Planning your journey to Switzerland? Unbelievable selection! Switzerland is definitely one of the vital lovely international locations we’ve ever visited. From breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps to charming lakeside cities, each nook provides one thing magical. We’ve explored this lovely nation a number of occasions, and we’re excited to share our good two-week Switzerland itinerary with you. Let’s dive in!
The Finest 14-Day Switzerland Itinerary
Switzerland is a dream vacation spot for vacationers of every kind, providing dramatic landscapes, fairytale cities, and infinite alternatives for out of doors journey. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the mirror-like lakes and cultural hubs like Zurich and Geneva, this lovely nation actually has one thing for everybody. When planning your itinerary, it’s smart to think about the opportunity of dangerous climate—particularly in alpine areas just like the Bernese Oberland—so you possibly can hold your journey versatile and stress-free.
Introduction to Switzerland
Switzerland is essentially the most lovely nation situated within the coronary heart of Europe, recognized for its dramatic mountains, picturesque lakes, and storybook villages. The nation provides a singular mix of conventional and fashionable tradition, with a robust emphasis on high quality of life, innovation, and sustainability. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the serene shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland is a vacation spot that has one thing to supply for each type of traveler. Whether or not you’re considering out of doors actions like mountain climbing, snowboarding, or paragliding, or favor to discover the nation’s wealthy historical past and tradition, Switzerland is a must-visit vacation spot. With its well-developed public transportation system, together with trains, buses, and boats, getting across the nation is simple and handy. Contemplate buying a Swiss Journey Go for limitless entry to public transportation, together with scenic trains just like the Glacier Specific and the Bernina Specific.
Day 1 of Switzerland Itinerary: Arrival in Zurich airport
Morning: Discover Zurich Metropolis
Welcome to Switzerland! After arriving at Zurich Airport, seize your luggage and take a prepare to the town middle—the Swiss Go is right and handy in your entire journey. Spend the morning strolling by way of Zurich’s Previous City, Niederdorf, the place cobblestone streets weave previous centuries-old buildings, boutique retailers, and bustling cafés. Go to the historic Grossmünster church and admire the stained glass home windows designed by Marc Chagall at Fraumünster. Don’t miss Bahnhofstrasse for a fast peek at luxurious procuring and even simply to people-watch as trams glide by way of the town middle.
Afternoon: Loosen up by Lake Zurich
After lunch, take a brief tram to Bürkliplatz and hop on a scenic boat journey throughout Lake Zurich. The views of the encircling mountains and lakeside villas are spectacular. Contemplate hopping off within the lakeside city of Rapperswil for a brief go to—dwelling to a phenomenal rose backyard and a small fortress. Again in Zurich, stroll alongside the lakeside promenade to Sechseläutenplatz, the right spot to seize a gelato and take within the view. When you’ve got extra time, you possibly can spend a half day exploring Zurich and its many points of interest.
Night: Conventional Dinner
Finish your day having fun with native specialties like cheese fondue or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes in a comfy Zurich restaurant. We love Swiss Chuchi within the Lodge Adler—it’s among the best spots within the Previous City for conventional fare. For a extra upscale expertise, attempt Restaurant Zeughauskeller, a Zurich establishment situated in a Fifteenth-century armory. After dinner, take a stroll down Augustinergasse, one of the vital photogenic streets in Zurich, earlier than heading again to your resort.
The place to Keep in Zurich
For a central location and nice service, we suggest Lodge Storchen, proper on the Limmat River with views of Previous City. For budget-friendly choices, the citizenM Zürich provides a contemporary and enjoyable keep inside strolling distance of all the primary sights.
Planning Day Journeys
Planning day journeys is a necessary a part of any journey to Switzerland. With its compact measurement and environment friendly public transportation system, it’s straightforward to discover completely different elements of the nation in only a day. From the charming lakeside city of Lucerne to the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley, there are numerous choices for day journeys in Switzerland. Contemplate taking a cable automotive journey to the highest of a mountain, equivalent to Mount Pilatus or the Schilthorn, for breathtaking views of the encircling mountains and lakes. Or you possibly can take a ship journey on Lake Geneva or Lake Como. With a bit planning, you possibly can take advantage of your time in Switzerland and expertise all that this has to supply. Don’t neglect to buy a Swiss Journey Go for handy and inexpensive journey on public transportation, together with trains, buses, and boats.
Day 2: Zurich to Rhine Falls & Stein am Rhein
Morning: Rhine Falls
Begin your morning early by taking a brief prepare journey from Zurich to Schaffhausen, adopted by a neighborhood connection to the Rhine Falls. We suggest arriving earlier than 10:00 a.m. to beat the crowds and benefit from the views in peace. You’ll wish to spend about 2–3 hours right here to actually soak all of it in. Don’t simply admire the falls from the viewing platforms—buy tickets for the boat journey that takes you proper to the bottom of the crashing water. It’s loud, exhilarating, and utterly unforgettable.
There’s additionally a panoramic raise and strolling trails that provide a shocking view of the Rhine and the encircling countryside. For lunch, seize a riverside desk at Schlössli Wörth, the place you possibly can dine on Swiss specialties whereas gazing on the falls.
Afternoon, Stein am Rhein
Within the afternoon, hop on a brief prepare journey to Stein am Rhein. This postcard-perfect city seems to be prefer it belongs in a fairy story, with its charming squares, cobblestone lanes, and half-timbered homes adorned with colourful frescoes. Spend a few hours wandering, taking pictures, and perhaps having fun with a scoop of gelato in the primary sq..
Night Zurich West
Again in Zurich for the night, head to Zurich West for dinner and a little bit of nightlife. As soon as an industrial district, this neighborhood is now full of classy eating places, transformed warehouses, and funky bars. We love Frau Gerolds Garten for its laid-back environment and market-style seating. For those who’re within the temper for one thing extra upscale, LaSalle inside a former shipbuilding corridor provides nice fashionable Swiss delicacies. End the night time with a drink on the rooftop bar of Clouds, situated within the Prime Tower—the tallest constructing in Zurich. 3 days in Zurich Day 3: Zurich to Lucerne
Take a brief prepare journey to Lucerne, well-known for its iconic picket Chapel Bridge. Discover the town on foot, visiting landmarks just like the Lion Monument. Lucerne is gorgeous, and its charming outdated city is ideal for pictures.
Day 3: Zurich to Lucerne
Morning:
Take a brief prepare journey—slightly below an hour—from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Lucerne’s essential prepare station. It’s a clean, scenic journey and among the best methods to kick off your day. Lucerne is certainly one of Switzerland’s most photogenic cities, recognized for its cobbled streets, medieval structure, and jaw-dropping alpine backdrop. Begin your strolling tour by heading straight to the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), one of many oldest picket lined bridges in Europe and a high spotlight of any Switzerland itinerary. Sure, it’s free to cross and completely value seeing for its painted inside panels and flower bins.
Subsequent, make your solution to the Lion Monument, a touching tribute to Swiss Guards who misplaced their lives through the French Revolution. Then stroll the town partitions at Museggmauer, the place a number of towers are open to climb for wonderful views of the city and Lake Lucerne. Wander the Previous City and pop into native retailers or loosen up at a lakeside café alongside the promenade.
For lunch, take a look at Wirtshaus Galliker for genuine Lucerne-style dishes or Zur Werkstatt for one thing a bit extra fashionable however equally scrumptious.
Afternoon: Mount Pilatus Journey
Within the afternoon, take a ship from Lucerne’s dock to Alpnachstad, the place the world’s steepest cogwheel railway awaits. This well-known journey as much as Mount Pilatus prices round CHF 78 spherical journey, nevertheless it’s included with the Swiss Journey Go throughout summer season months. The journey itself is gorgeous, with the cogwheel prepare climbing by way of forests, rocky cliffs, and panoramic alpine meadows.
On the summit, take pleasure in breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and surrounding mountains. There are brief mountain climbing trails, a cliff stroll, and even a café the place you possibly can sip a cappuccino at 2,100 meters above sea stage. On the return journey, take the cable automotive all the way down to Kriens and hop on a brief bus again to Lucerne—it’s a enjoyable loop and provides you two modes of mountain transport in at some point. On the high of Mount Titlis, don’t miss the thrilling ice cave, a singular attraction that provides to the journey.
The place to Keep in Lucerne
We suggest Lodge des Balances, situated proper within the coronary heart of the Previous City with views of the Reuss River. For a budget-friendly keep, Barabas Lodge—a former jail turned trendy lodging—is enjoyable and distinctive. For those who favor lake views, the Lodge Schweizerhof Luzern is a beautiful historic choice proper on the waterfront.
Afternoon: Mount Pilatus Journey
Journey the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mount Pilatus, providing gorgeous views of the Swiss Alps and the encircling mountains.
Day 4: Lucerne to Bern
Morning: Scenic Practice Journey
Catch a direct prepare from Lucerne’s essential prepare station to Bern—it’s a couple of one-hour journey by way of pastoral landscapes, small villages, and rolling hills. Whereas not as dramatic as mountain routes, it’s a phenomenal prepare journey that gives a calming transition between two of Switzerland’s most charming cities. Trains depart commonly, and your Swiss Journey Go covers this route, making it straightforward to hop on with no need a seat reservation.
Afternoon: Discover Bern
When you arrive, verify into your resort after which set off to discover Switzerland’s understated capital. Bern’s total Previous City is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, and it’s straightforward to see why. Stroll previous sandstone arcades, clock towers, and fountains, and make sure you go to the well-known Zytglogge—a medieval clock that performs a whimsical present on the hour. You’ll be able to even be a part of a brief guided tour contained in the clock tower.
Proceed your strolling tour by heading all the way down to the Aare River, the place you possibly can see the Bear Park—dwelling to Bern’s animal mascot—after which hike uphill to Rosengarten. From right here, you’ll get among the best panoramic views of the town’s pink rooftops and the encircling mountains.
Pop into the Einstein Museum if you happen to’re a historical past buff, or simply take pleasure in wandering the town middle. For one thing candy, cease at Confiserie Tschirren for handmade Swiss chocolate and truffles.
The place to Eat and Keep in Bern
For dinner, head to Restaurant Della Casa, a neighborhood favourite serving up hearty Bernese delicacies. For one thing extra upscale, attempt Kornhauskeller—a grand former wine cellar turned elegant restaurant with vaulted ceilings and Swiss classics.
For those who’re staying the night time, Lodge Schweizerhof Bern provides luxurious rooms proper throughout from the prepare station. For a boutique choice, take a look at Lodge Savoy, which is fashionable and centrally situated. On a price range? Bern Backpackers Lodge Glocke provides clear rooms within the coronary heart of the Previous City.
Day 5: Bern to Interlaken
Morning: Scenic Practice Journey from Bern to Interlaken
The prepare journey from Bern to Interlaken takes about an hour and a half and is roofed by the Swiss Go. Sit on the left-hand aspect of the prepare for one of the best lake views as you move by way of the attractive countryside and small villages that outline this a part of Switzerland. It’s a kind of journeys that actually remind you why prepare journey is the best way to go right here.
Afternoon: Outside Adventures and Lakeside Enjoyable in Interlaken
As soon as in Interlaken, you’ll rapidly discover the power shift—this lakeside city is the journey capital of Switzerland. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and backed by the towering peaks of the Jungfrau area, Interlaken is much from sleepy. For out of doors lovers, there are a ton of choices. You’ll be able to paraglide from Beatenberg for unbelievable aerial views, lease a kayak or paddleboard and discover the lakes, or ebook a canyoning or jet boat tour if you happen to’re after adrenaline. For one thing extra relaxed, hop on a ship journey throughout Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. They’re each included in your Swiss Journey Go and make for good afternoon escapes. Contemplate spending an additional day within the Bernese Oberland to discover extra actions and sightseeing alternatives.
Night: Base Your self in Interlaken or Grindelwald
Interlaken itself is a good base for exploring the Bernese Oberland, however if you happen to’re searching for one thing much more picturesque, contemplate staying in Grindelwald as a substitute. It’s simply half-hour away by prepare and provides a extra alpine vibe with direct entry to the Eiger and several other mountain climbing trails.
The place to Keep
In Interlaken, Lodge Interlaken is a long-standing favourite with nice mountain views and a beautiful backyard. For price range vacationers, Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof is a top-rated hostel with wonderful facilities. In Grindelwald, take a look at Lodge Belvedere Grindelwald for a basic mountain stick with gorgeous views and a spa to unwind after a protracted day.
The place to Eat
For lunch, take a look at Restaurant Taverne in Interlaken, the place you possibly can pattern conventional dishes with a contemporary twist. For dinner, head to The three Tells Irish Pub for an informal vibe, or if you happen to’re in Grindelwald, deal with your self to a hearty mountain meal at Barry’s Restaurant, which serves up regional delicacies in a comfy alpine setting.
Day 6: Jungfraujoch – High of Europe
Morning: Scenic Practice and Cable Automobile Journey
Begin your day early and take the prepare from Interlaken to Grindelwald Terminal, the place you’ll board the Eiger Specific gondola. This specific route connects to the Jungfraujoch railway, with a scenic cease at Kleine Scheidegg, and brings you as much as the High of Europe a lot quicker than the standard full prepare route. Even if you happen to’re in second class, the panoramic home windows present jaw-dropping views of the encircling mountains and glaciers as you ascend. Be sure you use your Swiss Go to get discounted charges on the journey—spherical journey tickets value round CHF 210 with out reductions.
Noon: Discover Jungfraujoch Summit
As soon as on the high, you’ll have time to discover the Ice Palace, the Sphinx Observatory, and snow actions on the Snow Enjoyable Park (in summer season). Seize lunch at Restaurant Crystal or the self-service cafeteria for faster service—anticipate costs round CHF 25–30 for a essential dish. Don’t neglect to take pictures from the remark deck, one of many highest accessible factors in Europe.
Afternoon: Hike the Eiger Path
After descending again to the Eiger Glacier station, change gears and benefit from the lovely Eiger Path hike. This scenic route leads you downhill towards Alpiglen and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The path hugs the bottom of the Eiger North Face and provides unforgettable views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley and small villages under. It’s a implausible solution to get out into nature with out committing to a full-day mountain hike.
Night: Dinner and Leisure
Return to Interlaken or Grindelwald by early night. For dinner in Grindelwald, Restaurant Alpenblick serves conventional Swiss alpine delicacies in a country setting. For those who’re again in Interlaken, head to Husi Bierhaus for hearty pub fare and an important native beer choice. Finish the night with a calming stroll alongside the lakeside promenade or unwind in your resort’s spa—belief us, your legs will thanks!
Day 7: Lauterbrunnen Valley
Morning: Discover Lauterbrunnen and Trümmelbach Falls
Take a brief prepare journey from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen—it’s about 20 minutes and provides beautiful views alongside the best way. When you arrive, you’re in one of the vital iconic valleys within the Swiss Alps. Lauterbrunnen is legendary for its 72 waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and alpine meadows. Begin with a stroll to Trümmelbach Falls, an underground sequence of glacial waterfalls tucked contained in the mountain. These are the one glacier waterfalls in Europe accessible by raise, galleries, tunnels, and paths—entry is CHF 12 for adults and properly value it.
Afternoon: Grindelwald First Journey or Mürren Tour
You’ve gotten two implausible choices this afternoon. For those who’re up for thrills and iconic views, head to Grindelwald First. Accessible by gondola from the middle of Grindelwald, this mountain space provides unbelievable experiences just like the First Cliff Stroll—a heart-racing suspension walkway constructed into the aspect of the mountain. For the adventurous, you may also attempt the First Flyer zip line, mountain cart, or trotti bike again all the way down to the village. Plan about 3–4 hours to take all of it in.
For those who favor a extra relaxed however equally scenic afternoon, follow the unique plan to take the cable automotive as much as Grütschalp and the scenic prepare to Mürren—a car-free alpine village with jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It is a great spot for a slower-paced afternoon of mountain air, photograph ops, and a brief hike between Grütschalp and Mürren (about 1.5 hours).
Alternatively, head to Wengen on the alternative aspect of the valley through a brief prepare journey. Each villages provide unbelievable viewpoints and charming alpine vibes. One other nice afternoon choice is the stroll to Staubbach Falls, simply exterior Lauterbrunnen village, the place you possibly can stroll behind the cascading water.
Night: Dinner and Leisure in Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald
Return to Lauterbrunnen in meal time. We suggest Lodge Oberland’s restaurant for hearty Swiss fare and a beautiful out of doors terrace. For those who’re staying in Grindelwald, Barry’s is as soon as once more a best choice for environment and scrumptious alpine specialties. Finish your day with a stroll by way of city or seize a drink with a view if you happen to’re in a resort with a terrace—you’ve earned it after a full day of exploring one of the vital lovely valleys on this planet.
Day 8: Interlaken to Montreux (Golden Go Line)
Morning: Journey the Golden Go Line
Begin your day with one of the vital lovely prepare rides in Switzerland. The Golden Go Line from Interlaken to Montreux is a part of the legendary scenic route that connects the Bernese Oberland to Lake Geneva. This specific route takes roughly 3 hours and passes by way of charming villages, rolling inexperienced meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The part between Zweisimmen and Montreux is especially gorgeous, providing panoramic views because the prepare descends into the French-speaking area of Switzerland. Whereas seat reservations aren’t required, we suggest buying a reservation for a panoramic carriage, particularly throughout excessive season.
Afternoon: Discover Montreux and Lake Geneva
After checking into your resort, spend the afternoon exploring Montreux. This lakeside city is legendary for its microclimate, Belle Époque structure, and gorgeous setting alongside the shores of Lake Geneva. Stroll alongside the lakeside promenade—lined with unique flowers and sculptures—and snap some Instagram-worthy pictures of the Dents du Midi within the background. Cease on the Freddie Mercury statue, a tribute to the Queen frontman who recorded right here, and revel in a relaxed vibe that feels extra Riviera than Alps.
For those who’re up for a brief stroll or bike journey, head towards Château de Chillon (you’ll go to extra in-depth tomorrow) to get a really feel for its fairy-tale exterior.
Night: Lakeside Eating
Because the solar units, settle in for dinner at Montreux Jazz Café situated contained in the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace—nice meals and implausible ambiance. One other wonderful choice is Restaurant La Rouvenaz, providing scrumptious Italian and seafood dishes proper close to the waterfront. After dinner, take pleasure in a glass of Swiss wine by the lake or pop into a neighborhood wine bar for a style of Lavaux’s best.
The place to Keep in Montreux
For lakeside luxurious, you possibly can’t beat the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. For those who’re touring on a mid-range price range, Eurotel Montreux provides lovely views and a major location. For one thing extra boutique, Lodge Eden Palace au Lac has old-world attraction and a shocking setting proper on the water.
Day 9: Montreux and Château de Chillon
Morning: Go to Château de Chillon
Begin your morning with a go to to the enduring Château de Chillon, situated only a brief bus or scenic lakeside stroll from central Montreux. This medieval fortress sits proper on the sting of Lake Geneva and is among the most photographed castles in Switzerland. Admission is round CHF 13.50, and guided excursions or audio guides can be found that can assist you discover the dungeons, towers, and nice halls. Lord Byron even carved his title in one of many dungeon pillars, and you’ll see it for your self.
Afternoon: Discover Montreux and Lavaux Vineyards
After your fortress journey, spend a while strolling by way of Montreux’s charming metropolis middle. Discover the boutiques alongside Grand Rue, take pleasure in a espresso at one of many lakefront cafés, and wander the floral-lined promenade. Within the afternoon, take a brief prepare journey or boat to the Lavaux Winery Terraces—this UNESCO World Heritage Web site is an absolute dream. Hike the scenic trails between villages like Cully and Epesses or do a neighborhood wine tasting at a family-run winery. The views over the terraced hills and Lake Geneva are breathtaking.
Night: Sundown Eating by the Lake
Head again to Montreux for dinner and revel in lakeside eating at Restaurant Le Jaman or Caveau des Vignerons in close by Vevey if you happen to’re within the temper for a brief journey. These spots provide cozy settings with wonderful Swiss wines and delicacies. After dinner, take pleasure in a night stroll alongside the lakeside promenade because the solar dips behind the Alps—pure magic.
Day 10: Montreux to Gruyères and Broc
Morning: Day Journey to Gruyères
Catch a morning prepare from Montreux to Gruyères, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Begin your go to at Château de Gruyères, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the encircling area. The fortress dates again to the thirteenth century and prices CHF 12 to enter. Afterward, stroll all the way down to La Maison du Gruyère cheese manufacturing facility, the place you possibly can be taught in regards to the cheesemaking course of and pattern the area’s well-known product. Entry is round CHF 7 and contains tastings.
Afternoon: Chocolate Heaven in Broc
After your cheese repair, hop on a brief prepare or bus to Broc to go to La Maison Cailler—Switzerland’s most beloved chocolate manufacturing facility. Their interactive tour ends with limitless chocolate tasting, which is precisely as dreamy because it sounds. Admission is CHF 15, and if you happen to’re touring with youngsters (or are a child at coronary heart), this is among the most memorable stops of your entire journey to Switzerland.
Night: Journey to Zermatt
From Broc, return to Montreux to gather your luggage and contemplate the comfort of a rental automotive for the journey to Zermatt. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and features a switch in Visp. No vehicles are allowed in Zermatt, so that you’ll full the ultimate leg by electrical shuttle or on foot. Settle in for the night time and prepare to discover Zermatt and the Matterhorn tomorrow.
The place to Keep in Zermatt
We suggest Lodge Matterhorn Focus for design lovers, or the family-run Lodge Alpenblick for cozy alpine attraction. On a price range? Try the fashionable youth hostel with Matterhorn views.
Day 11: Zermatt and the Matterhorn
Morning: Matterhorn Dawn and 5 Lakes Hike
Get up early and catch the dawn over the Matterhorn—it’s a magical expertise that makes the early alarm completely value it. From there, take the funicular or gondola to Blauherd and start the 5-Seenweg (5 Lakes Path), among the best hikes within the Zermatt area. The path takes round 2.5 hours and brings you previous 5 picturesque alpine lakes, together with Stellisee, the place you’ll have an opportunity to {photograph} that iconic Matterhorn reflection if the situations are proper. This hike is comparatively straightforward and nice for having fun with at your individual tempo, with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and charming wildflower-dotted meadows.
Afternoon: Journey the Gornergrat Cogwheel Practice
After your hike, return to city, seize a light-weight lunch at a café like Petit Royal or Fuchs Bakery, after which board the Gornergrat Bahn. This scenic cogwheel prepare climbs to three,089 meters and is really one of the vital lovely prepare rides in Switzerland. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes, with gorgeous views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and, after all, the mighty Matterhorn. On the summit, you’ll discover an observatory, photograph ops galore, and a café if you wish to linger over the view.
Night: Discover Previous City Zermatt and Dinner
Again in Zermatt, wander the Previous City and its charming laneways like Hinterdorfstrasse, full of centuries-old picket chalets. Cease by the Matterhorn Museum when you’ve got time—it’s small however fascinating, detailing the early climbs and life within the area.
For dinner, Schäferstube is at all times a winner for conventional fare like cheese fondue, rösti, and grilled meats. Choose one thing a bit extra elevated? The Omnia serves up connoisseur eating in a classy setting. Wrap up your day with a stroll down Bahnhofstrasse or a nightcap at Harry’s Ski Bar.
Day 12: Glacier Paradise and Zermatt Leisure
Morning: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Right now is all about high-altitude journey. Take the cable automotive from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise—Europe’s highest cable automotive station at 3,883 meters. The views from the summit are astonishing, providing a sweeping panorama of 38 alpine peaks and 14 glaciers throughout three international locations. On the high, stroll by way of the Glacier Palace, an ice tunnel carved contained in the glacier with ice sculptures and a frosty ambiance. An thrilling attraction right here is the ice cave, which provides to the distinctive experiences obtainable. Tickets value round CHF 100–120, however your Swiss Go will prevent some francs.
Afternoon: Lunch and Scenic Views
After taking within the icy views, cease for lunch on the mountain-top restaurant. They serve alpine favorites like rösti, sausages, or warming soup—splendid consolation meals with a view. When you’re again on the town, take pleasure in a extra relaxed afternoon. For those who skipped the Matterhorn Museum the day earlier than, now’s a good time to go to. Or simply take in the alpine surroundings from a comfy café like Cup’s Espresso Bar.
Night: Closing Night time in Zermatt
In your remaining night time in Zermatt, deal with your self to dinner on the charming Restaurant Julen, which serves conventional recipes with a connoisseur twist. For those who’re nonetheless within the temper for journey, contemplate reserving a stargazing session or having fun with a hearth drink at your resort. Zermatt can also be the beginning or finish level of the well-known Glacier Specific—so if you happen to’re persevering with the journey or simply passing by way of, you’ll really feel the legacy of one of many world’s most lovely prepare rides throughout you.
Day 13: Zermatt to Locarno through Domodossola
For this part, you possibly can lease a automotive and benefit from the drive. We discovered that having a automotive rental was one of the best ways to get across the Locarno area of Switzerland.
Morning: Scenic Journey to Locarno
After breakfast, start your scenic journey to Locarno through the well-known Centovalli Railway. First, take a prepare from Zermatt to Visp and connect with Domodossola, simply throughout the Italian border. From right here, hop on the Centovalli Railway (the “One Hundred Valleys” line), which is among the most lovely prepare rides in Switzerland. This brief prepare journey winds previous dramatic gorges, waterfalls, vineyards, and charming villages.
Afternoon: Discover Locarno’s Lakeside Appeal
When you arrive in Locarno, drop your luggage and discover this sun-drenched lakeside city situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Take a stroll alongside the lakeside promenade, loosen up by the waterfront, or take pleasure in a espresso in the primary sq., Piazza Grande. For panoramic views, journey the funicular as much as the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary, a pilgrimage website perched above the town.
When you’ve got time, discover the close by valleys—Maggia and Verzasca—for a stroll throughout the well-known stone bridge in Lavertezzo or a refreshing dip in crystal-clear rivers. These areas are filled with charming villages, lush trails, and postcard-perfect surroundings. You’ll get a style of the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland at its greatest.
Night: Swiss-Italian Dinner and Sundown
Locarno is all about nice meals and heat evenings. For dinner, we suggest Grotto Broggini, a country out of doors restaurant in close by Losone well-known for grilled meats and Ticinese specialties. Or keep on the town and check out Ristorante Sensi for lakeside views and elevated Mediterranean flavors. Finish your day with a glass of Merlot from the area and soak within the relaxed ambianceDay 14: Locarno to Lake Como & Again to Zurich
Day 14: Locarno to Lugano and the Verzasca Valley
Morning: Day Journey to Lugano
In your remaining day in Switzerland, head south from Locarno to Lugano, the biggest city within the Ticino area. The brief prepare journey takes about 45 minutes and provides lovely views alongside Lake Maggiore. As soon as in Lugano, discover Parco Ciani, one of the vital lovely lakeside parks in Switzerland, and stroll alongside the lakeside promenade with views of Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Wander by way of the cobbled streets of the Previous City and browse boutiques or seize an espresso in Piazza della Riforma.
Afternoon: Go to the Verzasca Valley
Return to Locarno by early afternoon and head out on one final scenic journey to the Verzasca Valley. This space looks like stepping right into a postcard, with emerald rivers, historical stone bridges, and picturesque villages. Stroll throughout the well-known Ponte dei Salti (the double-arched stone bridge in Lavertezzo), go for a swim within the crystalline water (climate allowing), or take pleasure in a picnic within the shade. This area is ideal for these remaining breathtaking views and Instagram tales that seize Switzerland’s quieter, extra relaxed aspect.
Night: Closing Meal in Zurich or Keep in Locarno
Return to Locarno to gather your baggage and board the direct prepare to Zurich through the Gotthard Base Tunnel. The journey takes simply over 2 hours and provides you one final scenic journey by way of Switzerland’s coronary heart. For those who’re flying dwelling the subsequent morning, keep close to Zürich Airport for comfort. Plan your journey preparations for the flight dwelling from Zurich to make sure a clean and well timed departure.
Sensible Data
Getting Round
Public transport in Switzerland is great. We strongly suggest the Swiss Go for limitless journey by prepare, bus, boat, and even cable automotive reductions. Whereas renting a automotive is an choice, it’s not essential because of the effectivity of Swiss trains.
Budgeting
Count on to spend round $6,000-$7,000 USD per particular person for 2 weeks, overlaying lodging, transport (second class), meals, and actions.
Forex and Language
Switzerland makes use of the Swiss Franc (CHF), although Euros are generally accepted. German, French, Italian, and Romansh are the official languages, however English is broadly spoken.
Finest Time to Go to Switzerland
Go to between Might and September for one of the best climate and mountain climbing alternatives. Winter months (December to March) are perfect for winter sports activities fanatics.
We’ve traveled extensively by way of Switzerland, and this two-week itinerary contains our absolute favourite locations and experiences. From breathtaking mountain excursions and charming villages to pleasant culinary experiences and gorgeous lakeside promenades, this itinerary provides one thing for everybody. Take pleasure in your superb journey to Switzerland—we all know you’ll find it irresistible as a lot as we do!
