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2 days Switzerland - 9 itineraries from Geneva
This selection of 9 itineraries will help you plan your trip if you have two days in Switzerland. Even though two days is a very short time, there are still many options for you. You can travel around the French part of Switzerland and discover some of the highlights in this region - like Lake Geneva, the Lavaux vineyards and even some Swiss chocolate factories. Our collection shows you several itineraries that are all doable within two days from Geneva.
Activities
If you're looking for an itinerary for two days in Switzerland, you might feel overwhelmed by all the possibilities. Although 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 roam 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. All of them are doable in two days and start from Geneva. This way, you’re well-equipped to explore the French part of Switzerland in all its glory. There are plenty of highlights waiting for you—like the Cailler chocolate factory, Lake Geneva, and the stunning vineyards of Lavaux, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, if you'd prefer to start somewhere other than Zurich, you can easily customize your journey. Geneva is well-connected by train from anywhere in Switzerland, especially from cities in the western part like Lausanne, Montreux, Fribourg, or even Bern.
You’ll notice that I'm only talking about traveling using public transport, not by car. Most routes can also be covered by car, in case you want to rent one during your stay in Switzerland. But with our dense network of trains and buses, it's actually not necessary to drive.
And if you have more than three days to spare and see an itinerary you like, you can easily extend it by spending an extra night at some places.
Whether it’s worth getting an Interrail, Eurail, or Swiss Travel Pass for such a short time is for you to decide. However, since you're only staying in Switzerland for two days, buying regular train tickets might be the cheaper option for you. Once you’ve selected an itinerary, you can do the math on the SBB website for yourself and figure out what works best.
Have fun planning!
1. Itinerary to the highlights of Lake Geneva with four city trips and lots of vineyards
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
- Briefly stop over in the picturesque town of Nyon with its vineyards
- Check out the Olympic Museum in Lausanne
- Take a stroll through the stunning Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
- Walk along the Promenade in Montreux
- Visit the beautiful Chillon Castle by Lake Geneva
Tag 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne
In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule", or join a city tour. After the tour, grab some lunch to go 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 Nyon Castle 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 surrounded by numerous vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and Switzerland's only metro system.
If you're looking for something interesting to hear, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM and watch the tower. Since 1405, night watchmen have announced the current time from up there in the middle of the night.
Day 2: Lausanne - Montreux - Geneva
After breakfast, drop off your luggage either at your accommodation in Lausanne or in a locker at the train station. Then, hop on the regional train along Lake Geneva towards Montreux. Get ready to see some world-class vineyards along the way. Just a few stops later, you'll pass by the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Get off in Cully or Epesses for a quick stop. To enjoy the stunning views, you can follow the marked hiking trails through the vineyards.
Once you're ready, catch the next train to Montreux. Head to the lakeside promenade in Montreux and check out the Freddie Mercury statue in front of the market hall.
If you're interested in castles, don't miss a visit to the famous Château de Chillon. To get there, you can either walk along the promenade, take a bus, or hop on one of the regularly running passenger boats.
Even if you're not keen on touring the castle, we recommend making a stop there to spend some time by the lake. It's a great spot to relax and snap plenty of beautiful photos.
Alternatively, you can head in the opposite direction to Vevey, where you'll find a breathtaking Riviera and many interesting museums. Once you've seen enough, you can return to Lausanne, grab your bags, and take the next train to Geneva. Spend the rest of the evening in the second largest city in Switzerland.
2. Itinerary off the beaten track to three mediaeval towns and two pristine lakes
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Climb the Cathedral in the mediaeval town of Fribourg
- Visit the three-lakes region around Neuchâtel and Morat
- Hang out in Neuchâtel and enjoy stunning lake views
- Explore the mediaeval town of Morat
- Visit Europe’s longest freshwater beach
Tag 1: Geneva - Neuchâtel - Murten
In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule", or join a guided city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and catch a train to Neuchâtel.
Spend a few hours wandering around this beautiful city with its lakeside views and steep streets. If you want even more stunning views, head 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 take you back to Neuchâtel from Cressier. Alternatively, you can stroll around Chaumont and ride the funicular back down. When you’re ready to move on, take the train to the picturesque Murten.
The area around Murten is perfect for cycling, hiking, swimming, or just enjoying the lake.
By the way, you'll find Europe’s longest freshwater sandy beach at Lake Murten in Salavaux. This might not impress those who grew up by the sea, but for a landlocked country like Switzerland, it's quite remarkable.
Day 2: Murten - Fribourg - Geneva
If you're feeling up for it, you can tackle a 7.5-hour hike (30 km) around Lake Murten today. If not, check out of your accommodation after breakfast and head to the impressive steep medieval city of Fribourg.
In Fribourg, follow the signs for the city walk that will guide you through the majestic old town. The signs will take you through steep alleys, over old wooden bridges, down to the river Saane, and past the city-owned funicular. For an even better view of your surroundings, make sure to climb the 365 steps up to the cathedral tower. The river Saane at the foot of the city is a great spot to stretch your legs and grab a snack.
On your way back to Geneva, depending on how much time you have left, you could make a stop in Lausanne or Nyon. Spend some time exploring one of these cities or relax by Lake Geneva. In case you haven't had enough water yet...
3. Itinerary with three city trips and a hike in the Jura mountains
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
- Go for a walk in the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
- Explore the city of Lausanne
- Hike to the Dent de Vaulion to enjoy spectacular views
- Spend some time by Lac de Joux
Tag 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 some takeout for lunch and take the train to Nyon.
This medieval town on the shores of Lake Geneva is surrounded by lovely vineyards. Follow the path through the vines to Nyon Castle and enjoy the view. After your lunch break, take the train to Lausanne. Check into your accommodation and make use of your free Lausanne Transport Card.
The picturesque old town of Lausanne is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro in Switzerland.
If you want to hear something interesting, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM and watch the tower. Since 1405, night watchmen have announced the current time from up there in the middle of the night.
Day 2: Lausanne - Lac de Joux - Geneva
After breakfast, buy enough food for the day and head straight to Le Pont, a village in the Valleé de Joux. The train ride from Lausanne to the valley takes roughly an hour. Vallée de Joux is part of the Jura mountains and offers countless hiking options. In the centre of the valley, you’ll find a peaceful lake called Lac de Joux.
By far the most popular spot in the area is the distinctive mountain of Dent de Vaulion. Hiking the circular path from Le Pont takes around three hours. The views from Dent de Vaulion across the Vallée de Joux, all the way to Lake Geneva and way into France, make this place extra special.
Since you’ve got all day up here, spend as much time in the area as you like. Hang out by Lac de Joux, walk the path around the lake or do whatever else your heart desires. Whenever you feel like it, catch the train back to Lausanne to grab your bags before moving on to Geneva.
4. Itinerary along Lake Geneva with Swiss cheese and chocolate
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Visit the Chillon Castle by Lake Geneva in Montreux
- Treat yourself to a glass of wine in the wine terraces of the Lavaux region (UNESCO)
- Travel parts of the famous Golden Pass Line
- Taste some delicious Swiss cheese in Gruyères
- Check out Maison Cailler and fill your belly with delicious Swiss chocolate
Tag 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Montreux
In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from "Genève Roule", or join a city tour. After the tour, grab a takeaway lunch and take the train to Lausanne.
This picturesque old town is built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It hosts the International Olympic Committee and features the only metro in Switzerland. Once you’re ready, head over to Montreux, drop off your luggage at your accommodation, and spend the rest of the day exploring Montreux.
If you’re interested in castles, don’t miss a visit to the famous Château de Chillon. You can either follow the promenade on foot, take a bus, or one of the regularly scheduled passenger boats to get there.
Even if you’re not in the mood to visit the castle, we recommend making a quick trip there to spend some time by the lake. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and snap some beautiful photos.
Alternatively, you could head in the opposite direction to Lavaux to explore the vineyards. Just a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. To enjoy the stunning views, it’s best to get off at Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking path through the vineyards.
Day 2: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux
Today is all about cheese and chocolate, two things Switzerland is famous for. So hop on a train to Gruyères and get ready for a feast in a medieval town.
The Gruyère cheese factory is located just behind the train station. Here you can watch the traditional Gruyère cheese being made, and of course, tastings are included. Once you’re done sampling, you can either take a bus or follow the path to 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 for an entry fee of 12 CHF. But you might also find yourself lingering longer than expected in the charming cobblestone alleyways and countless souvenir shops.
After exploring Gruyères and maybe picking up a souvenir or two, you can head over to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. In their visitor center, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand. At the end of the tour, a buffet awaits where you can indulge in plenty of chocolate samples.
On your train ride back to Geneva, try to digest your cheese and chocolate overdose.
5. Itinerary with the famous Matterhorn in Zermatt
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
- Hike in front of the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt
- Ride the Glacier Express Line and the Golden Pass Line
- Check out the mighty Gorner Glacier at Gornergrat
- Walk one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges in Randa (if you dare)
Day 1: Geneva - Zermatt
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 take-away lunch and take the train to Zermatt.
This popular mountain town has a lot to offer that represents Switzerland: mountains, lakes, hiking trails, nature, plenty of outdoor activities, and the most famous mountain in Switzerland: the Matterhorn.
On the route between Visp and Zermatt, you'll experience the final leg of the Glacier Express panoramic train. This journey is particularly scenic, so keep your camera handy. Once you arrive in Zermatt, spend the rest of the day soaking in the breathtaking view of the majestic Matterhorn.
Assuming it’s not shrouded in clouds.
Day 2: Zermatt - Geneva
In Zermatt, nature and the mountain scenery take center stage. If you've come to Switzerland for the breathtaking views of the mountains, you're going to love it here.
Numerous hikes and walks of all difficulty levels will lead you to places you never even knew existed. One popular route is the Zermatt 5-Lakes Walk, which takes about 2.5 hours. It passes by five crystal-clear mountain lakes and continually offers stunning views of the Matterhorn.
Another adventure that might make you a bit dizzy is crossing the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa. It's 494 meters long and stretches across the valley. The round trip to the bridge starts and ends in Randa, just 15 minutes by train from Zermatt.
If you prefer to skip the hike and see the mountains the easy way, we recommend taking the train up to the Gornergrat. After an incredibly steep train ride, you'll find yourself at an elevation of 3089 m above sea level, right in front of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn. Don’t be surprised if you’re completely out of breath after climbing the stairs to the viewpoint. It's not just you; it's the thin air up there.
Once you've taken enough photos of the Matterhorn and its surroundings, hop on the next train back to Geneva.
6. Itinerary to lesser known places with plenty of culture and nature
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Observe the flora and fauna at the natural reserve Champ-Pittet
- Explore the mediaeval town of Morat
- Visit Europe’s longest freshwater beach
- Learn everything about clocks and watches at the International Clock Museum
- Take a stroll through the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds (UNESCO)
Tag 1: Geneva - Yverdon-les-Bains - Murten
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 take-away lunch and take the train to Yverdon-les-Bains.
The old town of Yverdon-les-Bains is definitely worth a quick visit. However, for nature lovers, the nearby Champ-Pittet Nature Reserve is the perfect spot. You can choose from several paths and hiking trails through forests, gardens, and along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel. From the lookout tower, you’ll have a fantastic view of the entire area. There are also other viewpoints, some of which are right by the lake.
When you're ready to move on, take the train to the picturesque Murten. The area around Murten is ideal for cycling, hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the lake.
By the way, at Lake Murten in Salavaux, you'll find the longest freshwater sand beach in Europe. It might not impress anyone who grew up by the sea, but for a landlocked country like Switzerland, it’s quite remarkable.
Day 2: Morat - Neuchâtel - La Chaux-de-Fonds - Geneva
After breakfast, catch the train to Neuchâtel. Spend a few hours exploring this beautiful city with its lake views and steep alleyways. Once you’re ready to continue your journey, head to La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, was born here. And since this city was the centre of the Swiss watchmaking industry for over 100 years, it only makes sense for the International Clock Museum to be up here.
Another characteristic element to La Chaux-de-Fonds, apart from clocks and watches, is its chessboard-shaped outline. When the city was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century and they had to rebuild it from scratch, they introduced the unusual framework you’ll find today. And by “unusual”, we mean unusual for Switzerland. You don’t find this type of city structure anywhere else in the country.
Toward the end of the day, take the train back to Geneva and spend the rest of the evening exploring Switzerland’s second largest city.
7. Itinerary with a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
- Visit the wonderful Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
- Enjoy the view of Switzerland’s capital city at Rosengarten
- Check out the old town of Bern (UNESCO)
- Take an optional day trip from Bern to some stunning lakes
Tag 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Bern
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 takeaway lunch and take the train to Lausanne.
This picturesque old city is built on three hills and surrounded by countless vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and the only metro 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 magnificent views, it's best to get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking trail through the vineyards.
After your little excursion, return to Lausanne and pick up your luggage. From there, a direct train will take you to Bern. Spend the rest of the evening strolling through the capital of Switzerland. Climb up to the Rosengarten for a beautiful view of the city.
Tag 2: Bern - Geneva
Today, you have a lot of activities to choose from. 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 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.
Additionally, Bern is close to a wide range of exciting day trip destinations. For instance, you can easily take a day trip to Thun or Interlaken, both of which are beautiful places with stunning lake and mountain views.
Make sure to see as much as you can before heading back to Geneva.
8. Itinerary for nature and chocolate lovers to the Ragusa chocolate factory and Parc de Chasseral
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Visit the charming city of Neuchâtel
- Enjoy spectacular lake and city views from Chaumont
- Go for a hike in the Parc Chasseral
- Take a stroll through the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds (UNESCO)
- Eat lots of Ragusa and Torino chocolate at the chocolate factory in Courtelary
Tag 1: Geneva - Neuchâtel
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 Neuchâtel.
Spend a few hours discovering this beautiful city with its lake views and steep streets. If you want even more amazing views, consider heading 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 bring you back to Neuchâtel from Cressier. Alternatively, you can take a walk in Chaumont and ride the funicular back down.
Tag 2: Neuchâtel - Courtelary - Geneva
If the weather is bad today, you can take the train to La Chaux-de-Fonds and explore the city for a few hours. Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, was born here. And since this city was the center of the Swiss watch industry for over 100 years, it makes sense that you can visit the International Watch Museum here.
Another distinctive feature of La Chaux-de-Fonds, aside from the watches, is the grid-like layout of the city. When the city was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century and had to be rebuilt from scratch, the unusual framework you find today was introduced. And by “unusual,” we mean unusual for Switzerland. You won't find this type of urban structure anywhere else here.
If you're ready to eat a kilo or two of chocolate, head over to Courtelary. More on that in a moment.
If the weather is nice today and you're in the mood for a hike in Parc Chasseral, take the train to St-Imier and hike over Mont Crosin and Mont Soleil to Courtelary. This hike should take about four hours. Upon arriving in Courtelary, head straight to the Camille Bloch visitor center and enjoy plenty of Ragusa and Torino chocolate.
The Camille Bloch visitor center is a fantastic place where you can buy all sorts of delicious chocolate creations. In the exhibition, you’ll learn all about the ups and downs of the family business since its inception in 1926. There’s also a delicious demo station where two chocolatiers make Ragusa and Torino chocolate right before your eyes. Of course, you can taste the result just minutes after it cools down.
Take your time to enjoy the tasty chocolate before you begin your journey back to Geneva.
9. Itinerary with Lake Geneva and a natural wonder at Creux du Van
Highlights on this itinerary:
- Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
- Go for a walk in the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
- Explore the city of Lausanne by Lake Geneva
- Take a stroll through the stunning Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
- Ride with Switzerland’s only Metro
- Visit the impressive rock amphitheatre of Creux du Van
Tag 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne
In the morning, you can explore Geneva at your own pace, borrow 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, take the train to Lausanne. Check into your accommodation and make use of your free Lausanne Transport Card.
The picturesque old town of Lausanne is built on three hills and is surrounded by numerous vineyards. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and Switzerland's only metro.
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, it's best to get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the marked hiking path through the vineyards.
If you're interested in something unique, head to the cathedral between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM to watch the tower and listen for the watchmen. Since 1405, they have been announcing the time from up there in the middle of the night.
Day 2: Lausanne - Creux du Van - Geneva
After breakfast, grab enough food for the day and head straight to the village of Noiraigue, the starting point of the Creux du Van hike. This natural, one-kilometre wide amphitheatre got its shape from constant erosion by water and ice. Marmots, mountain goats, deer and various birds inhabit this area.
The starting point of the hike is in Noiraigue, a village that takes roughly an hour and a half to reach from Lausanne. Hiking to Creux du Van is pretty tough and will take up to five hours. Spend as much time as you like at the amphitheatre before heading back to Noiraigue and Lausanne.
Spend as much time as you like enjoying the view and taking photos before heading back to Noiraigue and Geneva.
Of course, Switzerland gets its fair share of bad weather and we don’t suggest you do this hike if it’s raining. The rocks can get slippery and dangerous when they’re wet and we don’t want you to get hurt!
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.