Planning your journey to Switzerland? Fantastic selection! Switzerland is well one of probably the most stunning nations we’ve ever visited. From breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps to charming lakeside cities, each nook gives one thing magical. We’ve explored this stunning nation a number of instances, and we’re excited to share our excellent two-week Switzerland itinerary with you. Let’s dive in!
The Best 14-Day Switzerland Itinerary
Switzerland is a dream vacation spot for vacationers of all types, providing dramatic landscapes, fairytale cities, and countless alternatives for outside journey. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the mirror-like lakes and cultural hubs like Zurich and Geneva, this stunning nation really has one thing for everybody. When planning your itinerary, it’s clever to issue within the chance 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 probably the most stunning nation positioned within the coronary heart of Europe, recognized for its dramatic mountains, picturesque lakes, and storybook villages. The nation gives a singular mix of conventional and fashionable tradition, with a powerful 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 sort of traveler. Whether you’re thinking about outside actions like mountain climbing, snowboarding, or paragliding, or choose 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. Consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass for limitless entry to public transportation, together with scenic trains just like the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express.
Day 1 of Switzerland Itinerary: Arrival in Zurich airport
Morning: Explore Zurich City
Welcome to Switzerland! After arriving at Zurich Airport, seize your baggage and take a prepare to the town heart—the Swiss Pass is good and handy to your complete journey. Spend the morning strolling via Zurich’s Old Town, Niederdorf, the place cobblestone streets weave previous centuries-old buildings, boutique outlets, and bustling cafés. Visit 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 buying and even simply to people-watch as trams glide via the town heart.
Afternoon: Relax by Lake Zurich
After lunch, take a brief tram to Bürkliplatz and hop on a scenic boat trip throughout Lake Zurich. The views of the encircling mountains and lakeside villas are spectacular. Consider hopping off within the lakeside city of Rapperswil for a brief go to—house to a phenomenal rose backyard and a small citadel. Back in Zurich, stroll alongside the lakeside promenade to Sechseläutenplatz, the right spot to seize a gelato and take within the view. If you will have extra time, you possibly can spend a half day exploring Zurich and its many points of interest.
Evening: Traditional Dinner
End your day having fun with native specialties like cheese fondue or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes in a comfy Zurich restaurant. We love Swiss Chuchi within the Hotel Adler—it’s one of the most effective spots within the Old Town for conventional fare. For a extra upscale expertise, attempt Restaurant Zeughauskeller, a Zurich establishment positioned in a Fifteenth-century armory. After dinner, take a stroll down Augustinergasse, one of probably the most photogenic streets in Zurich, earlier than heading again to your resort.
Where to Stay in Zurich
For a central location and nice service, we suggest Hotel Storchen, proper on the Limmat River with views of Old Town. For budget-friendly choices, the citizenM Zürich gives a contemporary and enjoyable keep inside strolling distance of all the principle sights.
Planning Day Trips
Planning day journeys is a necessary half of any journey to Switzerland. With its compact dimension and environment friendly public transportation system, it’s straightforward to discover totally different components 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. Consider taking a cable automobile trip to the highest of a mountain, reminiscent of Mount Pilatus or the Schilthorn, for breathtaking views of the encircling mountains and lakes. Or you possibly can take a ship trip on Lake Geneva or Lake Como. With just a little planning, you can also make probably the most of your time in Switzerland and expertise all that this has to supply. Don’t overlook to buy a Swiss Travel Pass 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
Start your morning early by taking a brief prepare trip from Zurich to Schaffhausen, adopted by an area 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 trip that takes you proper to the bottom of the crashing water. It’s loud, exhilarating, and fully unforgettable.
There’s additionally a panoramic raise and strolling trails that supply a surprising 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
In the afternoon, hop on a brief prepare trip to Stein am Rhein. This postcard-perfect city appears prefer it belongs in a fairy story, with its charming squares, cobblestone lanes, and half-timbered homes adorned with colourful frescoes. Spend a pair of hours wandering, taking pictures, and possibly having fun with a scoop of gelato in the principle sq..
Evening Zurich West
Back in Zurich for the night, head to Zurich West for dinner and a bit of nightlife. Once an industrial district, this neighborhood is now full of stylish eating places, transformed warehouses, and funky bars. We love Frau Gerolds Garten for its laid-back ambiance and market-style seating. If you’re within the temper for one thing extra upscale, LaSalle inside a former shipbuilding corridor gives nice fashionable Swiss delicacies. Finish the evening with a drink on the rooftop bar of Clouds, positioned within the Prime Tower—the tallest constructing in Zurich. 3 days in Zurich Day 3: Zurich to Lucerne
Take a brief prepare trip to Lucerne, well-known for its iconic wood Chapel Bridge. Explore 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 trip—slightly below an hour—from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Lucerne’s predominant prepare station. It’s a clean, scenic journey and one of the most effective methods to kick off your day. Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most photogenic cities, recognized for its cobbled streets, medieval structure, and jaw-dropping alpine backdrop. Start your strolling tour by heading straight to the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), one of the oldest wood coated bridges in Europe and a high spotlight of any Switzerland itinerary. Yes, it’s free to cross and completely value seeing for its painted inside panels and flower packing containers.
Next, make your approach 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 just a few towers are open to climb for glorious views of the city and Lake Lucerne. Wander the Old Town and pop into native outlets or chill out 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 Adventure
In the afternoon, take a ship from Lucerne’s dock to Alpnachstad, the place the world’s steepest cogwheel railway awaits. This well-known trip as much as Mount Pilatus prices round CHF 78 spherical journey, nevertheless it’s included with the Swiss Travel Pass throughout summer time months. The journey itself is beautiful, with the cogwheel prepare climbing via forests, rocky cliffs, and panoramic alpine meadows.
At the summit, get pleasure from 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 degree. On the return journey, take the cable automobile right down to Kriens and hop on a brief bus again to Lucerne—it’s a enjoyable loop and offers you two modes of mountain transport in sooner or later. At the highest of Mount Titlis, don’t miss the thrilling ice cave, a singular attraction that provides to the journey.
Where to Stay in Lucerne
We suggest Hotel des Balances, positioned proper within the coronary heart of the Old Town with views of the Reuss River. For a budget-friendly keep, Barabas Hotel—a former jail turned fashionable lodging—is enjoyable and distinctive. If you like lake views, the Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is a beautiful historic choice proper on the waterfront.
Afternoon: Mount Pilatus Adventure
Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mount Pilatus, providing beautiful views of the Swiss Alps and the encircling mountains.
Day 4: Lucerne to Bern
Morning: Scenic Train Ride
Catch a direct prepare from Lucerne’s predominant prepare station to Bern—it’s a couple of one-hour journey via pastoral landscapes, small villages, and rolling hills. While not as dramatic as mountain routes, it’s a phenomenal prepare trip that gives a calming transition between two of Switzerland’s most charming cities. Trains depart often, and your Swiss Travel Pass covers this route, making it straightforward to hop on without having a seat reservation.
Afternoon: Explore Bern
Once you arrive, test into your resort after which set off to discover Switzerland’s understated capital. Bern’s total Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s straightforward to see why. Stroll previous sandstone arcades, clock towers, and fountains, and remember to go to the well-known Zytglogge—a medieval clock that performs a whimsical present on the hour. You may even be part of a brief guided tour contained in the clock tower.
Continue your strolling tour by heading right down to the Aare River, the place you possibly can see the Bear Park—house to Bern’s animal mascot—after which hike uphill to Rosengarten. From right here, you’ll get one of the most effective panoramic views of the town’s pink rooftops and the encircling mountains.
Pop into the Einstein Museum for those who’re a historical past buff, or simply get pleasure from wandering the town heart. For one thing candy, cease at Confiserie Tschirren for handmade Swiss chocolate and truffles.
Where to Eat and Stay in Bern
For dinner, head to Restaurant Della Casa, an area 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.
If you’re staying the evening, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern gives luxurious rooms proper throughout from the prepare station. For a boutique choice, take a look at Hotel Savoy, which is fashionable and centrally positioned. On a funds? Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke gives clear rooms within the coronary heart of the Old Town.
Day 5: Bern to Interlaken
Morning: Scenic Train Ride from Bern to Interlaken
The prepare trip from Bern to Interlaken takes about an hour and a half and is roofed by the Swiss Pass. Sit on the left-hand facet of the prepare for the most effective lake views as you go via the attractive countryside and small villages that outline this half of Switzerland. It’s one of these journeys that basically remind you why prepare journey is the best way to go right here.
Afternoon: Outdoor Adventures and Lakeside Fun in Interlaken
Once in Interlaken, you’ll rapidly discover the vitality 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 way from sleepy. For outside lovers, there are a ton of choices. You can paraglide from Beatenberg for unbelievable aerial views, lease a kayak or paddleboard and discover the lakes, or e-book a canyoning or jet boat tour for those who’re after adrenaline. For one thing extra relaxed, hop on a ship trip throughout Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. They’re each included in your Swiss Travel Pass and make for excellent afternoon escapes. Consider spending an additional day within the Bernese Oberland to discover extra actions and sightseeing alternatives.
Evening: Base Yourself in Interlaken or Grindelwald
Interlaken itself is a good base for exploring the Bernese Oberland, however for those who’re in search of one thing much more picturesque, contemplate staying in Grindelwald as a substitute. It’s simply half-hour away by prepare and gives a extra alpine vibe with direct entry to the Eiger and a number of other mountain climbing trails.
Where to Stay
In Interlaken, Hotel Interlaken is a long-standing favourite with nice mountain views and a beautiful backyard. For funds vacationers, Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof is a top-rated hostel with glorious facilities. In Grindelwald, take a look at Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald for a basic mountain stick with beautiful views and a spa to unwind after an extended day.
Where 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 3 Tells Irish Pub for an off-the-cuff vibe, or for those who’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 – Top of Europe
Morning: Scenic Train and Cable Car Journey
Start your day early and take the prepare from Interlaken to Grindelwald Terminal, the place you’ll board the Eiger Express gondola. This categorical route connects to the Jungfraujoch railway, with a scenic cease at Kleine Scheidegg, and brings you as much as the Top of Europe a lot sooner than the standard full prepare route. Even for those who’re in second class, the panoramic home windows present jaw-dropping views of the encircling mountains and glaciers as you ascend. Be positive to make use of your Swiss Pass to get discounted charges on the trip—spherical journey tickets price round CHF 210 with out reductions.
Midday: Explore Jungfraujoch Summit
Once on the high, you’ll have time to discover the Ice Palace, the Sphinx Observatory, and snow actions on the Snow Fun Park (in summer time). Grab lunch at Restaurant Crystal or the self-service cafeteria for faster service—count on costs round CHF 25–30 for a predominant dish. Don’t overlook to take pictures from the remark deck, one of the best accessible factors in Europe.
Afternoon: Hike the Eiger Trail
After descending again to the Eiger Glacier station, change gears and benefit from the stunning Eiger Trail 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 gives unforgettable views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley and small villages under. It’s a improbable approach to get out into nature with out committing to a full-day mountain hike.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Return to Interlaken or Grindelwald by early night. For dinner in Grindelwald, Restaurant Alpenblick serves conventional Swiss alpine delicacies in a country setting. If you’re again in Interlaken, head to Husi Bierhaus for hearty pub fare and an important native beer choice. End 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: Explore Lauterbrunnen and Trümmelbach Falls
Take a brief prepare trip from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen—it’s about 20 minutes and gives pretty views alongside the best way. Once you arrive, you’re in a single of probably the most iconic valleys within the Swiss Alps. Lauterbrunnen is known for its 72 waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and alpine meadows. Start 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 Adventure or Mürren Excursion
You have two improbable choices this afternoon. If you’re up for thrills and iconic views, head to Grindelwald First. Accessible by gondola from the middle of Grindelwald, this mountain space gives unbelievable experiences just like the First Cliff Walk—a heart-racing suspension walkway constructed into the facet of the mountain. For the adventurous, you too can attempt the First Flyer zip line, mountain cart, or trotti bike again right down to the village. Plan about 3–4 hours to take all of it in.
If you like a extra relaxed however equally scenic afternoon, stick to the unique plan to take the cable automobile 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. This is a superb spot for a slower-paced afternoon of mountain air, picture ops, and a brief hike between Grütschalp and Mürren (about 1.5 hours).
Alternatively, head to Wengen on the other facet of the valley by way of a brief prepare trip. Both villages supply unbelievable viewpoints and charming alpine vibes. Another nice afternoon choice is the stroll to Staubbach Falls, simply exterior Lauterbrunnen village, the place you possibly can stroll behind the cascading water.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation in Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald
Return to Lauterbrunnen in dinner time. We suggest Hotel Oberland’s restaurant for hearty Swiss fare and a beautiful outside terrace. If you’re staying in Grindelwald, Barry’s is as soon as once more a best choice for ambiance and scrumptious alpine specialties. End your day with a stroll via city or seize a drink with a view for those who’re in a resort with a terrace—you’ve earned it after a full day of exploring one of probably the most stunning valleys on the planet.
Day 8: Interlaken to Montreux (Golden Pass Line)
Morning: Ride the Golden Pass Line
Start your day with one of probably the most stunning prepare rides in Switzerland. The Golden Pass Line from Interlaken to Montreux is a component of the legendary scenic route that connects the Bernese Oberland to Lake Geneva. This categorical route takes roughly 3 hours and passes via charming villages, rolling inexperienced meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The part between Zweisimmen and Montreux is especially beautiful, providing panoramic views because the prepare descends into the French-speaking area of Switzerland. While seat reservations aren’t required, we suggest buying a reservation for a panoramic carriage, particularly throughout excessive season.
Afternoon: Explore Montreux and Lake Geneva
After checking into your resort, spend the afternoon exploring Montreux. This lakeside city is known for its microclimate, Belle Époque structure, and beautiful setting alongside the shores of Lake Geneva. Walk alongside the lakeside promenade—lined with unique flowers and sculptures—and snap some Instagram-worthy pictures of the Dents du Midi within the background. Stop on the Freddie Mercury statue, a tribute to the Queen frontman who recorded right here, and luxuriate in a relaxed vibe that feels extra Riviera than Alps.
If you’re up for a brief stroll or bike trip, head towards Château de Chillon (you’ll go to extra in-depth tomorrow) to get a really feel for its fairy-tale exterior.
Evening: Lakeside Dining
As the solar units, settle in for dinner at Montreux Jazz Café positioned contained in the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace—nice meals and improbable ambiance. Another glorious choice is Restaurant La Rouvenaz, providing scrumptious Italian and seafood dishes proper close to the waterfront. After dinner, get pleasure from a glass of Swiss wine by the lake or pop into an area wine bar for a style of Lavaux’s most interesting.
Where to Stay in Montreux
For lakeside luxurious, you possibly can’t beat the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. If you’re touring on a mid-range funds, Eurotel Montreux gives stunning views and a chief location. For one thing extra boutique, Hotel Eden Palace au Lac has old-world appeal and a surprising setting proper on the water.
Day 9: Montreux and Château de Chillon
Morning: Visit Château de Chillon
Start your morning with a go to to the long-lasting Château de Chillon, positioned only a brief bus or scenic lakeside stroll from central Montreux. This medieval fortress sits proper on the sting of Lake Geneva and is one of probably 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 identify in a single of the dungeon pillars, and you may see it for your self.
Afternoon: Explore Montreux and Lavaux Vineyards
After your citadel journey, spend a while strolling via Montreux’s charming metropolis heart. Explore the boutiques alongside Grand Rue, get pleasure from a espresso at one of the lakefront cafés, and wander the floral-lined promenade. In the afternoon, take a brief prepare trip or boat to the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces—this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an absolute dream. Hike the scenic trails between villages like Cully and Epesses or do an area wine tasting at a family-run winery. The views over the terraced hills and Lake Geneva are breathtaking.
Evening: Sunset Dining by the Lake
Head again to Montreux for dinner and luxuriate in lakeside eating at Restaurant Le Jaman or Caveau des Vignerons in close by Vevey for those who’re within the temper for a brief journey. These spots supply cozy settings with glorious Swiss wines and delicacies. After dinner, get pleasure from 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 Trip to Gruyères
Catch a morning prepare from Montreux to Gruyères, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Start your go to at Château de Gruyères, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the encircling area. The citadel dates again to the thirteenth century and prices CHF 12 to enter. Afterward, stroll right down to La Maison du Gruyère cheese manufacturing facility, the place you possibly can study 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 strictly as dreamy because it sounds. Admission is CHF 15, and for those who’re touring with youngsters (or are a child at coronary heart), that is one of probably the most memorable stops of your complete journey to Switzerland.
Evening: Travel to Zermatt
From Broc, return to Montreux to gather your baggage and contemplate the comfort of a rental automobile 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 evening and prepare to discover Zermatt and the Matterhorn tomorrow.
Where to Stay in Zermatt
We suggest Hotel Matterhorn Focus for design lovers, or the family-run Hotel Alpenblick for cozy alpine appeal. On a funds? Check out the fashionable youth hostel with Matterhorn views.
Day 11: Zermatt and the Matterhorn
Morning: Matterhorn Sunrise and 5 Lakes Hike
Wake 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 Trail), one of the most effective 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 circumstances are proper. This hike is comparatively straightforward and nice for having fun with at your personal tempo, with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and charming wildflower-dotted meadows.
Afternoon: Ride the Gornergrat Cogwheel Train
After your hike, return to city, seize a lightweight 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 actually one of probably the most stunning prepare rides in Switzerland. The trip takes about 30–40 minutes, with beautiful views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and, of course, the mighty Matterhorn. At the summit, you’ll discover an observatory, picture ops galore, and a café if you wish to linger over the view.
Evening: Explore Old Town Zermatt and Dinner
Back in Zermatt, wander the Old Town and its charming laneways like Hinterdorfstrasse, full of centuries-old wood chalets. Stop by the Matterhorn Museum when you have 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. Prefer one thing just a little extra elevated? The Omnia serves up connoisseur eating in an elegant setting. Wrap up your day with a stroll down Bahnhofstrasse or a nightcap at Harry’s Ski Bar.
Day 12: Glacier Paradise and Zermatt Relaxation
Morning: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Today is all about high-altitude journey. Take the cable automobile from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise—Europe’s highest cable automobile 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 nations. At the highest, stroll via 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 accessible. Tickets price round CHF 100–120, however your Swiss Pass 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—superb consolation meals with a view. Once you’re again on the town, get pleasure from a extra relaxed afternoon. If you 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 Coffee Bar.
Evening: Final Night in Zermatt
For your remaining evening in Zermatt, deal with your self to dinner on the charming Restaurant Julen, which serves conventional recipes with a connoisseur twist. If you’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 Express—so for those who’re persevering with the journey or simply passing via, you’ll really feel the legacy of one of the world’s most stunning prepare rides throughout you.
Day 13: Zermatt to Locarno by way of Domodossola
For this part, you possibly can lease a automobile and benefit from the drive. We discovered that having a automobile rental was one of the simplest ways to get across the Locarno area of Switzerland.
Morning: Scenic Journey to Locarno
After breakfast, start your scenic journey to Locarno by way of 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 one of probably the most stunning prepare rides in Switzerland. This brief prepare trip winds previous dramatic gorges, waterfalls, vineyards, and charming villages.
Afternoon: Explore Locarno’s Lakeside Charm
Once you arrive in Locarno, drop your baggage and discover this sun-drenched lakeside city positioned on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Take a stroll alongside the lakeside promenade, chill out by the waterfront, or get pleasure from a espresso in the principle sq., Piazza Grande. For panoramic views, trip the funicular as much as the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary, a pilgrimage website perched above the town.
If you will have 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 full of charming villages, lush trails, and postcard-perfect surroundings. You’ll get a style of the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland at its greatest.
Evening: Swiss-Italian Dinner and Sunset
Locarno is all about nice meals and heat evenings. For dinner, we suggest Grotto Broggini, a country outside restaurant in close by Losone well-known for grilled meats and Ticinese specialties. Or keep on the town and take a look at Ristorante Sensi for lakeside views and elevated Mediterranean flavors. End your day with a glass of Merlot from the area and soak within the relaxed ambianceDay 14: Locarno to Lake Como & Back to Zurich
Day 14: Locarno to Lugano and the Verzasca Valley
Morning: Day Trip to Lugano
For your remaining day in Switzerland, head south from Locarno to Lugano, the biggest city within the Ticino area. The brief prepare trip takes about 45 minutes and gives stunning views alongside Lake Maggiore. Once in Lugano, discover Parco Ciani, one of probably the most stunning lakeside parks in Switzerland, and stroll alongside the lakeside promenade with views of Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Wander via the cobbled streets of the Old Town and browse boutiques or seize an espresso in Piazza della Riforma.
Afternoon: Visit 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. Walk 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 get pleasure from a picnic within the shade. This area is ideal for these remaining breathtaking views and Instagram tales that seize Switzerland’s quieter, extra relaxed facet.
Evening: Final Meal in Zurich or Stay in Locarno
Return to Locarno to gather your baggage and board the direct prepare to Zurich by way of the Gotthard Base Tunnel. The trip takes simply over 2 hours and offers you one final scenic journey via Switzerland’s coronary heart. If you’re flying house the following morning, keep close to Zürich Airport for comfort. Plan your journey preparations for the flight house from Zurich to make sure a clean and well timed departure.
Practical Information
Getting Around
Public transport in Switzerland is great. We strongly suggest the Swiss Pass for limitless journey by prepare, bus, boat, and even cable automobile reductions. While renting a automobile is an choice, it’s not crucial because of the effectivity of Swiss trains.
Budgeting
Expect to spend round $6,000-$7,000 USD per individual for 2 weeks, overlaying lodging, transport (second class), meals, and actions.
Currency 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.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
Visit between May and September for the most effective climate and mountain climbing alternatives. Winter months (December to March) are perfect for winter sports activities fanatics.
We’ve traveled extensively via 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 beautiful lakeside promenades, this itinerary gives one thing for everybody. Enjoy your wonderful journey to Switzerland—we all know you’ll find it irresistible as a lot as we do!
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