factories here. Take your time here, relax, and then when ready return to Bern. In the evening,  catch the train to St. Gallen (two hour train ride)
• Day 4: Start your day in St. Gallen . Explore the old town of St. Gallen, and wander through the UNESCO listed Abbey District. The Cathedral and the impressive Abbey Library will take your breath away. From the city, you can venture into the mountains – the nearby Alpstein range. Lake Constance is also easily accessible from St. Gallen. In the evening head back to Bern.  
• Day 5: Bern to Morat & Neuchâtel. In the morning, take the train to the quaint little town of Morat from Bern. The train ride is about 30 minutes and will engulf you into a town steeped in prettiness. Stroll the historic town centre, or hang out at Lake Morat in Salavaux. From here, travel to Neuchâtel. Head to Chaumont, a mountain in Neuchâtel. You can take the funicular from Le Coudre to the top and then you can hike down to Cressier via Trois Cheminées. From Cressier, board the bus back to Neuchâtel (and take the train to Geneva in the evening. Trains take 1.25 hours).

Using Swiss Travel Pass for Getting Around

As a highly-functional country, Switzerland’s transportation system runs like a well-oiled machine. There are car rentals, bus stops, and even lake cruises available as options to get from A to B. But perhaps the most efficient way to travel around Switzerland is by train. 

The train is used as a popular mode of transport for both intercity and intracity movements. But there are also several scenic train rides in Switzerland that can be enjoyed as an activity in their own right. 

The Swiss Travel Pass is a savings card that gives you access to train rides throughout Switzerland. These passes help you to save money in the long run, while traveling in comfort and style.  

The pass gives unlimited access to trains, boats, and buses across the country for your choice of 3, 4, 8, or 15 consecutive days. In addition, it offers entry into select museums and includes select mountain excursions.

Get your Swiss Travel Pass online before you arrive

Switzerland Bucket list | The Ultimate Guide to Switzerland

Zurich : Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and is one of the most visited cities in the country for its art galleries, museums, clubs, and other attractions. The Gothic-style Grossmünster Church stands proudly on Limmat Quay and is a must-see for its stunning architecture. 

Take a stroll through Zurich’s old town and shop or window shop in Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most expensive streets in the world.

Visit some of Zurich’s world-famous museums such as the Swiss National Museum and FIFA Museum. 

Bern: Bern is the capital city of Switzerland, and it is sprinkled with sandstone-colored buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and numerous fountains. 

The Zytglogge clock tower is a popular attraction in the city, as is the Federal Palace which houses the Swiss Parliament and several federal administration offices.

Basel: The city of Basel is situated on the Rhine River and boasts many attractions including the Old Town, Basel Cathedral, and Kuntsmuseum. 

Kunstmuseum is one of the oldest public art institutions (dates back to 1661). The museum is home to over 4,000 paintings, sculptures, and installations, along with over 300,000 drawings and prints – with many dating back to the Middle Ages. 

Interlaken: Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most popular resorts as it offers easy access to many outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, rafting, canyoning, and paragliding.

The beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Brienz are a treat for the eyes and the nearby Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains provide plenty of adventure opportunities.

Jungfraujoch : One of the most visited attractions in Switzerland is Jungfraujoch, also known as “The Top of Europe”. Situated at 11,333 feet (3,454 meters) this mountain railway station offers breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape and glaciers. 

You can either take a train via the highest train station from Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen to the highest railway station in Europe or take a cable car from Kleine Scheidegg.

Mount Rigi: Mount Rigi, also known as Queen of the Mountains, is a stunning mountain situated in Central Switzerland. As one of the most popular destinations for hikers and tourists alike, it offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alpine landscape.

You can take a cogwheel train from Vitznau up the mountain, or Arth-Goldau station. From the top of Mount Rigi, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views and take in the fresh Alpine air.

The peak is home to many cozy mountain restaurants and traditional Swiss Chalets, providing an ideal place to rest after a long day of exploring.

Schilthorn : Take a cable car ride up to the Schilthorn and experience breathtaking views of some of Switzerland’s highest peaks –  Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Geneva : Geneva should also be on any Swiss itinerary for city lovers as it is home to many sights such as the Jet d’Eau fountain, the Palace of Nations, and the old town with quaint cafes and shops. 

The Saint Pierre Cathedral is a must-see for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture and intricate interior designs.

Lucerne: Visit this Swiss city known for its beautiful lake, old town, wooden bridges, and Lion Monument. The Chapel Bridge is one of the most iconic attractions in the city as it was built to protect the town from outside forces. 

The Lion Monument is another important symbol of Lucerne as it commemorates the fallen Swiss Guard at the Tuileries Palace in Paris.

Montreux : Montreux is home to one of Switzerland’s most famous attractions – Château de Chillon, a medieval castle built on an island in Lake Geneva. It was the home of the Counts of Savoy from the 12th to the 16th centuries.

Zermatt and Matterhorn: Zermatt is a small mountain village in Switzerland famous for its ski resorts and majestic views of the Matterhorn peak. You can take a cable car up to the Klein Matterhorn to see it up close and personal.

Activities to add to your bucket list:

1. Take a Chocolate Tour in Zurich : Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most beloved chocolates, and what better way to appreciate them than by taking a chocolate tour? In Zurich, you can visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate or join a chocolate tuk tuk tour

2. Take a Cruise on Lake Geneva : Hop on one of the boats and enjoy the views of Mont Blanc and beyond while on a cruise. 

3. Try Swiss Cheese Fondue: Experience Switzerland’s famous dishes by indulging in a fondue experience where you can dip chunks of bread into melted cheese and savor local wines. It’s an experience that’s hard to beat!

You can book a fondue/culinary tour in Zurich or Geneva 

4. Go on a wine tour: Switzerland is home to some of the world’s best wines and a tour through local vineyards will give you insight into different varieties, flavors, and production methods. You can also savor delicious food pairings as part of your experience such as the Riviera tour from Geneva or a cruise along the Lavaux Vineyards.

5. Enjoy a spa day in Zurich :  Zurich is a great spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you want to take part in a wellness treatment or just soak up the atmosphere in one of the many luxurious spas, there are plenty of options. You can book a spa date at the Thermalbad & Spa

6. Visit the Rhine Falls:   Europe’s most powerful waterfall is a must-see for any visitor to Switzerland. The falls are an incredible natural wonder and a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a boat tour of the area , or hike along the banks of the river.

Additional Travel Tips: Switzerland Itinerary 5 days

After exploring Switzerland multiple times, we can say that although small and compact there is a lot to see in the country. To make the best of 5 days in Switzerland you can mix nature and culture with ease. Spend at least one day in the majestic Swiss Alps in places like Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, along with sightseeing (and museums) in Zurich and Basel.  If nature is your calling you can consider just one day in Zurich, and then spend the rest of the time in Interlaken and enjoy hiking, paragliding ride to scenic cogwheel rides!

For 5 days in Switzerland, you can expect to pay $200 to $250 USD per day for a 3-star hotel (shared basis) with a Swiss Travel Pass and food. With that said, you can save a lot by visiting during the off-season, especially on accommodation. 

Zurich is home to the largest airport in the country, and it makes a good option for entry into Switzerland. You will find lots of flight options including direct flights from many cities in North America.

Switzerland’s public transportation system is efficient, clean, and safe! They are very reliable, and in most cases scenic! Paired with the Swiss travel pass you will love saving money along the way as well. 

The cheapest month to fly to Switzerland is January, followed by April.

Why Not Extend Your Switzerland Trip?

Before you know it, your surreal time in Switzerland will be over and you’ll be begging for more. If these itineraries only served to whet your appetite, and you can afford to extend your stay, then we’d highly recommend that you do!

To help you get started on further planning, you can browse our 7-day Switzerland itinerary . The beautiful country is warm and welcoming – even in winter. So pack your snow boots or your sun hat and enjoy the trip!

Pin: Perfect Switzerland Itinerary 5 days: 6 samples for 5 day trip to Switzerland 

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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26 Comments

Looking at your recommendation for Hotel Europe in Zurich. Hotel website does no show that breakfast is free per your post. It’s $35 per person which is very high for breakfast. Is there a promo code needed for free breakfast or something else we need to know.

Currently, the free breakfast promo is offered on Hotel Europe’s official website! You should be able to find it there it is included when you select a room/suite!

Happy travels to Switzerland <3

Hello Mayuri ,

We are a couple with our child from Eindhoven Netherlands, Planning to travel to Switzerland in Mid of April . If I booked Swiss Travel Pass , will I need to pay any additional cost to travel Jungfrau from Interlaken and Lucerene to Mt Titlis Via Train .

Can you please suggest/help me in this regards.

It will cover your trip fully until Grindelwald. From here you can get to Jungfraujoch with a 25% discount by using the Swiss Travel Pass. Then for Mount Titlis, you will get 50%.

Because you are traveling with a child, you can request a free Swiss Family Card when ordering (the card allows kids aged 6–15 to travel free with a parent). To get the Family Card directly, add the child as a passenger under ‘Add passengers’ when you buy your Swiss Travel Pass. (The 25% and 50% ticket discount also applies to the child passenger)

I hope this helps! Happy Travels 🙂

For the summer itinerary, is there a reason you go from Bern – Lucerne – Interlaken – Zurich? Seems like there’s less travel time going from Bern – Interlaken – Lucerne – Zurich. Thanks for you help!

We had Zurich – Bern – Lucerne – Interlaken – Zurich, as you can explore both Bern and Lucerne as day trips from Zurich (about 1 to an hour and 15 minutes train ride).

This is great if one is looking for multi-night hotel discounts in Zurich and are happy staying overnight in 2 places (Zurich and Interlaken during their 5 day trip).

Without day trips, it is adding about 30 to 40 minutes travel time which is not too bad (by train), and with overnight stay in each city there will be ample time to explore!

Hope this helps!

Hi Mayuri, I plan go to switzerland next year on Dec 23, I need some information about transportation according to you better we rent car or used public transportation. If we need go to tourist attraction and move to others city. Talking about Swiss Travel Pass, can it used for every transportation and to others city? Travel plan is arrive in Zurich, explore in swiss 5 days, and then by train to Paris. please give me suggestion.

For cities, public transportation is better. All the major cities in Switzerland have efficient trains and trams for getting to attractions (in that city).

To connect to different cities, again trains are better.

The Swiss Travel Pass will cover intercity trains + local trains/buses/trams. Plus you can access many of the popular museums for free.

We just returned from Switzerland after spending 10 days, we used the Swiss Travel Pass (8 day) to cover transportation + ride on the Glacier Express (seat reservation was extra).

Hope this helps

Hi Mayuri! This is so helpful. I’ll be in Geneva for work in February. I’m very well travelled but have never been to Switzerland. I’d love to explore before my work meetings. Is there a five day itinerary from Geneva in the winter for a non-skier? I saw the sample Geneva one but it seemed to be for the summer. Thanks!

Hey Kimberly!

That’s so exciting! Geneva is beautiful in the winter too. You can keep 1-2 days for city sightseeing – museum hopping, etc.

You can include a spa day at Les Bains De Lavey, and a chocolate or wine-tasting tour.

Add a day trip (car or day tours) to Château de Chillon (free with the Swiss Travel Pass ) and the Swiss Riviera. Other day trip options are to Lausanne and Annecy in France (which looks amazing in the winter).

Enjoy your trip! 🙂

Hi! This has been so helpful!

Would you recommend us staying in Zurich the whole 6 nights that we are in Switzerland for/ or would it be better that we stay in Grindelwald for a few beofre heading back to Zurich for our return flight home? Thank you, Susan

You can surely split your stay between Zurich and Grindelwald – it all depends on your sightseeing plans. Grindelwald is very pretty and 2-3 nights there will be amazing! 🙂

Enjoy beautiful Switzerland!

Thank you for the quick response! We have a list of sightseeing plans to do on our trip in March! We plan to see Bern; Lucerne; Interlaken; Basil and Zermatt! My concern was taking our tours from Zurich every day to our destination or after a few days would it be easier (less time) to stay in Grindelwald and do our tours from there before heading back to Zurich and home.

Of course Susan 🙂

So to explore Bern; Lucerne; and Basel – one day each will be fine as you are on a 6 day trip. All are doable from Zurich by train or day tours.

From Zurich, you can explore Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen on a day trip (might be a long day) but still possible.

Depending on your sightseeing plans for Zermatt and mountain excursions, an overnight stay here will be nice.

I would keep day tours from Zurich – for the last leg of your trip, and then fly out from Zurich. Hope this helps!

Thank you!!

Hi great itinerary. A question. is it better to visit the Matterhorn or Jungfraujoch

Thank you Anita! Both are great additions to your Switzerland itinerary – just depends on what’s on your bucket list.

For a short trip Zurich – Zermatt – Matterhorn is a good idea. Zermatt – Matterhorn can be explored in a day (without hikes, etc). Jungfraujoch/Top of Europe requires 5 to 6 hours to a day (with travel time) and is very popular! There are lots of places of interest near Jungfrau like Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald – so it will be nice to add extra days to cover it all while you are there (ideally 3 days).

your post is so informative, me & my husband are planning a trip in August covering Zurich, Bern, Interlaken & Lucerene for 10 days, my husband wants to rent a car & drive all over, is that convenient vs taking trains? also how do i reach Zeramatt? Thanks & looking forward to hear from you.

Hi Shikha! I am so glad you enjoyed the post. You will LOVE Switzerland 🙂

I have a 10 day Swiss itinerary here – do take a look. We did the 10 day trip by trains and covered Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne. It was very convenient by trains (especially with the Swiss Travel Pass). These cities have pedestrian friendly Old Towns, so car isn’t necessary.

A car did come in handy in Interlaken, but the same routes will be covered by trains as well.

For Zermatt, we traveled there from Zurich and Basel (two separate trips) by train. Zermatt is a car-free town, and you will have to park your rental car at Täsch, and then take the train to Zermatt – so again car isn’t required. If you have a lot of luggage, and need a hand to take them to the hotel, your accommodation should have shuttle services that you can use (just confirm with them).

Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip 🙂

Hi Mayuri, I see your posts are very helpful. We are family of 4 with (with two kids) coming from Paris. Planning to stay 5 days in Switzerland and then Venice/Rome for another 5 days. Please suggest center spot so we can do daily trip and then train to Venice.

Thank you kindly! For your trip, I suggest keeping Zurich as a base and then exploring Switzerland. Cities like Bern, Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, Basel, Chur are all an hour or so train ride away.

You can also visit Interlaken from Zurich on a day trip.

(Sidenote: You can explore Interlaken on your last day and take the train to Venice from there)

Zurich (or Interlaken) to Venice will be about 6+ hours by train.

Alternate option:

Here is an itinerary suggestion covering Zurich/Rome/Venice with a panoramic train ride

Day 1 and 2: Rome Day 3 and 4: Venice for 2 nights (by train) Day 5 and 6: Visit and stay in Milan for 2 nights Day 7: Train travel to Chur in Switzerland via Bernina Express. So Milan > Tirano > Bernina Express > Chur. (Chur to Zurich is one hour train ride. You can stay overnight in Chur or Zurich) Day 8: Explore Zurich for a day Day 9: (Pick a Swiss city like Interlaken) Day 10: (Pick a Swiss city like Bern or Lucerne)

Hope this is helpful!

Hi, I’ll be traveling with my elderly mom who can’t hike/climb or walk long distances. We are arriving in Zurich morning (Day 1) and I need to be in Bern (Day 2) the next day at 2pm for a mtg. Day 6 we will spend the night in Zurich due to morning departure. So I was thinking land in Zur and training to Lucerne for first 3 nights? We want to take scenic train rides. What’s the best way to incorporate the Bernini Express, Glacier express etc?

Hi Jessica,

Here is what I would suggest,

Day 1 – Zurich

Day 2 – Take a train to Bern from Zurich for your meeting (1 hour train ride)

If you are returning to Zurich for the night, then you can head to Chur for a scenic train ride the next day (like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express – both have stops in Chur).

Day 3 – For the Glacier Express start from Zurich to Chur (1 hour train ride) and then get on the panoramic train to Zermatt (the ride is included in the Swiss Travel Pass, but seat reservation is extra).

The entire journey takes 8 hours (St Moritz to Zermatt and vice versa), but on this route, you will doing the Chur to Zermatt section (and staying overnight in Zermatt on day 3)

Day 4 – Travel to Lucerne from Zermatt and continue your trip (for your departure, Lucerne to Zurich is one hour away by train)

—————-

Another option

Day 1 -2 – Same as above

Day 3 – 4 – Lucerne

Day 5 – Another option is to take the panoramic train from Lucerne on day 5

Travel to Chur (from Lucerne) to ride the Glacier Express and then stay in Zermatt for a night

Day 6 – Return to Zurich from Zermatt and fly out!

Hi there! Thanks for your detailed tip and tricks! My Husband and I are planning to visit Switzerland in April, entering from Italy. Our plan at this stage is to train from Venice – Milan and then train from Milan. Instead of starting in Zurich, do you see any issues with travelling from Milan to Interlaken, and then travelling up to Zurich over 4 – 5 days instead of your suggestion of starting in Zurich and travelling south? We plan to fly out of Zurich onto Paris. Thank you!

Yes, you can absolutely do that. The itinerary suggests Zurich as a starting point as it has a larger airport (and it is easier for us to fly from Canada).

You can take the train from Milan to Interlaken, and later take the train to Zurich (about a 2-hour journey). We have traveled to Switzerland from Italy and France as well, so this route works 🙂 We have an Italy and Switzerland itinerary here if you are interested!

Happy Planning 🙂

Thank you so much, Mayuri! Most appreciated 🙂

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How to Travel Switzerland by Train in 5 Days

Is it possible to travel Switzerland by train in five days?

Yes, it is possible to travel across Switzerland by train in just five days, although it will be necessary to prioritize what you want to see and do in your limited time. To make the most of your time, it's important to prioritize which regions and cities you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly.

In the 17th century, it was common practice for wealthy Brits and Scandinavians to embark on a Grand Tour of Europe to expand their horizons. With its rough nature and mysterious alpine peaks, Switzerland started to play a key role in this journey by the 19th century.

The popular Grand Train Tour of centuries past has recently seen a revival. Instead of taking several weeks to explore Switzerland (as was common), today's Grand Train Tour of Switzerland provides all the highlights during a trip lasting one to two weeks. But for some globetrotters, spending two weeks in Switzerland is wishful thinking, so we often get asked: "How can we see most of Switzerland in just a few days?"

Here is our recommended itinerary for Switzerland by train in five days, starting at Zurich Airport (ZRH):

Buy your train pass online or at zurich airport.

The country's main airport in Zürich is seamlessly connected to the Swiss rail system. There is an underground train station just steps from the arrival area, including a travel center where you can make reservations for the Glacier Express you will use on day 5. If you have not purchased your Swiss Travel Pass online in advance, you can purchase public transportation tickets there.

For how long is the Swiss Travel Pass valid?

The Swiss Travel Pass ticket is available for three, four, six, eight, or 15 days. It provides unlimited access to most trains, buses, and boats in the country's network and admission to some 500 museums.

Having it in your pocket makes transferring among the various modes of transportation extremely smooth as you will not have to figure out the ticket machines. But unfortunately, you will not have time to climb many peaks in just five days. (Besides trains, the pass discounts many cable cars and funiculars.)

Buy a Swiss Travel Pass at GetYourGuide

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.

With this five-day itinerary, I would suggest a one-way ticket to Lucerne combined with a four-day Swiss Travel Pass , which is valid in all these places .

In case you are torn between first or second-class tickets, here is what the first-class coach on an SBB InterCity train looks like:

From Zurich Airport to Lucerne

Once you are all set at the Zürich Airport train station, find the right track for the direct train to Lucerne (or switch once at Zürich HB). Sit on the left-hand side in the direction of the train because your first leg will include a scenic stretch along Lake Zürich.

The rest of your first day will depend on the arrival time- and your energy level. Our recommendation for a half-day trip from mid-May to autumn is the Golden Roundtrip Circuit.

Take a train or boat from Lucerne's main station to Alpnachstad (both are included in your pass). Hop onto the steepest cogwheel railway in the world to Pilatus Kulm (50 percent discount with your pass). From the top, enjoy the views of the surrounding alpine peaks. You are at 2132 meters above sea level, after all!

On your way down, you could take the cable car to Kriens, from where you will hop on the bus to Lucerne. (The Swiss Travel Pass includes the bus, but the cable car ride will be discounted at 50 percent.) Alternatively, take the cogwheel railway back to Alpnachstad.

I endorse the Golden Roundtrip from Lucerne to Mt. Pilatus

From Lucerne to Spiez in the Bernese Alps

Today, you will be riding the GoldenPass line to the canton of Bern by crossing Mt. Brünig. After a morning stroll through Lucerne, hop on the "Luzern - Interlaken Express," which leaves hourly. You will pass three lakes as you cross the Brünig mountain pass: A small arm of Lake Lucerne called Alpnachersee, followed by Lake Sarnen and Lake Lungern.

On the other side of the pass, expect epic views of the gigantic mountains that make up the Bernese Alps. If you left Lucerne early in the day, stop at the town of Brienz.

We have often paraded along the turquoise Lake Brienz . The trail starts just outside the station by the boat dock. It is a very nice walk with truly superb photo spots. But don't spend too much time here, because you have to make it to Spiez for your overnight stay.

In Brienz, hop back onto the "Luzern - Interlaken Express" headed to Interlaken Ost. There, make a transfer to a train headed to Spiez, the final stop for the day.

From Brienz to Locarno in the south of Switzerland

You will wake up in the charming town of Spiez by Lake Thun. I can guarantee you will feel the urge to take a stroll or shop for souvenirs. And my itinerary does not prevent you from doing so. Remember that your next destination is in Switzerland's south, where the palm trees sway... Tough choice!

Depending on which train connection you pick, today's leg from Spiez to Locarno will take 3 to 4.5 hours, with a transfer in Domodossola, Italy.

Be ready for a scenic train ride briefly interrupted by two major tunnels: the Lötschberg tunnel (14.6 km) before descending to Brig, and the Simplon tunnel (19.8 km) connecting Switzerland to Italy.

Domodossola is worth a visit, especially on a Saturday when the historic center is buzzing with the weekly market. Here, you will be switching onto the Centovalli Railway that takes you all the way to Locarno.

My family used to spend our summer vacation in a stone house in this valley. From the windows on the right-hand side, you will best see the impressive slopes of this remote valley.

Once in Locarno, spend the evening strolling by the lake. Or if you feel like spending a luxurious night atop Locarno, we can recommend Hotel Belvedere or Villa Orselina . The easiest way to get there is by funicular.

From sunny Locarno to ritzy St. Moritz

You might want to start early on day four as you will traverse more than one mountain on your way to St. Moritz. If traveling from mid-June to October, you should gear for the Palm Express departing in Lugano.

This four-hour bus ride to St. Moritz will cross the scenic Maloja Pass. Here is more information , including the mandatory reservation form and a timetable .

All others should transfer to a postal bus in Bellinzona. Look for a bus headed to Chur, but remember to get off in Thusis. You will transfer to the Bernina Express train bound for St. Moritz there.

Your Swiss Travel Pass also includes buses, so buying a ticket for these legs is unnecessary. Regardless of your choice, the views will be amazing, and this day will surely leave a lasting impression.

Needless to say, you are crossing from the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland into the canton of Grisons, where Romansh is the dominant language. St. Moritz is a ritzy hot spot; you will surely enjoy the rest of your day there.

How to Use the Swiss Travel Pass on the Bernina Express in 2024

From St. Moritz to Lausanne in the French-speaking part of Switzerland

For your final day of train travel in Switzerland, prepare for a bucket list experience: The Glacier Express train, a.k.a. the world’s slowest express train. For instance, reserve a seat on Gex 903 in winter, leaving St. Moritz at 9:15 AM.

Exactly 6 hours 25 minutes later, you must part with this panoramic train at Brig, where you will transfer onto a train headed for Lausanne. I suggest going to Zermatt on the Glacier Express if you have just one extra day. But on a five-day pass, this extra loop to see the Matterhorn is simply not feasible.

Either way, the ride on the Glacier Express across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, alongside green meadows, remote villages, and untouched nature will leave a lasting impression. This ideal stretch is to lean back in your seat and gaze out the window.

When you make it to Lausanne at 5:43 PM, you will be glad to check into your hotel and hit the spa... Lausanne is located within one hour of the Geneva Airport (GVA), and there is a straight high-speed train connection to Paris on TGV Lyra.

Finally, I would like to stress the importance of reserving your seat on the Glacier Express beforehand. This route is usually fully booked during peak travel seasons. In case you are traveling on a Swiss Travel Pass , the reservation fee is included.

The ideal itinerary to experience Switzerland by train will require at least eight days of travel. But this five-day itinerary is also possible and allows you to maximize the country's dense rail network.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It in 2024?

Swiss Travel Pass FAQs: Helpful Answers for 2024

Switzerland Train Itinerary for Rail Lovers (2024)

Definitive Swiss Travel Pass Solo Traveler’s Guide (2024)

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

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[…] travel all over Switzerland, including in cities and on premium panoramic trains such as the Glacier Express. As an added benefit, admission to more than 500 Swiss museums is also included.   But this […]

[…] touch of a train composition, and enhance it with a memorable experience. As you will see, some train lines in Switzerland are specialized for cheese or chocolate, while others cross the panoramic beauty of the Swiss […]

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Grand Tour of Switzerland

from £3176 excluding flights

• Switzerland
• Itinerary Itinerary
• Accommodation Accommodation
• Prices & Dates Prices

Our specialist

2 Sleeper train journeys

330 Kilometers per hour is the fastest train travelled on

Take four iconic rail journeys including the Glacier Express & Golden Pass

Immerse yourself in the Alpine paradise of St Moritz

Delve into Lucerne’s beautiful old town

Visit the famous terraced vineyard of Lavaux

Sit back and relax as you cruise across Lake Lucerne

Explore the Bernese Alps from Interlaken

Why this trip...

On track and flight free.

Slow travel from London to the classic towns and cities of Europe with your rail tickets and accommodation taken care of

Carefully planned

This itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to provide the experiences and places you'll enjoy at a comfortable pace

Tailor made

This itinerary can be tailor made to suit you and is intended to give you a guideline of what is possible in a given timeframe

Combine the spectacular alpine scenery of Switzerland and the engineering prowess of the Swiss and you have a recipe for truly extraordinary rail journeys. In fact, we think this two-week itinerary is one of the best rail holidays in the world. Not only does it seamlessly link four iconic and seriously scenic train journeys – Gotthard Panorama Express, Bernina Express, Glacier Express and the Golden Pass – but it also includes ample opportunities for exploring medieval towns and cities, sampling traditional Swiss cuisine and enjoying the odd mountain hike, cable car ride or boat trip. What’s more, it’s completely flight-free – simply hop on a train at London and let your rail adventure begin!

Gotthard Panorama Express

The first stage of Grand Tour of Switzerland is on the Gotthard Panorama Express – a combination of boat and train travel. Departing the beautiful city of Lucerne, take a relaxing journey by water on the Lake Lucerne boat, passing Tell’s Chapel and Rütli Meadow before arriving in Flüelen. Transfer to the 1 st class train of Gotthard Panorama Express and begin your journey by climbing in tight loops above the village of Wassen with its eye-catching Baroque church before travelling through the 15km-long Gotthard Tunnel and the vineyards of Gionico. The railway takes you past the 15th-century castles of Bellinzona (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), before arriving in the Mediterranean city of Lugano, with its grand palaces and fine parks.

Bernina Express

Another contender for Switzerland’s most scenic rail journey, the Bernina Express is the highest railway in the Alps, crossing the 2,253m Bernina pass, tackling gradients as steep as 1 in 7 and negotiating 55 tunnels and 196 bridges on its trans-Alpine route between Tirano in northern Italy and Chur in Switzerland. Roll out of sunny Tirano, passing picturesque villages like Poschiavo, climb through flower-speckled meadows and conifer forest to the Morteratsch Glacier and upon reaching the alpine town of St Moritz. Slow travel at its best!

Glacier Express

It takes around 7.5 hours to trundle 180 miles on the famous Glacier Express, travelling at an average speed of just 24mph. The slower the better as far as we’re concerned! Linking the iconic ski resort of St Moritz with Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn, this is arguably Switzerland’s most scenic train journey, and you’ll want to spend every minute soaking up the views of snow-capped peaks, alpine forests and mountain villages from the special panoramic coaches used on this route. Highlights include the remarkable mountain-to-mountain Landwasser viaduct – one of nearly 300 bridges traversed, the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge (the ‘Grand Canyon of Switzerland’.

Golden Pass

Connecting Lake Geneva with central Switzerland, the Golden Pass route is operated on the direct Golden Pass Panoramic trains between Montreux and Interlaken. This breathtaking route through the heart of some of Europe’s finest mountain scenery, takes just over 3 hours Highlights of the journey include the steep climb from Montreux, weaving through vineyards and country estates to the stunning scenery of Bernese Oberland.

Depart London in the morning and travel to Paris Gare du Nord on Eurostar. Transfer to Gare du Lyon, just two stops on the Paris PER, before departing on your onward journey to Lucerne. Spend the following two nights in Lucerne.

Spend your day exploring what many consider to be one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Hugging the shores of Lake Lucerne, with mountains as a backdrop, Lucerne’s must-see highlights include the 14th-century landmark of Chapel Bridge, the old city square of Weinmarkt and the fortified Musegg Wall. Don’t miss the Dying Lion of Lucerne – a rock sculpture described by Mark Twain as ‘the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world’. Perhaps take a day trip to one of the spectacular mountains surrounding Lucerne, Mt Pilatus, Mt Titlis or Mt Rigi. In the evening, try regional specialities like Lucerne vol-au-vents, dried meats or fillet of lake trout. Overnight in Lucerne.

Depart Lucerne on a voyage along Lake Lucerne, passing Rütli Meadow (where Switzerland was founded in 1291) and Tell’s Chapel (where Wilhelm Tell is said to have made his daring escape). Arrive in Flüelen and transfer to the historic Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano. Travelling in a first-class panorama coach, relax as you watch the spellbinding scenery slip past. Highlights include Wassen, where the train gains height in a series of loops, allowing you to admire the village’s striking Baroque church several times before travelling through the 15km-long Gotthard Railway Tunnel, a masterpiece of engineering dating from 1882. Travelling past the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the trio of 15th-century Bellinzona castles of Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro before arriving in the lakeside town of Lugano.

The Italian-speaking Swiss town of Lugano is not only famous for its spectacular views of the San Salvatore and Bré Mountains, but also for its colourful neoclassical architecture and intimate old town. With two days to explore Lugano, we’d recommend taking the funicular up to San Salvatore or Bré Mountain and then hiking back, taking a boat trip on Lake Lugano, sampling some local and seasonal cuisine and simply enjoying the town’s beautiful architecture – the cathedral of San Lorenzo is well worth a visit. Overnight in Lugano.

Your first part of the journey is on the 3-hour Bernina Express bus to Tirano, where you join another classic route: the Bernina Express train to St Moritz. Climbing to 2,253m, you’ll reach Ospizio Bernina station – the highpoint of this exciting trans-Alpine railway. Panoramic carriages provide unobstructed views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Spend the following two nights in St Moritz.

Birthplace of Alpine winter tourism, St Moritz has twice hosted the Winter Olympics – but summer is equally beguiling in this spa resort where mineral springs were discovered 3,000 years ago. With a full day to immerse yourself in this Alpine paradise, choose from a plethora of activities, ranging from hiking and mountain biking to sailing, horse riding and golf. Don’t miss a romantic carriage ride around the lake, through the town or Staz forest. Overnight in St Moritz.

Embark on the classic Glacier Express rail journey to the famous Swiss ski resort of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn. This 290km, 7.5hr train ride takes you through a head-spinning kaleidoscope of snow-capped peaks and narrow valleys, through spiral tunnels and across the Obralp Pass. Perhaps the crowning glory of this epic train journey is traversing the Landwasser – a curved, six-arched limestone viaduct, completed in 1902 and carrying you 65m above a ravine before burrowing straight into a tunnel carved in the cliff face. Overnight in Zermatt.

Spend the day exploring this car-free village offering numerous summer activities. We recommend the cogwheel train ride to Gornergrat which takes you to over 3,000m for a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. It’s also a great starting point for Alpine walks.

Spend the morning and afternoon exploring this car-free village offering numerous summer activities. We recommend the cogwheel train ride to Gornergrat which takes you to over 3,000m for a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. It’s also a great starting point for Alpine walks. In the late afternoon or evening, take a leisurely 2.5 hour train journey to Montreux via Visp. Following two nights in Montreux.

An idyllic montage of mountains, lake and vineyards… Montreaux has inspired artists, writers and musicians ranging from Freddie Mercury and Prince to Igor Stravinski. It feels almost Mediterranean along the shores of Lake Geneva between Villeneuve and Lutry where Montreaux Riviera enjoys a microclimate that sustains the famous terraced vineyard of Lavaux (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Enjoy a wine tour, or venture from the lake shore into the forests where walking trails lead through alpine meadows to fabulous panoramic viewpoints. Overnight in Montreaux.

Today, you continue your journey on the Golden Pass Panoramic train. Leaving Montreux, enjoy the wonderful views of Lake Geneva before climbing to the glitzy Swiss resort of Gstaad and then on to a high point near Saanenmöser at 1,279m, finally weaving through the mountain-framed Simmen Valley, verdant with farms and forests, before arriving in Interlaken, where you spend the following two nights.

Boasting spectacular views of three famous Swiss peaks – Mönch, Jungfrau and Eiger – Interlaken makes a superb base for exploring the Bernese Alps by train, funicular, cable car and, of course, via an extensive network of hiking trails. An optional cruise on either Lake Thun or Brienz aboard an historic paddle-steamer is highly recommended. Overnight in Interlaken.

Spend the morning and afternoon to explore further in the Interlaken area before embarking on the 2 hour train journey to Zürich, where you spend the following 2 nights.

With a full day to explore Zürich, we suggest heading to the medieval old town, Altstadt, and strolling along the waterfront where you can admire the beautiful guild houses that were built for tradespeople such as carpenters, merchants and spice dealers. Zürich’s Niederhof area is also worth exploring. Dominated by the Romanesque church of Grossmünster, it’s riddled with cobblestone alleys lined with trendy boutiques and Swiss eateries. Don’t miss the Neo-Baroque Conditorei 1842 where you can treat yourself to traditional sweets or sample the truffles, pralines and cakes. Visit the Cabaret Voltaire to learn about the birth of the Dada movement over a century ago. Overnight in Zürich.

Board the morning train to Paris Gare du Lyon, then transfer to Gare du Nord for the evening Eurostar to London.

Accommodation Options

We will recommend accommodation for this holiday, but with a vast choice available, we can adapt to suit your personal preference mixing different grades and styles in different cities.

Prices and Departures

Price from £3176 excluding flights.

This itinerary is based on rail travel from the UK, so flights are not required.

What's Included

• Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
• Breakfast throughout
• Interrail Pass for 15 days
• All compulsory seat reservation fees on panorama and international trains
• 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
• No surcharge guarantee
• Full financial protection

Based on two sharing a twin room with private facilities and breakfast. Prices may vary depending on departure date. Please contact us for a detailed quote based on your preferred travel dates.

*Please note that flights are not included in the price, but will be quoted at the time of booking.

This itinerary is flexible and the number of nights at each of the overnight stays can be extended or reduced.

Children under 12 travel free on the parent's Interrail Pass and 12-27 year olds receive a discounted youth Interrail Pass. Accommodation is in family rooms where available. Please contact our travel specialist for a quotation.

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• Aargau region
• Basel region
• Bern Region
• Fribourg region
• Geneva region
• Graubünden region
• Jura & Three-Lakes Region
• Lake Geneva region
• Lucerne Region - Lake Lucerne
• Region Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
• Ticino region
• Valais region
• Zurich region
• Avalanche course
• Bungee jumping
• Carriage rides
• Chocolate factory
• Competition
• Cooking course
• Creative workshop
• Cross country skiing
• Eating with locals
• Escape room and games
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• Ice climbing
• Indoor amusement park
• Lift tickets
• Llama and alpaca trekking
• Monster Scooter
• Mountain bike
• Mountain tour
• Natural attractions
• Night sledding
• Paragliding
• Photo course
• Racing simulator
• SBB Day Pass
• Scenic flight
• Scenic train
• Ski touring
• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Stand up paddle
• Summer tobogganing
• Swiss Rail Passes
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5 days in Switzerland - 10 itineraries from Zurich

Are you travelling to Switzerland for five days in Switzerland and are looking for your perfect itinerary? In this case, this selection of 10 itineraries will help you plan your trip. You’ll find different options for your five-day trip starting in Zurich. All of the following itineraries are also adaptable so that you can start somewhere along the way or in a completely different city.

Saver Day Pass SBB - starting at 29 CHF

The Saver Day Pass is available at dynamic prices up to 6 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper you travel. With this pass, you can travel throughout Switzerland without restrictions and use all means of public transport.

Swiss Travel Pass

With the Swiss Travel Pass you have free travel throughout Switzerland by boat, bus or train. You travel wherever you want, on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive travel days.

Swiss Half Fare Card

With the Swiss Half Fare Card you get a 50% discount on your trips by bus, train, boat and most mountain railroads. You can travel throughout Switzerland within one month.

Friends Day Pass for Youth SBB

The Friends Day Pass for Youth is an incredibly attractive offer for young people under 25. With up to three other people, you can travel all over Switzerland at an unbeatable price.

Day pass for Swiss Half Fare Card holders

The SBB Day Pass can be booked in combination with a Half-Fare Travelcard or a Swiss Half Fare Card. You can then travel the whole day on the public transport network throughout Switzerland.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex

With the Swiss Travel Pass Flex you have free travel throughout Switzerland by boat, bus or train. You travel wherever you want, on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 freely selectable travel days within a month.

Five days is a great amount of time to spend in Switzerland if you’ve never been here and want to get a taste of this beautiful country. It’ll just give you enough time to see different places without having to rush too much. If you’re planning your trip to Switzerland, the following itineraries will help you with that process.

They are all doable within five days and have their starting point in Zurich. However, if you’d like to start in a different place, you can easily adapt your trip accordingly. Zurich is very well connected and can be reached from every other city in Switzerland.

You will notice that we only talk about travelling by public transport and not by car. Most itineraries are also possible by car, in case you decide to get a rental during your stay in Switzerland. But with our very dense network of trains and buses, there’s no real need to travel by car.

Of course, the choice is all yours.

Also, if you have more than three days available and see a Switzerland itinerary you like, you can easily stretch it out by spending an extra night at some of the places.

Happy planning!

• Public Transport in Switzerland
• The 10 most important railway passes for your trip in Switzerland
• Everything you need to know about train tickets in Switzerland

1. Itinerary to the sunny south of Switzerland and to the Matterhorn in Zermatt

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the sights of Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city
• Ride through Gotthard-Basistunnel, the world’s longest train tunnel
• Visit one of the popular river valleys Maggia or Verzasca
• Enjoy a few scoops of delicious ice cream in Locarno or Ascona
• Embark on a windy train ride from Locarno to Domodossola in Italy
• Hike in front of the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt
• Day 1: Zurich - Bellinzona - Locarno

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Bellinzona.

Thanks to the 57 kilometres (35 miles) long Gotthard-Basistunnel, it now takes you less than two hours to bolt through the Alps and reach Switzerland’s warm south. Stop over in Bellinzona and visit the Castello di Montebello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before travelling on to Locarno.

Spend the rest of the evening taking in the Italian atmosphere in Locarno. Hang out at Piazza Grande, stroll along Lago Maggiore or just enjoy a few scoops of ice cream by the lake. And just in case you’re wondering: Yes, you’re still in Switzerland. Even if it doesn’t feel like it. This is as Italian as our country gets...

Since you’re staying in the Canton of Ticino for the next two nights, you’re entitled to a Ticino Ticket. You’ll receive it when you check in to your accommodation. This fantastic travel pass lets you use public transport for free all across the Canton of Ticino. It also gives you numerous discounts on other local attractions and activities.

• Best things to do in Zurich

• Day 2: Free day in the Canton of Ticino

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With the abundance of activities to choose from, you won’t get bored today. First up, we recommend you head to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca. Both are fantastic for hiking, spending some time by the river or going for a refreshing swim.

Also, don’t forget to bring your picnic on this journey. You’ll find countless opportunities to take a break in both valleys. One of our favourite places is right below the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calmer waters over cold mountain streams, head to Lago Maggiore or Lago di Lugano. Both lakes are stunning and provide you with more photo opportunities than you can imagine.

Other popular destinations in Ticino are the inspiring little artsy town of Ascona next to Locarno and the city of Lugano further south.

To brush up on your Swiss geography knowledge, visit Swissminiatur in Melide just outside Lugano. It’s a miniature version of Switzerland and displays incredible attention to detail.

In case you’re one of those adrenaline junkies, there’s always the 007 bungy at the end of Verzasca valley. You might have seen this 220 metre (720 feet) dive in the James Bond movie Golden Eye. If you decide to throw yourself off that wall, please don’t forget to share your picture with us. We’d love to see that...🙂

As you might have gathered by now, this day is by no means long enough to do everything on the list.

Good thing there’s always tomorrow.

• Best things to do in Ticino

• Day 3: Locarno - Domodossola - Zermatt

You’re probably going to laugh now. But the station your train to Domodossola leaves from is called Locarno FART. Unfortunate name, we know. It’s short for F errovie A utolinee R egionali T icinesi and translates to “regional railway of Ticino”.

The ride to Domodossola lasts just under two hours. It might be the slowest train you’ve ever been on but chances are you won’t even notice time passing by.

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

Enjoy the views because from Domodossola to Brig, you’ll be spending most of the time in a tunnel. That’s ok though because the ride from Brig to Zermatt is part of the Glacier Express – another scenic train ride.

Once you arrive in Zermatt, spend the rest of the day strolling through this little town and enjoy the sight of the mighty Matterhorn. Provided it’s not veiled in clouds.

• Day 4: Free day in Zermatt

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

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

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

Hello vertigo!

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

In case you’d rather skip the hiking altogether and see some mountains the easy way, we recommend heading up to Gornergrat. After a ridiculously steep train ride, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3089 metres (10.135 feet) above sea level. Right in front of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn.

Don’t be surprised if climbing those steps to the viewpoint leaves you completely breathless. It’s not you, it’s the thin air.

• Best things to do in Zermatt

• Day 5: Zermatt - Zurich / Geneva

There’s certainly more than one day’s worth of things to do and see in Zermatt. Which means today is the perfect time to tick off anything you didn’t get round to yesterday.

Once you’re ready to leave the alpine air, catch the train back to Zurich. Or, if you’re flying out of Geneva or planning on visiting Switzerland’s second largest city, you can head in that direction instead.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 1
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Locarno, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket. This beauty lets you use public transport in the whole Canton of Ticino for free for the duration of your stay.
• Ticino is a highly popular holiday destination for the Swiss. If you travel during school holidays, please make sure you book your accommodation in advance.
• The peace and quiet in the Verzasca and Maggia valleys can be deceiving. As soon as it starts raining further up in the mountains, those streams become a dangerous force of nature. Please check the weather forecast before you head out. In case it does rain further up, keep a safe distance from the water and don’t take a nap on one of the cosy boulders inside the river. People have been surprised by the enormous mass of water and died. We don’t want you to be one of them.
• The part between Brig and Zermatt is served by the Glacier Express trains. Those leave Zermatt and St. Moritz three times daily and are only for people with a reservation. But there are regular trains commuting between Brig and Zermatt that don’t require a reservation. The best part? The views are exactly the same as with the Glacier Express. Minus the large panoramic windows.
• Since you’ll be travelling through Italy from Locarno to Domodossola, you’ll need to have your passport handy for inspection.

2. Itinerary with two rides on the panorama train and a trip across the Alps to Ticino

• Take a stroll through Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city
• Visit St. Moritz, the place where the rich and famous hang out
• Travel across the Alps to Lugano on the Bernina Express
• Take a day trip across the border to Como in Italy
• Cross the Alps again on the Gotthard Panorama Express
• Day 1: Zurich - Chur - St. Moritz

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Chur.

For better views of Lake Zurich and Lake Walensee on your way to Chur, we recommend grabbing a seat on the left when you get on the train. Spend an hour or two strolling through Chur – the capital of the Grisons – and get ready for the clean alpine air awaiting you in St. Moritz.

To get to St. Moritz, catch the train in Chur. Make sure you have your camera ready because you’ll be spoiled with panoramic views from start to finish. The Landwasser Viaduct and the curvy Albula Line are two highlights on this leg.

Spend the rest of the day hanging out in St. Moritz. If you find yourself feeling unusually sleepy tonight, thank the high altitude of 1822 metres (5977 feet) above sea level for that. It usually takes people a day or two to get accustomed to the thin air.

• Day 2: St. Moritz - Tirano - Lugano

Today, you’ll be spending quite a few hours travelling across the Alps from St. Moritz all the way to Lugano. Your journey will take you up to the highest point of the Bernina Express Line, past glistening glaciers and crystal clear mountain lakes, down to the southern part of Switzerland and across a spectacular viaduct before crossing into Italy.

And eventually back to Switzerland...

The first leg of this scenic train ride takes you to Ospizio Bernina, the highest point of today’s journey. This little railway station isn’t far from St. Moritz and lies 2253 metres (7391 feet) above sea level. It’s all downhill from here. Figuratively speaking, of course. As you make your way down toward Italy, you cross the circular viaduct in Brusio. Here, the train takes a full 360-degree turn to overcome the altitude.

At this point, you’ll have lost quite some altitude and the outside temperature will be a lot warmer than it was just a couple of hours ago. The last leg of the journey starts in Tirano, right next to the Swiss-Italian border. From Tirano, the Bernina Express Bus takes you through the impressive Valtellina wine region.

Before crossing back into Switzerland, you’ll drive past Lake Como, the place where George Clooney and many other celebrities got married.

After this long day, you might like to stretch your legs at the promenade of Lake Lugano. Enjoy the view, grab a few scoops of ice cream and take a stroll through Lugano.

You’ve earned it.

• Bernina Express

• Day 3: Free day in the Canton of Ticino

Since you’re staying in the Canton of Ticino, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket when you check in to your accommodation. This travel pass lets you use public transport for free all across Ticino and gives you discounts on other local attractions and activities.

For some ideas of things to do around here, move back to the previous itinerary No. 1 on day 2, where we listed about three days worth of activities. Those should keep you busy for a while.

Alternatively, leave Switzerland and hop across the border to Italy.

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

The two main places we recommend visiting in the area are the city of Como and the village of Menaggio. Both are situated by the shores of Lake Como and will automatically make you take a step back and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

• Day 4: Lugano - Lucerne

If you’re visiting Switzerland between April and October, you have the opportunity to travel back across the Alps on the Gotthard Panorama Express.

On the first leg of this journey, a panoramic train will take you through the old Gotthard tunnel to Flüelen. Before Gotthard-Basistunnel opened in 2016, this was the only way to reach Ticino by rail. Nowadays, since the opening of the world’s longest tunnel, the old one is only used for tourist purposes.

From Flüelen, a steamboat will take you on a three-hour ride across Lake Lucerne. You’ll arrive in Lucerne around 3 pm, right next to the train station. This will leave you with plenty of time to explore this stunning city and its surroundings. If you can’t travel to Lucerne on the Gotthard Panorama Express, simply catch the regular train instead.

• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Best hings to do in Lucerne
• Day 5: Lucerne - Zurich

Luckily, you don’t have to leave Lucerne until the afternoon or even evening today. So spend the day doing whatever you didn’t get to do yesterday.

A popular day trip from Lucerne is heading up to Mount Rigi. To get there, store your luggage either at your accommodation in Lucerne or at the train station and take the train to Arth Goldau. From here, the Rigibahn – a cog railway that’s been around for over 150 years – takes you on a 45-minute ride to the top station Rigi Kulm.

Provided Mount Rigi isn’t veiled in clouds, you’ll be presented with spectacular views over the Alps, Lake Lucerne and other surrounding lakes. Just follow the signs to the viewing point after getting off at Rigi Kulm.

Once you’ve snapped enough photos, either take a break at the restaurant, catch the train down to Vitznau or go for a hike. With over 120 kilometres (75 miles) of hiking trails at your feet, you’re spoiled for choice here. Upon arrival in Vitznau, the passenger ship to Lucerne will be waiting for you. Keep your camera within reach because this scenic and peaceful ride offers some more stunning views.

Back in Lucerne, grab your bags and head back to Zurich.

• Mount Rigi Guide

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 2
• The Bernina Express schedule changes throughout the year. To find your connection and make a reservation, consult the RhB website. The Bernina Express Bus between Tirano and Lugano runs May through November.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lugano, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket. This beauty lets you use public transport in the whole Canton of Ticino for free for the duration of your stay.
• The Gotthard Panorama Express runs from April through October, Tuesday through Sunday. If you travel outside of these months or on a Monday, catch the regular train from Lugano to Lucerne instead.
• If you travel with an Interrail or Eurail Pass, only the train ride from Lugano to Flüelen is fully covered on the Gotthard Panorama Express. The steamboat costs extra.

3. Itinerary with the Golden Pass Line, a free day in Interlaken and a trip to Lake Geneva

• Walk across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
• Travel the scenic Golden Pass Line
• Explore the adrenaline and scenery-packed area around Interlaken
• Spend a night in the Bernese Alps in Gstaad
• Pose next to the Freddie Mercury statue in Montreux
• Day 1: Zurich - Lucerne - Interlaken

Leave Zurich first thing in the morning, head to Lucerne and spend a few hours exploring the city. Walk across the Kapellbrücke, take a stroll through the old town, hang out by the lake or visit the Glacier Garden. Leave for Interlaken around lunchtime.

The Golden Pass Line is a popular scenic train route from Lucerne to Montreux and is served by several train companies. It connects the centre of Switzerland with the shores of Lake Geneva.

This panoramic journey leads past eight lakes, rides through six different cantons (the Swiss version of states), crosses three mountain passes and connects two language regions. Today’s leg between Lucerne and Interlaken is run by Zentralbahn and takes just under two hours.

Once you arrive in Interlaken, spend the evening in this popular yet very touristy town. Activities here are endless and if you want to enjoy this region to its fullest, one night won’t be enough. However, there should be enough time for a stroll along the River Aare or a short trip up to Harder Kulm.

• Golden Pass Line
• Best things to do in Interlaken

• Day 2: Free day in Interlaken

You’ve got more activities to choose from today than you can wrap your head around. It all depends on your budget, but in an adrenaline-packed place like Interlaken, the sky’s the limit.

If even that...

Skydiving, paragliding, canyoning and jet boating are all popular activities that will get your adrenaline flowing.

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

If you’re looking for a stopover on one of the cruises, get off at either Giessbach (Lake Brienz), the Saint Beatus Caves or Spiez (Lake Thun).

The Jungfrau region around Interlaken is also an excellent playground for hikers. The amount of trails is nearly endless and whatever your fitness level and ambitions, you’ll find something to your taste.

Of course, the No. 1 destination everybody wants to see out here is the famous Jungfraujoch – aka Top of Europe. If you’re after a slightly more budget-friendly experience, we suggest looking into visiting Mount Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Grindelwald First or Männlichen instead. The rides up to these mountains and the views from the top won’t disappoint you.

Other places of interest in and around Interlaken are: the open-air museum Ballenberg, the chocolate workshops at Funky Chocolate Club, the two mountain lakes Blausee or Oeschinensee or the Aare Gorge.

And let’s not forget those charming towns and villages like Brienz, Spiez, Thun, Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.

We could go on forever here but we guess this would only make you hate that you don’t have all week here.

• 12 Tips for your first trip to Jungfraujoch
• Mount Schilthorn Piz Gloria
• Schynige Platte - Top of Swiss Tradition
• Skydive Interlaken - why you shouldn’t miss it
• Ballenberg open-air museum

• Day 3: Interlaken - Zweisimmen - Gstaad

You’re in for plenty more scenic treats today. Once you leave Interlaken and head toward Zweisimmen, you’ll have Lake Thun to your right. For the best lake views, we recommend grabbing a seat on the right when you get on the train.

Just over one hour into the journey, you’ll need to transfer to a different train in Zweisimmen. That’s where the climb through the Bernese Oberland towards Gstaad begins. This region is an absolute dream for mountain-lovers and pretty much sums up what Switzerland is about. Lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, tons of hiking trails, wonderful landscapes and cute little villages are abundant in this area.

In Gstaad, you have several options to spend the afternoon. Since this area is a hiker’s paradise, you’re spoiled for choice here. One hike takes you to Lake Lauenensee, a mountain lake surrounded by moorland.

A trip that is easily doable from Gstaad is a visit to the impressive Glacier 3000. After a 35-minute bus ride to Col du Pillon, you’ll find yourself at the base of the cable car. Hop on the gondola and enjoy the ride. At the top, you’ll be presented with the most astonishing 360-degree views across the Alps.

On a clear day, you can see several huge players in the alpine scene like the Matterhorn, the Mont Blanc massif and the popular mountain-trio Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. If you’re brave enough, tackle the Peak Walk to Scex Rouge. This is the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks. You’ll also find other activities on Glacier 3000 like the mountain coaster or a walk across the glacier.

In the evening, if you decide to wander through Gstaad, keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. This place is a playground for the rich and famous. Much like St. Moritz.

• Glacier 3000 Guide

• Day 4: Gstaad - Montreux

Time to say goodbye to this beautiful region already. Catch the Golden Pass train after breakfast and continue your scenic journey. After leaving the Bernese Oberland and coming down the hills, you’ll arrive in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

Bienvenue...

The Golden Pass Line terminates in Montreux, where you’ll be spending the night. Enjoy the day in this wonderful area on the shores of Lake Geneva. Walk to the Promenade and check out the Freddie Mercury statue just outside the market hall.

In case you’re interested in castles, don’t miss out on visiting the famous Chillon Castle. To get there, either follow the Promenade by foot, catch a bus or take one of the regularly departing passenger ships.

Even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, we still recommend heading out there and spending some time by the lake. It’s a great place to hang out and take a bunch of jealousy-inducing pictures.

Alternatively, head in the opposite direction toward Vevey, where you’ll find a stunning riviera and many interesting museums. Only a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards.

• Best things to do in Montreux
• Chillon Castle Guide

• Day 5: Montreux - Zurich / Geneva

You probably didn’t have enough time to cover everything you wanted to yesterday. So spend however much time you need exploring Montreux and its surroundings today. If you’re out of ideas, start making your way to Zurich or Geneva. Whichever city it is you’re leaving Switzerland from. On the way to Zurich, you can stop over in Bern. If you travel towards Geneva, you could put in a stop in Lausanne.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 3
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Interlaken and Montreux, you’ll receive a Transport Card that allows you to use local transport for free.
• You can complete the Golden Pass journey without making a reservation. However, the Golden Pass customer service recommends booking a seat for the segment between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get pretty busy during high season.
• Access to Chillon Castle is free if you have a Swiss Travel Pass. And even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, seeing it from the outside is still worth the trip.

4. Itinerary for mountain lovers through the heart of Switzerland including Lucerne and Interlaken

• Stroll across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
• Take in the fascinating landscape of Mount Rigi and Lake Lucerne
• Embark on a scenic train ride through the Entlebuch (UNESCO)
• Fill up on free Kambly biscuits in Trubschachen
• Visit the old town of Bern (UNESCO)
• Enjoy the mountain views in Interlaken
• Day 1: Zurich - Mount Rigi - Vitznau - Lucerne

Leave Zurich first thing in the morning and catch the train to Lucerne. Store your luggage either at the train station or at your accommodation and take the next train to Arth Goldau. From here, the Rigibahn – a cog railway that’s been around for over 150 years – takes you on a 45-minute ride to the top station Rigi Kulm.

Once you’ve snapped enough photos, either take a break at the restaurant, catch the train down to Vitznau or go for a hike. With over 120 kilometres (75 miles) of hiking trails at your feet, you’re spoiled for choice here.

Upon arrival in Vitznau, the passenger ship to Lucerne will be waiting for you. Keep your camera within reach because this scenic and peaceful ride offers some more stunning views.

Back in Lucerne, spend the rest of the evening exploring the city or find a cosy spot by the lake to relax.

• Day 2: Free day in Lucerne

Lucerne has an abundance of activities to offer. One of the most obvious picks is to catch the world’s steepest cog railway to Mount Pilatus, Lucerne’s backyard mountain. This railway only leaves from Alpnachstad during summer, while the cable car from Kriens takes you up to Mount Pilatus all year round.

Speaking of mountains: Mount Titlis is another landmark in the area worth visiting. From Engelberg, you’ll reach the top by catching two gondolas. One of them is the world’s first revolving aerial cableway. So expect some impressive 360-degree views at the top.

For an easy hike, including a ride on a 152.8 metres-high rocket-like outdoor elevator, catch the passenger ship or the bus to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock.

And let’s not forget Stanserhorn, a mountain close to Lucerne that is accessed by a fancy double-deck cable car. The best way to take this trip is by catching the passenger ship to Stansstad. From there, catch the funicular railway for the first leg and get on the open-air gondola for the final part to Stanserhorn.

Another great way to spend the day around Lucerne is on Lake Lucerne. Several steamboats and passenger ships operate on the Lake and take you on the most stunning journeys.

As you can see, Lucerne has plenty to offer on a sunny day. But in reality, the weather isn’t always too promising. In this case, here are some cool indoor options for you.

For one, there’s Aeschbach’s Chocoworld in Root. Getting there by bus takes around 30 minutes. Nothing brightens up a rainy day like some delicious chocolate, does it?

In Hergiswil, not far from Lucerne, you’ll find what the Swiss affectionately call the Glasi. Hergiswil Glassworks runs you through the process of glass-making, lets you watch the pros in action and even offers the opportunity to give glassblowing a shot. When’s the last time you made your own glass?

Another bad-weather option is the Museum of Transport. As the name suggests, this museum covers every means of transport throughout history. From bicycles to astronautics, they’ve got it all.

• Mount Pilatus Guide
• Mount Titlis Guide
• Mount Stanserhorn Guide
• Boat trips on Lake Lucerne
• Aeschbach chocolate factory
• Museum of Transport Lucerne
• Day 3: Lucerne - Kambly - Bern

Luckily, you don’t have to leave Lucerne until lunchtime today. So spend the morning doing whatever you didn’t get to do yesterday. Whatever you do, make sure you work up an appetite and don’t grab too big a lunch for your ride to Trubschachen. You’ll need every free inch in your stomach for the biscuit-feast awaiting you.

Once you’re ready to move on, catch the train to Trubschachen. But watch out. This train gets split up along the way and only the front part travels through the picturesque Entlebuch region to the Kambly factory. When you’re at the platform in Lucerne, please check the display to make sure you get on the right half of the train.

The Kambly factory store right next to Trubschachen station is free to visit. In here, you can spend as much time as you like tasting up to 100 types of delicious biscuits. Unfortunately, you can’t visit the factory and watch the production of this iconic Swiss biscuit. However, they do have a cinema at the shop where they give you some more insight into this traditional family business.

After reaching the point of explosion, or maybe two biscuits before, move on to Bern. To digest your Kambly overdose, go for a walk in Switzerland’s capital city. For an impressive night view over Bern, we recommend heading up to Rosengarten.

• Day 4: Bern - Interlaken - Bern

Today, you’re going to take a day trip to one of the most popular and scenic places in Switzerland. Interlaken seems to be on almost everyone’s list when coming here. And while there are tons of other places with stunning views and perfect hiking opportunities, you’d struggle to find a place that caters to visitors like Interlaken does.

For an extensive list of things to do in and around Interlaken, turn to itinerary No. 3 on day 2, where we listed about three days worth of activities. Those should keep you busy for a while.

If you leave Bern early in the morning, you’ll have enough time to catch the passenger ship to Interlaken once you get to Thun. This boat ride takes just over two hours and will most likely take your breath away.

Expect to peacefully cruise past charming villages and towering mountains while you traverse all of Lake Thun before turning into Interlaken. This has to be one of the most scenic cruises in Switzerland. And even if the weather isn’t perfect, it’s a mystical experience worth getting up for.

It’s also fully covered if you travel with an Interrail, Eurail or Swiss Travel Pass. Don’t miss out on the opportunity...

The train ride from Interlaken back to Bern only takes an hour, which leaves you with plenty of time to go nuts in the mighty Bernese Alps.

• Things to do in Interlaken
• Day 5: Bern - Zurich

Today, you’ve got plenty of activities to choose from. Join a guided city tour or explore Bern on your own. Take a stroll through the old town, head to the bear park, check out the Bundeshaus (House of Parliament) and walk back to Rosengarten for the views.

You can also visit Gurten – Bern’s backyard mountain – see some animals at Dählhölzli wildlife park or visit the botanical garden. Alternatively, catch the elevator at the train station to hang out at Grosse Schanze or go for a swim either in the River Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

Oh the agony of choice...

Toward the end of the day, catch the train back to Zurich and spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

• Best things to do in Bern

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 4
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lucerne and Bern, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.
• On your way down from Mount Rigi to Vitznau, try to sit on the right side of the train for better views of Lake Lucerne.
• If you travel with an Interrail or Eurail Pass, you’ll receive a 50% discount on the Rigibahn as well as the passenger ship from Vitznau to Lucerne. If you travel with a Swiss Travel Pass or the National Day Pass, all rides are fully covered.

5. Itinerary for culture and cookie lovers to Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city

• Discover Solothurn, Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city
• Enjoy a chilled boat cruise on the River Aare
• Visit Switzerland’s largest stork station
• Go for a hike in the Jura mountains
• Take a stroll across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
• Day 1: Zurich - Solothurn

Leave Zurich first thing in the morning and head to Solothurn, commonly known as Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city. With its impressive baroque cathedral and the many hidden and pretty alleyways, the city has earned this title with no doubt.

After a few hours of exploring Solothurn, hop on the passenger ship to Biel. How long you stay on it really depends on your preferences. You can go all the way to Biel – which takes around three hours – or get off anywhere along the way and catch the train back to Solothurn.

One of the highlights on this tour will be Switzerland’s largest stork station in Altreu, which you’ll pass about 45 minutes into the journey. In 1950, when storks were nearly extinct in Switzerland, Max Bloesch started his reintroduction project to save our storks. Thanks to him, around 40 breeding pairs can be seen soaring through the air, strutting across the fields and clattering on the rooftops around Altreu these days.

Only in spring and summer, though. They travel to warmer territories in autumn until winter is over.

If you continue your journey onward to Biel, the views of the Jura mountains and the Swiss Central Plateau will accompany you all the way. After passing through a watergate, you’ll arrive at the port in Biel, which is only a short walk from the train station.

From there, heading back to Solothurn will take 15 minutes by train.

• Day 2: Free day in Solothurn

Although Solothurn is by no means a big city, there’s still plenty to see and do in the area. One activity we particularly recommend is going on a hike in the Jura mountains. This high plateau is a wonderful area to visit all year round.

One option to reach the top with its countless walking trails is by cable car from Oberdorf to Weissenstein. Feel free to walk as long and as far as you like before hiking back down or catching the cable car to Oberdorf.

A very popular hike is the round trip from Solothurn via Balmberg and Weissenstein. Catch the Postauto in Solothurn, get off at Balmberg, walk along the crest to Weissenstein and head back down to Oberdorf by cable car. From Oberdorf, the train will take you back to Solothurn.

This is an easy walk and takes you into the Jura without too much effort. During your hike, you’ll also enjoy the view over the Alps, including Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Another place you can visit is Verena Gorge. You can walk along the creek through the forest in the gorge until you reach the little hermitage at the end. The walk takes roughly 45 minutes return and is super peaceful.

In the evening, treat yourself to a few scoops of ice cream at Vitaminstation – one of the ice cream places ever – and have it while sitting on the stone wall along the River Aare.

You’ll fit right in with the locals in doing so.

Seraina’s Tip: My two absolute favourite places for food in Solothurn are Pittaria and Vitaminstation. Anyone that likes a good falafel or hummus is going to love Pittaria. And Vitaminstation makes some of the best ice cream I’ve ever tasted in Switzerland.

• Day 3: Solothurn - Bern

Leave Solothurn after breakfast and head to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. In this beautiful UNESCO listed city, you’ve got plenty of activities to choose from.

Join a guided city tour or explore Bern on your own. Take a stroll through the old town, head to the bear park, check out the Bundeshaus (House of Parliament) and walk back to Rosengarten for the views.

You should definitely find enough things to keep you busy for a day. In the evening, we recommend heading back up to Rosengarten for some impressive night views.

• Day 4: Day trip from Bern

Bern is conveniently located in close proximity to a variety of breathtaking destinations. For one, there’s Thun and Interlaken, which are two wonderful places to visit for some spectacular lake and mountain views. If you’re interested in heading that way, turn to itinerary No. 4 on day 4.

If you’re into mountain lakes, you’re in luck, too. Lake Oeschinensee and Blausee are both within reach from Bern and more than worth a trip. The crystal clear water in both lakes will leave you breathless.

Only half an hour west of Bern lies the mediaeval city of Fribourg. If you decide to head over there, follow the citywalk signs leading you through this mighty old town. The signs will lead you up and down some very steep alleyways, across ancient wooden bridges, down to the River Saane and past the city’s very own funicular. For an even better view of your surroundings, tackle the 365 steps to the tower of the Cathedral. The River Saane at the bottom of the city is a great spot to stretch your legs and treat yourself to a snack.

Technically, you could take this even further and head to Gruyères and Broc for some typical Swiss cheese and chocolate. Whatever you end up doing today and whenever you’re ready, head back to Bern for your last night in the city.

• Best things to do in Fribourg
• Best things to do in Thun
• Lake Thun - best attractions and prices

• Day 5: Bern - Kambly - Lucerne

It’s crucial you keep your breakfast to a minimum today. Because as soon as you’ve swallowed your last bite, it’s time to catch the train to Truebschachen. This is the place where the iconic Kambly biscuits come from.

The Kambly factory store right next to Trubschachen station is free to visit. In here, you can spend as much time as you like tasting up to 100 types of delicious biscuits. Second breakfast anyone?

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the factory and watch the production of this iconic Swiss biscuit. However, they do have a cinema at the shop where they give you some more insight into this traditional family business.

After reaching the point of explosion, or maybe two bites before, move on to Lucerne.

To digest your Kambly overdose, walk across the Kapellbrücke, take a stroll through the old town, hang out by the lake or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument. Toward the end of the day, catch the train back to Zurich and spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 5
• The passenger ship between Solothurn and Biel only runs three times daily from May through October. Please check the timetable to find your connection.
• If you travel with a Swiss Travel Pass, all rides are fully covered. If you travel with an Interrail or Eurail Pass, you’ll receive a 50% discount on the passenger ship ride from Solothurn to Biel.
• When you’re in Altreu, watch out for pooping storks. They usually don’t hold back and you wouldn’t be the first person to get sprayed with, well, you know what.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Bern, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.

6. Itinerary for mountain and culture lovers with Mount Titlis and three city trips

• Hang out in the mountain village of Engelberg
• Visit the Benedictine monastery in Engelberg
• Enjoy the mountain views from Mount Titlis
• Explore the vibrant city of Basel
• Day 1: Zurich - Engelberg

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Engelberg.

This versatile mountain village is situated about 25 kilometres (15 miles) south of Lake Lucerne and lies at an altitude of 1013 metres (3323 feet) above sea level. At 3239 metres (10.626 feet), towering over the other peaks surrounding Engelberg, you’ll find mighty Mount Titlis.

Since you’ll arrive in Engelberg mid- or late afternoon, there won’t be enough time to head up there right away. So let’s leave that until tomorrow to make sure you don’t feel rushed.

Instead, what you can do this afternoon is check out the centre of Engelberg. Or more specifically, the Benedictine monastery. This ancient monastery, which was founded in 1120, is still inhabited by 20-odd monks. You can either visit the premises on your own or join a guided tour.

• Day 2: Free day in Engelberg

Like so many places in the Swiss Alps, Engelberg has its focus on the outdoors. Unarguably the most popular destination in this area is Mount Titlis. From Engelberg, you’ll reach the top by catching two gondolas. One of them being the world’s first revolving aerial cableway. Expect to be presented with some impressive 360-degree views at the top. Alongside an impressive glacier cave and the exciting Titlis Cliff Walk by Tissot.

The hiking options in the area around Engelberg are also seemingly endless and cater to all kinds of preferences. One recommended hike is the so-called “Kitzelpfad” in Brunni. What literally translates to “tickle-path” requires you to take off your shoes and walk across different types of soil. And whilst your feet get tickled by nature, you’ll also be able to enjoy the perfect views of Mount Titlis.

Now what would a proper hike be without coming across a mountain lake or two...?

A slightly more advanced hike called Four-Lakes hike takes you past – you might have guessed it – four mountain lakes. Since this excursion takes almost five hours to complete, we recommend you only opt for it if you’re feeling fit enough.

For a more relaxing and less straining day, you might prefer the wheelchair accessible path around Engelberg. This two-hour walk starts at the monastery in the centre of Engelberg and leads all the way to the picturesque River Aa and back. Even though this walk doesn’t take you up into the peaks, it still comes with some pretty acceptable mountain views.

During winter, Engelberg turns into an absolute heaven for snow lovers. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing, ice skating or sledging, you’ll have your expectations met. Engelberg is especially popular among freeriders.

• Best things to do in Engelberg
• Brunni Engelberg
• Mount Titlis

• Day 3: Engelberg - Lucerne - Basel

If there’s anything you wanted to do in Engelberg yesterday but ran out of time, get that over with in the morning and leave for Lucerne whenever you’re ready. Travelling from Engelberg to Lucerne takes less than an hour and is very straightforward.

Once you arrive, store your bags at the train station and spend a few hours exploring this charming city. Walk across the Kapellbrücke, take a stroll through the old town, hang out by the lake or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument.

You’ve got all afternoon here so take your time. For more ideas of things to do around here, turn to itinerary No. 4 on day 2.

From Lucerne, the onward train ride to Basel will only take an hour. Spend whatever you have left of the day hanging out by the River Rhine or walking through the old town of Basel.

• Best things to do in Lucerne
• Day 4: Free day in Basel

Basel is a vibrant city right on the German and French border. It offers several guided and self-guided city tours. Some of them are centered around a certain theme like “Basel by Night” or “Prison Runaways”. Don’t miss out on getting a deeper insight into this culturally rich city.

You can also head out on your own. Stop by the Pfalz – the perfect viewing platform to snap some postcard-quality photos – walk along the River Rhine to watch the big cargo ships enter and leave the harbour, pass by the Cathedral or geek out in one of the many museums. Basel has a very high density of museums. So whether you’re into culture, art or history, you’ll find your perfect match here.

If you’re visiting during summer, you might even like to go for a swim in the River Rhine. Which is exactly what the locals do. Before hopping into the water and letting the current take them downstream, they usually pack their clothes into a so-called “Wickelfisch”. This dry-bag comes in the shape of a fish and is iconic to Basel.

In case you’ve seen enough of the city already by the afternoon, you can always hop across the border and visit Weil am Rhein in Germany or St. Louis in France.

Technically, you could even visit three countries in one day. That’s completely doable in Basel and might be something you don’t get to experience every day. Especially if you’re from a country that requires you to get on a plane to cross the nearest border within a reasonable amount of time...

• Best things to do in Basel
• Day 5: Basel - Zurich

If there’s something you didn’t get to do in Basel yesterday, today’s your day. Whenever you’re ready to leave, head back to Zurich and spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

If time permits, you can finish off this itinerary with a visit to the Lindt chocolate factory. Close to Zurich, in Kilchberg, you'll find the brand new Lindt Visitor Centre, which opened its doors to the public in September 2020. If you've never tried a roasted cocoa bean, eaten as many Lindor balls as possible or spent some time with the world's tallest chocolate fountain, this is your chance.

• Lindt Home of Chocolate

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 6
• Every year on a weekend in June, the Engelberg Strongman race takes place. The area will be completely packed during that time so make sure you book way ahead if you visit on that specific weekend. It’s quite a spectacle to behold and if you can, it might be fun to watch.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Basel, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.
• In case you decide to take a trip across to Germany or France, don’t forget to exchange some Euros. And make sure to bring your passport, too. Since Switzerland isn’t part of the European Union, you usually have to show your passport when leaving the country.

7. Itinerary across Switzerland from St. Gallen to Lake Geneva including four city trips and two panoramic trains

• Day 1: Zurich - St. Gallen

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to St. Gallen.

Spend the afternoon exploring the old town of St. Gallen. With the UNESCO listed Abbey District, its towering Cathedral and the impressive Abbey Library, this city has quite a few things to offer.

While you’re here, make sure you don’t miss a trip to the recreational area of Drei Weieren. To get there, either catch the Mühleggbahn or take the stairs. Alternatively, visit the wildlife park Peter & Paul or still your cultural thirst at one of the many museums.

By far the best place to relax is at Drei Weieren. Go for a refreshing swim to recover from the many steps you took up here or go for a stroll in the forest. You also get a fantastic view over the whole city, Lake Constance and all the way to Germany.

• Best things to do in St. Gallen

• Day 2: St. Gallen - Lucerne

Luckily, you don’t have to leave St. Gallen until lunchtime today. So spend the morning doing whatever you didn’t get to do yesterday. Around midday, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the Voralpen Express to Lucerne.

Out of the many scenic train rides in Switzerland, this is one of the less touristy ones. It doesn’t come with fancy panorama windows and there’s no friendly voice pointing out what viaduct you just crossed.

But that doesn’t make it any less worth riding.

We recommend breaking up your journey halfway in and getting off in Rapperswil, a real hidden gem of a city. Head up to the castle, spend some time with the deer in the castle’s garden, go for a swim in Lake Zurich and walk along the idyllic esplanade.

An excellent spot to relax is the lawn behind OST, the technical college of Rapperswil. You can’t miss it when you head toward the lake after leaving the train station.

If you’re looking for an easy walk, follow the wooden footbridge and the connecting walkway across the lake to Pfäffikon. In doing so, you’ll be completing three kilometres (1.8 miles) of the Camino de Santiago trail, a pilgrim route leading from different places across Europe to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Once you’re ready to move on, catch the next train to Lucerne and spend the afternoon exploring the city. Walk across the Kapellbrücke, take a stroll through the old town, hang out by the lake or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument.

For an extensive list of things to do in Lucerne, turn back to itinerary No. 4 on day 2.

• Day 3: Lucerne - Interlaken - Montreux

Today, you’ll be spending a fair amount of time on trains and enjoying some of the best views in the process. The Golden Pass Line is a popular scenic train route from Lucerne to Montreux and is served by several train companies. It connects the centre of Switzerland with the shores of Lake Geneva.

This panoramic journey leads past eight lakes, rides through six different cantons (the Swiss version of states), crosses three mountain passes and connects two language regions. Your first leg between Lucerne and Interlaken is run by Zentralbahn and takes just under two hours.

Once you arrive in Interlaken, you have maybe an hour or two in this popular yet touristy town. With a relatively long journey still ahead of you, we recommend you don’t stick around much longer than that.

The second leg of the journey first takes you past Lake Thun to Spiez and finally into Zweisimmen, where you’ll transfer to a different train. That’s where the climb through the Bernese Oberland towards Gstaad begins. This region is an absolute dream for mountain-lovers and pretty much sums up what Switzerland is about. Lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, tons of hiking trails, wonderful landscapes and cute little villages are abundant in this area.

Even if you don’t have enough time to get off along the way, the ride through this picturesque area is something you probably won’t forget anytime soon.

After leaving the Bernese Oberland and coming down the hills, you’ll arrive in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Spend whatever you have left of the day exploring Montreux and its surroundings.

The Golden Pass Line terminates in Montreux and depending on when you arrive, you might have an hour or two to explore. Head to the Promenade, check out the Freddie Mercury statue just outside the market hall and take a stroll through the city. There’s no rush though since you’ll be spending two nights here. Plenty of time to discover Montreux and its surroundings.

• Day 4: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux

Today is all about cheese and chocolate. After all, that’s what Switzerland is famous for. So catch the train to Gruyères and get ready for some culinary and mediaeval action.

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

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

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

After exploring Gruyères, and maybe grabbing a souvenir or two, you have the option to head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. Their visitor centre teaches you everything you need to know about Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand. At the end of the tour, you’ll get to taste a lot of free samples.

More than you thought you could handle.

On your train ride back to Montreux, try to digest your cheese and chocolate overdose. Spend the rest of the day hanging out in Montreux.

• Gruyères Cheese Factory
• Cailler Chocolate Factory
• Day 5: Montreux - Lavaux - Zurich / Geneva

Only a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Taking a stroll through the vineyards with the perfect view of Lake Geneva is almost a must in this area. So venture right out after breakfast.

To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards. Once you’re ready to continue your journey, either head back to Zurich or hop on the train to Geneva. Whichever city it is you’re leaving Switzerland from.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 7
• Both scenic train rides, the Voralpen Express and the Golden Pass Line, are fully covered by the Interrail and Eurail Passes as well as the Swiss Travel Pass.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in St. Gallen, Lucerne and Montreux, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.
• When travelling from Montreux to Gruyères, you’ll need to transfer in Montbovon. If your budget allows, you can book the chocolate train that’ll take you straight from Montreux to the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc. This is also served by the Golden Pass Line.

8. Itinerary with the highlights of eastern Switzerland including mountains, lakes and waterfalls

• Discover the main sights of Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city
• Admire the Abbey District in St. Gallen (UNESCO)
• Enjoy and spend a night in the stunning Alpstein mountain range
• Hang out by Lake Constance in Kreuzlingen
• Hop across the border to the charming German town of Constance
• Visit the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfalls
• Day 2: St. Gallen - Alpstein

The following two days are fully dedicated to exploring the Alpstein mountain range. Leave whatever luggage you won’t need in St. Gallen and get ready for some serious hiking.

The hiking options are absolutely endless in this mountain range. Whether you’d like to catch a glimpse of the famous Äscher restaurant or go for a swim in the charming Seealpsee, you’ll find your match.

Since you’ve got two days to spare, we’ll run you through one of our favourite hikes in this area. It starts in Brülisau, includes two mountain lakes, some fresh milk and cheese, maybe a night in a stable above the cows and definitely a pair of sore calves.

Firstly, make your way to Brülisau in the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. From here, start your walk to the restaurant Ruhesitz, which you’ll reach halfway up a mountain called Hoher Kasten. From Ruhesitz, follow the signs pointing you toward Lake Sämtisersee. By now, you might be ready for a break. Spend as much time as you like hanging out by or inside this beauty.

From Sämtisersee, keep going until you reach Bollenwees by Lake Fälensee. If you’re looking for comfort, this mountain inn is where you can spend the night. They offer private rooms or dorms with showers as well as a restaurant. The views over the lake are unparalleled and after this long day of hiking, you’ll probably be more than happy to just stretch your legs and take in the stunning backdrop.

However, if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, keep going. Follow Lake Fälensee to the end and you’ll bump into Fälenalp, a little Alp where a farmer’s family takes their cows, goats and pigs to spend the summer. They offer beds in a big dorm in a stable above the cows and cook a rustic farmers’ dinner for you.

Everyone looking for a place to forget about this busy world out there will love coming here. In case you decide to stay at Bollenwees, we still recommend you walk to Fälenalp to see this magical place and to try their fresh goat cheese. Either today after settling in at Bollenwees or tomorrow before heading back to St. Gallen.

• Day 3: Alpstein - St. Gallen

Wherever you spent last night, we hope you slept well in this fresh mountain air. How you plan out your day today is totally up to you. You haven’t exhausted your hiking options by far, so keep going for as long as you please.

One option is to climb to Bogartenmannli and terminate your hike in Wasserauen after passing Seealpsee. This should put you on the train to St. Gallen some time in the afternoon. Or you can just walk back to Brülisau via Sämtisersee and Brüeltobel. The world is your oyster here.

On your way back to St. Gallen, you might like a quick stopover in Appenzell, the charming capital of the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. In case you’re feeling brave, visit the little cheese store at Hauptgasse 13. But be warned, those smelly cheese fumes will knock your socks off the second you enter the store.

There’s no way your feet will be able to compete with that odour. Not even after two full days of being trapped inside your trekking boots... 🙂

Oh, and don’t miss out on a piece of Appenzeller Biber, an iconic local sweet treat made of gingerbread and a honey almond filling. And before you ask: Nope. This Biber doesn’t have any famous Canadian relatives...

Also, if you’re a beer-lover, make sure to stop by the Locher brewery. They brew the popular Quöllfrisch beer that is consumed all across Switzerland. In the evening, head back to St. Gallen and enjoy sleeping like a baby tonight. Spending a day or two in the mountains has a tendency to leave you peacefully exhausted.

• Day 4: St. Gallen - Kreuzlingen

It’s time to take it a little easier today. After two intense and possibly exhausting days in the Alpstein, pack your bags and head to Kreuzlingen by Lake Constance. Fairly big Lake Constance is 63 kilometres (39 miles) long, up to 14 kilometres (8.7 miles) wide and shares its shores with Germany, Austria and Switzerland. This tri-national area offers a considerable amount of sights and activities for you to discover.

For one, there’s the picturesque town of Constance in Germany, which is within walking distance from Kreuzlingen. Most Swiss go there for its cheap shopping, but Constance has more to offer than low-priced stores.

With its charming old town, a wide array of cafés, restaurants, ice cream places and peaceful spots to hang out by the lake, Constance certainly manages to attract visitors throughout the warmer months. If you’re into fish and other creatures that live and dwell under water, the Sea Life is always a potential bad weather option.

Of course, you don’t need to leave the country to enjoy Lake Constance to its fullest. Visit one of the many beaches, go for a swim, catch a passenger ship, rent a stand up paddleboard, grab a bike and follow the trails or go for a walk along the lakeshore.

The Canton of Thurgau, which makes up most of the Swiss part along Lake Constance, is famous for its apple trees. One of the walks we recommend in this area is the Altnauer apple trail. It’s particularly idyllic when the trees bloom in April and May or then again during harvest time in autumn. The trail is divided into three separate trails, which all contain informative signs addressing different topics. Combine all three trails and you’ll know everything there is to know about apples. Options to buy and taste a selection of apple products are plentiful along the way, too.

Additional places of interest by Lake Constance are the towns of Romanshorn, Rorschach and of course Kreuzlingen, where you’ll be spending the night.

• Lake Constance
• Day 5: Kreuzlingen - Rhine Falls - Zurich

In the morning, spend some more time by or inside Lake Constance. The train ride to Zurich takes just over an hour so technically, you could spend all day here.

However, if you’re ready to move on after lunch, catch the train to Neuhausen to visit Europe’s largest waterfalls. The mighty Rhine Falls attract visitors from all over the world and are one impressive force of nature. Access to the falls is free from the northern shore, while seeing them from Laufen Castle in the south costs 5 CHF.

Once you’ve seen enough, head back to Zurich and spend the rest of the evening exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 8
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in St. Gallen, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free. This even includes transport all the way to Lake Constance.
• There’s a ton of hiking trails in the Alpstein so please feel free to go on a different hike than the one we suggested.
• Throughout the Alpstein, you’ll find farms / alps to buy fresh farmers’ produce like milk, cheese, bread and so on. In our opinion, milk never tastes better than it does when it’s fresh and you’ve just spent a few hours dragging your body up a steep hill.
• Particularly during summer, the Alpstein gets crazy busy. If you can, try to plan your hike on a weekday or make sure you book your bed ahead if you visit on a weekend.
• If you’d like to stay at Fälenalp, we recommend making a reservation. Just to make sure they have enough space and to let them know you’re coming. Either ask at your accommodation in St. Gallen or at the tourist information to give them a call for you. The same goes for Bollenwees. Book your bed online or give them a call.

9. Itinerary for outdoor and mountain lovers to the Canton of Grisons

• Stop over in Chur, the capital of the Canton of Grisons
• Visit Ruinaulta, also known as the Swiss Grand Canyon
• Explore the Alps in Davos and Scuol
• Marvel at the beautiful and iconic stone houses of the Engadine
• Spend the night in Switzerland’s only national park
• Day 1: Zurich - Chur - Davos

Spend an hour or two strolling through Chur – the capital of the Canton of Grisons – and get ready for the clean alpine air awaiting you in Davos. Before you move on to Davos, stop by two of the most beautiful Swiss mountain lakes that both happen to be very close to Chur: Lake Cauma and Lake Cresta. Those lakes are as picturesque as can be and are highly popular with locals as well as visitors.

Another fantastic place in the area is Ruinaulta, the impressive Rhine Gorge. This UNESCO world heritage site carries the nickname Swiss Grand Canyon for good reason. There’s a hike connecting Ruinaulta with Lake Cauma and Lake Cresta. This easy 2.5-hour walk starts at the Postauto stop Flims Waldhaus. Depending on how much time you spent in Zurich and Chur earlier today, you might be able to fit in the whole hike. If not, just pick one or two destinations before catching the train to Davos.

• Best things to do in Chur

• Day 2: Davos - Scuol

Situated at 1560 metres (5118 feet) above sea level, Davos is the highest city in the Swiss Alps. It’s also an incredibly popular destination for hikers, skiers, bikers and outdoor lovers in general. During summer, three cable cars take you up into the mountains, where an extensive network of hiking trails awaits you. Combined, those trails expand to roughly 700 kilometres (435 miles), which should be enough to keep you busy for a day.

However, if you’re not into hiking, you have other options to make most of your time in Davos. Like mountain biking, paragliding or taking a stroll to Lake Davos. If you’re visiting during winter, you’ve come to the right place to go skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or just going for a walk in the snow.

You have until later in the afternoon to mock around in Davos before it’s time to move on to Scuol. The train ride takes just over an hour and you’ll need to transfer in Landquart. You’ll notice that, even though it’s also situated in the Canton of Grisons, Scuol is quite different from Davos. It’s a good thing you’ve got another two days to explore the stunning Engadin region.

• Best things to do in Davos
• Day 3: Scuol - Chamanna Cluozza

The Engadin has to be one of the most magical places in Switzerland. Especially during autumn, when the leaves turn yellow, orange and red. But throughout the rest of the year, it’s just as fantastic a place to visit.

For organisational purposes, it makes sense to head into the National Park first thing in the morning and come back for Scuol later. If you ask nicely, they might let you leave your luggage at your accommodation in Scuol until you come back from the mountains tomorrow night.

The rules that apply when visiting Switzerland’s only National Park are pretty strict. There’s no leaving the marked trails, no taking plants with you, no making fires and so on. Once you arrive at the gates of the park, please read the signs or stop by the visitor centre in Zernez to make sure you’re prepared.

What you probably weren’t expecting is that visiting the park is free. Everything in Switzerland seems to be more expensive than anywhere else in the world. And yet, while you pay an entrance fee to pretty much every National Park in the world, ours is free. Pretty cool, right?

Since the only place to spend the night inside the Swiss National Park is a mountain hut called Chamanna Cluozza, you’ve got one task to accomplish today. Get to Chamanna Cluozza.

One hike we recommend starts half an hour from Scuol, in the village of Zernez. From there, you’ll spend a good three hours until you reach your camp for the night. The hike isn’t too straining. And if you’re not the most experienced hiker, just give yourself enough time and you should be alright.

Enjoy this evening far away from civilisation without phone reception and sitting around a table chatting to strangers. You’ve earned it.

• Day 4: Chamanna Cluozza - Scuol

If you haven’t planned out today’s hike yet, ask the owners of Chamanna Cluozza for their recommendations. You have several further options of different difficulty levels to explore the National Park.

Or you can make your way straight back to Scuol after breakfast if you’ve had enough. It’s entirely up to you. If you’re looking for some relaxing alternatives to climbing up and down those steep mountains, the Engadin certainly has you covered.

For one, there are the hot springs in Scuol. Depending on how sore your legs are from your National Park endeavours, a few hours in this relaxing setting might just be what you need.

Otherwise, we suggest heading to one of the nearby villages. Like for instance Guarda or Sent. The stone houses you’ll encounter are characteristic to this part of Switzerland. And while you’re walking by those mighty buildings, keep an eye out for a bakery.

The Engadin is where the iconic Engadiner Nusstorte comes from. If you have a sweet tooth, we highly recommend you don’t leave before grabbing a slice or two. It’s heavy and rich. And it’s worth every single calorie.

• Best things to do in Scuol
• Best things to do in the Engadine

• Day 5: Scuol - Zurich

Guess what, you have another day to knock yourself out in and around Scuol today. So work on that list you’ve put together in your head. Another potentially interesting sight we haven’t mentioned yet is the castle of Tarasp.

This impressive construction near Scuol has been dominantly sitting on a steep hill since the 11th century. To see it from the inside, joining a tour is mandatory. If this is something you could see yourself doing before heading back to Zurich, check their current schedule to join a public tour.

The train ride from Scuol to Zurich takes almost three hours and unless you have a plane to catch, there’s no rush to get back.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 9
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Davos, you’ll receive a Guest Card that gives you discounts on all sorts of activities.
• For better views of Lake Zurich and Lake Walensee, grab a seat on the left on your train journey to Chur.
• While you’re out exploring Chur, Ruinaulta and the lakes, leave your luggage in a locker at the train station in Chur.
• Whenever you’re out hiking, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Your chances of spotting a couple of marmots, chamoix or even ibex are very real.
• Booking ahead when you stay at Chamanna Cluozza is crucial. You don’t want to end up getting stranded in the park after your hike and having to head back. Use their booking site to make a reservation.
• This itinerary works best during summer or autumn. Especially if you’re planning on spending time in the national park. Of course, you can also visit during winter. But that would mean you’d have to skip Chamanna Cluozza and spend more time in the snow in Davos and Scuol. Not a bad alternative, either...

10. Itinerary including the Alps and a ride on the Glacier Express train from St. Moritz to Zermatt

• Go on a hike at the base of the famous Matterhorn
• Check out the Gorner Glacier at Gornergrat
• Travel the full Glacier Express Line - the world’s slowest express train
• Discover the highlights of Zurich
• Day 1: Zurich - Zermatt

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Zermatt. If you’re not in a rush to get to Zermatt, take a quick break in Bern, Spiez or Thun. Those cities are all along the way from Zurich to Zermatt and offer plenty of sights and things to do.

Between Visp and Zermatt, you’ll be getting a first glimpse of what’s about to expect you on your Glacier Express journey. Once you arrive in Zermatt, spend the rest of the day strolling through this little mountain town and enjoy the sight of the mighty Matterhorn.

Provided it’s not veiled in clouds.

• Day 2: Free day in Zermatt

Another impressive, yet head spinning adventure, is walking across the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa. It stretches 494 metres (1620 feet) across the valley.

• Day 3: Zermatt - St. Moritz

Today, you’re going to complete the full Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This ride on “the world’s slowest express train” is a once in a lifetime experience and will spoil you with the best views the Alps have to offer.

The train leaves Zermatt twice a day, with both trains departing in the morning. The schedule changes throughout the year and there are certain trains that don’t do the full journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz. To find your connection, please make sure you consult their current timetable.

There’s a reason why the Glacier Express is one of the most popular scenic railway routes in Switzerland. What makes this journey so memorable are the fantastic views you get left, right and centre throughout the whole ride. The train takes you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, three cantons and two language regions.

It takes just over 8 hours to complete and depending on what time you leave Zermatt, you’ll arrive in St. Moritz between 5 and 6 pm. Whenever you do arrive, spend the rest of the day strolling through this fancy mountain town in the Engadine.

• Glacier Express - What to expect on this scenic train journey

• Day 4: Free day in St. Moritz

Like Zermatt, St. Moritz is all about the outdoors. Summer and winter. Whether you’re into biking, hiking, stand up paddling, swimming, windsurfing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or just going for a walk, you’ll find your fix.

Only a short ride from St. Moritz lies Lake Silvaplana, a stunning place to cover some of those activities.

Another place worth visiting, since you have a full day in St. Moritz, is Ospizio Bernina. With 2253 metres (7397 feet) above sea level, this little railway station is the highest spot of the Bernina Express Line. Trains from St. Moritz leave every hour and lead you past several good-looking spots with lakes, glaciers and towering mountains.

On the culinary side, we recommend two things in the Grisons. Firstly, don’t miss out on a bowl of Bündner Gerstensuppe. This barley soup with vegetables and meat is iconic to the Grisons and one of our favourite soups. It warms you up like nothing else on a chilly day.

Secondly, treat yourself to a slice of Engadiner Nusstorte. This heavy, delicious pastry puts the calories right back where you’ve been trying to lose them. But it’s so worth it.

Back in St. Moritz, spend the rest of the day strolling through the town. It’s not as charming and mystical as other villages in the area like Samedan or La Punt. But it’s great for window shopping and maybe, if you’re lucky, you’ll even spot a celebrity or two.

• Best things to do in St. Moritz

• Day 5: St. Moritz - Zurich

If there’s anything you didn’t get to do yesterday, today’s your chance. The train ride back to Zurich takes just over three hours so there’s no rush to leave just yet. However, if you’ve seen it all and you’re ready to move on, you’re welcome to hop on the train and spend some time anywhere along the way between St. Moritz and Zurich.

One place you might like is the dreamy village of Bergün with its impressive stone buildings that are iconic to this area. You’ll arrive in Bergün right after navigating the confusing Albula Line, the part where the train overcomes the altitude by taking a few loops and tunnels through the mountains. As you look out the window, you’ll notice the train crosses sides of the valley while spiralling down the mountains.

Another place you might enjoy between St. Moritz and Zurich is Walenstadt. Or more precisely, Lake Walensee. This beautiful lake is the perfect stopover. It’s a stunning and mystical lake and, depending on the weather and the light reflection, it sometimes reminds you of a Scottish loch.

Spend the rest of the evening in Zurich and snack on some more Engadiner Nusstorte by the lakeshore or at Lindenhof.

• Additional tips and information for itinerary 10
• The Glacier Express Line is fully covered by all major travel passes like the Swiss Travel Pass as well as the Interrail and Eurail Passes. However, you still need to make a reservation, even if you have a travel pass.
• During winter, Zermatt is a popular skiing destination. Unfortunately, it’s the most expensive one in Switzerland. But if you’re looking for some slopes, you should find what you’re after.
• The Engadin, the eastern part of the Grisons, is especially impressive during autumn, the season of the Golden Forests.
• If you’re planning on getting off in Walenstadt, make sure you don’t hop on the express train between Chur and Zurich. This one doesn’t stop in Walenstadt.
• For a better view of Lake Zurich and Lake Walen, you should choose the right side on your train journey to Zurich.

And this concludes our collection of five-day itineraries for Switzerland starting in Zurich. We hope you’ve been able to find the Switzerland itinerary to your taste. Have fun planning your trip.

Table of contents

Discover leisure activities, top destinations.

• Lauterbrunnen

Top Activities

Top attractions.

• Harder Kulm
• Jungfraujoch
• First Cliff Walk
• Museum of Transport
• Lake Lucerne
• Schynige Plate
• Eiger Glacier
• Glacier Gorge Grindelwald
• Chillon Castle
• Lake Brienz

Immerse Yourself in the Swiss Alps on an Express Train That Takes Its Time

For instance, guests can splurge on a multi-course meal or opt for a la carte items like regional cheese plates and chicken tikka masala. As of a 2020 renovation to celebrate the train line’s 90th anniversary, Wi-Fi and power sockets are also available to every passenger for free. Meanwhile, the seats themselves are comfortable, while the cars are spacious and relaxing to be in. Trust us when we say that if you haven’t yet sipped a crisp white from a tilted glass while traversing the Alps , it’s unclear if you’ve even lived. So, ready to climb aboard one of the most scenic train rides in the world ? Here’s what you need to know to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

How to book your trip on the Glacier Express

An individual ticket ranges from 73 Swiss francs to 268 Swiss francs depending on how far you go and whether you’re cool with second class or want to get fancy in first class . (That’s about $83 and $306, respectively.) The seat reservation fee ranges from 29 Swiss francs to 420 Swiss francs. The cheaper end is for a first or second-class seat during the low season (December to May) going a shorter distance, while the more expensive fees are for those living it up in the so-called “excellence class” during the high season (May to October)—for the full eight-hour trip, of course.

Whatever type of ticket you choose, the journey is mostly about the view, and you can get that anywhere on the train. It should go without saying that snagging a window seat is the way to go, so you don’t have to lean over a stranger to snap your pics. But don’t worry too much about what side of the train you’re on—if you’re going the full route, the train actually reverses directions going into and out of Chur. It is wise, however, to go for a spot in the middle of the coach, so you’ll be guaranteed a wider view regardless of which way you’re traveling.

Where to start and stop on the Glacier Express

One of the Glacier Express’ termini, St. Moritz has twice hosted the winter Olympics. That means it’s heaven for anyone into skiing or snowboarding, though it’s hard to imagine not having a good time there. It’s a place to hike, mountain bike, or even slide down a famous bobsled run at breakneck speeds. And for those who aren’t into the outdoors at all, St. Moritz has a range of swanky shops, grand hotels, and really everything you need to relax without worrying you might also fall on your face.

While the Glacier Express only runs between St. Moritz and Zermatt, you’re not required to start your journey at those specific stops. For many passengers, the town of Chur makes a great starting point. It’s often called the oldest town in Switzerland, and is still host to millennia-old archeological finds. The quaint, car-free Old Town is well-preserved and a great place for a stress-free stroll. Chur also has the highest concentration of restaurants and bars in the country. Not only that, it’s the largest shopping center between Zurich and Milan.

Notable sights along the way

Rhine gorge.

They call it the “ Grand Canyon of Switzerland,” and it was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in June 2002 for good reason. This place is a serious beaut. It’s largely inaccessible by road, so enjoy the opportunity to sit back and see the results of a prehistoric rockslide. Today, it’s where the Rhine River winds through massive geological formations, resulting in a picturesque ravine.

Albula Line

The Albula Line, a twisting section of the railway located between Filisur and St. Moritz, is where you’ll traverse many of those viaducts and tunnels that make the Glacier Express so incredible—including the famous Landwasser Viaduct. Anyone interested in railway engineering—or stunning scenery—is sure to be impressed. It is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.

Landwasser Viaduct

Did someone say viaducts? The Landwasser Viaduct is the most famous along the Glacier Express route, standing at 65 meters (or a little over 213 feet high) and stretching 142 meters (or around 466 feet long) before disappearing into a tunnel. Since it comes up just outside of the village of Filisur, it’s a good reason to make sure your chosen itinerary includes the railway’s eastern section. You’ll be able to see—and enjoy—the marvel’s highly pronounced curve from fairly far away.

Oberalp Pass

Cindy Brzostowski  is a contributor for Thrillist.

Kori Perten  is a senior travel editor at Thrillist.

Allie Conti  is a senior travel editor at Thrillist.

Welcome to Switzerland Travel Centre! You are welcome to contact us by e-mail or by phone on +41 43 210 55 00 .

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Winter Magic Tour

7 days / 6 nights.

Be inspired by glaciers, powder snow and frozen lakes! The winter edition of the "Grand Train Tour of Switzerland" takes you through beautiful landscapes and snow fun. Make this holiday your own with the option to add on mountain excursions and fun ski activities in famous resorts.

• 4 unique regions
• Scenic rides on the Glacier Express and optional journey on the Bernina Panorama Winter
• Top sights including Matterhorn, Rhine Gorge and Landwasser Viaduct

«Switzerland has plenty of natural wonders and many of them look even better in a heavy layer of snow. This creates a landscapes which is absolutely beautiful.»

Your itinerary.

Individual arrival in Switzerland

Enjoy the winter landscapes along the scenic journey between Lucerne and Interlaken. Nestled between the two beautiful lakes of Brienz and Thun and at the foot of the Jungfrau massif, Interlaken is your gateway to adventures. Overnight stay in Interlaken.

An option also to start your tour with overnights in Lucerne.

Highlights: Jungfraujoch, Ice Magic, Eiger north face, Ice Palace, Wengen, Schilthorn

Interlaken is a winter paradise with many magical moments waiting to be discovered. In the midst of the snow-covered mountain peaks and the glittering lake landscape, a magical natural idyll awaits you. Will you visit a mountain, explore on a winter hike or ski down a fresh piste? Overnight stay in Interlaken.

Highlights:  Combine with a fun ski day activity in the Jungfrau Ski Region. Ski in Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First and Mürren-Schilthorn. 

Interlaken - Zermatt

Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn and this snow assured resort offers lots of original character and unlimited possibilities. Overnight stay in Zermatt.

Highlights : Combine with a fun ski day activity in the Zermatt Glacier Paradise or see the best view of the Matterhorn from Gornergrat.

Zermatt - St. Moritz

Journey on the Glacier Express, the slowest express train in the world. This ride between Zermatt and St. Moritz is an unforgettable experience surrounded by a breath-taking backdrop of mountain panoramas. Travel across unspoiled landscapes as the route takes you over the Oberalp Pass and through the Rhine Gorge. Overnight stay in St. Moritz.

Highlights : Deep gorges and snow-covered valleys 

Option to add a ‘must see’ in this region and for Switzerland, in general, is a journey on the famous UNESCO-protected Bernina and Albula lines. The Bernina Panorama Winter, a regional train with panoramic carriages is a spell-binding journey past mighty glaciers and high-alpine lakes covered in snow which descends through a winter wonderland to the Italian-speaking Poschiavo. Overnight in St. Moritz.

Highlights:  Bernina Express - Lago Blanco, Alp Grüem, Poschiavo

Your tour is coming to an end. Return trip by public transport from St. Moritz to your final destination in Switzerland or extend your stay.

Highlights:  Segantini Museum, view over the Upper Engadine Lake Region from Muottas Muragl, Corvatsch, Diavolezza, Lagalb and Corviglia

• Rail journey from your starting point in Switzerland and back
• Overnight stay incl. breakfast in Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz
• Optional overnight available in Lucerne
• Seat reservations on the Glacier Express Zermatt - St. Moritz
• From price applies per person in a 3-star double room, 2nd class, basic half-fare card
• Booking period: all year round
• Travel period: 11.12.2024 - 30.04.2025
• Price example calculated on 01.05.2024 for 02.04.2025

Good to know

• Travel documents are sent by email if possible, in exceptional cases by post.
• Book your lunch on the Glacier Express.
• Here you can find the current  timetables

Tips: 

• Benefit from over 100 2 for 1 offers and save up to CHF 4,500 with the Swiss Coupon Pass . 
• Would you like to make someone happy? Why not offer them the trip as a gift ?
• Download the new app for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland now and collect points for great offers while discovering the "must see" lakes in a playful way.
• You can find more inspiration for the trip at our partner  MySwitzerland.com/wintermagictour