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4 days Switzerland - 3 itineraries from Geneva
Traveling through Switzerland for four days gives you enough time to get a feel for the country. Finding the perfect itinerary for your vacation isn't easy, though. That's why we've put together a collection of four-day itineraries that all start in Geneva. It shows you three different options, all doable in four days from Geneva.
Activities
Four days is a good amount of time for a trip to Switzerland, especially if you’ve never been here before and want to get a taste of this beautiful country. This way, you have enough time to see different places without rushing too much. When planning your trip to Switzerland, the following itineraries will help you.
All of them can be done in four days and start from Geneva. However, if you prefer to begin your journey from another location, you can easily adjust your trip accordingly. Geneva is well connected and accessible from any other city in Switzerland, particularly from cities in the western part, like Lausanne, Montreux, Fribourg, or even Bern.
You’ll notice that we’re only talking about traveling by public transport and not by car. Most routes can also be covered by car if you decide to rent one during your stay in Switzerland. But with our dense network of trains and buses, traveling by car isn’t really necessary.
If you have more than four days available and see an itinerary you like, you can easily extend it by spending an extra night in some places.
Have fun planning!
1. Itinerary with lots of mountains, lakes, cities, chocolate and cheese
Highlights on this itinerary
- Visit the wonderful Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
- Taste some delicious Swiss cheese and chocolate at the Gruyère and Cailler factories
- Travel parts of the scenic Golden Pass Line
- Visit the old town of Bern (UNESCO), the capital of Switzerland
Tag 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Montreux
In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule," or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to Lausanne.
This charming old city was built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro system in Switzerland. When you're ready, continue your journey to Montreux, drop off your luggage at your accommodation, and spend the rest of the day exploring Montreux.
If you are interested in castles, don't miss a visit to the famous Château de Chillon. To get there, you can either follow the promenade on foot, take a bus, or hop on one of the regularly running passenger boats.
Even if you're not keen on visiting the castle, we recommend making a detour and spending some time by the lake. It's a fantastic spot to relax and take plenty of beautiful photos.
Alternatively, you can head in the opposite direction to Lavaux to explore the vineyards. Just a short train ride west of Montreux, you'll find the renowned Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To enjoy the stunning views, it's best to get off at Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking trail through the vineyards.
Tag 2: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux
After breakfast, you’ll take the train to the charming yet touristy village of Gruyères. Along the way, between Montreux and Montbovon, you can catch both regional trains and the scenic Golden Pass Line trains.
Gruyères is quite popular with tourists, so it can get a bit crowded. But, as is the case with many famous spots, there’s a good reason for it. In this case, it’s a medieval village. And cheese.
Lots of cheese.
The Gruyère cheese factory is located right behind the train station. Here, you can watch how traditional Gruyère cheese is made, and of course, there are samples for you to try. Once you’ve finished snacking, you can either take the bus or follow the path until you reach the center of Gruyères. The walk takes about 20 minutes.
The main attraction in Gruyères is probably the castle, which is open to the public and has an entrance fee of 12 CHF. However, the quaint cobblestone streets and countless souvenir shops will likely tempt you to stay longer than you planned.
After exploring Gruyères and perhaps picking up a souvenir or two, you can head to Broc to visit La Maison Cailler. In this visitor center, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand. At the end of the tour, there’s a buffet where you can try an abundance of chocolate. The train ride back to Montreux gives you the chance to digest your cheese and chocolate overload while looking forward to the night by Lake Geneva.
You also have the option to swap your cheese and chocolate spree for a glacier visit. Instead of heading to Gruyères, you can take the train to Col-du-Pillon and check out Glacier 3000.
The 360-degree view is breathtaking. And if you’re brave enough, the Peak Walk across the suspension bridge is an experience you won't forget anytime soon.
Tag 3: Montreux - Fribourg - Bern
Spend a little more time in Montreux in the morning. When you're ready to move on, hop on the train to Fribourg. In Fribourg, follow the signs for the city walking tour that lead you through the impressive old town. The signs will guide you through steep alleys, over ancient wooden bridges, down to the Saane River, and past the town's funicular railway.
For an even better view of your surroundings, you should climb the 365 steps to the tower of the cathedral. The Saane River at the foot of the city is a great spot to stretch your legs and grab a snack.
Once you've seen enough of this medieval town, take the train to Bern and head to the capital of Switzerland.
The journey from Fribourg to Bern takes less than half an hour. Spend the rest of the evening strolling through Bern's UNESCO-listed old town. For a special night view over Bern, we recommend you head up to the Rosengarten.
Tag 4: Bern - Genf
Today you can choose from a variety of activities. Join a city tour or explore Bern on your own. Stroll through the Old Town, visit the Bear Park, check out the Federal Palace, and head back to the Rose Garden for even more sights.
You can also visit the Gurten, the local mountain of Bern, watch the animals at the Dählhölzli Zoo, or stop by the Botanical Garden. Take the lift at the train station and enjoy the view from the Grosser Schanze or go for a swim in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus.
Oh, the dilemma of choice...
At the end of the day, take the train back to Geneva and spend the rest of the day exploring the largest city in Switzerland.
Additional tips and information itinerary 1
- Upon check-in at your accommodation in Montreux and Bern, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.
- Access to Chillon Castle is free if you have a Swiss Travel Pass. And even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, seeing it from the outside is still worth the trip.
- When travelling from Montreux to Gruyères, you’ll need to transfer in Montbovon. The ride between Montreux and Montbovon is served by regular regional trains as well as the scenic Golden Pass Line. Since this section is often booked out, Golden Pass customer service recommends reserving a seat for this segment. However, if you catch the regional train, you don’t need to worry about that.
- You can also book the chocolate train, which will take you straight from Montreux to the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc. This is also served by the Golden Pass Line.
2. Itinerary with the highlights of western Switzerland including lakes, cities and mountains
Highlights on this itinerary
- Walk through the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
- Explore the mediaeval city of Lausanne
- Hike to the Dent de Vaulion for some impressive Jura-views
- Have a glass of wine in the Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
- Enjoy some spectacular mountain views up at Glacier 3000
Tag 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne
In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule," or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to Nyon.
This medieval town by Lake Geneva is surrounded by charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vines to Château de Nyon and enjoy the view. After your lunch break, take the train to Lausanne. Check into your accommodation and make use of your free Lausanne Transport Card.
The picturesque old town of Lausanne is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro in Switzerland.
If you want to hear something intriguing, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM to catch the tower watching. Since 1405, watchmen have announced the current time from up there in the middle of the night.
Day 2: Lausanne - Lac de Joux / Creux du Van - Lausanne
After breakfast, buy enough food for the day and head straight to Le Pont, a village in the Valleé de Joux. The train ride from Lausanne to the valley takes roughly an hour. Vallée de Joux is part of the Jura mountains and offers countless hiking options. In the centre of the valley, you’ll find a peaceful lake called Lac de Joux.
By far the most popular spot in the area is the distinctive mountain of Dent de Vaulion. Hiking the circular path from Le Pont takes around three hours. The views from Dent de Vaulion across the Vallée de Joux, all the way to Lake Geneva and way into France, make this place extra special.
Since you’ve got all day up here, spend as much time in the area as you like. Hang out by Lac de Joux, walk the path around the lake or do whatever else your heart desires. Whenever you feel like it, catch the train back to Lausanne and spend the rest of the day exploring the city.
If you’re in for a bit of a challenge, we recommend hiking to Creux du Van instead. This natural, one-kilometre wide amphitheatre got its shape from constant erosion by water and ice. Marmots, mountain goats, deer and various birds inhabit this area.
The starting point of the hike is in Noiraigue, a village that takes roughly an hour and a half to reach from Lausanne. Hiking to Creux du Van is pretty tough and will take up to five hours. Spend as much time as you like at the amphitheatre before heading back to Noiraigue and Lausanne.
Of course, Switzerland gets its fair share of bad weather and we don’t suggest you do this hike if it’s raining. The rocks can get slippery and dangerous when they’re wet and we don’t want you to get hurt!
Tag 3: Lausanne - Lavaux - Montreux
In the morning, you’ll explore Lausanne once more before heading to Montreux. Drop off your luggage at your accommodation, then make your way to the lakeside promenade in Montreux and check out the Freddie Mercury statue in front of the market hall.
If you’re interested in castles, don’t miss a visit to the famous Château de Chillon. To get there, you can either follow the promenade on foot, take a bus, or hop on one of the regularly running passenger boats.
Even if you're not keen on touring the castle, we recommend making a detour to spend some time by the lake. It’s a great spot to relax and snap some beautiful photos.
Alternatively, you can head in the opposite direction to Vevey, where you’ll find stunning Riviera views and plenty of interesting museums. Just a short train ride west of Montreux, you'll encounter the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To fully enjoy the breathtaking views, it’s best to get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking trail through the vineyards.
Tag 4: Montreux - Glacier 3000 - Genf
If you came to Switzerland for the mountains, glaciers, views, and snow, today is your day. Leave Montreux early tomorrow and take the train to Col-du-Pillon.
Hop on the cable car and enjoy the ride. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree view. On a clear day, you can see some of the most famous peaks in the Alps, including the Matterhorn, the Mont-Blanc massif, and the popular mountain trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take the Peak Walk to Scex Rouge. The Peak Walk is the first suspension bridge in the world that connects two peaks. Crossing this bridge is an experience you probably won't forget anytime soon.
When you're ready, head back to Montreux. Pick up your luggage and continue your journey to Geneva for the rest of the day.
Additional tips and information itinerary 2
- Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lausanne and Montreux, you’ll receive a Transport Card that allows you to use local transport for free in both cities.
- Access to Chillon Castle is free if you have a Swiss Travel Pass. And even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, seeing it from the outside is still worth the trip.
- If you’re interested, you can catch the passenger ship from Lausanne to Montreux instead of the train. There’s a direct connection leaving Lausanne around midday and takes just over an hour and a half.
3. Itinerary to the highest mountains in the Swiss Alps including the Matterhorn
Highlights on this itinerary
- Hike or ski until your feet fall off in Saas Fee
- Find yourself surrounded by Switzerland’s tallest mountains
- Go on a hike at the base of the famous Matterhorn
- Check out the Gorner Glacier at Gornergrat
- Ride parts of the scenic Glacier Express Line
Day 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Zermatt
In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Lausanne.
This picturesque old town was built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro. The upcoming train ride into the mountains takes around three hours, so don’t spend too much time exploring Lausanne.
Between Visp and Zermatt, you’ll be completing the final leg of the Glacier Express Line. This ride is exceptionally scenic so make sure you have your camera within reach. Once you arrive in Zermatt, spend the rest of the day strolling through this little mountain town and enjoy the sight of the mighty Matterhorn.
Provided it’s not veiled in clouds.
Day 2: Free Day in Zermatt
Zermatt is all about the mountains and nature. If you've come to Switzerland for the stunning mountain views, you're going to love it here.
There are numerous hikes and walks of all difficulty levels that lead you to places you never even knew existed. One popular option is the Zermatt 5-Lakes Walk, which takes about 2.5 hours. It passes five crystal-clear mountain lakes and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn along the way.
Another adventure that might leave you a bit dizzy is crossing the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa. It's an impressive 494 m long and spans across the valley. The circular route to the bridge starts and ends in Randa, just a 15-minute train ride from Zermatt.
If you prefer to skip the hike and want an easier way to see the mountains, we recommend taking the train up to Gornergrat. After a ridiculously steep train ride, you'll find yourself at an altitude of 3089 m above sea level, right in front of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn. Don’t be surprised if you’re completely out of breath climbing the stairs to the viewpoint—that's just due to the thin air.
Tag 3: Zermatt - Saas-Fee
It's up to you how much time you spend this morning in Zermatt. When you're ready, continue your journey to Saas-Fee.
If you’re visiting in the summer, your hiking options are nearly endless. Over 350 kilometers of hiking trails take you to places you didn’t even know existed. And speaking of which, don't forget to keep an eye out for marmots during your hike. Your chances of spotting a few of these cute alpine creatures are quite good up here.
The Swiss Glacier World, the world’s highest playground, might also be a place you want to check out. Who wouldn't want to zip-line over a glacier?
But Saas-Fee isn't just interesting during hiking season. If you're here in winter, you can really let loose with skiing or snowboarding. And since Saas-Fee is so high up, some of your runs will actually be on a glacier. You don't get to do that every day.
With over 150 kilometers of groomed slopes, you'll find plenty to keep you busy for as long as you want. While other ski resorts have struggled with lack of snow in recent years, Saas-Fee almost always has enough snow thanks to its altitude.
Enjoy the views of the mountains, the snow, the hikes, the marmots, and the fresh air.
Day 4: Saas-Fee - Geneva
It’s really up to you how you plan out your day today. One option is to stay in Saas-Fee for a little while longer and keep hiking, looking for marmots, skiing, snowshoeing, ziplining across glaciers or whatever else it was you set your mind to.
Alternatively, if you’ve had enough of the thin air and are ready to head back down, stop over somewhere along the way back to Geneva.
The choice is yours.
Additional tips and information itinerary 3
- If you’re itching to get into the mountains and don’t care much for Lausanne, forget about that stopover and head straight to Zermatt. This will give you more time to explore everything the Swiss outdoors have to offer.
- The part between Brig and Zermatt is served by the Glacier Express trains. Those leave three times daily and are only for people with a reservation. But there are regular trains commuting between Brig and Zermatt that don’t require a reservation. The best part? The views are exactly the same as with the Glacier Express. Minus the large panoramic windows.
And this concludes our collection of four-day itineraries for Switzerland starting in Geneva. We hope you’ve been able to find something to your taste. Have fun planning your trip.