A Magical European Christmas: Melbourne to Switzerland and Beyond

Day 1: Departure from Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia on December 7, 2025

5:00 PM

Flight Departure

Begin your adventure with an evening flight from Melbourne to Zurich. Prepare to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Europe.
AUD1200, Flights usually take around 24 hours with layovers.

Day 2: Arrival and Explore Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland on December 8, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy a warm and hearty organic breakfast, perfect for starting your day. The sourdough bread and pastries are delightful!
CHF25, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Zurich Christmas Market

Visit the stunning Christmas market at the main train station (HB). Browse local crafts and warm treats while surrounded by festive lights.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Swiss Chuchi

Try traditional fondue or raclette for an authentic Swiss dish that warms you up during the winter.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Kunsthaus Zurich

Explore this renowned art museum featuring Swiss artists and world-class masterpieces.
CHF16, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Zephir

Enjoy fine Swiss dining with a modern twist. Their menu features seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.
CHF60, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Train to Thun

Thun, Switzerland on December 9, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Indulge in delectable Swiss chocolates and pastries, an absolute must-try when in Zurich.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Thun

Travel from Zurich to Thun via scenic train routes with stunning views of the Alps.
CHF25, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Thun Christmas Market

Stroll through Thun’s charming Christmas market, full of local crafts and festive delicacies. Don’t miss the mulled wine.
Free, 2-3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Cafe Bar Mokka

Enjoy a casual lunch with a range of local Swiss dishes and organic meals in a cozy setting.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Thun Castle Visit

Visit the historical Thun Castle, which offers panoramic views and insights into the region's history.
CHF10, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Schloss Ochsen

Savour traditional Swiss cuisine in a historic setting with stunning views of Thun Lake.
CHF50, 2 hours

Day 4: Discover Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland on December 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Thun Hotel

Enjoy a simple but satisfying breakfast at your hotel to start your day right.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Interlaken

Take a short train ride to Interlaken, the gateway to the Jungfrau region, famous for its breathtaking mountain views.
CHF15, 30 minutes

10:30 AM

Visit Harder Kulm

Take the funicular to Harder Kulm for stunning panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding Alps.
CHF38, 2-3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurant Taverne

Have a filling meal with amazing views and traditional Swiss food options.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the town of Interlaken

Stroll around Interlaken's lovely streets and enjoy its stunning scenery.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Interlaken

Enjoy an elegant dinner in this historic hotel's dining room, featuring Swiss and international cuisine.
CHF60, 2 hours

Day 5: Zermatt and Matterhorn

Zermatt, Switzerland on December 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Interlaken

Fuel up with a robust breakfast before heading to Zermatt.
CHF20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Zermatt

Enjoy a beautiful scenic train ride to Zermatt, all the while surrounded by snowy peaks.
CHF50, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurant Whymper-Stube

Located in the heart of Zermatt, try their famous Swiss dishes after your journey.
CHF45, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Gornergrat Railway

Take the cogwheel train to Gornergrat for incredible views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains.
CHF90, 2-3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Zur Matte

Unwind at this cozy restaurant known for its Swiss gourmet dishes and warm atmosphere.
CHF70, 2 hours

Day 6: Exploring Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland on December 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a European breakfast buffet at your hotel in Zermatt.
CHF25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Lucerne

Travel back to Lucerne, famous for its preserved medieval architecture.
CHF30, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Old Swiss House

Enjoy local delicacies in a charming, historic setting. Their schnitzels are a must-try!
CHF50, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Chapel Bridge

Walk across this iconic wooden bridge adorned with flowers and historical paintings.
Free, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Lake Lucerne Boat Ride

Take a picturesque boat ride on Lake Lucerne to enjoy the Alps' beauty from the water.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Lion Monument

See the famed Lion Monument, a poignant tribute to Swiss Guards lost in battle.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant imbiss sbb

This casual eatery is perfect for enjoying local Swiss fast food before ending your day.
CHF25, 1 hour

Day 7: Return to Zurich for Christmas Markets

Zurich, Switzerland on December 13, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lucerne Hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Lucerne.
CHF25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Zurich

Travel back to Zurich for another day of Christmas festivities.
CHF30, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Zurich’s Christmas Markets

Visit various Christmas markets around Zurich, offering unique gifts, food, and exciting holiday spirits.
Free, 3-4 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Raclette Stube

Indulge in raclette at this popular eatery known for its Swiss cheese delights.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Enjoy a peaceful walk through beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with festive decorations.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant 92

End your day with a delicious dinner featuring modern twists on traditional Swiss dishes.
CHF70, 2 hours

Day 8: Return Journey to Melbourne

Zurich, Switzerland on December 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before heading to the airport.
CHF25, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Airport Transfer

Transfer to Zurich Airport for your flight back to Melbourne, concluding this magical Christmas adventure.
CHF100, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Flight Departure

Depart Zurich for your return flight to Melbourne.
AUD1200, Flights usually take around 24 hours with layovers.