Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 111 travelers

A Winter Wonderland: 5-Day Paris and Switzerland Itinerary in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Paris, France - Arrival and Eiffel Tower
    From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Eiffel Tower: 1 hour (18.1 km)

    Morning: Start your journey off at the iconic Eiffel Tower. This landmark is a must-visit for all tourists, and it offers a stunning view of the city from the top. You can take the stairs or the elevator, but make sure to book tickets ahead to avoid long lines.

    Afternoon: Le Jules Verne Restaurant is located on the second floor of the tower, and it offers delicious French cuisine with panoramic views of Paris.

    Evening: Walk around the Champs-Elysées Christmas Market, where you can enjoy local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and get into the holiday spirit.

  2. Day 2: Paris, France - Louvre Museum and Seine River Cruise
    From Eiffel Tower to Louvre Museum: 20 minutes (5.2 km)

    Morning: Visit the Louvre Museum, the world's largest art museum and a central landmark of Paris. You can admire its famous glass pyramid, and explore its vast collection of art and artifacts, including the famous Mona Lisa painting.

    Afternoon: Take a cruise on the Seine River, which will give you a unique perspective of Paris and its landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Pont Neuf bridge.

    Evening: Explore the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, known for its charming streets, lively cafes, and jazz clubs.

  3. Day 3: Interlaken, Switzerland - Jungfraujoch and Skiing
    From Paris to Interlaken: 7 hours by train (576 km)

    Morning: Take the scenic train ride from Paris to Interlaken, a charming Swiss town situated between two lakes and surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

    Afternoon: Head to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, located at 3,454 meters above sea level. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Alps, visit the Ice Palace, and take a husky dog ride.

    Evening: Go skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Grindelwald or Wengen, two nearby ski resorts that offer a variety of runs for all levels.

  4. Day 4: Lucerne, Switzerland - Mount Pilatus and Christmas Markets
    From Interlaken to Lucerne: 2 hours by train (68 km)

    Morning: Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by steep hills and picturesque villages.

    Afternoon: Board the cogwheel train to Mount Pilatus, the highest peak in the region, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps.

    Evening: Stroll around the Christmas Markets of Lucerne, located in the old town, and indulge in Swiss specialties like raclette and mulled wine.

  5. Day 5: Zurich, Switzerland - Old Town and Chocolate Factory
    From Lucerne to Zurich: 50 minutes by train (52 km)

    Morning: Take a walk around the charming Old Town of Zurich, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stunning churches.

    Afternoon: Visit the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Factory, located just outside Zurich, and learn about the art of Swiss chocolate-making. You can sample some of their delicious treats and buy souvenirs at the factory store.

    Evening: Enjoy a dinner at Kronenhalle Restaurant, a legendary spot in Zurich that has hosted famous artists and writers over the years, and try their signature dish, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the Christmas Markets of Strasbourg, France, or taking a day trip to the Swiss Alps from Interlaken. You can also try traditional Swiss fondue, watch a show at the Moulin Rouge in Paris, or explore the trendy Marais district. Make sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Eiffel Tower (3 hours, €16)
  • Louvre Museum (4 hours, €17)
  • Seine River Cruise (1 hour, €15)
  • Jungfraujoch (6 hours, CHF 235)
  • Mount Pilatus (4 hours, CHF 72)
  • Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Factory (2 hours, CHF 15)
  • Kronenhalle Restaurant (2 hours, CHF 60)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €33 + CHF 382 (approximately $460) per person

Start planning your unforgettable winter trip now by checking the hotel and flight prices on our travel partner's website.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version