Planning your journey to Switzerland? Incredible alternative! Switzerland is definitely one of the stunning international locations 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 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 all types, providing dramatic landscapes, fairytale cities, and infinite 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 actually has one thing for everybody. When planning your itinerary, it’s sensible to think about the potential of dangerous climate—particularly in alpine areas just like the Bernese Oberland—so you’ll be able to maintain your journey versatile and stress-free.
Introduction to Switzerland
Switzerland is essentially the most stunning nation situated 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 trendy 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 all in favour of outside actions like mountaineering, snowboarding, or paragliding, or desire 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. Take into account 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 baggage and take a practice to the town middle—the Swiss Go is good and handy in your entire journey. Spend the morning strolling by means of Zurich’s Outdated City, Niederdorf, the place cobblestone streets weave previous centuries-old buildings, boutique retailers, and bustling cafés.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 purchasing and even simply to people-watch as trams glide by means of the town middle.
Afternoon: Calm down 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. Take into account hopping off within the lakeside city of Rapperswil for a brief go to—house to a ravishing rose backyard and a small citadel. Again in Zurich, stroll alongside the lakeside promenade to Sechseläutenplatz, the proper spot to seize a gelato and take within the view. If in case you have extra time, you’ll be able to 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 comfortable Zurich restaurant. We love Swiss Chuchi within the Lodge Adler—it’s probably the greatest spots within the Outdated City for conventional fare. For a extra upscale expertise, strive Restaurant Zeughauskeller, a Zurich establishment situated in a Fifteenth-century armory. After dinner, take a stroll down Augustinergasse, one of the photogenic streets in Zurich, earlier than heading again to your lodge.
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 Outdated City. For budget-friendly choices, the citizenM Zürich gives a contemporary and enjoyable keep inside strolling distance of all the principle sights.
Planning Day Journeys
Planning day journeys is a vital a part of any journey to Switzerland. With its compact measurement and environment friendly public transportation system, it’s straightforward to discover totally 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. Take into account taking a cable automotive journey to the highest of a mountain, corresponding to Mount Pilatus or the Schilthorn, for breathtaking views of the encircling mountains and lakes. Or you’ll be able to take a ship journey on Lake Geneva or Lake Como. With just a little planning, you’ll be able to take advantage of your time in Switzerland and expertise all that this has to supply. Don’t overlook to buy a Swiss Journey Go for handy and reasonably priced 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 practice journey 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 journey that takes you proper to the bottom of the crashing water. It’s loud, exhilarating, and fully unforgettable.
There’s additionally a panoramic elevate and strolling trails that supply a shocking view of the Rhine and the encircling countryside. For lunch, seize a riverside desk at Schlössli Wörth, the place you’ll be able to dine on Swiss specialties whereas gazing on the falls.
Afternoon, Stein am Rhein
Within the afternoon, hop on a brief practice journey 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 few hours wandering, taking photographs, and perhaps having fun with a scoop of gelato in the principle 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 ambiance and market-style seating. In case you’re within the temper for one thing extra upscale, LaSalle inside a former shipbuilding corridor gives nice trendy 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 practice journey to Lucerne, well-known for its iconic wood Chapel Bridge. Discover the town on foot, visiting landmarks just like the Lion Monument. Lucerne is gorgeous, and its charming previous city is ideal for photographs.
Day 3: Zurich to Lucerne
Morning:
Take a brief practice journey—just below an hour—from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Lucerne’s fundamental practice station. It’s a clean, scenic journey and probably the greatest methods to kick off your day. Lucerne is one in every 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 wood coated 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 packing containers.
Subsequent, make your solution to the Lion Monument, a touching tribute to Swiss Guards who misplaced their lives in the course of the French Revolution. Then stroll the town partitions at Museggmauer, the place a couple of towers are open to climb for glorious views of the city and Lake Lucerne. Wander the Outdated City and pop into native retailers or calm down at a lakeside café alongside the promenade.
For lunch, try Wirtshaus Galliker for genuine Lucerne-style dishes or Zur Werkstatt for one thing a bit extra trendy 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 time months. The journey itself is beautiful, with the cogwheel practice climbing by means 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 quick mountaineering trails, a cliff stroll, and even a café the place you’ll be able to sip a cappuccino at 2,100 meters above sea degree. 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 someday. 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 Outdated City with views of the Reuss River. For a budget-friendly keep, Barabas Lodge—a former jail turned fashionable lodging—is enjoyable and distinctive. In case you desire lake views, the Lodge Schweizerhof Luzern is a beautiful historic possibility proper on the waterfront.
Afternoon: Mount Pilatus Journey
Trip 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 Practice Trip
Catch a direct practice from Lucerne’s fundamental practice station to Bern—it’s a couple of one-hour journey by means of pastoral landscapes, small villages, and rolling hills. Whereas not as dramatic as mountain routes, it’s a ravishing practice journey that provides a calming transition between two of Switzerland’s most charming cities. Trains depart recurrently, 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, test into your lodge after which set off to discover Switzerland’s understated capital. Bern’s complete Outdated City is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, and it’s straightforward to see why. Stroll previous sandstone arcades, clock towers, and fountains, and be sure you 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.
Proceed your strolling tour by heading all the way down to the Aare River, the place you’ll be able to see the Bear Park—house to Bern’s animal mascot—after which hike uphill to Rosengarten. From right here, you’ll get probably the greatest panoramic views of the town’s crimson rooftops and the encircling mountains.
Pop into the Einstein Museum for those who’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, an area favourite serving up hearty Bernese delicacies. For one thing extra upscale, strive Kornhauskeller—a grand former wine cellar turned elegant restaurant with vaulted ceilings and Swiss classics.
In case you’re staying the night time, Lodge Schweizerhof Bern gives luxurious rooms proper throughout from the practice station. For a boutique possibility, try Lodge Savoy, which is trendy and centrally situated. On a funds? Bern Backpackers Lodge Glocke gives clear rooms within the coronary heart of the Outdated City.
Day 5: Bern to Interlaken
Morning: Scenic Practice Trip from Bern to Interlaken
The practice 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 practice for the very best lake views as you cross by means of the attractive countryside and small villages that outline this a part of Switzerland. It’s a kind of journeys that basically remind you why practice journey is the best way to go right here.
Afternoon: Out of doors Adventures and Lakeside Enjoyable in Interlaken
As soon as in Interlaken, you’ll shortly 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 outside lovers, there are a ton of choices. You may paraglide from Beatenberg for unbelievable aerial views, lease a kayak or paddleboard and discover the lakes, or ebook a canyoning or jet boat tour for those who’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. Take into account 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 for those who’re on the lookout for one thing much more picturesque, take into account staying in Grindelwald as a substitute. It’s simply half-hour away by practice and gives a extra alpine vibe with direct entry to the Eiger and a number of other mountaineering trails.
The place to Keep
In Interlaken, Lodge 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, try Lodge Belvedere Grindelwald for a basic mountain stick with beautiful views and a spa to unwind after an extended day.
The place to Eat
For lunch, try Restaurant Taverne in Interlaken, the place you’ll be able to pattern conventional dishes with a contemporary twist. For dinner, head to The three Tells Irish Pub for an informal 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 comfortable alpine setting.
Day 6: Jungfraujoch – Prime of Europe
Morning: Scenic Practice and Cable Automotive Journey
Begin your day early and take the practice 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 Prime of Europe a lot sooner than the normal full practice 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. Remember to use your Swiss Go to get discounted charges on the journey—spherical journey tickets price 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 time). Seize lunch at Restaurant Crystal or the self-service cafeteria for faster service—count on costs round CHF 25–30 for a fundamental dish. Don’t overlook to take photographs 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, swap gears and benefit from the stunning 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 gives unforgettable views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley and small villages under. It’s a incredible solution to get out into nature with out committing to a full-day mountain hike.
Night: Dinner and Rest
Return to Interlaken or Grindelwald by early night. For dinner in Grindelwald, Restaurant Alpenblick serves conventional Swiss alpine delicacies in a country setting. In case you’re again in Interlaken, head to Husi Bierhaus for hearty pub fare and a terrific native beer choice. Finish the night with a calming stroll alongside the lakeside promenade or unwind in your lodge’s spa—belief us, your legs will thanks!
Day 7: Lauterbrunnen Valley
Morning: Discover Lauterbrunnen and Trümmelbach Falls
Take a brief practice journey from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen—it’s about 20 minutes and gives pretty views alongside the best way. When you arrive, you’re in one of the 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 elevate, galleries, tunnels, and paths—entry is CHF 12 for adults and properly value it.
Afternoon: Grindelwald First Journey or Mürren Tour
You’ve two incredible choices this afternoon. In case 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 Stroll—a heart-racing suspension walkway constructed into the aspect of the mountain. For the adventurous, you too can strive 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.
In case you desire a extra relaxed however equally scenic afternoon, persist with the unique plan to take the cable automotive as much as Grütschalp and the scenic practice 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, picture ops, and a brief hike between Grütschalp and Mürren (about 1.5 hours).
Alternatively, head to Wengen on the alternative aspect of the valley by way of a brief practice journey. Each villages provide unbelievable viewpoints and charming alpine vibes. One other nice afternoon possibility is the stroll to Staubbach Falls, simply outdoors Lauterbrunnen village, the place you’ll be able to stroll behind the cascading water.
Night: Dinner and Rest in Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald
Return to Lauterbrunnen in supper time. We suggest Lodge Oberland’s restaurant for hearty Swiss fare and a beautiful outside terrace. In case you’re staying in Grindelwald, Barry’s is as soon as once more a best choice for ambiance and scrumptious alpine specialties. Finish your day with a stroll by means of city or seize a drink with a view for those who’re in a lodge with a terrace—you’ve earned it after a full day of exploring one of the stunning valleys on the planet.
Day 8: Interlaken to Montreux (Golden Go Line)
Morning: Trip the Golden Go Line
Begin your day with one of the stunning practice 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 means of charming villages, rolling inexperienced meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The part between Zweisimmen and Montreux is especially beautiful, providing panoramic views because the practice 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 lodge, spend the afternoon exploring Montreux. This lakeside city is legendary for its microclimate, Belle Époque structure, and beautiful setting alongside the shores of Lake Geneva. Stroll alongside the lakeside promenade—lined with unique flowers and sculptures—and snap some Instagram-worthy photographs 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 luxuriate in a relaxed vibe that feels extra Riviera than Alps.
In case you’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 incredible ambiance. One other glorious possibility 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 an area wine bar for a style of Lavaux’s most interesting.
The place to Keep in Montreux
For lakeside luxurious, you’ll be able to’t beat the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. In case you’re touring on a mid-range funds, Eurotel Montreux gives stunning views and a major location. For one thing extra boutique, Lodge Eden Palace au Lac has old-world allure 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 long-lasting Château de Chillon, situated only a quick bus or scenic lakeside stroll from central Montreux. This medieval fortress sits proper on the sting of Lake Geneva and is without doubt one of 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 citadel journey, spend a while strolling by means 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 practice 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 an area 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 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 provide cozy settings with glorious 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 practice 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 citadel 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 unit, the place you’ll be able to study concerning 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 practice or bus to Broc to go to La Maison Cailler—Switzerland’s most beloved chocolate manufacturing unit. 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 children (or are a child at coronary heart), this is without doubt one of the most memorable stops of your entire journey to Switzerland.
Night: Journey to Zermatt
From Broc, return to Montreux to gather your baggage and take into account 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 automobiles 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 allure. On a funds? Take a look at 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), probably the greatest 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: Trip the Gornergrat Cogwheel Practice
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 practice climbs to three,089 meters and is really one of the stunning practice rides in Switzerland. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes, with beautiful views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and, in fact, the mighty Matterhorn. On the summit, you’ll discover an observatory, picture ops galore, and a café if you wish to linger over the view.
Night: Discover Outdated City Zermatt and Dinner
Again in Zermatt, wander the Outdated City and its charming laneways like Hinterdorfstrasse, stuffed with centuries-old wood chalets. Cease by the Matterhorn Museum in case 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. Favor one thing just a little extra elevated? The Omnia serves up gourmand 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 Rest
Morning: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
In the present day 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 means 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 price 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—supreme consolation meals with a view. When you’re again on the town, take pleasure in a extra relaxed afternoon. In case you skipped the Matterhorn Museum the day earlier than, now’s a good time to go to. Or simply absorb the alpine surroundings from a comfortable café like Cup’s Espresso Bar.
Night: Remaining 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 gourmand twist. In case you’re nonetheless within the temper for journey, take into account reserving a stargazing session or having fun with a hearth drink at your lodge. Zermatt can also be the beginning or finish level of the well-known Glacier Specific—so for those who’re persevering with the journey or simply passing by means of, you’ll really feel the legacy of one of many world’s most stunning practice rides throughout you.
Day 13: Zermatt to Locarno by way of Domodossola
For this part, you’ll be able to lease a automotive and benefit from the drive. We discovered that having a automotive 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 practice 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 without doubt one of the most stunning practice rides in Switzerland. This quick practice journey winds previous dramatic gorges, waterfalls, vineyards, and charming villages.
Afternoon: Discover Locarno’s Lakeside Appeal
When you arrive in Locarno, drop your baggage and discover this sun-drenched lakeside city situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Take a stroll alongside the lakeside promenade, calm down by the waterfront, or take pleasure in a espresso in the principle sq., Piazza Grande. For panoramic views, journey the funicular as much as the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary, a pilgrimage website perched above the town.
If in case you 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 stuffed 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 outside 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 quick practice journey takes about 45 minutes and gives stunning views alongside Lake Maggiore. As soon as in Lugano, discover Parco Ciani, one of the stunning lakeside parks in Switzerland, and stroll alongside the lakeside promenade with views of Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Wander by means of the cobbled streets of the Outdated 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 appears 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: Remaining Meal in Zurich or Keep in Locarno
Return to Locarno to gather your baggage and board the direct practice to Zurich by way of the Gotthard Base Tunnel. The journey takes simply over 2 hours and provides you one final scenic journey by means of Switzerland’s coronary heart. In case you’re flying house the subsequent 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.
Sensible Info
Getting Round
Public transport in Switzerland is superb. We strongly suggest the Swiss Go for limitless journey by practice, bus, boat, and even cable automotive reductions. Whereas renting a automotive is an possibility, it’s not mandatory as a result of effectivity of Swiss trains.
Budgeting
Anticipate 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 extensively spoken.
Finest Time to Go to Switzerland
Go to between Could and September for the very best climate and mountaineering alternatives. Winter months (December to March) are perfect for winter sports activities lovers.
We’ve traveled extensively by means 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 beautiful lakeside promenades, this itinerary gives one thing for everybody. Get pleasure from your wonderful journey to Switzerland—we all know you’ll adore it as a lot as we do!
