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 66 travelers

A Week in Switzerland: Exploring Lucerne, Zurich, Interlaken, and Bern

Sunday, August 20: Lucerne

Start your adventure in the picturesque city of Lucerne, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the Chapel Bridge, one of Switzerland's oldest wooden bridges, and enjoy the views of Lake Lucerne. In the afternoon, visit the Swiss Museum of Transport to learn about the country's innovative transportation history. As the evening sets in, explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.

  • Chapel Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Swiss Museum of Transport: CHF 30 (approximately $33), 2-3 hours
  • Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, August 21: Zurich

Travel to Zurich, Switzerland's vibrant financial hub. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Zurich Lake, where you can go for a refreshing swim or rent a paddleboard. In the afternoon, visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland's most important art museums, housing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. In the evening, stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets.

  • Zurich Lake: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Kunsthaus Zurich: CHF 25 (approximately $28), 2-3 hours
  • Bahnhofstrasse: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 22: Interlaken

Head to Interlaken, a gateway to the Swiss Alps known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Start your day with an invigorating hike to Harder Kulm, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz to admire the crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. In the evening, visit Höheweg, a charming promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and beautiful gardens.

  • Harder Kulm: CHF 30 (approximately $33), 2-3 hours
  • Lake Thun or Lake Brienz boat trip: CHF 30-50 (approximately $33-55), 2-3 hours
  • Höheweg: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, August 23: Bern

Explore the capital city of Switzerland, Bern, with its well-preserved medieval old town. Begin your day by visiting the Bear Park, home to the city's beloved mascots, the Bernese bears. In the afternoon, discover the architectural marvels of Bern, including the Zytglogge clock tower and the Cathedral of Bern. In the evening, wander through the atmospheric streets of the old town, enjoying the cozy cafes and lively bars.

  • Bear Park: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Zytglogge: CHF 15 (approximately $16), 1-2 hours
  • Cathedral of Bern: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, August 24: Lucerne

Return to Lucerne for another day of exploration. Start your morning with a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by majestic mountains. In the afternoon, take a cable car up to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. In the evening, indulge in Swiss cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

  • Boat ride on Lake Lucerne: CHF 30-50 (approximately $33-55), 2-3 hours
  • Mount Pilatus cable car: CHF 70-100 (approximately $77-110), 3-4 hours
  • Traditional Swiss restaurant: CHF 50-100 (approximately $55-110), 2 hours
Friday, August 25: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts, venture off the beaten path and explore the stunning Aare Gorge near Meiringen. This natural wonder features towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, offering a unique hiking experience. Another hidden gem is Oeschinensee, a pristine alpine lake nestled amidst the mountains near Kandersteg. Take a cable car up and enjoy hiking, picnicking, or even renting a rowboat on the peaceful lake.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers, Switzerland offers endless hidden gems. Consider visiting the Trummelbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen, where you can witness the power of glacier-fed waterfalls inside the mountain. Explore the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, for awe-inspiring views and unforgettable hikes. Another local favorite is the Schynige Platte, a mountain ridge offering breathtaking panoramas of the Bernese Alps and a unique alpine botanical garden.

Check out KAYAK for hotel and flight prices.

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