7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary | Ultimate Guide by a Travel Expert
Switzerland is special in so many ways, and each city has its own unique charm. From Zurich to Geneva, Interlaken, Lucerne, and everywhere in between, there’s no shortage of breathtaking destinations to explore. So, how does one decide where to go?
As a travel expert—and someone who would love to live in Switzerland—I’ve created the ultimate 7-day Switzerland itinerary to help you experience the best of the country.
We’ll cover the top things to do in Switzerland, where to stay in each city, and how to enjoy every stop without feeling like you’re racing from one place to the next.
If it’s your first visit or your fifth, this itinerary highlights the best places to visit in Switzerland, based on my personal favorites.
And since I’m all about mindful travel with a hint of adventure (hey, I’m a PNW gal who lives for the outdoors), this guide is designed to be scenic, efficient, and full of feel-good travel moments.
Quick Facts for Planning Your Trip to Switzerland
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh (depends on the region)
- Getting Around: Swiss Travel Pass = your best friend for unlimited trains, boats, and buses
- Best Time to Go: Late spring to early fall (May–September) for hiking and lake hangs, winter (Dec–March) for snow days
- Plug Type: Type J — don’t forget that travel adapter
Is 7 days in Switzerland Enough?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: When I first visited Switzerland, I spent two full weeks exploring—and I loved every second of it. But I also know that not everyone can carve out that much time. That’s why I truly believe 7 days in Switzerland is the perfect amount for travelers who want a well-rounded, meaningful experience.
It all comes down to traveling mindfully—being present in each place instead of constantly looking ahead to the next stop.
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7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary
Before my trip, I made a list of places I didn’t want to miss, plus a few bonus stops I could squeeze in if time allowed. Having that loose plan made the whole trip feel more relaxed—and way more fun. Let’s jump into the ultimate 7-day itinerary in Switzerland.
Day 1: Arrive in Zurich
If you’re flying in from the States like I did, this is likely a big travel day. I have learned from experience that it isn’t always best to hit the ground running after traveling for a half/full day.
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and where most international flights land. When I landed, the airport was very easy to navigate, with luggage and where to hop on the train. Score!
Morning: Stretch Legs & Fresh Acai Bowls
So, to start off your trip in Switzerland, the first day in Zurich is going to be more chill, filled with healthy, delicious foods and movement to stretch those legs.
The city may be a financial hub, but it also has some really cool neighborhoods, amazing food, and outdoor spots that are the perfect place to relax.
Travel Tip: Pick up your Swiss Travel Pass at the airport train station or pre-order it online to activate it upon arrival. Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station) is your hub for travel across the country.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel and dropped off your bags, I love exploring Old Town and admiring the stunning architecture. It’s a lovely way to start your 7-day adventure in Switzerland.
After walking around for a bit, stop in at Roots for a fresh acai bowl with toppings of bananas, blueberries, goji berries, or other fresh options. After recharging with a delicious bowl of goodness, the Swiss National Museum is nearby if you want to learn about the Swiss history and culture.
Afternoon: Famous Churches & Mountain Adventure
The Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches are also located in Switzerland. I recommend getting there early to beat the rest of the tourists, I promise that pictures do not do these churches justice.
Not a big museum buff? No biggie! I’m big on adventure, and there are great alternative options in the area. If you want to catch some of the best views of Zurich, visit the car-free mountain of Uetliberg. It’s about a 20-minute ride to the destination from Zurich.
There are jaw-dropping views from the top, soak up the fresh air, the Swiss Alps, city lights, and the glimmering lake. If you want to be even more active, there are plenty of trails to hike on Uetliberg.
After a short adventure to the mountains, check out Zufreeden. It’s a fully dedicated gluten-free bakery known for serving up the best gluten-free treats—plus, they offer vegan and lactose-free options too.
Evening: Extra Activities That I’ve Loved in Zurich
💎 Climb the Freitag Tower: A hidden gem that might sound strange. This tower is made from recycled shipping containers and includes a hidden cafe and shopping center inside.
💎 Lake Zurich: Stroll or bike along the waterfront trail and enjoy a coffee-to-go, street performances, or a boat cruise on the lake.
💎 Tour the Lindt Chocolate Factory: Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you. Click here to purchase entry tickets.
Where to Stay in Zurich:
✅ Luxury: Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich or Storchen Zürich
✅ Mid-Range: Zurich Swiss Chocolate by Fassbind
✅ Budget: Green Marmot Capsule Hotel Zürich
Day 2: Lucerne
This morning, hop on a direct train from Zurich to Lucerne—it takes about 45 minutes, and like most train rides in Switzerland, it’s scenic and stress-free. Grab a window seat, sip a coffee, and watch the countryside roll by.
Lucerne wasn’t as wild with tourists as I expected, and I was beyond grateful for that. Don’t get me wrong, it’s an active city. The locals and visitors I spoke with in Lucerne love immersing themselves in the city’s rich history, savoring Swiss culture and wine, and learning about its medieval past.
Morning: Chill Lake Vibes & Iconic Bridges
Start your day with a stroll along Lake Lucerne—the water here is so clear it looks fake (it’s not). You’ll pass swans, mountain reflections, and a calm Swiss energy.
Make your way to Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, adorned with 17th-century paintings and vibrant flower boxes that appear in nearly every visitor’s photo library.
Lunch with a View
Time for something delicious. Head to Mill’Feuille, near the River Reuss in Lucerne. The food is fresh, the views are unreal, and their wine list? Chef’s kiss. Grab a table on the terrace and soak it all in.
Afternoon: Mount Pilatus
Ready to kick things up a notch? Take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway or hop on the Pilatus Gondola to the top of Mount Pilatus. You’ll climb over 2,000 meters and land on a rugged peak with panoramic views of the Alps.
The views from the summit are incredible, and you can descend by boat and bus for a scenic round-trip.
If you’re like me and crave a little adrenaline, hit the Pilatus rope park (seasonal) or hike one of the short ridge trails. It’s just enough of a thrill to balance out the slow morning, and the views are 100% worth it.
Evening Wind-Down
Head back into Lucerne in the evening, wander the Old Town’s painted buildings, and maybe grab a gelato or a glass of wine by the water before turning in.
Where to Stay in Lucerne:
✅ Hotel des Balances: Elegant riverside hotel with gourmet dining and postcard-worthy views.
✅ Backpackers Lucerne: Budget-friendly, clean, and right by the lake.
Day 3: Interlaken
Catch a morning train from Lucerne to Interlaken—it’s about 2 hours and easy to navigate. The views on the way are reason enough to stay awake for the whole ride.
Interlaken is my favorite place in the world. Interlaken isn’t just pretty—it’s adrenaline-packed. This is the place to jump out of planes, paraglide over lakes, raft down wild rivers, and bungee jump off cliffs.
If your idea of fun involves your heart racing at 100 mph, Interlaken is your dream come true.
And for those who prefer their adventure a little slower, there’s hiking—lots of it. From easy scenic walks to hardcore alpine treks, the trails here are unreal.
Interlaken also has some of the best spa retreats if you need to loosen up from your travels. There are many reasons why Interlaken is on this 7 days in Switzerland itinerary.
Morning: Go Skydiving Over the Alps
Let’s be real—this is the place to skydive. You’ll see the peaks of the Bernese Alps, the lakes, and the valley below. The adrenaline hits hard, and so does the beauty.
You’ll want to book your jump in advance—spots go fast, especially during peak season.
Note: I have my skydiving license and am allowed to jump solo. For those without a license, you will be jumping tandem with an instructor.
Afternoon: Lake Brienz + Harder Kulm Viewpoint
If you’re up for one more (low-effort) adventure, take the funicular up to Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain. The ride only takes about 10 minutes and brings you to a panoramic viewpoint with sweeping views over the town and both lakes.
There’s also a restaurant up top if you want to grab a drink or an early dinner with a view.
Where to Eat
For a real meal, I recommend Aarmuhle Restaurant & Bar, right on the edge of Lake Thun. It’s relaxed but well-done—good wine, great view, and amazing burgers.
Evening: Live Music & Hostel Vibes
Cap off your day at Balmers Hostel. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth checking out for the live music, cozy courtyard, and electric atmosphere. It’s been around forever and always draws a good crowd—easygoing, outdoorsy people from all over.
Quick rundown of the top adrenaline activities in Interlaken:
🚀 Paragliding: A unique view while soaring above turquoise lakes with the Alps in the background.
🚀 Skydiving: If you’ve ever wanted to free-fall with 360 degrees of wicked mountains, this is for you.
🚀 Canyoning: Scrambling, jumping, and sliding through gorges like a true explorer.
🚀 Schynige Platte: One of the most scenic ridge hikes in Switzerland (via Swiss Travel Pass).
Where to Stay in Interlaken:
✅ Hotel Interlaken: A historic and charming hotel with a lovely garden setting.
✅ Balmers Hostel: Oldest private hostel with a playful, comfy, and vibrant setting. Not family-friendly, must be 18+.
Day 4: Lauterbrunnen & Gimmelwald
This is where things slow down a bit but stay just as awe-inspiring. Keeping with your vibe: grounded, scenic, and just the right mix of peaceful and adventurous.
Catch a morning train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen—it takes around 20 minutes, and the views feel like a storybook. The valley is narrow and steep, with cliffs on either side and waterfalls pouring down from every direction.
Fun Fact: Lauterbrunnen is known as the valley of 72 waterfalls.
Morning: Explore Lauterbrunnen Valley
Start with a walk through the valley. Staubbach Falls, right outside the train station, is the easiest to spot—tall and misty, and super photogenic. But don’t stop there. If you want to stretch your legs, take the flat trail that runs along the valley floor.
You’ll pass small farms, wildflowers, and more waterfalls than you can count. If you’re traveling to Switzerland, this is pretty much on everyone’s 7 days itinerary in Switzerland.
For something a little more hidden, check out Trümmelbach Falls, a series of glacial waterfalls tucked inside the cliff. You take an elevator (!) into the rock, and it’s loud, raw, and honestly kind of humbling.
Lunch Spot
Grab lunch at Airtime Café in Lauterbrunnen. Great coffee, easy sandwiches/treats, and a casual vibe. It’s a nice break before heading higher up into the mountains. They have gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.
Afternoon: Gimmelwald – Small, Quiet, Unreal
From Lauterbrunnen, take the cable car to Stechelberg, then hop on another up to Gimmelwald. This tiny village clings to the cliffs and feels like a well-kept secret. No cars, barely any tourists, just a handful of homes, cows, and some of the best mountain views you’ll ever see.
Walk around the village (it won’t take long), sit on a bench with a snack or a beer, and just be. This is one of those places where doing nothing feels like doing everything.
Optional Hike
If you’re up for a little more movement, there’s a mellow trail from Gimmelwald to Mürren—another car-free mountain village with more restaurants and hotels. It’s about 45 minutes and mostly flat, with views that make it fly by.
You can take the cable car back down to Lauterbrunnen from there. I loved this hike and all of the different viewpoints of the area.
Evening: Back to Interlaken
If you want to stay in the area, there are plenty of hotels in Lauterbrunnen with the charming mountain lodge vibe. Otherwise, head back to Interlaken in the evening—trains and cable cars run often, and the journey back is just as scenic in reverse.
If you’re not too tired, grab a late dinner or just wander the quiet streets before turning in.
Extra Activities That I’ve Loved in the Lauterbrunnen Area
💎 Jungfrau: Visit the highest train station in Europe with snow, ice, and panoramic views.
💎 Sphinx Observatory: Step out onto the platform and take in views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest in the Alps.
💎 Ice Palace: Walk through gleaming tunnels carved into the glacier, featuring ice sculptures.
💎 Snow Fun Park: Try sledding, snow tubing, or just enjoy the snow, even in summer!
Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen:
✅ Arenas Resort Victoria: If you feel like a luxury stay, this hotel gives castle vibes and has an incredible spa.
✅ Jungfrau Lodge Hotel: Affordable and incredible views.
Day 5: Zermatt
You’ll take the train from Interlaken to Zermatt (about 2.5–3 hours with a few transfers), and the second you arrive, your jaw will drop. It’s car-free, which makes the whole town feel peaceful in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re there.
Whether you’re into luxury or keeping things simple, Zermatt works—it’s high-end without being over the top, and still full of down-to-earth adventures.
Morning: Stroll the Town + Matterhorn Moments
Start your day with a walk through Zermatt’s village—wooden chalets, cozy cafés, and clear views of the Matterhorn in the distance. It’s that same mountain you’ve seen on Toblerone bars, and yes, I absolutely brought one with me just to get a photo with it in the background. And of course, to nibble on while I hike.
If you’re into shopping, this is a good spot to browse—Zermatt has everything from Swiss watches to outdoor gear to handmade chocolate.
Afternoon: 5 Lakes Hike
In the afternoon, lace up your boots for the 5-Seenweg (5 Lakes Hike). This was one of my favorite hikes of the trip—totally doable but still feels like you’re deep in the mountains. The trail takes you past five alpine lakes, each with its own look and reflection of the Matterhorn on a clear day.
It’s about 2.5 hours of walking (not too steep), and you can get to the trail via the Sunnegga funicular.
Similar Posts:
What to Wear Hiking in Switzerland: Complete Packing List
Dinner Spot
Treat yourself tonight at Chez Vrony—up in the mountains with unreal views, a cozy vibe, and traditional dishes done right. It’s a splurge, but worth it after a day outside.
Before my trip, I did a lot of research and discovered this hidden gem. I even planned an entire day around making sure we could visit, enjoy some wine, and share a few appetizers.
Heads up: Reservations are required and can only be made on the day you plan to visit.
Where to Stay in Zermatt:
✅ Hotel Post: Top-rated hotel in the region
✅ Hotel Bellerive: Best hotel for skiing trips
✅ CERVO Mountain Resort: For those who want a luxurious stay, this resort is for you.
Day 6: Zermatt
Morning: Paraglide Over the Matterhorn
Start the day with a once-in-a-lifetime kind of thrill—paragliding over Zermatt. You’ll launch from a high ridge and float with panoramic views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and the whole valley below.
You’ll fly tandem with an experienced guide, so you just have to run a few steps and enjoy the ride.
Book this early (especially in peak season).
Late Morning: Coffee + Chill Walk
After that rush, head back into town for a warm drink and something sweet. Fuchs Bakery is a local favorite with cozy vibes and a killer hot chocolate.
Walk it off along the edge of town—you’ll find plenty of peaceful paths and benches to soak it all in without overdoing it.
Afternoon Options (Choose Your Adventure)
Depending on the season, Zermatt has a few solid ways to spend your afternoon:
💎 Winter/Spring:
Go skiing or snowboarding at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise—Europe’s highest ski area. Even in the off-season, there’s usually something open up top.
💎 Summer/Fall:
Go for another hike—Gorner Gorge is short but dramatic, with wooden walkways over rushing turquoise water. Or hit the Glacier Palace, where you can walk inside the actual glacier through tunnels of blue ice.
💎 Anytime:
Try ice skating at the open-air rink in town (seasonal), or hit the spa at your hotel for a steamy soak with a view.
Similar Posts:
Zermatt in Winter: 23 Top Things to Do for Skiers & Non-Skiers
Dinner Spot
Wrap up the day at Brown Cow Pub. This pub is laid-back, specializes in good burgers, and cozy vibes. It’s casual, affordable, and you’ll leave with a full stomach and great memories.
Day 7: Montreux
After six days in the mountains, Montreux is the cool-down. You’ll take the train from Zermatt to Montreux (about 2.5 hours). It’s right on the edge of Lake Geneva, with a relaxed, slightly French flair that shows off a completely different side of Switzerland.
This is your day to slow down, breathe, and soak it all in before heading home.
Morning: Stroll the Lakeside
Montreux’s lakefront is its crown jewel, lined with flowers, sculptures, and views of the French Alps across the water. Take a long walk along the lakefront, grab a coffee at Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Zurcher, and just ease into the day.
You’ll pass gardens, vintage boats, and probably a few swans. It’s calm in the best way.
Midday: Château de Chillon
Walk or take a short bus ride to Château de Chillon, a lakeside castle that looks straight out of a movie. It’s one of the most visited spots in Switzerland, but for good reason—it’s moody, historic, and beautifully preserved. The views from the towers are incredible.
You can explore inside (it’s self-guided), or just hang around the outside and take it all in.
From Montreux: 2-Hour Riviera Cruise Tickets
Lunch Spot
Head back into town and grab lunch at Le Palais Oriental—a Moroccan-inspired spot right on the lake. The food is packed with flavor and goes excellently with a glass of wine and terrace seating.
Afternoon: Do Nothing (Or Almost Nothing)
This is your time. Read by the lake. Hit up a spa. Browse a few local shops. Or just find a bench and people-watch.
If you’re into music history, the Queen: The Studio Experience exhibit is tucked into Montreux’s casino. Queen recorded several albums here, and it’s a low-key but super cool stop.
Looking for something else? Visit this UNESCO-listed wine region with terraced vineyards that date back to Roman times. Enjoy a tasting at a local cellar.
Evening: One Last Sunset
For your final night, grab a drink somewhere with a view. The Funky Claude’s Bar inside the Fairmont is swanky but not stuffy—good cocktails, live jazz if you’re lucky, and a great place to reflect on a wild week.
The train from Montreux to Geneva Airport takes about 1.5 hours. If you’re continuing your travels or flying home, be sure to plan ahead for airport connections. Fortunately, Swiss airports are well-organized and easy to navigate.
If you have time in Geneva in the morning, I highly recommend stopping by Beau Coffee Shop for a pastry and coffee. They serve the best matcha lattes along with delicious gluten-free and lactose-free pastries.
Where to Stay in Montreux:
✅ Fairmont Le Montreux Palace: Flawless service, lakeside views, historic charm with contemporary luxury.
How to Get Around Switzerland
Now that we have nailed down the perfect 7-day itinerary in Switzerland. Let’s talk more about transportation and the best ways to travel within the country.
✔️ Train Travel: The train system in Switzerland is reliable, scenic, and well-connected between major cities and small towns.
✔️ Get a Swiss Travel Pass: Offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, boats, and free museum entries. Ideal for a 7-day Switzerland itinerary.
Check out the ticket options here.
✔️ Use the SBB Mobile App: Check train schedules, book tickets, and get real-time updates all in one place.
✔️ No car needed for most travelers: Public transportation is very user-friendly in Switzerland and covers nearly all tourist areas. Driving is optional, but not necessary.
Final Thoughts: 7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary
7 days in Switzerland is the perfect amount of time to experience a little bit of everything—mountains, lakes, adventure, and culture—without feeling rushed.
You don’t need to hit every single city to have a solid trip. This guide focuses on doing a few things well, with room for spontaneity and downtime.
It’s flexible, scenic, and intentionally planned to help you enjoy Switzerland without burning out. That’s how I like to travel—and if you’re here, I’m guessing you do too.
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
