Aare Gorge: Hiking trail along the impressive gorge with green water and steep cliffs.

2 days Switzerland - 12 itineraries from Zurich

If you’re spending two days in Switzerland and are looking for your perfect itinerary, this selection of 12 itineraries will help you plan your trip. Even though two days is only a very short time to spend in Switzerland, there are still plenty of options for you. Our collection shows you different itineraries that are all doable within two days from Zurich.

Activities

If you're looking for a travel itinerary for two days in Switzerland, you might feel overwhelmed by all your options. Even though Switzerland is a small country, 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.

Since you only have two days, we've put together a collection of itineraries to help you plan your trip and show you what’s realistic. They are all doable in two days and start from Zurich. However, if you want to start from another location, you can easily adjust your journey. Zurich is well connected by train from anywhere in Switzerland.

You’ll notice that I only mention traveling by public transport and not by car. Most routes can also be traveled by car if you decide to rent one during your stay in Switzerland. But with our very dense network of trains and buses, traveling by car is actually unnecessary.

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

Whether an Interrail, Eurail, or Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for such a short time is up to you to decide. However, since you’re only staying in Switzerland for two days, buying regular train tickets might be the more economical option. Once you’ve picked an itinerary, you can calculate it yourself on the SBB website and decide what works best for you.

Happy planning!

1. Itinerary to Lucerne and Bern including free Kambly biscuits

Travel itinerary Switzerland: Explore the cities of Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern in 2 days during summer.

Highlights on this itinerary

  • Walk across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
  • Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Entlebuch region (UNESCO)
  • Fill up on free Kambly biscuits in Trubschachen
  • Visit the old town of Bern (UNESCO)
  • Discover the highlights of Zurich

Tag 1: Zürich - Luzern - Trubschachen - Bern

Leave Zürich early in the morning and spend a few hours exploring Luzern. Join a city tour or discover the city on your own. Stroll across the Chapel Bridge, meander through the old town, relax by the lake, or visit the Glacier Garden with its famous Lion Monument.

When you’re ready to move on, take the train to Trubschachen. This train divides along the way, and only the front part continues through the picturesque Entlebuch to the Kambly factory. While at the platform in Luzern, check the display to ensure you board the correct part of the train.

You don’t need a ticket for the Kambly factory shop right next to the train station in Trubschachen; admission is free. Here, you can spend as much time as you like sampling up to 100 varieties of delicious biscuits.

Unfortunately, you can’t tour the factory directly and watch the production of this traditional Swiss treat. However, there’s a cinema in the shop where you can learn more about the Kambly family business.

If you’re either about to burst from eating too many sweets or just can't eat any more, head over to Bern. To help digest your Kambly overdose, you can take a stroll through the capital of Switzerland. For a stunning view of Bern, we recommend walking up to the Rose Garden.

Chapel Bridge over the Reuss in Lucerne, picturesque architecture and city view, idyllic by the water.
Kambly factory store offers delicious cookies and local products in Switzerland.

Day 2: Bern - Zürich

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

You can also visit the Gurten - Bern's local mountain - watch the animals at the Dählhölzli Zoo, or take a trip to the Botanical Garden. Take the lift at the train station and enjoy the view from the Grossen Schanze, or go for a swim in the Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

Oh, the choices…

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

View of Bern with cityscape, mountains, and colorful autumn colors. Discover the beauty of the capital.
Federal Palace Bern: impressive architecture, fountains, city life, tourist attraction

2. Itinerary to Europe’s largest waterfall and two cities famous for their bay windows

Itinerary through Switzerland: Experience Zurich, Schaffhausen, and St. Gallen in 2 days.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Discover the highlights of Zurich
  • Visit the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfalls
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque old town of Schaffhausen
  • Hunt down more than 250 bay windows
  • Visit the Abbey District in St. Gallen (UNESCO)

Tag 1: Zürich - Schaffhausen

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 takeaway lunch and take the train to Schaffhausen.

Head straight to Neuhausen next to Schaffhausen. The majestic Rhine Falls attracts visitors from all over the world and is an impressive natural spectacle. Access to the falls from the north bank is free, while viewing from Schloss Laufen on the south side costs 5 CHF. Take your time to immerse yourself in the beauty 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 bay windows, 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.

Rhine Falls waterfall in Switzerland with bubbling water and impressive surroundings.
City panorama Schaffhausen with vineyards, clouds and historic buildings in the surroundings.

Tag 2: Schaffhausen - St. Gallen - Zürich

After breakfast, you’ll pack your bags and hop on the train to St. Gallen. You’ll have almost the whole day to explore the city and its surroundings in all their glory.

With its UNESCO-protected Abbey District, mighty cathedral, and impressive Abbey Library, this city has a lot to offer. Oh, and have we mentioned the 111 bay windows you’ll find in St. Gallen?

Don’t miss out on the recreational area “Drei Weieren.” You can reach it either by taking the Mühleggbahn or by walking up one of the many stairs. Alternatively, you can 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 for a swim or take a stroll through the woods. Plus, you’ll have a fantastic view of the whole city, Lake Constance, and even all the way to Germany.

When you’re ready, board the next train to Zürich. Spend the rest of the day exploring Switzerland’s largest city.

St. Gallen Cathedral: impressive building in Switzerland, surrounded by nature and history.
Three Ponds: idyllic water landscape near St. Gallen with surrounding nature and leisure activities.

3. Itinerary for culture lovers with city trips to Basel and Lucerne

Itinerary: Discover Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne in 2 Days - an unforgettable city trip in Switzerland.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Explore the vibrant city of Basel
  • Hop across the border to France or Germany
  • Walk across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
  • Enjoy the views of Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus
  • Discover the highlights of Zurich

Tag 1: Zürich - Basel

Explore Zürich 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 Basel.

Basel is a vibrant city right on the German-French border, offering a variety of guided and self-guided city tours. Some of them are themed, like "Basel by Night" or "Prison Breakers." Don’t miss the chance to dive deeper into the cultural richness of this city.

Of course, you can also venture out on your own. Stop by the Pfalz—an ideal viewpoint for photos—stroll along the Rhine, and watch the large cargo ships coming in and out of the harbor. Walk past the Basel Minster or visit one of the many museums. Basel has a high density of museums, so whether you're interested in culture, art, or history, you'll definitely find something that fits your interests.

If you visit in the summer, you might even take a swim in the Rhine—that's exactly what the locals do. Before they jump in and let the current carry them downstream, they pack their clothes in a so-called "Wickelfisch." This waterproof bag shaped like a fish is a local icon in Basel.

If you want, you can easily hop across the border to visit Weil am Rhein in Germany or St. Louis in France. In theory, you can even visit three countries in one day, which is quite doable in Basel and something you might not experience every day—especially if you're from a country where you need to fly just to cross the next border in a reasonable time.

Church on the Limmat: Discover Historical Architecture and Idyllic Surroundings in Zurich
Basel Minster: magnificent cathedral in the heart of Basel presents itself at sunset.

Tag 2: Basel - Lucerne - Zurich

Verbring den Vormittag damit, mehr von Basel zu entdecken. Wenn du bereit bist, weiterzuziehen, nimm den Zug nach Lucerne und verbringe ein paar Stunden in dieser schönen Stadt. Lass dein Gepäck in einem Schliessfach am Bahnhof und mach dich direkt auf den Weg.

Nimm an einer Stadtführung teil oder erkunde die Stadt auf eigene Faust. Laufe über die Kapellbrücke, schlendere durch die Altstadt, entspanne am See oder besuche den Gletschergarten mit seinem berühmten Löwendenkmal. Gegen Ende des Nachmittags kannst du den nächsten Zug nach Zurich nehmen und den Rest des Tages damit verbringen, die größte Stadt der Schweiz zu erkunden.

Jesuit Church: impressive architectural highlight in Lucerne along the river with a view of the mountains.
Chapel Bridge Lucerne: Historic Landmark, Picturesque View and Architecture in the Swiss City.

4. Itinerary around Lake Zurich and to the Glarus Alps

Itinerary through Switzerland: discover Zurich, Rapperswil and Glarus in 2 days.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Zurich
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque old town of Rapperswil
  • Walk parts of the Camino de Santiago trail
  • Soak up the impressive mountain views of Glarus
  • Visit the Läderach Chocolate Factory in Bilten

Tag 1: Zürich - Rapperswil

Explore Zürich on your own in the morning, rent a free bike from «Züri rollt», or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and hop on a passenger ship to Rapperswil.

Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through Rapperswil. The 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 swim in the lake, and stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade.

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

If you’re up for a light afternoon walk, follow the wooden walkway and the bridge across the lake to Pfäffikon. This will take you along three kilometers of the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route leading from various places in Europe to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. If you get hungry, treat yourself to a pizza or an ice cream at the Pizzeria Dieci in Rapperswil.

Bridge over the Limmat in Zurich with a direct view of historic buildings and the church tower.
Ferry at the port of Rapperswil, idyllic lakeside promenade with historic buildings and radiant sky.

Tag 2: Rapperswil - Glarus - Zürich

After breakfast, take the train to Glarus. This village is surrounded by towering mountains, making it a fantastic hiking destination. Not far from Glarus is the Geopark Sardona, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park is open to the public and offers trails of varying difficulty.

One of the most popular destinations for many visitors is the Tschinglen expedition. This trip includes a gondola ride, a 1.5-hour hike, and excellent photo opportunities.

Once you're done hiking, you can stock up on chocolate in the village of Bilten. The chocolate from Läderach is exquisite in many ways compared to other players in the Swiss chocolate scene.

This family business is particularly known for its handmade broken chocolate. They spice it up with all sorts of interesting ingredients like candied oranges, caramelized almonds, roasted hazelnuts, and more.

In their museum in Bilten, you embark on a journey through the chocolate-making process, including tastings and demonstrations. Depending on when you finish your chocolate tour, you might still have enough time to stop by Lake Walensee. Afterwards, you'll return to Zürich.

Glaernisch: impressive mountain in Glarus, surrounded by nature and green meadows.
Harbour Rapperswil: picturesque view of the old town with boats and historic buildings by the lake.

5. Itinerary for hikers to the Alpstein mountain range in Appenzell

Zürich to Appenzell: Discover Switzerland with a scenic route over 2 days.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Take a stroll through the picturesque old town of Appenzell
  • Try some local specialities of the Appenzell region like Biber and Appenzell cheese
  • Enjoy the stunning Alpstein mountain range
  • Visit the world-famous Äscher restaurant
  • Snap a photo of the crystal clear Lake Seealpsee

Day 1: Zurich - Appenzell

In the morning, explore Zurich on your own, borrow a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Appenzell.

Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling through Appenzell. In case you’re 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.

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.

Grossmünster Zurich: impressive historic building by the river with surrounding city architecture.
Farmers with cows in Appenzell, traditional costumes, rural atmosphere, beautiful nature.

Day 2: Appenzell - Alpstein - Zurich

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. After this, it’s time to return to Zurich.

Aescher Guesthouse: Image of the historic guesthouse in the rock face, surrounded by breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Seealpsee: impressive mountain panorama with calm water and green forests in nature.

6. Itinerary to the sunny Ticino in the Italian part of Switzerland

Route from Zurich to Bellinzona and Locarno in Switzerland, ideal for nature and adventure lovers.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Ride through the Gotthard-Basistunnel, the world’s longest tunnel
  • Walk the mighty walls of Castello di Montebello in Bellinzona (UNESCO)
  • Enjoy a few scoops of delicious ice cream in Locarno or Ascona
  • Visit one of the popular river valleys Maggia or Verzasca

Tag 1: Zürich - Bellinzona - Locarno

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

Thanks to the 57 km long Gotthard Base Tunnel, it now takes less than two hours to zip through the Alps and reach the warm southern part of Switzerland.

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 atmosphere in Locarno. Hang out at the Piazza Grande, stroll along Lago Maggiore, or treat yourself to a few scoops of ice cream by the lake. And just in case you’re wondering: yes, you’re still in Switzerland, even if it feels more like Italy.

Since you’re spending the night in Ticino, you’ll be eligible for the great 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. Plus, it gives you various discounts at other attractions and activities.

Montebello Castle: impressive fortress with history in Bellinzona, ideal for culture enthusiasts
Lake Maggiore: Beautiful view of the lake, mountains, and surroundings in Ascona-Locarno.

Day 2: Locarno - Zürich

Get ready to explore the Italian part of Switzerland in all its glory. With the plethora of activities available, you won’t find today boring.

Firstly, 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! There are countless spots to relax in both valleys. One of our favorite places is right under the famous stone bridge in Lavertezzo.

If you prefer calmer waters over cold mountain streams, you should visit 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 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, 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 leap from the dam, don’t forget to share your photo with us. We’d love to see it… 🙂

In the late afternoon, grab one last scoop of ice cream and whizz back to Zürich through the longest tunnel in the world.

Bridge over the Lavertezzo River with stunning rocks and nature in the surroundings.
Piazza Grande in Locarno with charming buildings and a lively atmosphere at sunset.

7. Itinerary to St. Moritz in the beautiful Engadine Alps

Itinerary: Explore Switzerland in 2 days from Zurich to Chur to St. Moritz.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Take a stroll through Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city
  • Spend a night in St. Moritz, the place where the rich and famous hang out
  • Walk along the shore of Lake St. Moritz or Lake Silvaplana
  • Marvel at the golden autumn trees of the Engadine region

Tag 1: Zürich - Chur - St. Moritz

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 takeaway lunch and enjoy it on the train to Chur.

To get the best views of Lake Zürich and Lake Walensee on your way to Chur, be sure to snag a seat on the left side of the train.

Spend one or two hours wandering around Chur and get ready for the fresh mountain air waiting for you in St. Moritz. To get there, hop on the direct RhB train in Chur. Keep your camera handy, as you'll be treated to panoramic views all along the way. The Landwasser Viaduct and the winding Albula line are two highlights of this journey.

Spend the rest of the day in St. Moritz. If you're feeling unusually sleepy tonight, it’s probably because of the altitude of 1,822 m above sea level. It usually takes one or two days to adjust to the thinner air.

Mountain panorama in Chur with picturesque houses and green vineyards, ideal for nature lovers.
Landwasser Viaduct: Train over viaduct in Switzerland with impressive landscape and mountains.

Day 2: St. Moritz - Zürich

In St. Moritz, it’s all about outdoor adventures—summer and winter alike. Whether you’re into cycling, hiking, stand-up paddling, swimming, windsurfing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just taking a leisurely stroll, there’s something here for everyone.

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

Another must-visit place is Ospizio Bernina. At 2,253 meters above sea level, this little train station is the highest point of the Bernina Express scenic train. The trains depart from St. Moritz every hour, taking you past lakes, glaciers, and towering mountain peaks.

When it comes to food, we recommend two things in the Engadin. First, don’t miss the Bündner barley soup. This hearty soup made with barley, vegetables, and meat is a typical 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 those calories right back to where you thought you could shed them, but it’s more than worth it.

Back in St. Moritz, it’s time to pack your bags and head to Zürich, where you’ll spend the rest of the evening.

St. Moritz: View of the town, the hills, and the lake in clear weather.
The Bernina Express travels at Morteratsch, surrounded by impressive mountains and beautiful nature.

8. Itinerary with the Golden Pass Line - a famous panoramic train ride in Switzerland

Route: Zurich via Interlaken to Montreux in Switzerland with impressive nature.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Travel on the scenic Golden Pass Line from Lucerne to Montreux in one day
  • Walk across the Kapellbrücke in Lucerne
  • Explore the popular town of Interlaken
  • Pose next to the Freddie Mercury statue in Montreux
  • Enjoy the views of Lake Geneva
  • Stop by the wonderful Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)

Tag 1: Zürich - Lucerne - Interlaken - Montreux

(A quick heads-up: This itinerary is so packed that it might make your head spin. But you can do it in two full days. So, let’s go.)

Leave Zürich early in the morning and head to Lucerne, where you can spend one to two hours exploring the city. Stroll across the Chapel Bridge, wander through the old town, relax by the lake, or check out the Glacier Garden. Make sure to continue towards Interlaken by noon at the latest.

The Golden Pass Line is a popular scenic route from Lucerne to Montreux, operated by several train companies. It connects the heart of Switzerland with the shores of Lake Geneva.

This panoramic route passes by eight lakes, crosses six different cantons, includes three mountain passes, and links two language regions. Your first leg from Lucerne to Interlaken is run by the Zentralbahn and takes just under two hours. Since you have quite a long journey ahead today, we recommend not spending more than one or two hours in Interlaken.

The second part of your trip takes you first past Lake Thun to Spiez, and finally to Zweisimmen, where you'll transfer to another train. Here, the ascent through the Bernese Oberland towards Gstaad begins. This region is a paradise for mountain lovers and encompasses just about everything that Switzerland is known for: lakes, mountains, lush meadows with grazing cows, glaciers, countless hiking trails, breathtaking landscapes, and charming little villages abound here.

Even if you don’t have enough time to stop along the way, the ride through this picturesque area is something you’ll likely 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.

Welcome…

The Golden Pass Line ends in Montreux. Depending on when you arrive, you might have an hour or two to check out the town. But there's no rush since you'll be spending the night here. You’ll have plenty of time tomorrow to explore Montreux and its surroundings.

Chapel Bridge: breathtaking evening atmosphere in Lucerne with mountains and nature
Bridge in Interlaken overlooking a river, idyllic surroundings in the mountains, summer activity.

Tag 2: Montreux - Zürich

After breakfast in Montreux, you can head to the promenade and check out the Freddie Mercury statue in front of the market hall. If you'd like to visit the famous Château de Chillon, you can follow the promenade to the castle or hop on a bus. There are also passenger boats that regularly run between Montreux and Château de Chillon.

Alternatively, you could go in the other direction to the Lavaux vineyards. Just a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the renowned Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To enjoy the stunning views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking trail through the vineyards.

When you’re ready to move on, travel back to Zürich.

Chillon Castle: picturesque view of the castle on Lake Geneva surrounded by nature and mountains.
Vineyards Lavaux: picturesque wine landscape on Lake Geneva, ideal for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

9. Itinerary with a panoramic train ride, a night in Interlaken and a cruise on Lake Thun

Travel itinerary through Switzerland: Discover Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Thun.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Discover the old town of Lucerne with the world famous Kapellbrücke
  • Ride parts of the Golden Pass Line between Lucerne and Interlaken
  • Spend a night in the popular town of Interlaken
  • Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Thun
  • Visit the castle and the old town of Thun

Tag 1: Zurich - Lucerne - Interlaken

Explore Zurich in the morning at your own pace, 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 Lucerne.

Spend a few hours discovering the city. Join a guided tour or explore it on your own. Walk across the Chapel Bridge, stroll through the old town, relax by the lake, or visit the Glacier Garden.

In the afternoon, take the Golden Pass train to Interlaken. The Golden Pass Line is a popular scenic route from Lucerne to Montreux and is operated by several train companies. It connects the heart of Switzerland with the banks of Lake Geneva.

This panoramic route passes eight lakes, traverses six different cantons, crosses three mountain passes, and connects two language regions. The journey from Lucerne to Interlaken, operated by Zentralbahn, takes just under two hours.

Once you arrive in Interlaken, you can spend the evening in this popular and highly touristy town. There are endless activities to enjoy, and it's great that you have all day tomorrow to make the most of this region.

Church on the Limmat: picturesque riverside promenade with historic buildings in Zurich.
The Golden Pass train travels through the beautiful Swiss landscape with mountains and charming villages.

Tag 2: Interlaken - Thun - Zürich

Heute hast du so viele Aktivitäten zur Auswahl, dass du es dir nicht mal vorstellen kannst. Es hängt von deinem Budget ab, aber in einem adrenalingeladenen Ort wie Interlaken gibt es keine Grenzen.

Wenn überhaupt!

Fallschirmspringen, Gleitschirmfliegen, Canyoning und Jetbootfahren sind beliebte Aktivitäten, die dein Adrenalin richtig in Schwung bringen. Ein weiterer interessanter Ort, den du am Morgen besuchen kannst, ist der Harder Kulm. Die Standseilbahn startet direkt hinter dem Bahnhof Interlaken und bringt dich nach oben. Von der Aussichtsplattform hast du eine atemberaubende Aussicht auf die Alpen und auf die Thuner- sowie die Brienzersee.

Setz dich gegen Mittag in das Passagierschiff nach Thun. Egal, wie das Wetter ist, diese zweistündige Fahrt wird dir den Atem rauben. Versprochen! Theoretisch kannst du unterwegs aussteigen, um die St. Beatus-Höhlen zu besuchen oder eine Stunde in Spiez zu verbringen. Aber das hängt davon ab, wie viel Zeit du in Thun dafür opfern möchtest.

Wenn du in Thun angekommen bist, kannst du durch die Altstadt schlendern, das Schloss Thun erkunden und etwas Zeit am Ufer des Thunersees verbringen. Fahr am späten Nachmittag zurück nach Zürich und erkunde den Rest des Abends die größte Stadt der Schweiz.

Harder Kulm: viewpoint with restaurant and view of Interlaken, ideal for visits in summer.
Lake Thun near Interlaken: picturesque view of the lake, mountains, and nature in summer.

10. Itinerary to the famous Jungfrau region around Interlaken

Itinerary: Zurich to Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, Nature, Adventure, Travel Planning

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Ride parts of the Golden Pass Line between Lucerne and Interlaken
  • Explore the popular town of Interlaken
  • Visit the villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald
  • Go for a hike in the famous Jungfrau region
  • Visit the Lauterbrunnen Valley - the valley of 72 waterfalls
  • Head up to Jungfraujoch - the Top of Europe

Tag 1: Zürich - Interlaken

Discover Zürich in the morning at your own pace, rent a free bike with "Züri rollt" or join a guided city tour. After your tour, grab a take-away lunch and catch a train to Interlaken. The quickest route to Interlaken takes you through Bern and takes just under two hours.

If you don’t mind sitting on the train for an extra hour, travel via Luzern and experience part of the Golden Pass Line between Luzern and Interlaken. The Golden Pass Line is a popular scenic route from Luzern to Montreux and is served by several train companies. It connects the heart of Switzerland with the shores of Lake Geneva.

This scenic route passes by eight lakes, travels through six different cantons, crosses three mountain passes, and connects two language regions. The leg between Luzern and Interlaken is operated by the Zentralbahn and takes just under two hours.

After arriving in Interlaken, you can spend the rest of the day visiting the Trümmelbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen or strolling through Interlaken. Walk along the panoramic path, visit Interlaken Castle, or take a trip up to Harder Kulm to enjoy the mountain views.

Golden Pass ride through the beautiful Alps with blooming meadows and mountain panorama.
Mountain panorama Lauterbrunnen with green meadows, mountains, and a peaceful landscape. Ideal for nature lovers.

Tag 2: Interlaken - Zürich

Heute hast du mehr Aktivitäten zur Auswahl, als du dir vorstellen kannst. Das hängt von deinem Budget ab, aber in einem adrenalingeladenen Ort wie Interlaken sind dir keine Grenzen gesetzt.

Wenn überhaupt!

Fallschirmspringen, Gleitschirmfliegen, Canyoning und Jetbootfahren sind beliebte Aktivitäten, die dein Adrenalin in Schwung bringen.

Für eine etwas entspannendere Option kannst du mit einem Passagierschiff auf dem Thuner- oder Brienzersee fahren. Auf beiden Seen wirst du mit atemberaubenden Aussichten verwöhnt und wünschst dir, dass du nie wieder abreisen müsstest. Wenn du einen Halt auf einer der Schifffahrten einlegen willst, kannst du entweder in Giessbach (Brienzersee), bei den St. Beatus-Höhlen oder in Spiez (Thunersee) aussteigen.

Die Jungfrauregion rund um Interlaken ist auch ein hervorragender Ort für Wanderer. Die Anzahl an Wanderwegen ist schier endlos. Unabhängig von deinem Fitnesslevel und deinen Ambitionen wirst du hier sicher etwas nach deinem Geschmack finden.

Natürlich ist das berühmte Jungfraujoch - auch bekannt als das Dach Europas - die Nr. 1 Destination, die jeder sehen will. Mit der Jungfraubahn fährst du zum höchstgelegenen Bahnhof Europas und findest dich inmitten der beeindruckenden Berg- und Gletscherlandschaft wieder.

Wenn du nach einer budgetfreundlicheren Alternative zum Jungfraujoch suchst, empfehlen wir dir, stattdessen das Schilthorn, die Schynige Platte, Grindelwald First oder den Männlichen zu besuchen. Die Fahrten auf diese Berge und die Aussicht vom Gipfel werden dich nicht enttäuschen.

Weitere Sehenswürdigkeiten in und um Interlaken sind: das Freilichtmuseum Ballenberg, die Schokoladenwerkstatt im Funky Chocolate Club, die beiden Bergseen Blausee oder Oeschinensee sowie die Aareschlucht. Und nicht zu vergessen die charmanten Städte und Dörfer wie Brienz, Spiez, Thun, Lauterbrunnen oder Grindelwald.

Wir könnten hier noch ewig weitermachen. Aber wahrscheinlich würdest du dich dann nur ärgern, dass du nicht die ganze Woche hier verbringen kannst. Um deinen Tag in Interlaken bestmöglich zu nutzen, empfehlen wir dir, über Bern zurück nach Zürich zu fahren, um so eine zusätzliche Stunde zu sparen.

Lake Thun: panorama with mountains, green landscape and clear sky in Switzerland
Jungfraujoch Winter outlook on snow-covered mountains and glacier landscape

11. Itinerary for mountain lovers to Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Zürich to Zermatt: Travel route through Switzerland, experience fascinating landscapes and nature.

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Discover the highlights of Zurich
  • Go for a hike at the base of the famous Matterhorn
  • Check out the Gorner Glacier at Gornergrat
  • Ride parts of the scenic Glacier Express Line
  • Walk the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa

Tag 1: Zürich - (Thun / Spiez) - Zermatt

Explore Zürich in the morning at your own pace, rent a free bike with «Züri rollt» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, you can grab a take-away lunch and enjoy it on the train to Zermatt.

If you're not in a rush to get to Zermatt, you can take a short break in Bern, Spiez, or Thun. These cities are all on the way from Zürich to Zermatt and offer plenty of sights and activities.

Between Visp and Zermatt, you'll cover part of the journey on the Glacier Express. This ride offers breathtaking scenic views, so always keep your camera ready.

Once you arrive in Zermatt, you can spend the rest of the day strolling around the famous resort and enjoying the view of the magnificent Matterhorn—assuming it's not shrouded in clouds.

Zermatt with Matterhorn showcases the picturesque mountain landscape and architecture of the region.
Zermatt in autumn: idyllic mountain village with vibrant trees and the Matterhorn in the background.

Tag 2: Zermatt - Zürich

In Zermatt dreht sich alles um die Bergwelt und die Natur. Wenn du wegen der spektakulären Aussichten auf die Berge in die Schweiz gekommen bist, wirst du hier begeistert sein.

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

Ein weiteres Abenteuer, das dir vielleicht den Schwindel vertreiben könnte, ist das Überqueren der längsten Fussgänger-Hängebrücke der Welt in Randa. Sie ist beeindruckende 494 m lang und überspannt das Tal. Der Rundweg zur Brücke beginnt und endet in Randa, nur 15 Minuten mit dem Zug von Zermatt entfernt.

Wenn du die Wanderung lieber auslassen und die Berge auf entspannte Art genießen möchtest, empfehle ich dir, mit der Bahn zum Gornergrat zu fahren. Nach einer unglaublich steilen Fahrt findest du dich auf einer Höhe von 3089 m über Meer wieder, direkt vor dem Gornergletscher und dem Matterhorn. Sei nicht überrascht, wenn du beim Treppensteigen zum Aussichtspunkt völlig ausser Atem bist. Das liegt nicht an dir, sondern an der dünnen Luft.

Sobald du genug Fotos vom Matterhorn und seiner Umgebung geschossen hast, nimmst du den nächsten Zug zurück nach Zürich.

Hiking in Zermatt with a view of the Matterhorn, nature experience in the mountains.
Matterhorn: impressive mountain landscape in Switzerland with green hills and a snow-capped peak.

12. Itinerary off the beaten track to Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city and Lake Neuchâtel

Travel itinerary Switzerland: discover Zurich, Solothurn, Biel, and Neuchâtel in 2 days

Highlights on this itinerary:

  • Visit Solothurn, Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city
  • Cruise along the River Aare to the bilingual town of Biel/Bienne
  • Ride past Switzerland’s largest stork station in Altreu
  • Hang out in Neuchâtel and enjoy stunning lake views
  • Catch a glimpse of the French part of Switzerland

Day 1: Zurich - Solothurn - Biel - Neuchâtel

Leave Zurich first thing in the morning and head to Solothurn, commonly known as «Switzerland’s most beautiful baroque city». Spend a few hours exploring the city and grab some take-away lunch around midday. Our personal tip is the Pittaria, a place selling delicious oriental cuisine at Theatergasse 12. Their falafel and hummus dishes are always a winner...

Head to the dock and catch the passenger ship to Biel. About 45 minutes in, you’ll pass by Switzerland’s largest stork station in Altreu.

In 1950, when storks were pretty much 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.

Moving on, you’ll get amazing views of the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Central Plateau. Just before terminating your cruise in Biel, you’ll pass through a lock. If you’d rather not complete the whole three-hour ride on the Aare, get off in Grenchen and take the train to Biel instead.

Spend some time strolling through the beautiful old town of Biel and catch the next train to Neuchâtel. You have now officially crossed the language border and arrived in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

Bienvenue.

Church in Solothurn by the river with picturesque architecture and a view of the mountains.
Solothurn Lane with fountain and historic buildings, ideal for relaxed strolls and art lovers.

Day 2: Neuchâtel - Zurich

Spend the morning exploring Neuchâtel with its lake views and steep streets. If you want even more amazing views, make your way up to Chaumont, the local mountain of Neuchâtel.

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

When you're ready to move on, catch the next train back to Zurich. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on foot or by using a free rental bike from "Züri rollt."

View of Lake Neuchâtel with a glimpse of the picturesque surroundings and clear sky.
Bridge over the Limmat in Zurich with a romantic backdrop and historic flair

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

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