10 days in Switzerland - 8 itineraries from Zurich or Geneva

As you may already know, Switzerland is a rather small country. But don’t let that fool you. Even with ten full days at your disposal, there’s more than enough to see and do. With such a wide variety of landscapes, you'll be glad you can spend a little longer in this wonderful country. If you’re planning your trip to Switzerland, the following itineraries will help you out.

They are all doable in ten days and start in Zurich or Geneva. However, if you'd prefer to begin in another location, you can easily adjust your trip accordingly. Zurich is very well connected and can be reached from any other city in Switzerland. The same goes for Geneva, if you're starting from a city in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

You’ll notice we’re talking about traveling by public transport rather than by car. Most routes can also be done by car if you’d like to rent one during your stay in Switzerland. But with our very dense network of trains and buses, it's actually unnecessary to travel by car.

Of course, the choice is entirely yours. But if you travel by train, we recommend buying a rail pass. Since you’ll be using public transport a lot, having an Interrail, Eurail, or Swiss Travel Pass will make your journey significantly easier.

And if you have more than ten days available and see a route you like, you can easily extend it by spending an extra night in a few places.

Have fun planning!

• Public transport in Switzerland
• The 10 most important tourist passes for your train journey in Switzerland
• Everything you need to know about train tickets in Switzerland

1. Itinerary with the sunny Ticino, the famous Matterhorn, scenic train rides and a short trip through Italy

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Drive through the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the longest railway tunnel in the world
• Stop over at the castles in Bellinzona (UNESCO)
• Visit one of the popular Maggia or Verzasca river valleys
• Take a windy train ride from Locarno to Domodossola in Italy
• Hike in front of the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt
• Enjoy a free day to explore the stunning Jungfrau Region in Interlaken
• Take a stroll across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
• Spend one full day exploring the beautiful region around Lucerne

Tag 1: Zürich - Bellinzona - Locarno

Explore Zürich on your own in the morning, rent a free bike with "Züri rollt", or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and hop on the train to Bellinzona.

Thanks to the 57 km long Gotthard Base Tunnel, you can now zoom through the Alps and reach the warm southern part of Switzerland in less than two hours.

Make a stop in Bellinzona to visit the Castello di Montebello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before continuing on to Locarno.

Spend the rest of the evening soaking up the Italian vibe in Locarno. Relax at Piazza Grande, stroll along Lago Maggiore, or treat yourself to some ice cream by the lake. And just in case you’re wondering: yes, you are still in Switzerland—even if it feels more like Italy.

Since you'll be spending the next three nights in Ticino, you'll receive the fantastic Ticino Ticket upon checking into your accommodation. This handy guest card allows you to use public transport across Ticino for free. You’ll also get several discounts for other attractions and activities.

• The best sights and activities in Zürich

Tag 2: Day Off in the Canton of Ticino

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With so many activities to choose from, you won’t be bored today.

First up, we recommend heading to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca. Both are perfect for hiking, spending time by the river, or taking a refreshing dip. Don’t forget to pack your picnic! In both valleys, there are countless spots to take a break. Our favorite spot is right under the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calmer waters over cold mountain streams, you should go to Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano. Both lakes are breathtaking and offer more photo opportunities than you can imagine.

Other popular spots in Ticino include the inspiring artistic town of Ascona near Locarno and the city of Lugano further south.

If you want to brush up on your Swiss geography, visit Swissminiatur in Melide just outside of Lugano. It’s a miniature version of Switzerland and showcases an incredible attention to detail.

If you’re one of those adrenaline junkies, at the end of the Verzasca Valley, there’s the 007 Bungy. You might have seen this 220-meter jump in the James Bond film GoldenEye. If you decide to take the plunge from the dam, don’t forget to share your photo with us. We’d love to see it… 🙂

As you may have noticed, this day isn’t long enough to tackle everything on the list. Good thing there’s always tomorrow.

• The best sights and activities in Ticino

Day 3: Free day in the Canton of Ticino

Knock yourself out doing whatever you missed out on yesterday. The list should be long enough to keep you busy for another day.

Alternatively, leave Switzerland and head to Italy for the day. Not far from Lugano lies the idyllic Como region, the place where George Clooney and other celebrities got married. If you’re curious to find out what Mr. Nespresso saw in this part of the world, today’s your chance.

The two main places we recommend visiting in the area are the city of Como and the village of Menaggio. Both are situated by the shores of Lake Como and will automatically make you take a step back and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

At the end of the day, head back to Switzerland and spend whatever time you have left hanging out in Locarno before moving on to Zermatt tomorrow.

Day 4: Locarno - Domodossola - Zermatt

You’re probably going to laugh now. But the station your train to Domodossola leaves from is called Locarno FART. Unfortunate name, we know. It’s short for Ferrovie Autolinee Regionali Ticinesi and translates to “regional railway of Ticino”.

The ride to Domodossola lasts just under two hours. It might be the slowest train you’ve ever been on but chances are you won’t even notice time passing by.

The landscape is beyond stunning from start to finish. As you travel through the impressive Centovalli region – which stands for one hundred valleys – you’ll pass several charming villages with old stone houses, ride across tall viaducts and even catch a glimpse of a waterfall or two.

Enjoy the views because from Domodossola to Brig, you’ll be spending most of the time in a tunnel. That’s ok though because the ride from Brig to Zermatt is part of the Glacier Express – another scenic train ride.

Once you arrive in Zermatt, spend the rest of the day strolling through this little town and enjoy the sight of the mighty Matterhorn. Provided it’s not veiled in clouds.

Day 5: Free Day in Zermatt

In Zermatt, the mountains and nature are the main attractions. If you came to Switzerland for the spectacular mountain views, you will absolutely love it here.

A variety of hikes and walks of all difficulty levels take you to places you never even knew existed. For example, the popular Zermatt 5 Lakes Walk, which takes about 2.5 hours. It leads you past five crystal-clear mountain lakes and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn at every turn.

Another adventure that might give you a bit of a head rush is crossing the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world in Randa. It's a whopping 494 m long and spans the valley. The circular route to the bridge starts and ends in Randa, just 15 minutes by train from Zermatt.

If you'd rather skip the hike and want to see the mountains the easy way, we recommend taking the train up to Gornergrat. After an incredibly steep train ride, you'll find yourself at an altitude of 3,089 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 viewing platform—that's not you, it's the thin air.

• The best sights and activities in Zermatt

Day 6: Zermatt - Interlaken

How you spend today is entirely up to you. One option is to stay a bit longer in Zermatt and go for more hikes, look out for marmots, go skiing, strap on some snowshoes, take photos of glaciers, or whatever else you had in mind.

If you've had enough of the thin air, continue on to Interlaken. Spend the rest of the day exploring this popular town and get ready for tomorrow. You'll spend the whole day in this adrenaline-packed and scenically stunning place.

Since the options in this area are so plentiful, take a look at the suggestions for tomorrow to see if you can check something off your list this afternoon. Maybe you're up for a quick trip to Lauterbrunnen or a ride up to Harder Kulm for some fantastic views?

• The best sights and activities in Interlaken

Day 7: Free day in Interlaken

You’ve got more activities to choose from today than you can wrap your head around. It all depends on your budget, but in an adrenaline-packed place like Interlaken, the sky’s the limit.

If even that...

Skydiving, paragliding, canyoning and jet boating are all popular activities that will get your adrenaline flowing.

Another option is to embark on a passenger ship cruise on either Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. Both rides come with incredible views that will make you wish you’d never have to leave.

If you’re looking for a stopover on one of the cruises, get off at either Giessbach (Lake Brienz), the Saint Beatus Caves or Spiez (Lake Thun).

The Jungfrau region around Interlaken is also an excellent playground for hikers. The amount of trails is nearly endless and whatever your fitness level and ambitions, you’ll find something to your taste.

Of course, the No. 1 destination everybody wants to see out here is the famous Jungfraujoch – aka Top of Europe. If you’re after a slightly more budget-friendly experience, we suggest looking into visiting Mount Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Grindelwald First or Männlichen instead. The rides up to these mountains and the views from the top won’t disappoint you.

Other places of interest in and around Interlaken are: the open-air museum Ballenberg, the chocolate workshops at Funky Chocolate Club, the two mountain lakes Blausee or Oeschinensee or the Aare Gorge.

And let’s not forget those charming towns and villages like Brienz, Spiez, Thun, Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.

We could keep going here forever. But you’d probably just end up annoyed that you’re not spending the whole week here.

• 12 Tips for Your First Visit to Jungfraujoch
• Schilthorn Piz Gloria
• Schynige Platte - Top of Swiss Tradition
• The Best Deals for Skydive Interlaken
• Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Tag 8: Interlaken - Lucerne

Wir gehen davon aus, dass du gestern nicht alles machen konntest, was du dir vorgenommen hast. Deshalb hast du heute fast einen ganzen Tag Zeit, um sich in und um Interlaken auszutoben. Kümmere dich um alles, was du erledigen musst, bevor du mit der Golden Pass Line nach Lucerne fährst.

Die Golden Pass Line ist eine beliebte Panoramastrecke von Lucerne nach Montreux und wird von mehreren Bahnunternehmen bedient. Sie verbindet das Herz der Schweiz mit dem Ufer des Genfersees.

Die Panoramastrecke führt an acht Seen vorbei, durchquert sechs verschiedene Kantone, überwindet drei Pässe und verbindet zwei Sprachregionen. Die heutige Etappe zwischen Interlaken und Lucerne wird von der Zentralbahn bedient und dauert etwa zwei Stunden.

Verbringe den Rest des Abends damit, Lucerne zu erkunden. Spaziere über die Kapellbrücke, schlendere durch die Altstadt, genieße die Zeit am See oder besuche den Gletschergarten mit dem berühmten Löwendenkmal.

• Golden Pass Line
• Die besten Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten in Lucerne

Day 9: Free day in Lucerne

Lucerne has an abundance of activities to offer. One of the most obvious picks is to catch the world’s steepest cog railway to Mount Pilatus, Lucerne’s backyard mountain. This railway only leaves from Alpnachstad during summer, while the cable car from Kriens takes you up to Mount Pilatus all year round.

Speaking of mountains: Mount Titlis is another landmark in the area worth visiting. From Engelberg, you’ll reach the top by catching two gondolas. One of them is the world’s first revolving aerial cableway. So expect some impressive 360-degree views at the top.

For an easy hike, including a ride on a 152.8 metres-high rocket-like outdoor elevator, catch the passenger ship or the bus to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock.

And let’s not forget Stanserhorn, a mountain close to Lucerne that is accessed by a fancy double-deck cable car. The best way to take this trip is by catching the passenger ship to Stansstad. From there, catch the funicular railway for the first leg and get on the open-air gondola for the final part to Stanserhorn.

Technically, you could even visit Interlaken for the day. Leave Lucerne on the Golden Pass Line in the morning, spend the day exploring the photogenic region around Interlaken and head back to Lucerne in the evening.

Another great way to spend the day around Lucerne is on Lake Lucerne. Several steamboats and passenger ships operate on the Lake and take you on the most stunning journeys.

As you can see, Lucerne has plenty to offer on a sunny day. But in reality, the weather isn’t always too promising. In this case, here are some cool indoor options for you.

For one, there’s Aeschbach’s Chocoworld in Root. Getting there by bus takes around 30 minutes. Nothing brightens up a rainy day like some delicious chocolate, does it?

In Hergiswil, not far from Lucerne, you’ll find what the Swiss affectionately call the Glasi. Hergiswil Glassworks runs you through the process of glass-making, lets you watch the pros in action and even offers the opportunity to give glassblowing a shot. When’s the last time you made your own glass?

Another option for bad weather is the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne. As the name suggests, this museum focuses on all kinds of transportation. From bicycles to astronautics, it has it all.

• Pilatus Guide
• Titlis Guide
• Stanserhorn Guide
• Boat trips on Lake Lucerne
• Aeschbach Chocolate Factory
• Swiss Museum of Transport - the most visited museum in Switzerland

Day 10: Lucerne - Zurich

Luckily, you don’t need to rush today and can enjoy Lucerne until the afternoon or even the evening. So you have plenty of time to catch up on everything you didn’t manage to do yesterday.

A popular day trip from Lucerne is a detour to Rigi. To get there, you can either leave your luggage at your accommodation in Lucerne or store it at the train station and take the train to Arth Goldau. From there, the Rigi railway—the first mountain railway in Europe—will take you to the Rigi Kulm mountain station in a 45-minute ride.

If Rigi isn’t shrouded in clouds, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Alps, Lake Lucerne, and other surrounding lakes. Just follow the signs to the viewpoint after you get off at Rigi Kulm.

Once you’ve taken enough photos, you can either take a break at the restaurant, ride the train down to Vitznau, or go for a hike. With over 120 kilometers of hiking trails, you have plenty of options to choose from.

When you arrive in Vitznau, the passenger ship to Lucerne will be waiting for you. Keep your camera ready because the ride is breathtaking and offers even more stunning views.

Back in Lucerne, you’ll pick up your luggage and head back to Zurich.

• Rigi - The Queen of the Mountains at Lake Lucerne

Additional tips and information for itinerary 1

• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Locarno, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket. This beauty lets you use public transport in the whole Canton of Ticino for free for the duration of your stay.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Interlaken and Lucerne, you’ll receive a Transport Card that allows you to use local transport for free.
• Ticino is a very popular holiday destination for Swiss people. If you are travelling during the school holidays, be sure to book your accommodation in advance.
• The tranquillity of the Verzasca and Maggia valleys can be deceptive. As soon as it starts raining higher up in the mountains, these rivers become a dangerous force of nature. Please check the weather forecast before setting out. If it rains higher up, keep a safe distance from the water and don't take a nap on one of the cosy boulders in the river. Visitors have already been surprised by the enormous water masses and died. We don't want you to have to be one of them.
• The section between Brig and Zermatt is served by the Glacier Express trains. These run three times a day and are only open to people with a reservation. But there are also regular trains that commute between Brig and Zermatt, for which no reservation is required. The best thing about it? The view is exactly the same as on the Glacier Express. Except for the lack of large panoramic windows.
• As you travel from Locarno to Domodossola through Italy, you must have your passport ready for inspection.

2. Itinerary for nature and culture lovers with two scenic train rides and six city trips on both sides of the Alps

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Enjoy the fascinating scenery on Mount Rigi and on Lake Lucerne
• Visit the old town of Bern and St. Gallen (UNESCO)
• Complete two panoramic rides, Gotthard Panorama and Bernina Express
• Discover the Canton of Ticino - the Italian part of Switzerland
• Take a stroll through St. Moritz in the Engadine region
• Visit the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe
• Walk through the alleyways of Schaffhausen with its 171 bay windows

Tag 1: Zürich - Rigi - Vitznau - Luzern

Start your day in Zürich and catch the train to Luzern. You can store your luggage either at the train station or at your accommodation and then hop on the next train to Arth Goldau. From there, the Rigibahn - Europe’s first mountain railway - will take you on a 45-minute journey to the Rigi Kulm mountain station.

If the Rigi isn't shrouded in clouds, you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the Alps, Lake Lucerne, and other nearby lakes. Just follow the signs to the viewpoint after you get off at Rigi Kulm.

Once you've taken enough photos, you can either take a break at the restaurant, ride the train down to Vitznau, or go for a hike. With over 120 kilometers of hiking trails, you have plenty of options.

Upon arriving in Vitznau, the passenger ship to Luzern will be waiting for you. Keep your camera handy, as the ride is incredibly scenic and offers even more breathtaking views.

Back in Luzern, you can spend the rest of the evening exploring the city or find a cozy spot by the lake to relax. You’ll have a whole day tomorrow to discover this charming city and its surroundings.

• Rigi - The Queen of the Mountains on Lake Lucerne

Day 2: Free day in Lucerne

Lucerne has an abundance of activities to offer. One of the most obvious picks is to catch the world’s steepest cog railway to Mount Pilatus, Lucerne’s backyard mountain. This railway only leaves from Alpnachstad during summer, while the cable car from Kriens takes you up to Mount Pilatus all year round.

Speaking of mountains: Mount Titlis is another landmark in the area worth visiting. From Engelberg, you’ll reach the top by catching two gondolas. One of them is the world’s first revolving aerial cableway. So expect some impressive 360-degree views at the top.

For an easy hike, including a ride on a 152.8 metres-high rocket-like outdoor elevator, catch the passenger ship or the bus to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock.

And let’s not forget Stanserhorn, a mountain close to Lucerne that is accessed by a fancy double-deck cable car. The best way to take this trip is by catching the passenger ship to Stansstad. From there, catch the funicular railway for the first leg and get on the open-air gondola for the final part to Stanserhorn.

Technically, you could even visit Interlaken for the day. Leave Lucerne on the Golden Pass Line in the morning, spend the day exploring the photogenic region around Interlaken and head back to Lucerne in the evening.

Another great way to spend the day around Lucerne is on Lake Lucerne. Several steamboats and passenger ships operate on the Lake and take you on the most stunning journeys.

As you can see, Lucerne has plenty to offer on a sunny day. But in reality, the weather isn’t always too promising. In this case, here are some cool indoor options for you.

For one, there’s Aeschbach’s Chocoworld in Root. Getting there by bus takes around 30 minutes. Nothing brightens up a rainy day like some delicious chocolate, does it?

In Hergiswil, not far from Lucerne, you’ll find what the Swiss affectionately call the Glasi. Hergiswil Glassworks runs you through the process of glass-making, lets you watch the pros in action and even offers the opportunity to give glassblowing a shot. When’s the last time you made your own glass?

Another option for bad weather is the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne. As the name suggests, this museum is all about means of transport. From bicycles to astronautics, it covers it all.

• Top sights and activities in Lucerne
• Pilatus
• Titlis
• Stanserhorn
• Boat trips on Lake Lucerne
• Aeschbach Chocolate Factory
• Swiss Museum of Transport - the most visited museum in Switzerland

Tag 3: Lucerne - Lugano

If you're visiting Switzerland between April and October, you're in luck. As long as you don't leave Lucerne on a Monday, you can travel to Ticino on the Gotthard Panorama Express, taking you over the Alps.

On the first leg of your journey, a steamship will take you on a three-hour ride across Lake Lucerne from Lucerne to Flüelen. There, the panoramic train is already waiting to take you to Lugano.

Before the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened in 2016, this was the only way to reach Ticino by train. Nowadays, since the world’s longest tunnel was opened, the old tunnel is used only for tourism.

You’ll arrive in Lugano around 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore the city and its surroundings. You'll find a wealth of ideas for activities in and around Lugano in tomorrow's description.

Since you’ll be spending the next three nights in the Canton of Ticino, you'll be entitled to the fantastic Ticino Ticket. You'll receive it when you check into your accommodation. This handy guest card allows you to use public transportation throughout Ticino for free. Additionally, it gives you various discounts on other attractions and activities.

• Gotthard Panorama Express
• The best sights and activities in Lugano

Tag 4: Free Day in the Canton of Ticino

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With the plethora of activities available, you're not going to be bored today.

First off, we recommend heading to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca. Both are great for hiking, spending time by the river, or taking a refreshing dip. Don’t forget to pack your picnic. There are countless spots to take a break in both valleys. One of our favorite spots is right under the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calm waters over chilly mountain streams, you should visit Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano. Both lakes are breathtaking and offer more photo opportunities than you can imagine.

Other popular destinations in Ticino include the inspiring arts town Ascona near Locarno and the city of Lugano further south.

If you want to brush up on your Swiss geography, check out Swissminiatur in Melide just outside Lugano. It’s a miniature version of Switzerland and showcases an incredible attention to detail.

If you’re one of those adrenaline junkies, there’s the 007 Bungy at the end of the Verzasca Valley. You might have seen this 220-meter jump in the James Bond film GoldenEye. If you decide to take the plunge from the dam, we’d love for you to share your photo with us. We’d really love to see that… 🙂

As you might have already noticed, this day is by no means long enough to check everything off your list. Good thing there’s always tomorrow.

• The best sights and activities in Ticino

Day 5: Free day in the Canton of Ticino

Knock yourself out doing whatever you missed out on yesterday. The list should be long enough to keep you busy for another day.

Alternatively, leave Switzerland and head to Italy for the day. Not far from Lugano lies the idyllic Como region, the place where George Clooney and other celebrities got married. If you’re curious to find out what Mr. Nespresso saw in this part of the world, today’s your chance.

The two main places we recommend visiting in the area are the city of Como and the village of Menaggio. Both are situated by the shores of Lake Como and will automatically make you take a step back and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

At the end of the day, head back to Switzerland and spend whatever time you have left hanging out in Lugano before moving on to St. Moritz tomorrow.

Tag 6: Lugano - Tirano - St. Moritz

Today, you’ll spend a few hours crossing the Alps from Lugano to St. Moritz. Your journey takes you over the Italian border to Tirano and up to the highest point of the Bernina Express line. You'll pass by sparkling glaciers and crystal-clear mountain lakes, eventually arriving in the famous resort town of St. Moritz.

On the first leg, the Bernina Express bus takes you through the impressive Valtellina wine region to Tirano, right at the Swiss-Italian border.

From here, it’s all uphill.

On your way up to Ospizio Bernina, the highest point of the Bernina Express at 2,253 m above sea level, you'll cross the circular viaduct in Brusio. Here, the train makes a full 360-degree turn to gain elevation.

By the time you reach Ospizio Bernina, you’ll have gained quite a bit of altitude, and the outside temperature is noticeably cooler than it was a few hours ago. It’s just a short ride from here to your destination for the day.

After such a long day, you might want to stretch your legs along the promenade by Lake St. Moritz.

You’ve earned it.

• Bernina Express

Day 7: A Free Day in St. Moritz

St. Moritz is all about outdoor adventures, whether in summer or winter. Whether you’re into cycling, hiking, stand-up paddling, swimming, windsurfing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just taking a stroll, you’ll find everything your heart desires here.

Just a short drive from St. Moritz is Lake Silvaplana, an amazing spot to enjoy some of these activities.

When it comes to food, we recommend two must-tries in the Engadin. First, don’t miss out on a bowl of Bündner barley soup. This hearty soup made with barley, vegetables, and meat is a classic dish from the region and will warm you up on a chilly day like nothing else.

Secondly, treat yourself to a slice of Engadine nut cake. This rich, delicious pastry brings back the calories you thought you shook off, but it’s totally worth it.

Back in St. Moritz, you can spend the rest of your day wandering the town. St. Moritz might not be as charming and mystical as other villages in the area like Samedan or La Punt, but it’s great for window shopping. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two.

• The best sights and activities in St. Moritz
• The best sights and activities in the Engadin

Day 8: St. Moritz - Chur - St. Gallen

If there’s anything you didn’t get to do yesterday in St. Moritz, today is your chance. Finish what you need to do, pack your bags, and take the train to Chur.

On the way, you can make a stop in Bergün. This charming village is particularly lovely with its impressive stone houses, which are landmarks of the area. You’ll arrive in Bergün after traversing the winding Albula line. Here, the train gains altitude as it passes through loops and tunnels in the mountains. If you look out the window, you’ll see the train crossing the valley sides while it spirals downwards.

Spend some time in Bergün or head straight to Chur, the capital of the canton of Graubünden. Store your luggage in one of the lockers at the train station and stroll through the old town.

Once you’re ready to continue, there’s a direct train that will take you to St. Gallen in about an hour and a half. Depending on when you arrive, you might still have a few hours to explore the city. With its UNESCO-protected Abbey District, towering cathedral, and impressive Abbey Library, St. Gallen has plenty of sights to offer. But we’ll talk more about that tomorrow…

Day 9: Free Day in St. Gallen

Today you have plenty of options for activities and attractions. You could choose to stay in St. Gallen.

Start your day by exploring the old town. With its UNESCO-protected Abbey District, magnificent cathedral, and the remarkable Abbey Library, this city has much to offer.

Make sure to visit the recreational area “Drei Weieren”. You can get there either by taking the Mühleggbahn or walking up one of the many stairs. Alternatively, you could also visit the Peter & Paul Wildlife Park or quench your cultural thirst in one of the many museums.

The best place to relax is definitely at the “Drei Weieren”. Here, you can go swimming or take a walk through the woods. Plus, you’ll have a fantastic view over the city, Lake Constance, and even into Germany.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could head into the nearby Alpstein mountains. Take the train to Wasserauen and hike up to Seealpsee, one of the three lakes in the Alpstein massif. Spend some time at this peaceful spot before hiking up to Ebenalp.

On the way to Ebenalp, you’ll pass a place that might look familiar. The famous restaurant Äscher. Since its appearance in National Geographic and on Ashton Kutcher’s Instagram, it has been overwhelmed by its own success.

This has unfortunately caused it to lose some of its former charm. Still, the Äscher is definitely worth a visit for some photos and a break.

At Ebenalp, you can choose to either hike back to Wasserauen or take the cable car. If you’re still up for more after this long day, you can make a stop in Appenzell on the way back to St. Gallen.

If you get off in Appenzell and are brave enough, check out the little cheese shop at Hauptgasse 13. But be warned, the smell of the stinky cheese will knock you out. Your feet definitely won’t be able to compete with that smell, not even after being stuck in your hiking boots all day… 🙂

Oh, and don’t miss out on a delicious piece of Appenzeller Biber. This is a traditional local delicacy made of gingerbread with a honey-almond filling. And before you ask: No, this Biber has no famous Canadian relatives…

If you like beer, be sure to stop by the Locher Brewery. They brew the popular Quöllfrisch beer, which is enjoyed all over Switzerland.

Lake Constance is also easily accessible from St. Gallen. You can reach the shore of this beautiful lake in just half an hour. Whatever you do today, make sure to return to St. Gallen for your second night.

• The best attractions and activities in St. Gallen
• Lake Constance

Tag 10: St. Gallen - Schaffhausen - Zürich

After a delicious breakfast, head to Neuhausen to visit the largest waterfall in Europe. The mighty Rhine Falls attracts visitors from all over the world and is an incredibly impressive natural force.

Access to the falls from the north bank is free, while a visit from Schloss Laufen on the southern side costs 5 CHF. Take your time to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of the Rhine Falls. When you're ready, continue on to Schaffhausen.

Schaffhausen boasts a charming old town. Here, you'll find a total of 171 oriels, more than any other city in Switzerland. Once you've checked them all out and explored the rest of Schaffhausen, you can head up to the Munot and enjoy the view over the city.

When you've seen enough, head back to Zürich.

• The best sights and activities in Schaffhausen
• The best sights and activities in Zürich

Additional tips and information for itinerary 2

• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lucerne and St. Gallen, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free. In the case of St. Gallen, this even includes transport all the way to Lake Constance.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lugano, you’ll receive a Ticino Ticket. This beauty lets you use public transport in the whole Canton of Ticino for free for the duration of your stay.
• The Gotthard Panorama Express only runs from April to October, from Tuesday to Sunday. If you travel outside these months or on a Monday, take the regular train from Lucerne to Lugano instead. For the train ride between Flüelen and Lugano you need a reservation.
• If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail pass, only the train ride from Lugano to Flüelen on the Gotthard Panorama Express is fully covered. The steamboat ride costs extra.
• Ticino is a very popular vacation destination for Swiss people. If you are travelling during school vacations, be sure to book your accommodation in advance.
• The schedule of the Bernina Express changes depending on the season. To find your connection and make a reservation, visit the RhB website. The Bernina Express bus between Tirano and Lugano operates only from May to November.

3. Itinerary for train lovers with five famous scenic train rides in Switzerland

Highlights on this route:

• Ride on five famous scenic trains in Switzerland - Voralpen-Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, Bernina Express, Glacier Express, and Golden Pass Line
• Admire the Abbey District in St. Gallen (UNESCO)
• Stroll across the famous Chapel Bridge in Lucerne
• Spend a day in the canton of Ticino, the warm and sunny south of Switzerland
• Enjoy your time in St. Moritz and Zermatt
• Hike at the foot of the famous Matterhorn
• Walk along the promenade by Lake Geneva in Montreux
• See the best of the Alps on your scenic train journeys

Day 1: Zürich - St. Gallen

Explore Zürich on your own in the morning, rent a free bike with “Züri rollt” or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and take the train to St. Gallen.

Spend the afternoon discovering the old town of St. Gallen. With its UNESCO-protected Abbey District, impressive cathedral, and stunning Abbey Library, this city has a lot to offer.

Don’t miss the recreational area “Drei Weieren.” You can reach it either by the Mühleggbahn or by climbing one of the many staircases. Alternatively, you can visit the Peter & Paul Wildlife Park or quench your cultural thirst in one of the numerous museums.

The absolute best spot to relax is in the “Drei Weieren.” Here, you can go for a swim or take a walk through the forest. You also get a fantastic view over the whole city, Lake Constance, and even as far as Germany.

• The best sights and activities in Zürich
• The best sights and activities in St. Gallen

Tag 2: Free Day in St. Gallen

Today you've got plenty of choices when it comes to activities and sights. You can either stick around in St. Gallen and do all the things we talked about yesterday, or if you're feeling adventurous, head into the nearby Alpstein mountains. Take the train to Wasserauen and hike up to the Seealpsee, one of the three lakes in the Alpstein massif. Spend some time at this peaceful spot before hiking up to Ebenalp.

On your way to Ebenalp, you'll pass by a spot that might look familiar: the famous restaurant Äscher. Ever since it featured in National Geographic and on Ashton Kutcher’s Instagram, it has been inundated with visitors.

Unfortunately, this has led to it losing some of its previous charm. Nevertheless, Äscher is still a pretty cool place to snap a few photos and take a break.

At Ebenalp, you can either hike back down to Wasserauen or take the cable car. If you’re not too worn out after a long day, you might want to stop by Appenzell on your way back to St. Gallen.

If you do get off in Appenzell and are brave enough, don’t miss the little cheese shop on Hauptgasse 13. But be warned—the stench of the cheese will hit you hard. Your feet won’t stand a chance against that smell, not even after being trapped in your hiking boots all day… 🙂

Oh, and make sure you grab a delicious piece of Appenzeller Biber. This is a traditional local sweet made from gingerbread with a honey-almond filling. And before you ask: No, this beaver doesn’t have any famous Canadian relatives…

If you enjoy beer, definitely stop by the Locher brewery. They brew the popular Quöllfrisch beer, which is enjoyed all across Switzerland.

The Lake Constance is also easily reachable from St. Gallen. You can reach the shores of this beautiful lake in just half an hour. Whatever you decide to do today, make sure to come back to St. Gallen for your second night.

• The Best Sights and Activities in St. Gallen
• Lake Constance

Day 3: St. Gallen - Lucerne

Grab your bags in the morning and hop on the Voralpen Express to Lucerne. This train takes you through stunning landscapes and takes just over two hours to reach Lucerne.

Of all the scenic train rides in Switzerland, this one is definitely less touristy. There are no large panoramic windows or a friendly voice announcing which viaduct you’re currently crossing.

But that doesn’t make the journey any less worthwhile.

I recommend breaking your trip halfway and getting off in Rapperswil. This town is a hidden gem at the lower end of Lake Zurich. Visit the castle, spend some time with the deer in the castle garden, take a dip in Lake Zurich, and stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade.

A great place to relax is the meadow behind the OST, the University of Applied Sciences in Rapperswil. You can't miss it when heading toward the lake from the train station.

If you feel like a leisurely walk, follow the wooden bridge and the connecting path over the lake to Pfäffikon. You’ll walk three kilometers of the Jakobsweg, a pilgrimage route leading from various places in Europe to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

When you're ready to continue, catch the next train to Lucerne and spend the afternoon exploring the city. Walk across the Chapel Bridge, wander through the old town, relax by the lake, or visit the glacier garden with the famous lion monument.

• The best sights and activities in Lucerne

Tag 4: Lucerne - Lugano

If you visit Switzerland between April and October, you're in luck. As long as you don't leave Lucerne on a Monday, you can take the Gotthard Panorama Express over the Alps to Ticino.

On the first leg, a steamship takes you on a three-hour journey across Lake Lucerne from Lucerne to Flüelen. There, the panoramic train awaits to take you to Lugano.

Before the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened in 2016, this was the only way to reach Ticino by train. Now, with the world's longest tunnel, the old tunnel is used solely for tourism.

You will arrive in Lugano around 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore the city and its surroundings. Tomorrow's description will provide an extensive collection of ideas for things to do in and around Lugano.

Since you'll be spending the next two nights in the canton of Ticino, you'll get the wonderful Ticino Ticket. You can obtain it when you check in at your accommodation. With this handy guest card, you can use public transport throughout Ticino for free. Plus, it provides many discounts at other attractions and activities.

• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Top attractions and activities in Lugano

Tag 5: Free Day in the Canton of Ticino

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With so many activities to choose from, you won't find yourself bored today.

First, we recommend heading to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca. Both are great for hiking, spending time by the river, or taking a refreshing dip. And don’t forget to pack a picnic! There are countless spots in both valleys where you can take a break. One of our favorite spots is right underneath the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calmer waters over cold mountain streams, head to Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano. Both lakes are stunning and offer more photo opportunities than you can imagine.

Other popular destinations in Ticino include the inspiring art town of Ascona near Locarno and the city of Lugano further south.

If you want to brush up on your knowledge of Swiss geography, visit Swissminiatur in Melide, just outside of Lugano. It’s a miniature version of Switzerland that shows incredible attention to detail.

If you're one of those adrenaline junkies, at the end of the Verzasca Valley is the 007 Bungy jump. You might have seen this 220-meter-high leap in the James Bond film GoldenEye. If you do decide to take the plunge from the dam, don’t forget to share your photo with us. We’d love to see it… 🙂

• The best sights and activities in Ticino

Tag 6: Lugano - Tirano - St. Moritz

Today, you'll spend a few hours crossing the Alps from Lugano to St. Moritz. Your journey takes you across the Italian border to Tirano and up to the highest point of the Bernina Express line. You'll pass by sparkling glaciers and crystal-clear mountain lakes, finally arriving in the famous resort town of St. Moritz.

On the first leg, the Bernina Express bus takes you through the stunning wine region of Valtellina to Tirano, right at the Swiss-Italian border.

From here on, it's all uphill.

As you make your way to Ospizio Bernina, the highest point of the Bernina Express at 2,253 m above sea level, you'll cross the circular viaduct in Brusio. Here, the train makes a complete 360-degree turn to gain elevation.

At Ospizio Bernina, you've gained a lot of altitude, and the outside temperature is noticeably cooler than it was a few hours ago. From here, it’s just a short ride until you reach your destination for today.

After such a long day, you might want to stretch your legs along the promenade of Lake St. Moritz.

You’ve earned it.

• Bernina Express

Tag 7: St. Moritz - Zermatt

Today, you're taking the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt. This ride on the "slowest fast train in the world" is a unique experience. Throughout the journey, you'll be treated to some of the best views the Alps have to offer.

The train departs St. Moritz twice daily in the morning. The schedule varies throughout the year, and there are some trains that don’t cover the entire route between St. Moritz and Zermatt. To find your connection, make sure to check the current timetable in advance.

There's a reason the Glacier Express is one of the most popular train routes in Switzerland. What makes this trip unforgettable are the fantastic views that accompany you the whole way. The train takes you over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, across three cantons, and into two language regions.

The journey lasts a little over 8 hours, and depending on when you leave St. Moritz, you'll arrive in Zermatt between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Once you arrive, you can spend the rest of the day wandering through the mountain village and enjoying the sight of the majestic Matterhorn.

Assuming it’s not shrouded in clouds.

• Glacier Express - What to expect on this panoramic train ride

Tag 8: Zermatt - Montreux

In Zermatt stehen die Berge und die Natur im Mittelpunkt. Wenn du wegen der spektakulären Aussicht auf die Berge in die Schweiz gekommen bist, wirst du es hier lieben.

Es gibt zahlreiche Wanderungen und Spaziergänge für jedes Fitnesslevel, die dich zu Plätzen führen, von denen du nicht einmal wusstest, dass es sie gibt. Ein Beispiel ist der beliebte Zermatter 5-Seenweg, für den du etwa 2,5 Stunden brauchen wirst. Dieser Weg führt an fünf kristallklaren Bergseen vorbei und bietet immer wieder atemberaubende Ausblicke auf das Matterhorn.

Ein weiteres Abenteuer, das dir möglicherweise schwindelig werden könnte, ist das Überqueren der längsten Fussgängerhängebrücke der Welt in Randa. Sie ist stolze 494 m lang und überspannt das Tal. Der Rundweg zur Brücke beginnt und endet in Randa, das nur 15 Minuten mit dem Zug von Zermatt entfernt ist.

Wenn du die Wanderung lieber auslassen und die Berge auf entspannte Art genießen möchtest, empfehlen wir dir, mit der Bahn auf den Gornergrat zu fahren. Nach einer extrem steilen Zugfahrt befindest du dich auf einer Höhe von 3.089 m ü.M., direkt vor dem Gornergletscher und dem Matterhorn. Sei nicht überrascht, wenn du beim Treppensteigen zum Aussichtspunkt außer Atem bist. Das liegt nicht an dir, sondern an der dünnen Luft.

Sobald du bereit bist, die frische Alpenluft zu verlassen, nimm den Zug nach Montreux am Genfersee. Verbringe den Rest des Tages mit einem Spaziergang an der Promenade von Montreux und schau dir die Freddie Mercury-Statue vor der Markthalle an.

Wenn du das berühmte Schloss Chillon besuchen möchtest, kannst du der Promenade bis zum Schloss folgen oder einfach in einen Bus steigen. Auch Passagierschiffe verkehren regelmäßig zwischen Montreux und Schloss Chillon.

Alternativ kannst du auch in die andere Richtung zu den Lavaux Weinbergen fahren. Nur eine kurze Zugfahrt westlich von Montreux findest du die berühmten Lavaux Weinberge, die zum UNESCO-Welterbe gehören. Um die herrliche Aussicht zu genießen, steig in Cully oder Epesses aus und folge dem ausgeschilderten Wanderweg durch die Reben.

Wir sind uns bewusst, dass dies ein ziemlich volles Programm für den heutigen Tag ist. Wir raten dir nicht, alles abzuklappern. Aber jetzt, wo du deine Optionen kennst, bist du flexibel und kannst deinen Tag nach deinen Vorlieben planen.

Und vielleicht je nach Wetter...

• Die besten Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten in Zermatt
• Die besten Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten in Montreux
• Schloss Chillon - die besten Angebote

Tag 9: Montreux - Interlaken - Lucerne

Hoffentlich hast du das Zugfahren noch nicht satt. Denn heute erwartet dich ein weiterer aufregender Tag, an dem du aus dem Fenster schauen und beeindruckende Ausblicke genießen kannst.

Am Morgen verlässt du die Region um den Genfersee und beginnst deinen Aufstieg in die Alpen auf der Golden Pass Line. Nach ein paar Tunneln erreichst du das Berner Oberland, unseren Lieblingsteil der gesamten Zugfahrt.

Diese Region ist ein Traum für Bergliebhaber und vereint alles, was die Schweiz zu bieten hat: Seen, Berge, saftige Wiesen mit grasen Kühen, Gletscher, zahlreiche Wanderwege, wunderschöne Landschaften und charmante kleine Dörfer sind hier in Hülle und Fülle zu finden.

Sogar wenn du nicht genug Zeit hast, um unterwegs auszusteigen, wird die Fahrt durch diese malerische Gegend ein Erlebnis sein, das du sicher nicht schnell vergisst. Nachdem du das Berner Oberland hinter dir gelassen hast und die Hügel hinuntergefahren bist, kommst du in Zweisimmen an, wo du in einen anderen Zug umsteigen musst.

Die nächste Etappe der Reise führt dich an Spiez und dem Thunersee vorbei, bevor du in Interlaken ankommst. Mach hier eine kurze Mittagspause und erkunde diesen beliebten Ferienort. Leider hast du nicht viel Zeit, denn es sind noch ein paar Stunden bis nach Lucerne.

Daher spaziere kurz durch Interlaken und nimm den nächsten Zug. Genieße die nächste aussichtsreiche Fahrt vorbei am Brienzersee, hinauf in die Berge und schließlich hinunter nach Lucerne.

Nachdem du so viele Stunden gesessen hast, wirst du sicherlich einen Spaziergang durch die Altstadt von Lucerne zu schätzen wissen. Spaziere über die Kapellbrücke, entspanne am See oder besuche den Gletschergarten mit dem berühmten Löwendenkmal.

• Golden Pass Line
• Die besten Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten in Lucerne

Day 10: Lucerne - Zurich

You might have taken enough train rides in the last few days to last a lifetime. To recover from the long journeys, you can spend some time in and around Lucerne. There's plenty to do here, as you can see from Day 9 of the itinerary.

At the end of the day, you'll take the train back to Zurich and spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland's largest city.

• The best activities in Zurich

Additional tips and information for itinerary 3

• When you check into your accommodation in St. Gallen, Lucerne, and Montreux, you'll receive a guest card that allows you to use local public transport for free. In St. Gallen, you can even travel to Lake Constance with it.

• All these scenic train rides are covered by an Interrail, Eurail, or Swiss Travel Pass. However, some trains require a reservation, which comes at an extra cost. The Voralpen Express and the Golden-Pass Line are the only trains where you can travel without a reservation.

• The Gotthard Panorama Express only operates from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday. If you’re traveling outside of these months or on a Monday, take the regular train from Lucerne to Lugano. A reservation is required for the train ride between Flüelen and Lugano.

• Ticino is a highly popular vacation destination among Swiss people. If you're traveling during school holidays, make sure to book your accommodation in advance.

• The tranquility in the valleys of Verzasca and Maggia can be deceiving. As soon as it starts to rain higher up in the mountains, these rivers can turn into a dangerous force of nature. Check the weather forecast before you set out. If it rains up there, keep a safe distance from the water and don’t take a nap on one of the cozy boulders in the river. Visitors have been surprised by the massive amounts of water and have perished. We don’t want you to be one of them.

• Note that the Bernina Express bus only runs from April to November. If you're traveling outside of these months, you'll need to find another way to get from Lugano to Tirano.

• You can travel on the Golden Pass without a reservation. However, the Golden Pass customer service recommends reserving a seat for the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get quite crowded during peak season.

4. Itinerary with six city trips, Mount Titlis and Europe’s largest waterfalls

Highlights on this route:

• Visit the Benedictine monastery in Engelberg
• Enjoy the mountain panorama from Titlis at 3,239 m above sea level
• Discover the highlights of Lucerne, Bern, Solothurn, Basel, Schaffhausen, and Zurich
• Fill your belly with delicious Kambly biscuits
• Take a day trip from Bern to various places in the Alps or nearby cities
• Stroll through Solothurn, the most beautiful Baroque city in Switzerland
• Visit the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe

Day 1: Zurich - Engelberg

Explore Zurich in the morning on your own, rent a free bike with “Züri rollt,” or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and take the train to Engelberg.

This diverse mountain village is located about 25 km south of Lake Lucerne at an altitude of 1,013 m above sea level. Towering above Engelberg at 3,239 m above sea level is the impressive Titlis.

Since you'll arrive in Engelberg in the mid or late afternoon, you won't have enough time to go up immediately. So let's save that for tomorrow, so you aren't rushed.

Instead, you can explore the center of Engelberg this afternoon. More specifically, the Benedictine monastery. This ancient monastery was founded in 1120 and is still home to about 20 monks. You can either visit it on your own or join a guided tour.

• The best sights and activities in Zurich

Day 2: Free Day in Engelberg

Like many places in the Swiss Alps, Engelberg is all about outdoor activities. The most popular destination in this area is undoubtedly Titlis. From Engelberg, you can reach the summit with two gondolas. One of them is the Rotair, the world's first rotating cable car that turns 360°. At the summit, an impressive panoramic view awaits you. There's also a spectacular glacier cave and the thrilling Titlis Cliff Walk by Tissot.

Furthermore, the hiking options in Engelberg are virtually endless and cater to all tastes. A recommended hike is the so-called "Kitzelpfad" in Brunni. Here, you take off your shoes and walk over various types of terrain. While your feet are tickled by nature, you can also enjoy the perfect view of Titlis.

And what would a proper hike be without one or two mountain lakes…?

A slightly more challenging hike known as the Four Lakes Hike takes you past - you might have guessed - four mountain lakes. Since this hike takes almost five hours, we recommend it only if you feel fit enough.

If you’d like to spend a less strenuous day, you can choose the wheelchair-friendly path around Engelberg. This two-hour hike starts at the monastery in the center of Engelberg and leads to the picturesque River Aa and back. Even though you won’t reach the peaks on this hike, you’ll still have a beautiful view of the mountains.

In winter, Engelberg transforms into a true paradise for snow lovers. Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing, ice skating, or sledding, you’ll be able to meet your expectations. Engelberg is particularly popular among freeriders.

• The best sights and activities in Engelberg
• Brunni Engelberg
• Titlis

Day 3: Engelberg - Lucerne - Bern

Today you can catch up on what you couldn’t finish yesterday in Engelberg. When you're ready to move on, hop on the train to Lucerne. The trip takes less than an hour and is quite straightforward.

Once you arrive, you can store your luggage at the station and spend a few hours exploring this charming city. Take a stroll across the Chapel Bridge, wander through the old town, relax by the lake, or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument.

Whatever you do, make sure not to spoil your appetite. You'll want to save every bit of space in your stomach for the feast that awaits you.

When you’re ready to continue, catch the train to Trubschachen. This train splits along the way, and only the front part goes through the picturesque Entlebuch to the Kambly factory. When you’re at the platform in Lucerne, check the display to make sure you’re boarding the right part of the train.

For the Kambly factory store right next to the station in Trubschachen, you don’t need a ticket. Admission is free. You can spend as much time as you want here and sample up to 100 different types of delicious biscuits.

Unfortunately, you can't tour the factory directly or watch the production of this traditional Swiss treat. However, there is a cinema in the store where you can learn more about the Kambly family business.

If you’re either about to burst or simply can’t eat any more sweets, continue on to Bern. To help digest your Kambly overload, take a walk around the capital of Switzerland. For a stunning view over Bern, we recommend heading up to the Rose Garden.

• Best sights and activities in Lucerne
• Best sights and activities in Bern

Day 4: Free Day in Bern

Today, you can choose from a wide range 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 take a walk back to the Rose Garden to enjoy the view.

You can also visit the Gurten, Bern's local mountain, observe the animals at the Dählhölzli Zoo, or check out the Botanical Garden. Take the lift from the train station and enjoy the view from the Grosse Schanze, or go swimming in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

Bern is also close to many varied destinations for day trips. You can easily embark on a day trip to places like Thun and Interlaken, two wonderful spots with spectacular lake and mountain views.

If you're interested in mountain lakes, you have two great options from Bern. Oeschinensee and Blausee are easily accessible and well worth a visit. The crystal-clear waters of both lakes will captivate you.

Just half an hour west of Bern lies the medieval town of Fribourg. If you decide to head there, follow the signs for the city walk that leads you through the mighty old town. The signs guide you through steep alleys, over old wooden bridges, down to the Saane River, and past the town's funicular. For an even better view of your surroundings, be sure to climb the 365 steps to the cathedral tower. The Saane River at the foot of the town is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a snack.

You could even venture further and head to Gruyères and Broc to enjoy some typical Swiss cheese and chocolate. Whatever you do today, return to Bern for your last night whenever you're ready.

• The best sights and activities in Bern
• The best sights and activities in Fribourg
• The best sights and activities in Thun
• The best sights and activities in Interlaken
• Thunersee - the best activities and prices

Day 5: Bern - Solothurn

If there’s anything you wanted to do in Bern yesterday but ran out of time, get that over with in the morning and leave for Solothurn whenever you’re ready.

Solothurn is commonly known as “Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city”. Take a stroll through this pretty old town and get ready to spend a full day in the area tomorrow. Also, go ahead and treat yourself to a few scoops of ice cream at Vitaminstation – one of the ice cream places ever – and have it while sitting on the stone wall along the River Aare.

You’ll fit right in with the locals in doing so.

Seraina’s Tip: My two absolute favourite places for food in Solothurn are Pittaria and Vitaminstation. Anyone that likes a good falafel or hummus is going to love Pittaria. And Vitaminstation makes some of the best ice cream I’ve ever tasted in Switzerland.

Day 6: Free day in Solothurn

Although Solothurn is by no means a big city, there’s still plenty to see and do in the area. One activity we particularly recommend is going on a hike in the Jura mountains. This high plateau is a wonderful area to visit all year round.

One option to reach the top with its countless walking trails is by cable car from Oberdorf to Weissenstein. Feel free to walk as long and as far as you like before hiking back down or catching the cable car to Oberdorf.

A very popular hike is the round trip from Solothurn via Balmberg and Weissenstein. Catch the Postauto in Solothurn, get off at Balmberg, walk along the crest to Weissenstein and head back down to Oberdorf by cable car. From Oberdorf, the train will take you back to Solothurn.

This is an easy walk and takes you into the Jura without too much effort. During your hike, you’ll also enjoy the view over the Alps, including Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Another place you can visit is Verena Gorge. You can walk along the creek through the forest in the gorge until you reach the little hermitage at the end. The walk takes roughly 45 minutes return and is super peaceful.

Alternatively, hop on the passenger ship to Biel. How long you stay on it really depends on your preferences. You can go all the way to Biel – which takes around three hours – or get off anywhere along the way and catch the train back to Solothurn.

One of the highlights on this tour will be Switzerland’s largest stork station in Altreu, which you’ll pass about 45 minutes into the journey. In 1950, when storks were nearly extinct in Switzerland, Max Bloesch started his reintroduction project to save our storks. Thanks to him, around 40 breeding pairs can be seen soaring through the air, strutting across the fields and clattering on the rooftops around Altreu these days.

Only in spring and summer, though. They travel to warmer territories in autumn until winter is over.

If you continue your journey onward to Biel, the views of the Jura mountains and the Swiss Central Plateau will accompany you all the way. After passing through a watergate, you’ll arrive at the port in Biel, which is only a short walk from the train station.

From there, heading back to Solothurn will take 15 minutes by train.

Day 7: Solothurn - Basel

If you need a bit more time in Solothurn this morning, feel free to stick around a little longer. Once you're ready, hop on the train and head to Basel. The journey only takes an hour.

Basel is a vibrant city right on the German-French border. You can find several city tours at different times. Either join a guided tour or set out on your own to explore the city.

Stop by the Pfalz, the perfect viewpoint for snapping some postcard-worthy photos, stroll along the Rhine, and watch the large freight ships coming in and out of the harbor. Walk past the Cathedral or check out one of the many museums.

In the warmer summer months, you can join the locals for a swim in the Rhine. Before they jump in and drift downstream, they pack their clothes into a Wickelfisch. This waterproof bag shaped like a fish is a local icon of Basel.

• Top sights and activities in Basel

Day 8: Basel - Schaffhausen

If there's something you didn't get to see in Basel yesterday, today is your chance. But if you've already explored the city enough, you can always jump across the border to visit Weil am Rhein in Germany or St. Louis in France.

Theoretically, you could even visit all three countries in a single day: Switzerland, Germany, and France. This is definitely possible in Basel and something you might not get the chance to do every day, especially if you're from a country where you have to take a flight just to reach the next border in a reasonable time.

When you're ready to leave Basel, hop on a train to Schaffhausen. This city has a charming old town. Here you'll find a total of 171 bay windows, which is more than any other city in Switzerland. After you’ve checked them all out and explored the rest of Schaffhausen, you can head up to Munot and enjoy the view over the city.

• The best sights and activities in Schaffhausen

Day 9: Free Day in Schaffhausen

The main reason people travel to Schaffhausen is the Rhine Falls. This magnificent waterfall attracts visitors from all over the world and is truly an impressive natural spectacle. Access to the falls from the north bank is free, while a visit from Schloss Laufen on the south side costs 5 CHF. Take your time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Rhine Falls. When you're ready, head back to Schaffhausen.

Since you have the whole day, just staying at the Rhine Falls won't be enough. You can spend some more time in town, join a city tour, or completely leave Schaffhausen.

Not too far away is the picturesque old town of Stein am Rhein. Small but incredibly charming, Stein am Rhein is the perfect place to admire the beautifully painted houses. Once you've seen enough, you can take a boat ride up the Rhine and back to Schaffhausen. This boat trip takes about two hours and is considered one of the most beautiful in Switzerland.

If you’re really quick and want to leave Schaffhausen around noon, you can go even further and spend some time at Lake Constance, which is shared by Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

• The best sights and activities in Stein am Rhein
• Lake Constance

Day 10: Schaffhausen - Zürich

What you plan to do today really depends on your energy level after an intense week of travel. If you’re still up for it, you can squeeze in a quick detour before heading back to Zürich later.

Either make your way to Lake Constance if you didn’t get a chance to visit yesterday, or head to St. Gallen. We’ll explore both places in more detail on days 2 and 3 of Route No. 5, so scroll down for more info.

Toward the end of the day, or even around lunch if you’re not feeling the detour, you can take the train back to Zürich. Spend the rest of the day exploring the largest city in Switzerland.

• The best sights and activities in Zürich

Additional tips and information for itinerary 4

• The passenger ship between Solothurn and Biel runs three times a day from May to October. Please check the timetable to find your connection. If you travel with a Swiss Travel Pass, all journeys are fully covered. If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail Pass, you will receive a 50% discount on the boat trip from Solothurn to Biel.
• When you're in Altreu, keep an eye out for pooping (excuse the expression) storks. They usually don't hold back and you wouldn't be the first person to get splattered with, well... you know what, when you get off the boat.
• If you want to take a trip to Germany or France, don't forget to exchange a few euros. And don't forget to bring your passport. Since Switzerland is not part of the European Union, you will have to show your passport when you leave the country.
• The boat between Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen does not run all year round. Please check the timetable to plan your trip accordingly. If you prefer to skip this part, take the train back to Schaffhausen instead

5. Itinerary with the alpine Engadine region, the sunny Ticino and two scenic train rides

Highlights on this route:

• Admire the Abbey District in St. Gallen (UNESCO)
• Hike in the scenic Alpstein mountain range
• Spend the night in the Swiss National Park
• Enjoy the beautiful alpine Engadine in the canton of Graubünden
• Ride the Bernina Express across the Alps to Lugano
• Explore the warm and sunny canton of Ticino
• Visit one of the popular river valleys, Maggia or Verzasca

Day 1: Zurich - St. Gallen

Explore Zurich in the morning on your own, rent a free bike with "Züri rollt," or join a city tour. After your tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to St. Gallen.

Spend the afternoon discovering the Old Town of St. Gallen. With its UNESCO-protected Abbey District, impressive cathedral, and remarkable Abbey Library, this city has a lot to offer.

Make sure to check out the recreational area “Drei Weieren.” You can either reach it by the Mühleggbahn or walk up one of the many stairways. Alternatively, you can visit the Peter & Paul Wildlife Park or quench your cultural thirst at one of the many museums.

The best place to relax is definitely at the “Drei Weieren.” Here, you can go swimming or take a stroll through the forest. Plus, you'll have a fantastic view over the entire city, Lake Constance, and even up to Germany.

• The best sights and activities in Zurich
• The best sights and activities in St. Gallen

Day 2: St. Gallen - Alpstein - St. Gallen

Today, you’re in for some serious hiking and a ton of impressive mountain views. In the morning, catch the train to Wasserauen and hike up to Seealpsee, one of the three lakes in the Alpstein mountain range. Spend some time in this peaceful spot before moving on to Ebenalp.

On your way to Ebenalp, you’ll pass by a place you might have seen before. The famous Äscher restaurant. Ever since it was featured on National Geographic and on Ashton Kutcher’s Instagram, it‘s been completely overrun by its success. This sadly caused it to lose some of its former charm. However, it’s still a worthwhile place to snap a few photos and take a break.

At Ebenalp, you can choose between hiking back to Wasserauen or catching the cable car. If you still have it in you after this long day, you might like a quick stopover in Appenzell on your way to St. Gallen.

In case you hop off in Appenzell and are feeling brave, visit the little cheese store at Hauptgasse 13. But be warned, those smelly cheese fumes will knock your socks off the second you enter the store. There’s no way your feet will be able to compete with that odour. Not even after a full day of being trapped inside your trekking boots... 🙂

Oh, and don’t miss out on a piece of Appenzeller Biber, an iconic local sweet treat made of gingerbread and a honey almond filling. And before you ask: Nope. This Biber doesn’t have any famous Canadian relatives...

Also, if you’re a beer-lover, make sure to stop by the Locher brewery. They brew the popular Quöllfrisch beer that is consumed all across Switzerland.

In the evening, head back to St. Gallen and enjoy sleeping like a baby tonight. Fresh mountain air has a tendency to leave you peacefully exhausted.

Tag 3: St. Gallen - Lake Constance - St. Gallen

After breakfast, spend some time in St. Gallen before heading to the shores of Lake Constance. This lake is 63 km long and up to 14 km wide, divided among Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It is one of the largest lakes in Europe and can be easily reached by train from St. Gallen.

In this tri-national area, there are plenty of sights and activities to discover. For example, the picturesque town of Konstanz in Germany is just a short walk from Kreuzlingen. Most Swiss people go there to shop cheaply, but Konstanz offers so much more than just great shopping.

With its charming old town, numerous cafés, restaurants, ice cream parlors, and quiet spots by the lake, Konstanz attracts many visitors during the warmer months. If you're interested in fish and other underwater creatures, Sea Life is always a fun option when the weather's not great.

Of course, you don’t have to leave the country to fully enjoy Lake Constance. Visit one of the many beaches, go swimming, take a boat ride, rent a stand-up paddleboard, grab a bike and follow the cycling paths, or enjoy a stroll along the lakefront.

The canton of Thurgau, which makes up the largest part of the Swiss side of Lake Constance, is famous for its apple trees. One of the hikes we recommend in this area is the Altnauer Apple Trail. It’s particularly picturesque when the trees bloom in April and May or during the harvest in autumn. The trail is divided into three separate paths, each marked with informative signs on various topics. When you combine all three paths, you’ll learn everything there is to know about apples. Plus, along the way, you’ll find many opportunities to buy and taste different apple products.

Other interesting places around Lake Constance include the towns of Romanshorn, Rorschach, and Kreuzlingen. After exploring the area, take the train to Zurich and spend the time you have left in Switzerland's largest city.

Once you’ve explored the area, take the train back to St. Gallen for your final night.

• Lake Constance

Day 4: St. Gallen - Scuol

What time you continue your journey today is entirely up to you. The train ride to Scuol takes just under three hours and even if you stick around in St. Gallen until the afternoon, you can still make it to Scuol in time.

So catch the train whenever you’re ready and travel to the marvellous Engadine region in the Canton of Grisons. The Engadine has to be one of the most magical places in Switzerland. Especially during autumn, when the leaves turn yellow, orange and red. But throughout the rest of the year, it’s just as fantastic a place to visit.

Enjoy the rest of your day exploring Scuol and get ready for a few days of being surrounded by mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and plenty of Swiss wildlife.

Ever seen a marmot? Chances of seeing one in the near future are pretty good.

Day 5: Scuol - Chamanna Cluozza

These next two days, you’re going to explore Switzerland’s only national park in all its glory. Leave your luggage in Scuol and only take what you need for your hiking excursion. If you ask nicely, they might let you leave your luggage at your accommodation in Scuol until you come back from the mountains tomorrow night.

The rules that apply when visiting Switzerland’s only National Park are pretty strict. There’s no leaving the marked trails, no taking plants with you, no making fires and so on. Once you arrive at the gates of the park, please read the signs or stop by the visitor centre in Zernez to make sure you’re prepared.

What you probably weren’t expecting is that visiting the park is free. Everything in Switzerland seems to be more expensive than anywhere else in the world. And yet, while you pay an entrance fee to pretty much every National Park in the world, ours is free. Pretty cool, right?

Since the only place to spend the night inside the Swiss National Park is a mountain hut called Chamanna Cluozza, you’ve got one task to accomplish today. Get to Chamanna Cluozza.

One hike we recommend starts half an hour from Scuol, in the village of Zernez. From there, you’ll spend a good three hours until you reach your camp for the night. The hike isn’t too straining. And if you’re not the most experienced hiker, just give yourself enough time and you should be alright.

Enjoy this evening far away from civilisation without phone reception and sitting around a table chatting to strangers. You’ve earned it.

Tag 6: Chamanna Cluozza - Scuol

If you haven't planned today's hike yet, ask the owners of Chamanna Cluozza for their recommendations. There are numerous other hikes available with varying levels of difficulty. This gives you another day to explore the national park.

Alternatively, after breakfast, you can head back to Scuol if you've had your fill of hiking. The choice is entirely yours. If you're looking for a relaxing alternative, the Engadin is the perfect place for you.

One option is the thermal bath in Scuol. Depending on how sore your feet are from yesterday's hike, a few hours of relaxation in the hot springs might be just what you need.

Otherwise, we recommend visiting one of the nearby villages, like Guarda or Sent. The stone houses you'll see there are typical of this part of Switzerland.

And as you pass by these impressive buildings, keep an eye out for a bakery. The famous Engadin nut cake comes from the Engadin. If you have a sweet tooth, you definitely should try a piece or two. This cake is quite rich and heavy, but every single calorie is worth it.

• The best sights and activities in Scuol
• The best sights and activities in the Engadin

Tag 7: Scuol - St. Moritz

After breakfast, you leave Scuol and head to St. Moritz. You have the whole day to explore this stylish holiday resort. It's all about outdoor experiences here—summer and winter alike. Whether it’s biking, hiking, stand-up paddling, swimming, windsurfing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just going for a stroll, you'll find everything your heart desires.

Just a short drive from St. Moritz is Lake Silvaplana. This is a breathtaking spot to enjoy some of these activities.

When it comes to culinary delights, we recommend a plate of Grisons barley soup. This hearty soup made with barley, vegetables, and meat is a typical dish from Grisons. It warms you up on a cool day like nothing else.

Back in St. Moritz, you can spend the rest of the day strolling through the town or relaxing by the lake. St. Moritz isn't quite as charming and mystical as some other villages in the area like Samedan or La Punt, but it's great for window shopping. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two.

• The best sights and activities in St. Moritz

Tag 8: St. Moritz - Tirano - Lugano

Today, you’ll spend a few hours crossing the Alps from St. Moritz to Lugano. Your journey takes you up to the highest point of the Bernina Express line, past glistening glaciers and crystal-clear mountain lakes, down into the southern part of Switzerland and over a spectacular viaduct before entering Italy.

And finally back into Switzerland...

The first leg of this train ride takes you to Ospizio Bernina, the highest point of today’s journey. This small station is not far from St. Moritz and sits at an elevation of 2,253 m above sea level. From here, it’s all downhill. Of course, that’s just figuratively speaking. On your way down to Italy, you’ll cross the circular viaduct in Brusio. Here, the train makes a full 360-degree turn to overcome the elevation.

At this point, you’ve already lost quite a bit of altitude, and the outside temperature is much warmer than it was just a few hours ago. The final leg of the journey begins in Tirano, right at the Swiss-Italian border. From Tirano, the Bernina Express bus will take you through the impressive wine region of Valtellina.

Before you return to Switzerland, you’ll pass by Lake Como—the place where George Clooney and many other celebrities have tied the knot.

After this long day, you can stretch your legs along the promenade of Lake Lugano. Enjoy the view, grab a few scoops of ice cream, and take a leisurely stroll through Lugano.

You’ve earned it.

Since you’ll be spending the next two nights in Ticino, you’re entitled to the great Ticino Ticket. You’ll receive it when you check in at your accommodation.

With this handy guest card, you can use public transport throughout Ticino for free. Plus, you’ll get various discounts on other attractions and activities.

• Bernina Express

Tag 9: Day Off in the Canton of Ticino

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With so many activities to choose from, you're sure to have a fun day today.

First, we recommend heading to one of the two river valleys: Maggia or Verzasca. Both are fantastic for hiking, spending time by the river, or taking a refreshing dip. Don't forget to pack your picnic! There are countless spots to take a break in both valleys. Our favorite place is right under the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calmer waters over chilly mountain streams, head to Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano. Both lakes are breathtaking and offer more photo opportunities than you can imagine.

Other popular destinations in Ticino include the charming artsy town of Ascona near Locarno and the city of Lugano further south.

If you want to brush up on your knowledge of Swiss geography, visit Swissminiatur in Melide just outside Lugano. It's a miniature version of Switzerland and showcases incredible attention to detail.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, check out the 007 Bungy at the end of the Verzasca Valley. You might have seen this 220-meter jump in the James Bond film GoldenEye. If you're brave enough to leap from the dam, be sure to share your photos with us. We’d love to see them…🙂

• The best sights and activities in Ticino
• The best sights and activities in Lugano

Day 10: Lugano - Lucerne - Zurich

If you're visiting Switzerland between April and October, you're in luck. If you don't leave Ticino on a Monday, you have the chance to return via the Gotthard Panorama Express, crossing the Alps.

During the first leg of this journey, a panoramic train takes you through the old Gotthard Tunnel to Flüelen. Before the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened in 2016, this was the only way to reach Ticino by train.

Now, since the opening of the longest tunnel in the world, the old tunnel is used only for tourism purposes.

In Flüelen, you'll enjoy a three-hour boat ride on Lake Lucerne. You arrive in Lucerne around 3:00 PM, right next to the train station. This gives you enough time to either explore Lucerne or head straight back to Zurich.

• Gotthard Panorama Express

Additional tips and information for itinerary 5

• Keep your eyes open for wildlife during your hikes. The chances of seeing some marmots, chamois or even ibex are pretty good.
• If you're staying at Chamanna Cluozza, be sure to book in advance. Use the booking page to make a reservation.
• This itinerary is best in the summer or fall. Especially if you plan to spend some time in the National Park. Of course, you can also visit it in winter. But that would mean that you would have to skip Chamanna Cluozza and spend more time in the snow in Scuol. Not a bad alternative either...
• The Bernina Express timetable changes depending on the season. To find your connection and make a reservation, visit the RhB website. The Bernina Express bus between Tirano and Lugano only runs from May to November.
• The Gotthard Panorama Express only runs from April to October, from Tuesday to Sunday. If you travel outside these months or on a Monday, take the regular train from Lugano to Zurich instead. For the train ride between Lugano and Flüelen you need a reservation.
• If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail pass, only the train ride from Lugano to Flüelen on the Gotthard Panorama Express is fully covered. The trip with the steamboat costs extra.

6. Itinerary through western Switzerland and the Bernese Alps

Highlights on this route:

• Explore the beautiful Lake Geneva region in Nyon, Lausanne, and Montreux
• Visit the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO) by Lake Geneva
• Hike to Dent de Vaulion for sweeping views of the Jura mountains
• Dare to walk the Peak Walk at Glacier 3000, a suspension bridge between two peaks
• Check out the old town of Bern (UNESCO)
• Discover the best of the Bernese Alps - including Interlaken and Gstaad

Day 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 your tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to Nyon.

This medieval town on the shores of 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 use your free Lausanne Transport Card.

The picturesque old town of Lausanne is built on three hills and is surrounded by numerous vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro in Switzerland.

If you're interested in an intriguing experience, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM to watch the tower. Since 1405, night watchmen have announced the current time from up there in the middle of the night.

• The best sights and activities in Geneva

Tag 2: Lausanne - Lac de Joux / Creux du Van - Lausanne

After breakfast, grab enough food for the day and head straight to Le Pont, a village in the Vallée de Joux. The train ride from Lausanne to the valley takes about an hour.

The Vallée de Joux is part of the Jura Mountains and offers countless hiking opportunities. In the center of the valley, you’ll find a beautiful lake called Lac de Joux. The most popular spot in the area is the distinctive mountain Dent de Vaulion. The hike around the loop from Le Pont takes about three hours.

The view from Dent de Vaulion stretches from the Vallée de Joux all the way to Lake Geneva and far into France. With the whole day ahead of you, feel free to spend as much time in the area as you like. Hang out by Lac de Joux, walk around the lake, or do whatever your heart desires.

When you’re ready, you can take the train back to Lausanne and spend the rest of the day exploring the city.

If you’re looking for a different challenge instead of visiting Lac de Joux, we recommend hiking to Creux du Van. The Creux du Van is a natural amphitheater about 1,200 m wide, shaped by continuous erosion from water and ice. This area is home to marmots, mountain goats, deer, and various birds.

The starting point for the hike is in Noiraigue, a village about 1.5 hours from Lausanne. The hike to Creux du Van is quite strenuous and can take up to five hours. Spend as much time in the amphitheater as you want before heading back to Noiraigue and Lausanne.

Of course, like anywhere in Switzerland, the weather can turn bad, and we advise against doing this hike in the rain. The rocks can become slippery and dangerous when wet.

• The best sights and activities in Lausanne

Tag 3: Lausanne - Lavaux - Bern

In the morning, you've got a bit more time to explore Lausanne. Before you head off to Bern, you should spend some time in one of our favorite spots in Switzerland. Just a short train ride east of Lausanne, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To enjoy the stunning views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the designated hiking trail through the vines.

After your little trip, you can head back to Lausanne to pick up your luggage. From there, a direct train will take you to Bern in just over an hour. The rest of the day is yours to wander through the streets of our capital. Stroll around the old town, visit the Bear Park, or check out the Federal Palace.

You can also visit the Gurten - Bern’s local mountain - watch the animals at the Dählhölzli Zoo, or explore the Botanical Garden. Take the lift from the station and enjoy the view from the Grosse Schanze, or go for a swim in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus. In the evening, we recommend heading into the Rosengarten for a fantastic view of Bern at night.

• The best sights and activities in Bern

Tag 4: Bern - Murten - Neuchâtel - Bern

After breakfast, take the train to the charming small town of Murten. The journey takes just half an hour, and you won't even need to change trains. Murten itself is tiny, so it won't take long to explore the town. Stroll through the historic old town and stretch your legs by the lake.

The area around Murten is perfect for cycling, hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the lake.

By the way, you’ll find the longest freshwater sandy beach in Europe at Lake Murten in Salavaux. This might not impress anyone who grew up by the sea, but for a landlocked country like Switzerland, it's quite remarkable.

Once you've had your fill of Murten, hop on the next train to Neuchâtel. Spend the afternoon exploring this beautiful city with its lake views and steep streets. If you want even more stunning views, you should head up to Chaumont, the local mountain of Neuchâtel.

The funicular leaves from Le Coudre to the summit. From there, you can hike down to Cressier via Trois Cheminées. A bus will take you back to Neuchâtel from Cressier. Alternatively, you can take a walk in Chaumont and ride the funicular back down.

At the end of the day, you can return to Bern and spend another night in the Swiss capital.

• The best sights and activities in Murten

Day Trip 5: Day Trip from Bern

Bern is close to a variety of exciting destinations. If you’re into mountain lakes, you’ve got two fantastic options from Bern. Oeschinensee and Blausee are easily reachable and definitely worth a trip. The crystal-clear waters of both lakes will captivate you.

Just half an hour west of Bern is the medieval town of Fribourg. If you decide to head there, follow the signs for the city tour, which will lead you through the impressive old town. The signs guide you through steep streets, over ancient wooden bridges, down to the Saane River, and past the city’s funicular. For an even better view of your surroundings, you should climb the 365 steps to the cathedral tower. The Saane River at the foot of the town is a great spot to stretch your legs and grab a snack.

You could even go a bit further to Gruyères and Broc to sample some traditional Swiss cheese and chocolate. Whatever you choose to do today, make sure to return to Bern for your last night when you’re ready.

• The best sights and activities in Fribourg

Day 6: Bern - Interlaken

How you want to spend today is entirely up to you. One option is to stay a bit longer in Bern and explore the capital of Switzerland further. If you've seen enough, you can travel on to Interlaken.

Spend the day in this charming place nestled between two crystal-clear lakes. There are countless activities in the Interlaken area. You'll have the whole day tomorrow to explore Interlaken and its surroundings.

Check out some suggestions for tomorrow today to see if there's anything you can get done today. Maybe you're up for a quick trip to Lauterbrunnen or a ride to Harder Kulm for some amazing views?

Day 7: Free Day in Interlaken

You have more activities to choose from today than you can imagine. It all depends on your budget, but in an adrenaline-fueled place like Interlaken, the sky's the limit.

Maybe!

Skydiving, paragliding, canyoning, and jet boating are popular activities that will get your adrenaline pumping.

A more relaxed option is taking a ride on a passenger ship on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. On both lakes, you'll be treated to incredible views and you'll wish you never had to leave. If you want to make a stop during one of the boat trips, you can either disembark in Giessbach (Brienz Lake), at the St. Beatus Caves, or in Spiez (Thun Lake).

The Jungfrau region around Interlaken is also an excellent spot for hikers. The number of hiking trails is virtually endless. Regardless of your fitness level and ambitions, you'll find something to your taste here.

Of course, the famous Jungfraujoch - also known as the Top of Europe - is the number one destination that everyone wants to see. With the Jungfrau Railway, you'll ascend to the highest railway station in Europe and find yourself amidst stunning mountain and glacier scenery.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to the Jungfraujoch, we recommend visiting Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Grindelwald First, or Männlichen instead. The journeys up these mountains and the views from the summit will not disappoint.

Other attractions in and around Interlaken include: the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, the chocolate factory at the Funky Chocolate Club, the two mountain lakes Blausee or Oeschinensee, or the Aare Gorge. And let’s not forget the charming towns and villages of Brienz, Spiez, Thun, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald.

We could go on forever. But we think you’d just be frustrated that you can’t spend the whole week here.

• The best sights and activities in Interlaken
• 12 Tips for your first visit to the Jungfraujoch
• Schilthorn Piz Gloria
• Schynige Platte - Top of Swiss Tradition
• The best deals for Skydive Interlaken
• Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Tag 8: Interlaken - Gstaad

You can leave Interlaken right after breakfast or spend a few more hours here. It’s totally up to you and depends on your plans for the day in the Bernese Alps. So grab your luggage whenever you like and hop on the train to Gstaad.

Today, you’re in for a treat with stunning landscapes. From Interlaken to Spiez to Zweisimmen and then on to Gstaad, you’ll ride the Golden Pass Line. This popular panoramic train route connects the heart of Switzerland in Lucerne with the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux.

After you switch trains for the second time in Zweisimmen, the ascent through the Bernese Oberland to Gstaad begins. This region is a dream come true for mountain lovers and encapsulates everything that makes Switzerland special. You’ll find lakes, mountains, lush meadows dotted with grazing cows, glaciers, countless hiking trails, breathtaking landscapes, and charming little villages in abundance here.

That’s why you’ll be staying here for two nights. Get off in Gstaad, check into your accommodation, and get ready to explore the Alps. Your hiking options are endless. Find a hike that matches your fitness level and enjoy the views. By the way, Lake Lauenensee is just one of the popular spots you can visit up here.

When you stroll through Gstaad in the evening, keep an eye out for celebrities. This place is a hotspot for the rich and famous, much like St. Moritz.

• Golden Pass Line

Tag 9: Gstaad - Glacier 3000 - Gstaad

If there ever was a day to grab your camera, it’s today. The mountain scenery waiting for you at your destination is simply breathtaking. So make sure your battery is fully charged.

The mountain peak we’re talking about is the impressive Glacier 3000, easily accessible from Gstaad. After a 35-minute bus ride to Col-du-Pillon, you’ll find yourself at the foot of some truly majestic mountains.

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 mountain peaks in the Alps, including the Matterhorn, the Mont-Blanc Massif, and the popular mountain trio Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

If you’re feeling brave, take a walk across the Peak Walk to Scex Rouge. The Peak Walk is the first suspension bridge in the world that connects two peaks. Crossing this bridge will be an experience you likely won’t forget anytime soon.

Depending on when you get back to Gstaad, you can spend a few more hours wandering around the town or go for another hike before you spend another night in the Bernese Alps.

• Glacier 3000

Day 10: Gstaad - Montreux - Geneva

It's time to say goodbye to this beautiful region. After breakfast, you'll take the Golden Pass train and continue on to Montreux, where you'll have a few hours to explore before heading back to Geneva. 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 Chillon Castle. You can either walk along the promenade, take a bus, or hop on one of the regularly running passenger boats to get there.

Even if you're not up for a castle visit, we recommend making a detour to spend some time by the lake. It's a great spot to relax and take plenty of beautiful photos.

Head back to Geneva by the end of the day and enjoy the evening in Switzerland's second-largest city.

• The best sights and activities in Montreux

Additional tips and information for itinerary 6

• For this trip you will definitely need some kind of passport. Be it an Interrail, Eurail or Swiss Travel Pass.
• You can make the trip with the Golden Pass without a reservation. However, Golden Pass customer service recommends reserving a seat for the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get quite crowded in high season.
• Access to Chillon Castle is free if you have a Swiss Travel Pass. Even if you don't want to visit the castle, it's worth seeing it from the outside.

7. Itinerary through the French, Italian and German parts of Switzerland

Highlights on this route:

• Visit the UNESCO-listed vineyards in Lavaux by Lake Geneva
• Fill your belly with delicious Kambly cookies and Cailler chocolate
• Go skiing or hiking in Saas-Fee - the pearl of the Alps
• Hike at the foot of the famous Matterhorn in Zermatt
• Enjoy the fresh air while surrounded by the highest peaks in Switzerland
• Drive through the beautiful Centovalli to Locarno in Ticino
• Stroll through the picturesque old towns of Lucerne and Bern (UNESCO)
• Dare to take the Peak Walk at Glacier 3000, a suspension bridge between two peaks

Day 1: Geneva - Nyon - 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 Nyon.

This medieval town by Lake Geneva is surrounded by charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vines to Nyon Castle and enjoy the view. After your lunch break, catch the train to Lausanne.

Lausanne's picturesque old town is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It houses the International Olympic Committee and Switzerland's only metro. When you're ready to continue your journey, hop on the train to Montreux and spend the rest of the day in this lovely town by Lake Geneva.

• The best sights and activities in Geneva
• The best sights and activities in Montreux

Tag 2: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux

After breakfast, you’ll take the train to the very touristy but beautiful village of Gruyères. On the route to Gruyères, there are both regular regional trains and the trains of the panoramic Golden Pass Line.

Since Gruyères is very popular with tourists, it can get a bit crowded. But just like any famous spot, there’s a reason for it. In this case, that reason is a medieval village. And cheese.

A whole lot of cheese.

The Gruyère cheese factory is located just behind the train station. Here, you can watch how the traditional Gruyère cheese is made. Of course, tastings are included. Once you’re done snacking, you can either take the bus or follow the path until you reach the center of Gruyères. This walk will take you about 20 minutes.

The main attraction in Gruyères is probably the castle, which is open to the public and has an admission fee of 12 CHF. However, the hidden cobblestone streets and countless souvenir shops will likely tempt you to stay longer than you expected.

After exploring Gruyères and maybe buying a souvenir or two, you can head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. In this visitor center, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the oldest chocolate brand in Switzerland. At the end of the tour, there’s a buffet where you can sample a ton of chocolate. The train ride back to Montreux is a great chance to digest your overdose of cheese and chocolate and look forward to another night by Lake Geneva.

• Gruyères Cheese Show
• Cailler Chocolate Factory

Day 3: Montreux - Saas-Fee

Today, you’ve got heaps of time to explore the Lake Geneva region since you didn’t get the chance yesterday. For starters, we recommend you spend the morning walking along the Promenade of Montreux and checking out the Freddie Mercury statue just outside the market hall.

In case you’re interested in castles, don’t miss out on visiting the famous Chillon Castle. To get there, either follow the Promenade by foot, catch a bus or take one of the regularly departing passenger ships.

Alternatively, head in the opposite direction toward Vevey, where you’ll find a stunning riviera and many interesting museums. Only a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards.

Whenever you’re feeling itchy to head up into the mountains, grab your luggage and move on to Saas-Fee, also known as the pearl of the Alps. Saas-Fee is surrounded by Switzerland’s tallest mountains.

As you arrive in this miraculous alpine village, you’ll find yourself in the midst of 13 mountains that are all over 4.000 metres (13.120 feet) above sea level. This can only mean one thing. You have to love the outdoors to come up here…

Tag 4: Saas-Fee - Zermatt

Get ready to breathe in the fresh mountain air all day long. You'll likely spend most of your day outside. If you’re visiting in summer, you have almost endless hiking options. Over 350 kilometers of trails will take you to places you didn’t even know existed.

And while we're at it, don’t forget to keep an eye out for marmots during your hike. Your chances of spotting a few of these adorable alpine creatures are pretty good here.

But Saas-Fee isn’t just interesting during the hiking season. If you’re here in winter, you can really enjoy skiing or snowboarding. And since Saas-Fee is situated at such a high altitude, you can experience some glacier skiing. That’s not something you come across every day.

Over 150 kilometers of groomed pistes are available for as long as you like. While other ski areas have struggled with snow shortages in recent years due to climate change, Saas-Fee offers great snow reliability thanks to its elevation.

Enjoy the views of the mountains, the snow, the hikes, the marmots, and the fresh air. In the evening, you can take the postbus and train to Zermatt.

Once you arrive in Zermatt, you can spend the rest of the day strolling through the famous resort and taking in the impressive Matterhorn, provided the mountain isn’t shrouded in clouds.

• The best sights and activities in Saas-Fee

Days 5 and 6: Free Days in Zermatt

In Zermatt, the mountains and nature take center stage. If you’ve come to Switzerland for the stunning mountain views, you’re going to love it here.

Countless hikes and walks of all difficulty levels will take you to places that will leave you breathless. For example, the popular Zermatt 5-lakes walk, which takes about 2.5 hours. It leads past five crystal-clear mountain lakes and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn at every turn.

Another adventure that might leave you feeling a bit dizzy is crossing the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world in Randa. It spans a full 494 meters and stretches across the valley. The circular trail to the bridge starts and ends in Randa, just a 15-minute train ride from Zermatt.

If you’d rather skip the hike and see the mountains the easy way, we recommend taking the train up to Gornergrat. After an incredibly steep train ride, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3,089 meters 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 not on you, but rather on the thin air.

• The best sights and activities in Zermatt

Tag 7: Zermatt - Domodossola - Lugano

Start your day early in Zermatt and take the train to Brig. This journey is part of the Glacier Express, a scenic train ride that connects Zermatt to St. Moritz.

In Brig, you'll need to change trains to get to Domodossola in Italy. The ride isn't particularly scenic since you'll spend most of the time in a tunnel, but that shouldn't bother you too much. The next leg of the journey from Domodossola to Locarno is much more beautiful. This is likely one of the slowest trains you've ever been on, but chances are that the next two hours will fly by.

The scenery is breathtaking from start to finish. As you travel through the Centovalli—meaning "hundred valleys"—you'll pass several charming villages with old stone houses. You'll also cross high viaducts and might even catch a glimpse of a waterfall or two.

Depending on when you arrive in Locarno, you can spend a few hours in this lovely spot by Lake Maggiore. If you'd rather get to your destination quickly, you can continue on to Lugano.

After this long day, you can stretch your legs along the promenade of Lake Lugano. Enjoy the view, grab a few scoops of ice cream, and take a stroll through Lugano.

You deserve it.

Unfortunately, you won't have much time to explore the Canton of Ticino on this route. If you'd like to spend a day or two in the sunny south of Switzerland, consider picking a different itinerary or skip a day in Zermatt for an extra day in Ticino.

• Top sights and activities in Locarno
• Top sights and activities in Lugano

Day 8: Lugano - Lucerne

If you’re visiting Switzerland between April and October, you’re in luck. As long as you’re not leaving Ticino on a Monday, you have the chance to take the Gotthard Panorama Express back over the Alps.

On the first leg of this journey, a scenic train takes you through the old Gotthard Tunnel to Flüelen. Before the Gotthard Base Tunnel opened in 2016, this was the only way to reach Ticino by train. Nowadays, since the opening of the longest tunnel in the world, the old tunnel is used solely for tourist purposes.

In Flüelen, you’ll enjoy a three-hour journey on a steamship across Lake Lucerne, arriving around 3:00 PM right next to the train station. This gives you plenty of time to explore this charming city and its surroundings. If you can’t take the Gotthard Panorama Express to Lucerne, simply hop on the regular train to Lucerne instead.

In Lucerne, you can spend the rest of the evening discovering the city or find a cozy spot by the lake to relax.

• Gotthard Panorama Express
• Top attractions and activities in Lucerne

Tag 9: Lucerne - Kambly - Bern - Gstaad

You’re lucky that you don’t have to leave Lucerne until around noon. So, spend the morning doing whatever you didn’t get to yesterday. Whatever you do, make sure you don’t spoil your appetite with a huge lunch. You’re going to need every last bit of space in your stomach for the feast that awaits you.

When you’re ready to move on, take the train to Trubschachen. This train splits along the way, and only the front part goes through the picturesque Entlebuch to the Kambly factory. When you’re at the platform in Lucerne, check the display to ensure you’re boarding the right train section.

You don’t need a ticket to visit the Kambly shop next to the train station in Trubschachen. The entrance is free. You can spend as much time as you like here and taste up to 100 varieties of delicious biscuits.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the factory directly to see how this traditional Swiss pastry is made. However, there is a cinema in the shop where you can learn more about the Kambly family business.

If you’re either about to burst or just can’t eat any more sweets, continue on to Bern. To help digest your Kambly overdose, you can take a walk around the Swiss capital. You can spend a couple of hours here before heading on to Gstaad in the Bernese Alps.

On the way, you’ll travel part of the Golden Pass Line, a popular scenic train route between Lucerne and Montreux. This famous panoramic train line connects the center of Switzerland in Lucerne with the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux.

After switching trains for the second time in Zweisimmen, the ascent through the Bernese Oberland to Gstaad begins. This region is a dream for mountain lovers, encapsulating just about everything that makes Switzerland special: lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, a multitude of hiking trails, stunning landscapes, and charming little villages are all abundant here.

That’s why you’ll spend a night here.

• Top sights and activities in Bern
• Top sights and activities in Gstaad

Day 10: Gstaad - Glacier 3000 - Geneva

If there was ever a day to have your camera ready, it’s today. The mountain scenery that awaits you at your destination is breathtaking. So make sure your battery is fully charged.

The mountain summit we’re talking about is the impressive Glacier 3000, which is easily accessible from Gstaad. After a 35-minute bus ride to Col-du-Pillon, you’ll find yourself at the foot of some truly stunning peaks.

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 trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take the Peak Walk to Scex Rouge. The Peak Walk is the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two summits. Crossing this bridge is an experience you’re unlikely to forget.

Depending on when you return to Gstaad, you might have a few hours to wander the town or go for another hike. Then, continue your journey on the Golden Pass train to Montreux, and finally to Geneva.

• Glacier 3000

Additional tips and information for itinerary 7

• The Gotthard Panorama Express only runs from April to October, from Tuesday to Sunday. If you travel outside these months or on a Monday, take the regular train from Lugano to Lucerne instead. For the train ride between Lugano and Flüelen you need a reservation.
• If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail pass, only the train ride from Lugano to Flüelen on the Gotthard Panorama Express is fully covered. The steamboat trip costs extra.
• The Golden Pass Line is completely covered with the Interrail, Eurail and Swiss Travel Pass.
• You can make the trip with the Golden Pass without a reservation. However, Golden Pass Customer Service recommends reserving a seat for the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get quite crowded in high season.

8. Itinerary through all of Switzerland with all its highlights

Highlights on this route:

• Hike in front of the majestic Matterhorn in Zermatt
• Ride the Glacier Express Line and the Golden Pass Line
• Visit the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe
• Explore over ten Swiss cities - including the two UNESCO World Heritage cities of St. Gallen and Bern
• Taste delicious Swiss cheese and chocolate right at the factory
• Spend a whole day in Interlaken
• Discover everything Switzerland has to offer - lakes, mountains, rivers, and stunning landscapes

Day 1: Geneva - Zermatt

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 take-away lunch and take the train to Zermatt.

This popular mountain town embodies what Switzerland is known for: mountains, lakes, hiking trails, nature, plenty of outdoor activities, and the most famous mountain in Switzerland - the Matterhorn.

Between Visp and Zermatt, you’ll enjoy the final leg of the Glacier Express panoramic train. This journey offers particularly stunning scenery, so keep your camera handy. Once you arrive in Zermatt, you can spend the rest of the day admiring the breathtaking views of the mighty Matterhorn.

Unless, of course, it’s shrouded in clouds.

• Best sights and activities in Geneva
• Best sights and activities in Zermatt

Tag 2: Zermatt - St. Moritz

Today, you're taking the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This journey on the "slowest express train in the world" is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Throughout the trip, you'll be treated to some of the best views the Alps have to offer.

The train departs Zermatt twice a day in the morning. The timetable changes throughout the year, and there are some trains that do not travel the full route between Zermatt and St. Moritz. To find your connection, make sure to check the current timetable in advance.

There's a reason the Glacier Express is one of the most popular train routes in Switzerland. What makes this ride unforgettable are the stunning views that accompany you the whole way. The train takes you over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, across three cantons, and through two language regions.

The journey takes just over 8 hours, and depending on when you leave Zermatt, you'll arrive in St. Moritz between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Once you arrive, you can spend the rest of the day strolling through this chic mountain village in the Engadin.

• Glacier Express - What to expect on this scenic train ride
• The best sights and activities in St. Moritz

Day 3: St. Moritz - Chur - St. Gallen

What you focus on today is entirely up to you. You can either stick around in St. Moritz for a while longer and try out one or two of the activities from Day 7 in itinerary No. 2. If you're ready to move on, you can hop on the train to St. Gallen.

Make a stop in Chur, the capital of the canton of Graubünden, or head straight to St. Gallen. Use the remaining time to explore St. Gallen and its surroundings.

With its UNESCO-protected abbey district, impressive cathedral, and remarkable library, this city has a lot to offer. Don't miss the recreational area "Drei Weieren". You can reach it by taking the Mühleggbahn or by walking up one of the many stairs. Alternatively, you could visit the Peter & Paul Wildlife Park or quench your cultural thirst in one of the many museums.

The best place to relax is definitely the "Drei Weieren". Here, you can go for a swim or take a walk in the woods. Plus, you get a fantastic view over the entire city, Lake Constance, and even as far as Germany.

• The best sights and activities in Chur
• The best sights and activities in St. Gallen

Tag 4: St. Gallen - Lucerne

Fortunately, you only have to leave St. Gallen around noon today. So, spend the morning doing what you didn’t get to yesterday. Grab some takeout for lunch around noon and take the Voralpen Express to Lucerne.

Out of the many scenic train journeys in Switzerland, this one is definitely less touristy. There are no large panoramic windows and no friendly voice telling you which viaduct you just crossed.

But that doesn’t make the ride any less worthwhile.

We recommend breaking your journey halfway and getting off in Rapperswil. The town is a hidden gem at the lower part of Lake Zurich. Visit the castle, spend some time with the deer in the castle garden, take a swim in the lake, and stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade.

A great spot to relax is the lawn behind the OST, the University of Applied Sciences in Rapperswil. You can’t miss it when heading towards the lake from the train station.

If you want to take a leisurely stroll, follow the wooden walkway and the connecting path over the lake to Pfäffikon. This will take you three kilometers along the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route leading from various places in Europe to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

When you’re ready to continue, catch the next train to Lucerne and spend the afternoon exploring the city. Walk across the Chapel Bridge, wander through the old town, relax by the lake, or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument.

• The best sights and activities in Lucerne

Tag 5: Lucerne - Zurich - Schaffhausen

Since you haven't had much time in Lucerne so far, you can treat yourself to a few hours in the city before heading to Schaffhausen. On the way there, you'll pass through Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland.

As Zurich isn't your starting or ending point, you've got the chance to explore the city for a few hours. You can either wander around on your own, rent a free bike from "Züri rollt", or join a guided city tour in the afternoon.

By the end of the day, you'll continue on to Schaffhausen. You'll have plenty of time tomorrow to check out the Rhine Falls, so for tonight, you can relax in Schaffhausen.

Schaffhausen boasts a charming old town. Here, you'll find a total of 171 bay windows, more than any other city in Switzerland. After you've explored all of them and enjoyed the rest of Schaffhausen, you can head up to the Munot for a great view of the city.

• The best activities in Zurich
• The top sights and activities in Schaffhausen

Day 6: Schaffhausen - Rhine Falls - Bern

The main attraction around Schaffhausen is the mighty Rhine Falls. Head straight to Neuhausen next to Schaffhausen. The waterfall draws visitors from all over the world and is an impressive force of nature. Access to the falls from the north bank is free, while visiting from Schlos Laufen in the south costs 5 CHF. Take your time to really immerse yourself in the awe of the Rhine Falls. When you’re ready, continue on to Schaffhausen.

Around midday, you’ll travel to Bern and spend the rest of the day in Switzerland's capital. The train ride takes about two hours, giving you enough time to explore the streets of our capital.

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 walk back to the Rose Garden to enjoy the view.

You can also visit the Gurten - Bern's local mountain, watch the animals at Dählhölzli Zoo, or check out the Botanical Garden. Take the lift at the train station and enjoy the view from the Grosser Schanze or go swimming in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus. For a stunning view over Bern, we recommend heading back up to the Rose Garden.

• The best sights and activities in Bern

Tag 7: Bern - Interlaken

Bern is close to a variety of exciting day trip destinations. If you’re interested in mountain lakes, you’ve got two great options from Bern. Oeschinensee and Blausee are both easily reachable and definitely worth a visit. The crystal-clear waters of both lakes will captivate you.

Just half an hour west of Bern is the medieval town of Fribourg. If you decide to head there, follow the signage for the city tour, which will guide you through the impressive old town. The signs lead you through steep alleys, over old wooden bridges, down to the River Saane, and past the local funicular railway. For an even better view of your surroundings, you should climb the 365 steps to the cathedral tower. The River Saane at the foot of the city is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a snack.

When you’re ready, head back to Bern to pick up your luggage and catch the train to Interlaken. The journey takes about an hour.

• The best sights and activities in Fribourg
• The best sights and activities in Interlaken

Day 8: Free Day in Interlaken

Today you have more activities to choose from than you can imagine. It all depends on your budget, but in an adrenaline-fueled place like Interlaken, the sky's the limit.

If at all!

Skydiving, paragliding, canyoning, and jet boating are popular activities that will get your adrenaline pumping.

A more relaxed option is a trip on a passenger boat on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. On both lakes, you'll be treated to stunning views that will make you wish you never had to leave. If you'd like to take a break during one of the boat rides, you can disembark either at Giessbach (Lake Brienz), at the St. Beatus Caves, or in Spiez (Lake Thun).

The Jungfrau region around Interlaken is also a fantastic place for hikers. The number of hiking trails is virtually endless. Regardless of your fitness level and ambitions, you'll find something that suits you here.

Of course, the famous Jungfraujoch—also known as the Top of Europe—is the number one destination that everyone wants to see. With the Jungfrau Railway, you’ll travel to the highest railway station in Europe and find yourself surrounded by impressive mountain and glacier scenery.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to Jungfraujoch, we recommend visiting the Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Grindelwald First, or Männlichen instead. The rides to these mountains and the views from the summit won’t disappoint.

Other attractions in and around Interlaken include: the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, the chocolate workshop at Funky Chocolate Club, the two mountain lakes Blausee or Oeschinensee, or the Aare Gorge. And let’s not forget the charming towns and villages such as Brienz, Spiez, Thun, Lauterbrunnen, or Grindelwald.

We could go on and on here. But you’d probably just get frustrated that you can’t spend the whole week here.

• 12 Tips for Your First Visit to Jungfraujoch
• Schilthorn Piz Gloria
• Schynige Platte - Top of Swiss Tradition
• The Best Deals for Skydive Interlaken
• Ballenberg Open-Air Museum

Tag 9: Interlaken - Zweisimmen - Montreux

Today, you can expect another stunning landscape. As soon as you leave Interlaken and head towards Zweisimmen, you’ll have Lake Thun on your right. To enjoy the best view of the lake, it’s a good idea to grab a seat on the right side of the train.

If time permits and you don’t mind a little stop on your journey, consider taking a quick break in Spiez. With its castle, a handful of charming vineyards, and direct access to Lake Thun, Spiez is definitely worth a visit.

Continuing your trip, you’ll need to change trains in Zweisimmen. This is where the ascent through the Bernese Oberland towards Gstaad begins. This region is a dream come true for mountain lovers, encapsulating everything that Switzerland has to offer: lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, plenty of hiking trails, beautiful landscapes, and quaint little villages—it's all here in abundance.

Even if you don’t have enough time to get off along the way, the ride through this picturesque area is something you’re likely to remember for a long time.

After leaving the Bernese Oberland and descending the hills, you’ll arrive in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Spend the rest of the day exploring Montreux and its surroundings.

Bienvenue…

• Top sights and activities in Montreux

Tag 10: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Genf

Today is all about cheese and chocolate—Switzerland's specialties! So hop on a train to Gruyères, and get ready for a feast in a medieval town.

The Gruyère cheese factory is right behind the train station. Here, you can watch how traditional Gruyère cheese is made, and of course, there are tastings included. Once you've had your fill of sampling, you can either take the bus or follow the path to reach the center of Gruyères. This stroll will take you about 20 minutes.

The main attraction in Gruyères is probably the castle, which is open to the public for an admission fee of 12 CHF. But the charming cobbled streets and numerous souvenir shops will likely entice you to linger longer than planned.

After exploring Gruyères and maybe picking up a souvenir or two, you can head to Broc to visit La Maison Cailler. At their 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 indulge in a mountain of chocolate.

On the train ride back to Montreux and onward to Geneva, you can try to digest your cheese and chocolate overdose. Spend the rest of the day exploring Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland.

You also have the option to swap your cheese and chocolate binge for a glacier visit. Instead of heading to Gruyères, you can take the train to Col-du-Pillon and visit Glacier 3000.

The 360-degree views are stunning. And if you're feeling adventurous, the Peak Walk across the suspension bridge is an experience you won't forget anytime soon.

• Gruyères Cheese Factory
• Cailler Chocolate Factory
• Glacier 3000

Additional tips and information for itinerary 8

• The Glacier Express is covered by all major passports such as the Swiss Travel Pass and the Interrail and Eurail Passes. However, you still need to make a reservation even if you have a passport.
• You can make the trip with the Golden Pass without a reservation. However, Golden Pass Customer Service recommends reserving a seat for the section between Zweisimmen and Montreux, as it can get quite crowded in high season.

And this concludes our collection of ten-day itineraries for Switzerland. We hope you’ve been able to find the Switzerland itinerary to your taste. Have fun planning your trip.