Start your trip in the beautiful city of Zurich. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Zurich, enjoying the picturesque scenery. Afterward, visit the Zurich Zoo, home to a variety of animals and a great place for kids. In the afternoon, explore the historic Old Town, filled with charming streets and shops. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Limmat River and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Lake Zurich: CHF 0, 2 hours
Zurich Zoo: CHF 25, 3 hours
Old Town: Free, 2 hours
Limmat River Boat Ride: CHF 20, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Schober, a charming café in Zurich. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and a variety of hot and cold beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 20 CHF per person.
For lunch, head to Zeughauskeller, a traditional Swiss restaurant located in the Old Town. Indulge in hearty Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue and schnitzel. Average cost for a meal is about 30 CHF per person.
In the evening, dine at Restaurant Clouds, located on the top floor of Prime Tower in Zurich. This high-end restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city along with a menu featuring innovative Swiss cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 80 CHF per person.
Friday, August 9: Lucerne
Head to Lucerne, a picturesque city nestled in the Swiss Alps. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge with stunning views. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne and admire the surrounding mountains. In the evening, explore the charming old town and try some Swiss chocolate.
Chapel Bridge: Free, 1 hour
Lake Lucerne Boat Trip: CHF 30, 2 hours
Old Town: Free, 2 hours
Swiss Chocolate Tasting: CHF 10, 1 hour
Saturday, August 10: Interlaken
Travel to Interlaken, a popular destination known for its stunning mountain scenery. In the morning, take a cable car up to Harder Kulm and enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. In the afternoon, visit the Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe," and experience breathtaking views from the highest railway station in Europe. In the evening, relax by the beautiful Lake Brienz.
Harder Kulm: CHF 30, 2 hours
Jungfraujoch: CHF 200, 4 hours
Lake Brienz: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, known for their delicious pancakes and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 15 CHF per person.
Café des Amis: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Café des Amis, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of salads, quiches, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 20 CHF per person.
Restaurant Schuh: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Restaurant Schuh, featuring traditional Swiss cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 40 CHF per person.
Sunday, August 11: Geneva
Travel to Geneva, a cosmopolitan city located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Start your morning by visiting the Jet d'Eau, a famous water fountain. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful parks and gardens, such as Parc des Bastions and the English Garden. In the evening, take a stroll along the lake and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Jet d'Eau: Free, 1 hour
Parc des Bastions: Free, 2 hours
English Garden: Free, 2 hours
Lake Geneva: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe du Centre: A charming cafe located near Lake Geneva that offers a variety of breakfast options such as croissants, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 CHF per person.
Le Comptoir: A cozy bistro known for its delicious French cuisine and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a flavorful lunch with options like quiches, salads, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 20 CHF per person.
Restaurant Les Armures: Indulge in a fine dining experience at this historic restaurant situated in the heart of Geneva's old town. Sample traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette in an elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 50 CHF per person.
Monday, August 12: Zermatt
Head to Zermatt, a car-free village famous for the iconic Matterhorn mountain. In the morning, take a cable car up to Gornergrat and admire the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, explore the village and visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the history of mountaineering. In the evening, relax in one of the cozy mountain restaurants.
Gornergrat: CHF 80, 3 hours
Matterhorn Museum: CHF 15, 2 hours
Mountain Restaurant: CHF 40, 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café du Pont, located in the heart of Zermatt. This charming café offers a variety of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and artisanal coffee. Enjoy a leisurely meal in a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Lunch: For a tasty midday meal, head to Restaurant Chez Vrony in Findeln. This rustic mountain restaurant offers traditional Swiss dishes with a modern twist. From hearty soups to delectable cheese platters, you'll find something to satisfy your appetite. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Restaurant Whymper-Stube, located in the Hotel Monte Rosa. This elegant restaurant specializes in Swiss and international cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. Their menu offers a range of culinary delights, from tender meat dishes to vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Tuesday, August 13: Bern
Visit the capital city of Switzerland, Bern. Start your morning by exploring the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its medieval architecture and narrow streets. In the afternoon, visit the Bear Park, where you can see bears in a natural habitat. In the evening, enjoy a walk along the Aare River.
Old Town: Free, 2 hours
Bear Park: Free, 1 hour
Aare River Walk: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Café Fleuri - Located in the heart of Bern's Old Town, Café Fleuri offers a delightful breakfast experience with a wide selection of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 15 CHF per person.
Lunch: Kornhauskeller - Situated in a beautiful historic building, Kornhauskeller offers a sophisticated ambiance and a diverse lunch menu featuring Swiss and international cuisine. With elegant surroundings, the average cost for a meal is about 30 CHF per person.
Dinner: Restaurant Bärengraben - For a unique dining experience, head to Restaurant Bärengraben, located near the Bear Park. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere while indulging in traditional Swiss dishes, such as cheese fondue or raclette. The average cost for a meal is about 35 CHF per person.
Wednesday, August 14: Basel
End your trip in Basel, a vibrant city located on the Rhine River. In the morning, visit the Basel Minster, a stunning cathedral with panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Museum Tinguely, dedicated to the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. In the evening, take a relaxing boat cruise on the Rhine.
Basel Minster: Free, 1 hour
Museum Tinguely: CHF 20, 2 hours
Rhine River Cruise: CHF 30, 1 hour
Restaurants
Café Frühling: Start your day at this cozy café, offering a variety of breakfast options such as croissants, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 CHF per person.
Restaurant Ufer7: Enjoy a delicious lunch at this waterfront restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and picturesque views. Average cost for a meal is about 35 CHF per person.
Restaurant Kunsthalle: For dinner, dine at this contemporary restaurant located within the Kunsthalle Basel. Indulge in their innovative dishes inspired by local and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 50 CHF per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Switzerland, be sure to visit the Trummelbach Falls near Lauterbrunnen. These impressive waterfalls inside a mountain are a unique natural wonder. Additionally, the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities for the whole family.
For a cultural experience, consider attending a traditional Swiss folklore festival, such as the Unspunnen Festival in Interlaken. It showcases traditional music, dancing, and costumes, providing a glimpse into Swiss heritage.
Don't forget to taste the local Swiss cuisine, such as fondue and raclette, which can be enjoyed in many restaurants throughout the country. Swiss chocolate is also a must-try, with various chocolate shops offering delectable treats.
Keep in mind that prices and time estimates are approximate and subject to change. It is advisable to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak for the most up-to-date information.