Welcome to the land of stunning alpine landscapes, charming villages, and world-class chocolate – Switzerland! If you’re planning a 10-day trip to this picturesque country but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. From the iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Geneva, this itinerary will take you on a journey through some of Switzerland’s must-see places and top attractions. So grab your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations!
Day 1: Arrival in Zurich
Welcome to Switzerland, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Your first stop on this perfect day itinerary is the city of Zurich. Upon arrival at the Zurich airport, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking scenery with the Swiss Alps as your backdrop.
After collecting your luggage and getting settled, hop on a train or a taxi and make your way to your hotel. Most hotels in Zurich offer stunning views of either Lake Zurich or the Limmat River, so be sure to choose accommodation that will give you easy access to these iconic sights.
Once you have checked into your hotel and freshened up, it’s time to embark on your exploration of this vibrant city. Start by taking a stroll along Lake Zurich promenade, where you can admire the crystal-clear waters and charming swans gliding by. This is also a great spot for some souvenir shopping at local boutiques or enjoying a cup of Swiss hot chocolate at one of the cozy cafes.
Next, head towards Old Town (Altstadt), which is just a short walk from Lake Zurich promenade. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by medieval architecture, cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, and lively squares bustling with street performers. Take some time to wander around and discover hidden gems like Lindenhof Hill – a tranquil park offering stunning panoramic views over the city.
No visit to Switzerland would be complete without trying some traditional Swiss food! For lunch, we recommend heading to Zeughauskeller – an iconic restaurant serving hearty dishes like Schnitzel and Rösti (a delicious potato dish). After filling up on delicious food, walk off those calories by exploring Bahnhofstrasse – one of Europe’s most exclusive shopping streets – where you’ll find luxury brands like Gucci and Chanel.
As evening approaches, make your way back towards Old Town for dinner at Zunfthaus Zur Waag, a historic guild hall turned restaurant. Indulge in some authentic Swiss cuisine such as cheese fondue or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (a dish of veal and mushrooms) while enjoying the cozy ambiance.
After dinner, take a scenic walk along Limmat River and admire the city lights reflecting off its tranquil waters. End your first day in Zurich with a drink at one of the rooftop bars overlooking the city skyline before heading back to your hotel for a good night’s rest. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our journey through Switzerland with a visit to Interlaken – the gateway to the Swiss Alps!
Day 2: Zurich to Lucerne
After spending an unforgettable first day in Switzerland exploring the charming city of Zurich, it’s time to hit the road and make our way towards another picturesque destination – Lucerne. Known for its stunning mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and quaint old town charm, Lucerne is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the true beauty of Switzerland.
To get from Zurich to Lucerne, there are multiple transportation options available. The most convenient and quickest way is by train, which takes around 45 minutes. This allows you to maximize your time in Lucerne while also enjoying breathtaking views of the Swiss countryside along the way. Alternatively, you can also opt for a scenic drive through the mountains if you have rented a car.
Once you arrive in Lucerne, check into your accommodation and get ready for a day filled with exciting experiences. To kick off your exploration of this enchanting city, head straight to Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), one of the most iconic landmarks in Switzerland.
Built-in the 14th century as part of defense mechanisms for the city walls, this wooden bridge stretches across Lake Lucerne and offers breathtaking views of both sides of the lake.
After taking some postcard-worthy photos at Chapel Bridge, continue walking towards Old Town (Altstadt), where you’ll find yourself surrounded by colorful buildings adorned with flower boxes and cobblestone streets lined with charming cafes and restaurants. Be sure to stop by Rathausquai Square where you can admire beautiful frescoes adorning historic buildings.
Next on your itinerary should be a visit to Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee). Take a relaxing boat ride on this magnificent lake surrounded by towering mountains or simply sit back and enjoy a picnic at one of its many scenic spots.
For those interested in history and culture, pay a visit to The Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal), a powerful sculpture dedicated to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. It’s a deeply moving and meaningful experience that shouldn’t be missed.
As the day comes to an end, make your way up to Mount Pilatus, one of Lucerne’s most famous mountains. Take a cable car or cogwheel train ride to the top and witness breathtaking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains – it’s truly a sight to behold.
After an eventful day in Lucerne, return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest before another exciting day tomorrow. With its perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, Lucerne will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Day 3: Lucerne and Mount Pilatus
On day three of your perfect itinerary for exploring Switzerland, we will be taking you to the iconic peak, Mount Pilatus. This day will be filled with stunning views, charming architecture, and thrilling experiences.
After soaking in some culture and history in Lucerne, it’s time for some adventure! We will now make our way towards Mount Pilatus – also known as “the Dragon Mountain.” At an altitude of over 2,100 meters above sea level, Mount Pilatus offers breathtaking views of central Switzerland.
To reach the summit, we will hop on a cable car ride that takes us through lush green forests and rugged cliffs – truly an exhilarating experience! Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views from different viewing platforms or indulge in activities like hiking or paragliding.
Before heading back to Lucerne, we highly recommend having lunch at the mountaintop restaurant or sipping on a warm cup of hot chocolate while taking in the stunning views.
As the day comes to an end, we will make our way back to Lucerne and enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne before catching our train back to Zurich. Day three will surely be one of the highlights of your trip with unforgettable views and experiences that will stay with you forever.
Day 4: Lucerne to Interlaken
On the fourth day of your Swiss adventure, you will leave behind the charming city of Lucerne and head towards the picturesque town of Interlaken. This journey will take you through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes, as well as historical sites and cultural experiences.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out and bidding farewell to Lucerne. You can choose to travel by train or rent a car for this leg of your trip. If you opt for the train, be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
As you make your way towards Interlaken, make a stop at the Aare Gorge, located near Meiringen. This natural wonder is a narrow gorge carved out by the Aare River over thousands of years. You can walk along its path and witness the powerful force of nature up close. The stunning views and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for taking photos.
Next on your itinerary is the famous Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, which showcases traditional Swiss architecture and culture through its collection of over 100 historic buildings from all parts of Switzerland. Here, you can learn about traditional farming practices, crafts, and daily life from different regions in Switzerland.
After immersing yourself in Swiss history and culture at Ballenberg, continue on your journey towards Interlaken. As soon as you arrive in this charming town nestled between two stunning lakes – Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – you’ll understand why it’s one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations.
Take some time to explore Interlaken’s quaint streets lined with shops selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, chocolates, watches, and more. You can also indulge in some delicious Swiss cuisine at one of the many restaurants here.
In the evening, head to Harder Kulm – also known as “Top of Interlaken” – for panoramic views of the town and its surrounding mountains. You can reach the top via a funicular railway or by hiking through a scenic trail.
End your day with a relaxing boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, and admire the stunning sunset over the Swiss Alps. Check into your hotel in Interlaken and get some rest before another exciting day of exploring Switzerland tomorrow!
Day 5: Jungfraujoch Excursion
On the fifth day of your Swiss adventure, prepare to be amazed as we take you to one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in Switzerland – Jungfraujoch. Known as the “Top of Europe”, this excursion will take you to the highest train station in Europe situated at an altitude of 3,454 meters above sea level.
The journey to Jungfraujoch begins with a scenic train ride from Interlaken Ost station, passing through picturesque valleys and charming villages. As the train ascends higher into the mountains, you will be treated to magnificent views of snow-capped peaks and lush greenery. Keep your camera ready as there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Once you reach Jungfraujoch, get ready for an unforgettable experience. The highlight of this excursion is undoubtedly the visit to the Sphinx Observatory – a research facility perched on top of a rocky ridge offering panoramic views of Aletsch Glacier, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks. Take a walk on Europe’s highest viewing platform and marvel at the stunning vistas that surround you.
Next up is a visit to Ice Palace which features a series of ice tunnels showcasing impressive ice sculptures carved into walls and ceilings. This unique attraction will leave you in awe as you navigate through intricately designed ice caverns.
After exploring inside, head outside for some fun activities on snow! You can try skiing or sledding or simply take a leisurely stroll around the snowy landscape – just make sure to bundle up as it can get quite chilly up here.
Before heading back down, don’t miss out on indulging in some delicious Swiss cuisine at one of the restaurants located at Jungfraujoch. From traditional fondue and raclette dishes to hearty soups and sandwiches – there’s something for everyone here.
As your day comes to an end, board the train back to Interlaken with unforgettable memories of this once-in-a-lifetime excursion. The Jungfraujoch excursion is truly an experience not to be missed when in Switzerland, and we guarantee it will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Day 6: Interlaken to Zermatt
On the sixth day of your Switzerland itinerary, it’s time to leave the stunning lakes and mountains of Interlaken behind and head to the picturesque village of Zermatt. This charming Alpine town is a must-visit for any traveler exploring Switzerland.
To start your journey, catch an early morning train from Interlaken Ost station to Spiez, where you will change trains to continue on to Visp. From here, you will hop on the iconic Glacier Express, known as the slowest express train in the world, which will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe.
As you wind your way through narrow valleys and over high mountain passes, be sure to keep your camera ready as there will be countless opportunities for stunning photos. The journey takes approximately three hours and passes through quaint villages, verdant valleys, and snow-capped peaks.
Upon arriving in Zermatt, you’ll immediately be struck by its unique charm. The town is car-free, making it a peaceful haven away from traffic noise. You can either walk or take an electric taxi to reach your accommodation.
After checking into your hotel or Airbnb rental, head out into the town for some lunch at one of the cozy restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine such as fondue or raclette. Once refueled, it’s time to explore all that this beautiful village has to offer.
One of the main attractions in Zermatt is undoubtedly the Matterhorn Mountain. Standing at 4,478 meters tall with its distinctive peak shape, it is one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks. To get an up-close view of this magnificent mountain range, take a ride on Europe’s highest cable car – Klein Matterhorn Cable Car.
For those seeking more adventure and adrenaline-pumping activities, Zermatt also offers excellent skiing opportunities during winter months and exhilarating hiking trails during summer months. You can also explore the town’s quaint streets lined with charming shops and cafes, perfect for picking up souvenirs or stopping for a cup of hot chocolate.
As the day draws to an end, make sure to catch the sunset over the Matterhorn before sitting down for a delicious dinner at one of Zermatt’s many restaurants. With its breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere, Zermatt is truly a highlight of any trip to Switzerland.
Day 7: Gornergrat Railway and Zermatt
On the seventh day of your itinerary in Switzerland, it’s time to experience one of the most scenic train rides in Europe – the Gornergrat Railway.
The highlight of this day is undoubtedly the Gornergrat Railway, which takes you on a journey through winding tunnels and breathtaking landscapes up to 10,000 feet above sea level. The railway has been operating since 1898 and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains including Monte Rosa, Dom, Liskamm, and of course, Matterhorn.
Upon reaching Gornergrat, you’ll step out onto a viewing platform that offers an unforgettable panoramic view of 29 four-thousand-meter peaks. You can also visit the observatory for an even more spectacular view or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants while taking in the scenery.
After spending some time at Gornergrat, take the train back down to Zermatt where you can explore more of this charming town. You can wander through its cobbled streets lined with boutique shops selling traditional Swiss products such as chocolate and watches. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies like rösti (a potato dish) or fondue (melted cheese served with bread).
For those interested in history and culture, there are several museums in Zermatt worth visiting such as Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis which showcases local traditions and history. You can also take a stroll through Hinterdorf, an area filled with well-preserved traditional houses dating back to the 16th century.
Day 7 in Switzerland will surely be one of the highlights of your trip, filled with stunning views, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. So make sure to add Gornergrat Railway and Zermatt to your itinerary for an unforgettable day in this beautiful country.
Day 8: Zermatt to Montreux
As your Swiss adventure continues, day 8 will take you from the charming alpine village of Zermatt to the picturesque town of Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva. This scenic journey will showcase some of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes.
Begin your day by enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Zermatt before making your way to the train station. The train ride from Zermatt to Montreux takes around three and a half hours, but trust us, it is worth every minute. As you depart from the mountainous region, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush green valleys, glistening lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
The first stop on this route is Brig, a quaint town located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Here you can take a short break and explore its charming streets lined with traditional wooden houses and colorful flower boxes.
Be sure to visit Stockalper Palace, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque palaces, which dates back to the 17th century.
Next up is Visp, where you’ll catch a glimpse of the Rhône River as it winds its way through the valley. Keep an eye out for vineyards along the way; this region produces some excellent Swiss wines that are definitely worth trying.
As you approach Lake Geneva, get ready for some truly jaw-dropping scenery. The train makes its way through tunnels carved into mountainsides before finally arriving at Montreux station. From here, make your way down to Lake Geneva promenade where you can stroll along admiring splendid views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
One must-see attraction in Montreux is Chillon Castle, located on a small island just off shore. This medieval fortress has been standing since the 12th century and offers guided tours that allow visitors to delve into its rich history. Another must-visit spot is the Freddie Mercury statue, a tribute to the legendary Queen frontman who considered Montreux his second home.
After a day of exploring, head to one of Montreux’s many restaurants and indulge in some delicious Swiss cuisine. Don’t forget to try a traditional cheese fondue or raclette, both must-try dishes when in Switzerland.
As the sun sets over Lake Geneva, you’ll realize that this day has been nothing short of perfect, and you’ll be left with unforgettable memories of your journey from Zermatt to Montreux.
Day 9: Montreux and Lavaux Vineyards
From Montreux, we will head straight to Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that sits on the shores of Lake Geneva. This well-preserved castle dates back to the 12th century and is often referred to as “Switzerland’s most beautiful castle”. We will have a guided tour inside the castle where we can learn about its fascinating history and admire its stunning architecture.
Afterwards, we will take a leisurely stroll along Lake Geneva’s promenade known as Quai des Fleurs (Flower Walk). This charming walkway is lined with colorful flowers, cafes, restaurants and offers panoramic views of the lake. It’s a perfect spot for taking photos or simply soaking up the beauty of this serene place.
Next on our itinerary is a visit to Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These terraced vineyards are considered one of Switzerland’s most famous wine regions and produce some of the best wines in Europe. We will take a guided tour through these scenic vineyards while learning about their unique cultivation techniques and sampling some local wines along the way.
As lunchtime approaches, we’ll make our way back to Montreux’s old town where we can indulge in some delicious Swiss cuisine at one of the quaint restaurants. After lunch, we can spend some time exploring the charming streets of the old town, lined with boutique shops and historic buildings.
To end our day in Montreux, we will take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva, offering a different perspective of this stunning region. We can sit back, relax and take in the breathtaking views while cruising along the serene waters.
As the sun sets over Lake Geneva, we’ll make our way back to Geneva where we can reminisce about our beautiful day in Montreux and Lavaux vineyards. This charming town and its surrounding vineyards are truly a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Switzerland!
Day 10: Montreux to Geneva and Departure
As your journey through Switzerland comes to an end, make the most of your last day by visiting the country’s most iconic city – Geneva. This city is not only known for its beauty but also offers a plethora of experiences that will make your final day in Switzerland truly unforgettable.
Start your day early in Montreux. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, lined with colorful flowers and palm trees, while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. Admire the famous Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that has inspired artists like Lord Byron and Victor Hugo.
Next, head to the lakeside town of Vevey, just 10 minutes away from Montreux. Here you can visit Chaplin’s World, a museum dedicated to Charlie Chaplin that showcases his life and work through interactive exhibitions. You can even step into his former home-turned-museum where he spent his last 25 years.
After immersing yourself in some cultural experiences, indulge in some retail therapy at Place du Marché in Vevey. This bustling square is home to various local shops selling everything from Swiss chocolates to souvenirs. Don’t forget to try out some authentic Swiss cheese at one of the many specialty shops here.
In the afternoon, make your way towards Geneva via train or car (approximately an hour’s journey). Known as the “world’s smallest metropolis”, this city is packed with history and stunning landmarks. Take a walk around Old Town Geneva where you can see iconic landmarks such as St.Peter’s Cathedral and Maison Tavel – Switzerland’s oldest private residence turned museum.
For those interested in science and technology, don’t miss out on visiting CERN – European Organization for Nuclear Research – located just outside Geneva city center. Here you can learn about groundbreaking scientific discoveries and even take a tour of the Large Hadron Collider.
As the day comes to an end, head to Lake Geneva for a picturesque sunset. Take a cruise on the lake or simply relax by its shores before saying goodbye to this beautiful country.
With unforgettable experiences in Montreux and Geneva, your 10-day journey through Switzerland has come to an end. It’s time to pack your bags and depart with memories that will last a lifetime. But don’t worry, Switzerland will always welcome you back with open arms.
Conclusion: ten days in Switzerland
After spending ten days exploring Switzerland, it’s safe to say that this country truly lives up to its reputation as a traveler’s paradise. The stunning landscapes, charming cities, and unmatched hospitality make it a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
To wrap up this perfect-day itinerary for Switzerland, here are some key takeaways and recommendations based on our ten-day experience:
1. Embrace the diversity of the country: Switzerland may be small in size, but it offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From the cosmopolitan city life of Zurich to the quaint mountain villages like Zermatt and Interlaken, each region has its own unique charm.
2. Don’t miss out on the local cuisine: Swiss food may not get as much attention as French or Italian cuisine, but it definitely deserves more recognition. Must-try dishes include cheese fondue, rösti (a potato dish), and chocolate from one of the many world-renowned Swiss chocolatiers.
3. Plan ahead for transportation: Switzerland has an excellent public transportation system with trains being the most efficient way to travel between cities. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited access to trains, buses, boats, and discounts on cable car rides in certain regions.
4. Take advantage of outdoor activities: With its picturesque mountains and lakes, Switzerland is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging treks like the famous Haute Route or Tour du Mont Blanc. Other popular activities include skiing during winter months and water sports in summer.
5. Experience traditional festivals: If you happen to visit during festival season (usually in summer), don’t miss out on experiencing some of Switzerland’s unique celebrations such as Fasnacht (carnival) in Basel or Sechseläuten (spring festival) in Zurich.
6. Stay connected with nature: One thing we loved about our time in Switzerland was how close we felt to nature. Whether it was waking up to breathtaking views of the Alps or strolling through lush green valleys, the country has a way of making you feel connected with your surroundings.
Our ten-day itinerary provided us with a perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation in Switzerland. We hope this guide will help you plan your own unforgettable trip to this beautiful country. As always, happy travels!