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 52 travelers

Switzerland on a Shoestring Budget: 5-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Zurich
    10 minutes (4.2 km) from Zurich Airport

    In the morning, visit the Swiss National Museum to learn more about the country's history and culture. In the afternoon, explore the trendy district of Zurich West, home to many galleries, bars and restaurants. In the evening, take a stroll along the Limmat River and enjoy the sunset.

  2. Day 2: Lucerne
    50 minutes (52.4 km) from Zurich

    In the morning, visit the famous Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. Then, take a boat tour on Lake Lucerne, stopping at the picturesque town of Vitznau. In the evening, enjoy a Swiss cheese fondue at a local restaurant.

  3. Day 3: Interlaken
    2 hours (105 km) from Lucerne

    Start the day with a cable car ride to the top of Harder Kulm for stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around Lake Brienz or go on a hike in the surrounding hills. In the evening, relax with a beer at the Balmers Beer Garden.

  4. Day 4: Grindelwald
    30 minutes (20 km) from Interlaken

    Take the train to Grindelwald and spend the day exploring the beautiful Alpine scenery. You can take a cable car to the top of the First mountain for panoramic views, or go hiking in the surrounding hills. In the evening, enjoy a Swiss dinner at a local restaurant.

  5. Day 5: Geneva
    2.5 hours (215 km) from Grindelwald

    Visit the historic Old Town and the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain. Then, take a stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva and enjoy the view of the French Alps. In the evening, dine at a local restaurant and try some Swiss wine.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider taking a side trip to the beautiful town of Montreux on Lake Geneva. You can also visit the Matterhorn, one of Switzerland's most iconic peaks, from the town of Zermatt. To save money, consider staying in budget hostels and cooking your own meals.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Swiss National Museum (2 hours, CHF 10)
  • Boat tour on Lake Lucerne (2 hours, CHF 30)
  • Cable car ride to Harder Kulm (1 hour, CHF 20)
  • Cable car ride to First mountain (2 hours, CHF 50)
  • Jet d'Eau fountain (1 hour, free)
  • Swiss cheese fondue (1.5 hours, CHF 20)
  • Swiss dinner (1.5 hours, CHF 30)
  • Beer at Balmers Beer Garden (1 hour, CHF 5)
  • Swiss wine (1 hour, CHF 10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: CHF 175
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version