Day 1: Zurich - Begin your Swiss adventure with a visit to the iconic Grossmünster Cathedral, followed by a stroll around the picturesque Old Town. In the afternoon, take in some of the country's finest art at the Kunsthaus Zurich, before enjoying some world-class chocolate at the Confiserie Sprüngli.
Day 2: Lucerne - Take a train to the stunning mountain resort of Engelberg, where you will experience the natural wonders of the Mount Titlis glacier. In the afternoon, head back to Lucerne to explore the Chapel Bridge and the fascinating Swiss Transport Museum.
Day 3: Interlaken - Catch a train to Interlaken and ride the Harder Kulm funicular for stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Take a weekend hike if you're up for it. Finish the day with a tranquil boat ride on the Thunersee Lake.
Day 4: Gstaad - Take a train ride to Gstaad and experience the luxury Swiss Alps, as you wander through the unique shopping opportunities and the well-known Gstaad Village. In the afternoon enjoy the outdoor views during a scenic walk or a cable car ride to see the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5: Basel - Head to Basel, a city where museums, medieval history, and River Rhine converge. Explore the 16th-century Basel Munster and then head to the Pharmacy Museum (Pharmazie-Historisches Museum). Finish the day off with a sunset cruise on the Rhine River.
Day 6: Zurich - Take a day trip to the stunning Lauterbrunnen valley, located only 2 hours from Zurich for the most picturesque and unforgettable views of Switzerland. With time to spare, explore opportunities for skiing or hiking, as well as the attractions in Trümmelbach Falls, one of the most incredible natural wonders of the country.
Day 7: Zurich - Explore Zurich's food scene with a dynamic culinary tour, followed by a leisurely stroll through the hill district of Zurich West. End your journey with an outstanding view of the city from the top of Uetliberg Mountain.
Time and Costs Estimates
Grossmünster (1-2 hours, free)
Kunsthaus Zurich (2-3 hours, $26)
Mount Titlis (3-4 hours, $110)
Swiss Transport Museum (2-3 hours, $18)
Harder Kulm (2-3 hours, $30)
Thunersee Lake ride (1-2 hours, $50)
Gstaad - Shopping and Scenic Walks (4-5 hours, free)
Basel Munster (1-2 hours, free)
Pharmacy Museum (1-2 hours, $10)
Lauterbrunnen valley (5-6 hours, $70)
Culinary Tour (3-4 hours, $100)
Uetliberg Mountain (1-2 hours, $20)
Total Estimated Costs: $434
Transportation
Switzerland has a well-connected and efficient public transport system, which runs on time and mostly the quickest way to reach the destination. The Swiss Travel Pass provides unlimited access to all modes of public transport, including buses, trains, and boats, and often covers the route taken herein. The pass will cost around $300 for one adult and will be valid for 7 days; note that seat reservations have to be made with an additional cost. Time spent in transit is accounted for in the above-mentioned activities.
Useful Tips
If you have a few extra days, consider adding an excursion to Geneva, home to the renowned Jet d'Eau, and stunning lakeside walks. Alternatively, consider adding Zermatt to your itinerary and soak up the majestic views of the Matterhorn. For a shorter itinerary, shave off a day by skipping Gstaad, or two days by skipping Gstaad and Basel.
Airports
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the busiest airport in Switzerland, located about 13 km north of the city center. It offers a direct, reliable train service to the city or via taxi for around $70. Another option is Geneva Airport (GVA), located approximately 5 km north-west of the city center, which also offers a train, bus, or taxi options to reach the city.
0
PDF Share PostCopy URL
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
AI-assisted, human-reviewed