Scenic Netherlands and Switzerland: 17-Day Cultural and Nature Adventure

Day 1: Amsterdam Exploration

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam

Start your day with traditional Dutch pancakes in a cozy setting, offering a sweet and hearty breakfast to fuel your exploration.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Rijksmuseum Visit

Explore the Rijksmuseum, home to Dutch masterpieces including Rembrandt’s Night Watch, to immerse yourself in the Netherlands' rich art history.
EUR20, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Foodhallen

Taste a variety of international and Dutch street food in a renovated tram depot offering vibrant atmosphere and diverse options.
EUR15-20, 1h

3:30pm

Canal Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing one-hour cruise through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals to see the city from a unique perspective.
EUR18, 1h

5:00pm

Anne Frank House

Visit the Anne Frank House to learn about the poignant history of Anne Frank during WWII. Book tickets ahead for entry.
EUR14, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moeders

Enjoy traditional Dutch comfort food in a homely atmosphere; try their stamppot and meatballs for an authentic experience.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans & Volendam

Amsterdam area, Netherlands on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at De Vier Pilaren

Grab a quick, tasty Dutch breakfast near the train station to start your day early for sightseeing.
EUR10, 30m

9:30am

Zaanse Schans Windmills & Workshops

Explore historic windmills, cheese farms, and clog making demonstrations to experience traditional Dutch culture outdoors.
EUR15, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch in Volendam at Cafe Restaurant Sip

Savor fresh seafood by the harbor in Volendam, a charming fishing village known for traditional Dutch fish dishes.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Walk Volendam Promenade and Visit Volendam Museum

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor and learn about the village’s history and culture at the museum.
EUR8, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Relax on the train back to Amsterdam, resting up for the evening.
EUR12, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Greetje

Dine on refined Dutch cuisine crafted from local ingredients in an elegant setting.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Keukenhof & Tulip Fields

Lisse / Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel or Local Cafe

Fuel up early for a day of colorful tulip field explorations outside Amsterdam.
EUR10, 30m

9:00am

Keukenhof Gardens

Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens to see spectacular spring flower displays and themed gardens; open until 7pm.
EUR19, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Castle Keukenhof Restaurant

Enjoy dining on-site with views of gardens and elegant Dutch cuisine.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Tulip Fields Cycling Tour

Rent a bike and cycle through the colorful bulb fields surrounding Lisse for an immersive Dutch countryside experience.
EUR15, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back to Amsterdam for some rest.
EUR10, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at De Kas

Indulge in farm-to-table dining within a greenhouse setting to enjoy fresh organic dishes sourced directly from the kitchen garden.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 4: Day Trip to The Hague and Delft

The Hague, Delft, Netherlands on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters Amsterdam

Start your morning with New Zealand-style brunch to energize before traveling.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Travel to The Hague by Train

Approximately 50-minute train ride from Amsterdam to The Hague.
EUR15, 50m

10:30am

Mauritshuis Museum

View masterpieces such as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring in this world-renowned art museum.
EUR15, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Simonis aan de Haven

Savor fresh seafood right on the harbor for an authentic coastal dining experience.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Delft

Short 15-minute train ride to the charming city of Delft.
EUR5, 15m

2:30pm

Explore Delft Old Town and Royal Delft Factory

Wander picturesque canals, visit the Church of Our Lady, and tour the famed Royal Delft pottery factory.
EUR20, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Train back to Amsterdam to relax after a full day of sightseeing.
EUR15, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Pantry

Enjoy classic Dutch dishes in a warm, casual restaurant in the city center.
EUR25, 1h
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Day 5: Amsterdam Leisure & Travel to Switzerland

Amsterdam, Netherlands to Lucerne, Switzerland on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Winkel 43

Try the famous Dutch apple pie with coffee before departing Amsterdam.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Morning Leisure Walk in Jordaan District

Enjoy boutique shops, street art, and a relaxed stroll before travel.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Travel to Lucerne, Switzerland

Fly or take train (approx. 8 hours by train or 1.5 hour flight) to Lucerne; plan flight for speed and efficiency.
EUR150-200, 2h (flight) or 8h (train)

3:00pm

Check-in and Relax at Hotel in Lucerne

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the scenic Swiss days ahead.
Variable, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rathaus Brauerei

Enjoy Swiss specialties and craft beers in a historic brewery in Lucerne old town.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Lucerne City Highlights

Lucerne, Switzerland on June 10, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at KaffeeKlatsch

Cozy café serving fresh Swiss pastries and coffee to start your day.
CHF12, 1h

9:30am

Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

Explore Lucerne’s iconic bridge and historic old town with its colorful frescoed buildings.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Lion Monument

Visit the poignant Lion of Lucerne carved into rock as a tribute to Swiss Guards.
Free, 30m

11:30am

Swiss Museum of Transport

Discover Switzerland’s transport history with interactive exhibits; open 10am-5pm.
CHF32, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Stern Luzern

Traditional Swiss dishes with lake views in a historic setting.
CHF25, 1h

3:30pm

Lake Lucerne Boat Tour

Take a 1.5-hour cruise around Lake Lucerne to enjoy alpine scenery.
CHF25, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Wirtshaus Galliker

Authentic Swiss cuisine in a warm, family-run tavern.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Day Trip: Mount Pilatus

Lucerne, Switzerland on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early Swiss breakfast to prepare for mountain excursion.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Travel to Mount Pilatus

Take boat from Lucerne to Alpnachstad then the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up to Pilatus; railway open approx. 8am-5pm.
CHF72 round-trip, 2h

10:30am

Hiking and Viewing on Mount Pilatus

Explore scenic trails, panoramic viewpoints, and enjoy alpine flora and fauna.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Pilatus Kulm Hotel

Dine at the mountaintop hotel with spectacular views.
CHF30, 1h

3:00pm

Descend via Aerial Cableway to Kriens

Return to Lucerne by cable car and bus, enjoying sweeping vistas.
Included in round-trip ticket, 1h

5:00pm

Relax in Lucerne

Free time for strolling or resting at hotel.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Balances

Elegant dining with Swiss and international cuisine next to the river Reuss.
CHF50, 2h
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Day 8: Travel to Interlaken

Interlaken, Switzerland on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start day with a hearty Swiss breakfast before departure.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Train to Interlaken

Scenic 2-hour train journey through Swiss countryside and mountains.
CHF40, 2h

11:30am

Check-in and Explore Interlaken

Stroll Höheweg promenade, visit Höhematte Park and enjoy views of Eiger and Jungfrau mountains.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Restaurant Laterne

Traditional Swiss and European dishes in a cozy setting downtown.
CHF25, 1h

4:00pm

Paragliding Experience (optional)

Experience breathtaking aerial views over Interlaken and lakes; bookings advised. Activity lasts 1-2 hours.
CHF150-200, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bebbis Restaurant

Swiss cuisine paired with local wines in a warm atmosphere.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 9: Jungfrau Region Tour

Interlaken, Switzerland on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early meal for a big day in the mountains.
Included, 30m

8:00am

Train to Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

Ride via Lauterbrunnen and Kleine Scheidegg to the highest railway station in Europe; open approx. 8am-5pm.
CHF120, 2h

10:00am

Explore Jungfraujoch

Visit Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and enjoy panoramic snow views.
Included, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Jungfraujoch Restaurant

Dine with views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding Alps.
CHF35, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Interlaken

Train ride down to Interlaken to relax and prepare for evening.
Included, 2h

5:00pm

Relaxation or Spa Time at Hotel

Enjoy wellness facilities to rest tired legs after mountain excursions.
Variable, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Husi Bierhaus

Casual dining with Swiss comfort foods and craft beers.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 10: Travel to Zermatt & Explore

Zermatt, Switzerland on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy Swiss breakfast prior to mountain travel.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Train Journey to Zermatt

Travel approximately 2.5 hours by scenic train through Swiss Alps.
CHF50, 2h30m

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Restaurant Whymper-Stube

Traditional alpine dishes and rustic atmosphere in central Zermatt.
CHF30, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Zermatt Village

Walk the car-free village streets, visit local shops, and admire Matterhorn views.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Matterhorn Museum

Learn about the history of Zermatt and Matterhorn climbing expeditions.
CHF10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Findlerhof

Rustic mountain restaurant offering fine dining with local ingredients.
CHF50, 1h30m
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Day 11: Matterhorn & Gornergrat

Zermatt, Switzerland on June 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early Swiss breakfast before mountain adventure.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Gornergrat Railway to Viewing Platform

Ride cogwheel train for spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding 4000m peaks; open 8am-6pm.
CHF90, 2h

10:30am

Hiking Around Gornergrat

Walk accessible panoramic trails with breathtaking alpine scenery.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kulmhotel Gornergrat

Relax with food and views at the historic mountaintop hotel.
CHF35, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Zermatt

Descend by train and refresh in the village.
Included, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Zum See

Charming eatery serving traditional Swiss and alpine dishes near hiking paths.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 12: Travel to Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland on June 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Hearty breakfast before departing Zermatt.
Included, 30m

9:30am

Travel to Zurich by Train

Approximately 3.5-hour scenic train ride from Zermatt to Zurich.
CHF60, 3h30m

1:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Historic restaurant serving Swiss classics in a lively downtown setting.
CHF30, 1h

3:00pm

Bahnhofstrasse Shopping and Lake Zurich Promenade

Stroll through Zurich’s famous shopping street followed by a relaxing walk along the lakefront.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kronenhalle

Dine in a historic and artistic atmosphere featuring Swiss and international cuisine.
CHF60, 2h
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Day 13: Zurich Culture & Museums

Zurich, Switzerland on June 17, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Indulge in world-famous Luxemburgerli macarons and fresh coffee to start your day.
CHF15, 1h

9:30am

Kunsthaus Zurich Art Museum

Explore one of Switzerland’s foremost art museums featuring Swiss and international works; open 10am-6pm.
CHF16, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hiltl

Enjoy the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant with an extensive buffet and international dishes.
CHF25, 1h

1:30pm

Swiss National Museum

Discover Swiss cultural history in a fairy-tale castle-like museum; open 10am-5pm.
CHF10, 2h

4:00pm

Relax or Boat Ride on Lake Zurich

Optional short boat ride or relax at lakeside parks.
CHF8, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Razzia

Warm ambiance offering Swiss and Mediterranean dishes near Sechseläutenplatz.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 14: Travel to Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland on June 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Breakfast before train transfer.
Included, 30m

9:30am

Train to Geneva

About 3-hour train journey from Zurich to Geneva.
CHF60, 3h

12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Café du Centre

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Lyonnais cuisine in Geneva’s city center.
CHF35, 1h

2:00pm

Jet d'Eau and Lake Geneva Walk

Visit the city's iconic fountain and take a scenic stroll along the lake’s edge.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Parc des Bastions and Reformation Wall

Explore this peaceful park and see the famous monument dedicated to the Protestant Reformation.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax or Visit Patek Philippe Museum

Optional visit to museum showcasing watchmaking history; open until 6pm.
CHF10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Les Armures

Relish traditional Swiss fondue and Raclette in a historic Geneva setting.
CHF45, 1h30m
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Day 15: Geneva Culture & Departure

Geneva, Switzerland on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Buvette des Bains

Enjoy lakeside breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee before your final day.
CHF15, 1h

9:00am

United Nations Headquarters Tour

Guided tours of the Palais des Nations available in the morning; reservation required.
CHF12, 1h30m

11:00am

St. Pierre Cathedral

Explore this historic cathedral and optional climb the tower for city views.
CHF5, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Papon

A charming spot with Geneva specialties and a cozy atmosphere.
CHF30, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping or Relax at Parc de la Grange

Leisurely afternoon before departure or onward travel. Park offers beautiful gardens and views of the lake.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Prepare for Departure

Return to hotel to collect luggage or head to airport/train station.
Variable, Varies
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