Budget-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary: Munich to Zurich and Swiss Alps

Day 1: Travel to Zurich

Munich, Germany on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Frischhut

Start your day with their famous Schmalznudeln and a coffee. It's a beloved local spot to kick off your journey.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Zurich

Board a direct train from Munich to Zurich. The scenic ride takes you through picturesque countryside.
EUR30, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at easyHotel Zurich

Budget accommodation in the heart of Zurich, offering clean and simple rooms.
CHF100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Lake Zurich

Take a leisurely stroll along Lake Zurich and enjoy the views of the Alps in the distance.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Old Town (Altstadt)

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zeughauskeller

Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine in a rustic atmosphere. Try their sausage platter for a taste of local flavors.
CHF25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Lucerne Adventure

Lucerne, Switzerland on April 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple continental breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Lucerne

Take a direct train to Lucerne, known for its beautiful lakes and mountains.
CHF20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Explore this iconic wooden bridge adorned with paintings dating back to the 17th century.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne

Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne and appreciate the breathtaking views.
CHF30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Fritschi

Indulge in local dishes like Rösti in a cozy, traditional setting.
CHF20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal)

An emotional tribute to the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Explore Lucerne's Old Town

Enjoy the outstanding architecture and vibrant local shops.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Wirtshaus Galliker

Savor traditional Swiss meals in a friendly neighborhood restaurant.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Overnight at Hotel des Balances

A budget-friendly hotel with clean accommodations.
CHF90, Overnight
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Day 3: Interlaken and Grindelwald

Interlaken, Switzerland on April 7, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Included breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of adventure.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Interlaken

Travel to Interlaken by train, the gateway to the Jungfrau region.
CHF25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Interlaken

Walk around this charming town known for its stunning views and outdoor activities.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurant The 3 Tells

Enjoy hearty Swiss dishes, especially their sandwiches and salads.
CHF25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Train to Grindelwald

A short train ride to Grindelwald, surrounded by magnificent peaks.
CHF15, 30 minutes

1:30PM

Hiking in Grindelwald

Spend the afternoon hiking in nature with amazing views. Some popular trails are well-marked.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Train to Lauterbrunnen

Head to Lauterbrunnen, known for its stunning waterfalls.
CHF10, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Alpenblick

A budget hotel with comfortable accommodations for a restful night.
CHF90, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy Swiss cuisine in the hotel restaurant, known for its local specialties.
CHF30, 1 hour
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Day 4: Bern Exploration

Bern, Switzerland on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A filling breakfast is included to start your day in Bern.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Bern

Travel to the capital city of Switzerland by train. The trip is convenient and quick.
CHF15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Zytglogge Clock Tower

A famous clock tower known for its astronomical clock and animated show on the hour.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Bern's Old Town

Enjoy the UNESCO-listed Old Town and explore shops, galleries, and cafes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Rosengarten

Have lunch in this lovely park with stunning views of the city and delicious fresh food.
CHF25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus)

A guided tour will take you through Switzerland's political heart.
CHF10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Head to the Bear Park

See the famous Bern bears in their naturalistic habitat.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Klosterli Weincafe

A cozy wine bar and restaurant serving traditional Swiss dishes.
CHF30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Overnight at Ibis Styles Bern City

A conveniently located budget hotel.
CHF95, Overnight
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Day 5: Return to Zurich and Munich

Zurich, Switzerland on April 9, 2025

6:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Switzerland included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Train to Zurich

Catch the morning train back to Zurich, where you can collect any final souvenirs.
CHF15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Bahnhofstrasse

Take a stroll down one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Swiss National Museum

Discover Swiss cultural history in this fascinating museum.
CHF10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Hiltl

Try a delightful vegetarian buffet at the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Train back to Munich

Take your return journey back to Munich, reminiscing about your adventure.
EUR30, 4 hours

5:00PM

Arrival in Munich

End of your budget-friendly journey through beautiful Switzerland.
Free, N/A
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