3 days in Switzerland - 5 itineraries from Geneva

Switzerland might be small, but don’t let that fool you. There’s more than enough to see and do for several weeks. Of course, not everyone has that much time to travel freely for weeks on end.

If you’re only in Switzerland for three days, the following itineraries will help you plan your trip. All of them are doable within three days and start in Zurich. However, if you want to begin your journey somewhere other than Zurich, feel free to adjust as needed. Zurich is easily accessible by train from anywhere in Switzerland.

You’ll notice that we only talk about traveling by public transportation and not by car. Most routes can also be done by car if you want to rent one during your stay in Switzerland. But with our dense network of trains and buses, traveling by car really isn’t necessary.

And if you have more than three days, and you see an itinerary that you like, you can easily extend it by spending an extra night in certain places.

Have fun planning!

• Public transportation 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. Culinary itinerary through the French part of Switzerland with chocolate and wine tastings

Highlights on this route:

• Visit the beautiful Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO)
• Try delicious Swiss cheese and chocolate at the factories in Gruyère and Cailler
• Ride part of the Golden Pass Line panoramic train
• Visit Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva

Day 1: Geneva - Lausanne

In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule," or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and take the train to Lausanne.

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

If you want to hear something interesting, head to the Cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM to watch the tower. Since 1405, night watchmen have called out the current time from up there in the middle of the night.

Just a short train ride east of Lausanne, you'll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. To enjoy the stunning views, get off at Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking trail through the vineyards.

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

Tag 2: Lausanne - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux

Start your day by taking the train from Lausanne to Montreux and leave your luggage either at your accommodation or at the station. This way, your journey to Gruyères will be much easier, and you'll have more time to explore the area.

Gruyères is quite popular among tourists, so it can get a bit crowded. But like any popular destination, there is a good reason for it. In this case, it's a medieval village. And cheese.

A whole lot of cheese.

The Gruyère cheese factory is located right behind the train station. Here, you can watch how the traditional Gruyère cheese is made. Of course, tastings are included. Once you're done munching, 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 charges an entrance fee of 12 CHF. However, the hidden cobblestone streets and countless souvenir shops will likely tempt you to stay longer than expected.

After exploring Gruyères and maybe picking up a souvenir or two, you can head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. In their 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 taste a ton of chocolate.

On the train ride back to Montreux, you can digest your cheese and chocolate overload and look forward to the night by Lake Geneva.

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

The 360-degree view is breathtaking. And if you're brave enough, the Peak Walk across the suspension bridge is an experience you won't forget anytime soon.

• Gruyères Cheese Factory
• Cailler Chocolate Factory
• Glacier 3000 Guide

Day 3: Montreux - Geneva

Today you have a bit more time to explore the area around Lake Geneva. Head over to the promenade in Montreux and check out the Freddie Mercury statue in front of the food market.

If you’re interested in castles, don’t miss the famous Chillon Castle. You can get there by following the promenade on foot, taking a bus, or hopping on one of the regular passenger boats.

Even if you’re not keen on touring the castle, I recommend taking a detour to enjoy some time by the lake. It’s a great spot to relax and capture some beautiful photos.

Alternatively, you can head in the opposite direction to Lavaux to explore the vineyards. If you didn’t get a chance to see them on your first day of this three-day itinerary in Switzerland, now is the perfect time. When you’re ready, make your way back to Geneva and enjoy the rest of the day in the second-largest city in Switzerland.

• Top sights and activities in Montreux
• Chillon Castle - best offers

Extra tips and information for itinerary 1

• When you check into your accommodation in Lausanne and Montreux, you will receive a guest card that allows you to use public transport in both cities for free.
• If you’re traveling from Montreux to Gruyères, you will need to transfer in Montbovon. The route between Montreux and Montbovon is serviced by both regular regional trains and the Golden Pass Line. Since this route is often booked up, the Golden Pass customer service recommends reserving a seat for this leg. If you take the regional train, you don’t have to worry about that.
• You can also book the chocolate train, which takes you directly from Montreux to the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc. This is also operated by the Golden Pass Line.
• If you have enough time and enjoy being on the lake, you can take a passenger boat from Lausanne to Geneva. It takes almost four hours, but you can switch to the train at any time along the way.

2. Itinerary for culture geeks with five city trips to mediaeval and idyllic cities

Highlights on this route:

• Climb the tower of the medieval cathedral in Fribourg
• Explore the picturesque Three-Lakes region around Murten
• Enjoy the charming old town of Bern (UNESCO)
• Visit the beautiful vineyards of the Lavaux region (UNESCO)

Day 1: Geneva - Fribourg - Bern

In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, rent a free bicycle from "Genève Roule", or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and take the train to Fribourg.

In Fribourg, follow the information panels of the city walking tour that guide you through the old town. The signs lead you through steep alleys, across old wooden bridges, down to the Saane River, and past the town's funicular.

To get an even better view of your surroundings, you should climb the 365 steps to the tower of the cathedral.

The Saane River at the edge of the city is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy a snack. When you’ve seen enough of this medieval town, take the train to Bern, the capital of Switzerland.

The train ride from Fribourg to Bern takes less than half an hour. Spend the rest of the evening wandering through the UNESCO-protected old town of Bern. For a romantic nighttime view of Bern, I recommend visiting the Rose Garden.

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

Day 2: Bern - Murten - Lausanne

Today, you can choose from a variety of activities. Join a city tour or explore Bern on your own. Stroll through the old town, walk to the Bear Park, check out the Federal Palace, or head back to the Rose Garden for more views of the area.

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 Grosse Schanze, or go for a swim in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

So many choices…

To have enough time for your onward journey to Murten and Lausanne, you should leave Bern after lunch. The train ride to Murten takes just over half an hour.

Murten is quite small, and you won't need long to explore it. Spend some time wandering through the old town and stretch your legs by the lake before heading to Lausanne.

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

If you want to hear something interesting, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM and watch the tower. Since 1405, night watchmen have announced the time from up there in the middle of the night.

• Top attractions and activities in Bern
• Top attractions and activities in Lausanne

Day 3: Lausanne - Geneva

Depending on what time you arrived in Lausanne last night, you probably didn’t get to do and see much. So spend today exploring this hilly city.

By the way, Lausanne is very close to one of my favourite places in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Only a short train ride east of Lausanne, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you’re up for a stroll through the vineyards, catch the train to Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath. The lake views are beyond impressive and should keep you mesmerised for a while.

Oh, and it’s always wine-o’clock in the Lavaux vineyards. Cheers to that.

After this tipsy excursion, head back to Geneva and spend whatever you have left of the day exploring Switzerland’s second largest city.

Additional tips and informations for itinerary 2

• Access to the Cathedral tower in Fribourg is possible between May and October.
• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Bern and Lausanne, you’ll receive a Transport Card that allows you to use local transport for free in both cities.
• If time allows and you love being on the lake, you can catch the passenger ship from Lausanne to Geneva. This will take almost four hours but you can get off along the way and transfer to the train anytime.

16. Itinerary for nature lovers with various highlights around Lake Geneva

Highlights on this route:

• Stroll through the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
• Explore the medieval city of Lausanne on this three-day itinerary in Switzerland
• Hike to Dent de Vaulion for panoramic views of the Jura Mountains
• Enjoy a glass of wine on the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux region (UNESCO)

Day 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne

In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, 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 on the shores of Lake Geneva is surrounded by charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vines to Château de Nyon and take in the view. After your lunch break, catch a train to Lausanne. Check in to your accommodation and make use of your free Lausanne Transport Card.

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

If you want to hear something interesting, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM to watch the tower. Since 1405, watchmen have announced the current time from up there in the middle of the night.

• The best sights and activities in Geneva

Day 2: Lausanne - Vallée de Joux - Lausanne

After breakfast, you’ll pick up 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 options. In the middle of the valley, you’ll find a peaceful lake called Lac de Joux. The standout spot in the area is the distinctive mountain Dent de Vaulion. The hike on the circular route 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. Since you’ll have all day up here, you can spend as much time in the area as you wish. Chill by Lac de Joux, stroll along the lake, or do whatever your heart desires.

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

• The best sights and activities in Lausanne

Day 3: Lausanne - Geneva

Depending on how much time you’ve had in Lausanne so far, you might like to spend a few more hours in the city or by the lake today.

By the way, Lausanne is very close to one of my favourite places in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Only a short train ride east of Lausanne, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you’re up for a stroll through the vineyards, catch the train to Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath. The lake views are beyond impressive and should keep you mesmerised for a while.

Oh, and it’s always wine-o’clock in the Lavaux vineyards. Cheers to that.

After your excursion through the vineyards, head back to Geneva and spend whatever you have left of the day exploring Switzerland’s second largest city.

Additional tips and informations for itinerary 3

• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Lausanne, you’ll receive a Transport Card that allows you to use local transport for free in both cities.
• Spending a day in the Jura mountains is a perfect alternative for people that aren’t too experienced when it comes to hiking. It’s not as steep as the Alps but you’ll still get some great views.

4. Itinerary for outdoor lovers to Switzerland's highest mountains in the Valais Alps

Highlights on this route:

• Stroll past the magnificent Jet d'eau and sit on the longest bench in the world in Geneva
• Spend a few hours exploring Lausanne by Lake Geneva
• Hike or ski in Saas Fee
• Enjoy the fresh mountain air surrounded by Switzerland's highest peaks

Day 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Saas Fee

In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule", or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to Lausanne.

This picturesque old town is built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro in Switzerland. The upcoming train ride into the mountains takes about two and a half hours, so don't spend too much time in Lausanne.

Saas Fee, known as the Pearl of the Alps, is surrounded by Switzerland's highest mountains. When you arrive in this charming alpine village, you’ll find yourself amidst 13 peaks, all over 4,000 meters above sea level.

This can only mean one thing: you need to love the great outdoors to come here…

• The best sights and activities in Geneva

Day 2: Free Day in Saas-Fee

Get ready to breathe in nothing but fresh mountain air today. You'll likely spend a lot of time outdoors before the day comes to an end.

If you're visiting in the summer, your hiking options are nearly endless. Over 350 kilometers of hiking trails will lead you to places you didn't even know existed.

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

But Saas-Fee isn't just interesting during the hiking season. If you're here in winter, you'll really enjoy skiing or snowboarding. Since Saas-Fee is located at a high altitude, you'll even have the chance to ski on a glacier. That's not something you experience every day.

With over 150 kilometers of groomed slopes, you'll be entertained as long as you want. And while other ski resorts have struggled with lack of snow in recent years, you'll almost always find plenty of it in Saas-Fee due to its elevation.

Enjoy the views of the mountains, the snow, the hikes, the marmots, and the fresh air.

• The best sights and activities in Saas-Fee

Day 3: Saas-Fee - Geneva

It’s really up to you how you plan out your day today. One option is to stay in Saas-Fee for a little while longer and keep hiking, looking for marmots, skiing, snowshoeing, ziplining across glaciers or whatever else it was you set your mind to.

Alternatively, if you’ve had enough of the thin air and are ready to head back down, stop over somewhere along the way back to Geneva.

The choice is yours.

Additional tips and informations for itinerary 4

• If you’re itching to get into the mountains and don’t care much for Lausanne, forget about that stopover and head straight to Saas-Fee. This will give you more time to explore everything the Swiss outdoors have to offer.

5. Itinerary with a rewarding hike and a visit of at least one chocolate factory

Highlights on this route:

• Stroll past the mighty Jet d'eau and sit on the longest bench in the world in Geneva.
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the lake and the city from Chaumont in Neuchâtel.
• Hike through the Parc de Chasseral on this three-day itinerary in Switzerland.
• Visit the stunning Creux du Van.
• Set a new record for eating Ragusa and Torino at the chocolate factory in Courtelary.

Day 1: Geneva - Gruyères - Bern

In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule," or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to the very touristy village of Gruyères.

Gruyères is so popular that it can sometimes get a bit crowded. But like any bustling place, there's a reason for it. In this case, that reason is a medieval village. And cheese.

Lots of cheese.

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

The main attraction in Gruyères is probably the castle, which is open to the public and costs 12 CHF to enter. But the hidden cobblestone streets and numerous souvenir shops will likely tempt you to stay longer than you expected.

After exploring Gruyères and maybe picking up a souvenir or two, you can head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. In their visitor center, you'll learn everything you need to know about the oldest chocolate brand in Switzerland. At the end of the tour, you'll find a buffet where you can sample loads of chocolate.

Your journey to Bern is the perfect opportunity to digest your chocolate overdose.

• The best sights and activities in Geneva
• Gruyères cheese factory
• Cailler chocolate factory

Day 2: Bern - Creux du Van - Bern

To work off yesterday's calories, you're going hiking today and spending some time in the Jura. After breakfast, pack enough snacks for the day and head straight to Noiraigue, the starting point for your hike to Creux du Van.

Creux du Van is a natural amphitheater, about 1,200 meters wide, shaped by the constant erosion from water and ice. This area is home to marmots, ibex, deer, and various birds.

The hike to Creux du Van is quite challenging and takes up to five hours. Spend as much time in the amphitheater as you wish before making your way back to Noiraigue and Bern.

Of course, Switzerland does have its share of bad weather, so I recommend not doing this hike in the rain. The rocks can become slippery and dangerous when wet.

If the weather is poor, and you can handle some more sweets after yesterday's feast, another chocolate factory awaits you. Take the train to Courtelary and visit the visitor center of Camille Bloch. Here, you'll learn how the delicious Ragusa and Torino chocolates are made, with unlimited tasting opportunities, of course.

No matter whether you choose the hike or the chocolate factory, you'll have part of the afternoon and the whole evening to explore Bern.

• Top sights and activities in Bern
• Ragusa Chocolate Factory

Day 3: Bern - Geneva

Today, you’ve got plenty of activities to choose from. Join a guided city tour or explore Bern on your own. Take a stroll through the old town, head to the bear park, check out the Bundeshaus (House of Parliament) and walk back up to Rosengarten for more views.

You can also visit Gurten – Bern’s backyard mountain – see some animals at Dählhölzli wildlife park or visit the botanical garden. Alternatively, catch the elevator at the train station to hang out at Grosse Schanze or go for a swim either in the River Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

Oh the agony of choice...

Toward the end of the day, catch the train back to Geneva and spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

Additional tips and informations for itinerary 5

• Upon check-in at your accommodation in Bern, you’ll receive a Transport Card that lets you use local transport for free.
• If you travel with a Swiss Travel Pass, access to Maison Cailler is free.

And this concludes our collection of three-day itineraries for Switzerland starting in Geneva. We hope you’ve been able to find something to your taste. Have fun planning your trip.