13-Day Enchanting Switzerland Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland on December 21, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Start your day with the famous Luxemburgerli macarons and a rich hot chocolate at this historic café.
Located near Paradeplatz, a short walk from the train station.
CHF30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

Wander through the cobblestone streets filled with medieval buildings, shops, and historical landmarks.
Walking tour starting from Lindenhof Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Indulge in hearty Swiss cuisine, including bratwurst and rösti, at this traditional restaurant.
Close to the Old Town.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Swiss National Museum

Discover Switzerland's cultural history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Short tram ride from the Old Town.
CHF15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kronenhalle

Savor fine dining in a historically rich atmosphere, famous for its art collection and classic Swiss dishes.
Located just outside the Old Town.
CHF70, 2 hours
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Day 2: Travel to Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland on December 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a continental breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of exploring.
Grab your bags and head to the train station.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Lucerne

Enjoy stunning views on your scenic train ride to Lucerne, which takes approximately an hour.
Direct train from Zurich HB to Lucerne.
CHF15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Stroll across this iconic wooden bridge adorned with beautiful paintings, a hallmark of Lucerne.
Located in the city center.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Fritschi

Taste authentic Swiss cheese fondue at this charming restaurant in the heart of Lucerne.
A short walk from Chapel Bridge.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Lion Monument

Marvel at the poignant sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
10-minute walk from Restaurant Fritschi.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Lake Lucerne Boat Cruise

Relax on a picturesque boat cruise, taking in the stunning mountain scenery surrounding the lake.
Board the boat from the pier near Chapel Bridge.
CHF25, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Rebstock

Enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring seasonal dishes prepared with local ingredients.
Located near the boat pier.
CHF60, 2 hours
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Day 3: A Day in Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland on December 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast before traveling to Interlaken.
Check out and walk to the train station.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Interlaken

Take a scenic train ride from Lucerne to Interlaken, renowned for its stunning landscapes.
Direct train from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost.
CHF25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Hohematte Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Located just a few minutes from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Harder Kulm Restaurant

Take a funicular up to Harder Kulm and enjoy lunch with panoramic vistas of Interlaken and the Alps.
Funicular ride from Interlaken East.
CHF45, including funicular, 2 hours

3:30PM

Adventure Activities

Try your hand at paragliding or take a thrilling ride on the funicular down to Interlaken.
Paragliding is available from Harder Kulm.
CHF150 (paragliding), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Taverne

Relish a cozy dinner featuring local Swiss specialties in a warm atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Interlaken.
CHF50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Jungfraujoch Adventure

Jungfraujoch, Switzerland on December 24, 2024

6:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your day at the Top of Europe.
Early departure for a long day ahead; pack snacks.
CHF20, 1 hour

7:30AM

Train to Jungfraujoch

Take the train from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe.
Transfers via Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.
CHF100 (return ticket), 2.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Ice Palace

Stroll through this incredible ice sculpture gallery showcasing dazzling ice artworks.
At Jungfraujoch's viewing area.
CHF15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Crystal

Savor a mountain meal with spectacular views at this restaurant on the glacier.
Inside the Jungfraujoch complex.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Enjoy Viewing Platforms

Take in the breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding snow peaks from various platforms.
Accessible from the restaurant; follow the signs.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Interlaken

Head back down through the beautiful alpine scenery, reflecting on the amazing day.
Reversal of trip route via train.
Included in earlier ticket, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Goldener Anker

Enjoy traditional Swiss dishes in a warm tavern-style restaurant, perfect for warming up.
Located in Interlaken.
CHF55, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Christmas in Bern

Bern, Switzerland on December 25, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your Christmas Day with a festive breakfast at your hotel.
Check out and head to the train station.
CHF20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Train to Bern

Travel to the capital city, Bern, known for its well-preserved medieval city center.
Direct train from Interlaken to Bern.
CHF25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Old Town

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its charming streets, Zytglogge clock tower, and iconic fountains.
Walking distance from the train station.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Christmas Lunch at Schweizerhof Hotel

Enjoy a luxurious Christmas feast featuring traditional dishes in a grand setting.
Located in the heart of Bern.
CHF80, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Bear Park

See the iconic bears of Bern in their natural habitat and learn about their history.
A short walk from the Old Town.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Rosengarten

Savor a delightful dinner with a view of the city, perfect for a Christmas evening.
Located on a hill overlooking Bern.
CHF70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Gruyeres and Chocolate Experience

Gruyeres, Switzerland on December 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before journeying to Gruyeres, world-famous for cheese and chocolate.
Travel lightly to the station.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Gruyeres

Experience a picturesque train ride to Gruyeres, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Direct train from Bern to Bulle, then change to Gruyeres.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Gruyeres Castle

Explore this majestic medieval castle with beautiful views of the surrounding valley.
A short walk from the train station.
CHF12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Chalet de Gruyeres

Enjoy a delightful meal featuring local specialties, including fondue and raclette.
Located near the castle.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory

Learn about Swiss chocolate making and indulge in delicious tastings.
Short bus ride from Gruyeres.
CHF20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Bern

Head back to Bern for the evening.
Return the same way by train.
Included in earlier ticket, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Grosse Pause

Enjoy casual dining with seasonal dishes before resting from the day’s adventures.
Located back in Bern.
CHF50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Montreux and Lake Geneva

Montreux, Switzerland on December 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Montreux along the lake.
Pack bags for the day.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Montreux

Head toward Montreux, a beautiful lakeside town known for its stunning views.
Direct train from Bern to Montreux.
CHF25, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Lakeside Promenade

Stroll along the picturesque promenade adorned with palm trees and gardens along Lake Geneva.
Start at the train station and enjoy the waterfront.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Montreux Palace

Enjoy a lovely lunch in this luxury hotel with a view of the lake.
Located along the promenade.
CHF70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Chillon Castle

Explore the stunning medieval castle perched on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Near Montreux, accessible via a scenic walk.
CHF12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wine Tasting in Lavaux

Experience wine tasting in the terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva.
Join a local tour from Montreux.
CHF40, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Rouvenaz

Conclude your Montreux day with a delightful meal combining seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes.
Located along the promenade.
CHF65, 2 hours
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Day 8: Lausanne and Cultural Exploration

Lausanne, Switzerland on December 28, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast in Montreux before heading to Lausanne for the day.
Check out and prepare for the trip.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Lausanne

Take a short train ride along the beautiful shores of Lake Geneva.
Direct train from Montreux to Lausanne.
CHF15, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Olympic Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of the Olympic Games at this interactive museum.
Located on the waterfront, near the lake.
CHF18, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café de Grancy

Enjoy a hearty meal in a cozy café known for its local and seasonal dishes.
Short walk from the museum.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through Lausanne's charming historic district with unique shops and cafés.
Walking distance from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Taverne du Belvédère

Enjoy impressive views of the city while relishing Swiss classics and regional dishes.
Crowne Plaza Hotel area.
CHF70, 2 hours
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Day 9: Geneva Exploration

Geneva, Switzerland on December 29, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast in Lausanne before heading to Geneva.
Prepare for another exciting day.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Geneva

Make your way to Geneva, where international culture meets stunning scenery.
Direct train from Lausanne to Geneva.
CHF10, 40 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Jet d'Eau and the Flower Clock

Visit the iconic water fountain and beautifully decorated garden in the city’s center.
Take a tram from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Café du Bourg-de-Four

Savor delicious local specialties in one of Geneva's oldest cafés.
Short walk from the park.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the United Nations Office

Take a guided tour of the European headquarters of the UN and learn about its functionalities.
A short tram ride from lunch.
CHF15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll around Parc des Bastions

Take a leisurely walk in this beautiful park, which features the Reformation Wall and lovely green spaces.
Walking distance from UN.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Les Armures

Dine in a charming historical restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine.
Short walk from the park.
CHF75, 2 hours
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Day 10: Travel to Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland on December 30, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast in Geneva before traveling to Zermatt.
Prepare for a beautiful journey ahead.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Zermatt

Journey through scenic valleys and mountains on your way to the car-free village of Zermatt.
Train via Visp to Zermatt.
CHF60, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Zumm Rüti

Enjoy a warm meal after arriving in Zermatt, known for tasty Swiss specialties.
Walking distance from the train station.
CHF50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Zermatt Village

Wander through the charming streets of Zermatt, soaking in the quaint alpine atmosphere.
Main street is pedestrian-friendly.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Whymper-Stube

Dine in a cozy setting featuring traditional Swiss cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
Located near the main street.
CHF60, 2 hours
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Day 11: Matterhorn Experience

Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland on December 31, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast while admiring views of the Matterhorn.
Enjoy the last day of the year.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gornergrat Railway

Take the scenic train ride to Gornergrat, offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
Board the train near Zermatt station.
CHF90 (round trip), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gornergrat Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant with panoramic views overlooking the Alps.
Inside the Gornergrat station.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Snow Activities

Partake in various snow activities such as skiing or snowshoeing on New Year's Eve.
Accessibly ski areas from Gornergrat.
CHF50 - CHF150 based on activity, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Zermatt

Make your way back to Zermatt for the evening celebrations.
Train back to Zermatt.
Included in earlier ticket, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Schäferstube

Prepare for New Year's festivities with a delightful dinner featuring local specialties.
Located in Zermatt.
CHF70, 2 hours

10:00PM

New Year’s Eve Celebration

Join in on the lively New Year celebrations in Zermatt with fireworks and festivities.
Gather at the main square.
Free, 3 hours
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Day 12: Relaxation and Leisure in Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland on January 1, 2025

10:00AM

Brunch at Hotel

Recover from the New Year celebration with a leisurely brunch.
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Spa Afternoon

Treat yourself to a well-deserved spa afternoon at one of Zermatt's luxurious spas.
Choose from various spas available.
CHF100, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Glacier Paradise

Take the telepherique to the highest viewing platform in Europe for breathtaking views.
Accessibly reachable from Zermatt.
CHF80, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Stärnenkeller

End your day with a charming dinner featuring Swiss gastronomy and a welcoming ambiance.
Located close to your hotel.
CHF65, 2 hours
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Day 13: Return to Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland on January 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Zermatt before heading back to Zurich.
Pack your bags and check out.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Zurich

Travel back to Zurich, reflecting on your memorable journey.
Train via Visp to Zurich.
CHF60, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hiltl

Dine at the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world, offering a delicious buffet.
Located in Zurich's city center.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Final Shopping and Exploration

Spend your last hours in Zurich shopping for souvenirs and soaking up the atmosphere.
Explore Bahnhofstrasse, a famous shopping street.
Varies, 2 hours

5:30PM

Depart from Zurich

Head to Zurich Airport for your flight as your memorable Swiss journey comes to an end.
Take a taxi or tram to the airport.
CHF30, 1 hour
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