10 Days Switzerland Travel Itinerary

If you have 10 days available to explore the beauty of Switzerland, here is an itinerary that will help make your trip unforgettable.

So first things first as we look at more than just visiting Switzerland but we look at some must-know to make your trip memorable.

How to get to Switzerland?

There are three ways of getting to Switzerland from any part of the world:

By air: Zurich Kloten International Airport is just about 12 kilometers away from the city center.

From the airport, you can catch a bus or take the train that will bring you to Zurich’s main station(Zurich Bahnhof).

By train: Zurich railway station(Zurich Bahnhof) is one of the busiest in Europe with excellent connections to almost all major European cities.

Depending on the train, from Paris to Zurich 4.5 hours(TGV), and Milano Centrale to Zurich 4 hours(Tren Italia).

By Bus/car: Traveling solo to Switzerland is an incredibly rewarding and unforgettable experience.

While it is easily accessible from major cities via highways, you should make sure that your vehicle has a vignette (road charge sticker) attached to the windscreen to drive in Switzerland.

Something worth mentioning about Zurich is that parking can be quite challenging.

You can find short-period parking spots (30 minutes) in the white zones but the maximum you can park is 4 hours. 

I will assume you will be using public transport buses and trains. Swiss trains and buses are very punctual, quiet, convenient, and safe plus you can easily buy a public transport ticket for the whole time you`re here.

Getting from Zurich airport to the city center

You can travel from the airport to Zurich by train, streetcar(tram line 10), shuttle bus, or taxi.

The train is the quickest way, taking about 15 minutes.  This articlehas details on all the options.

Getting from Zurich airport is easy and there are different options: A train ride that goes directly from the airport to Zurich Bahnhof. The train ticket should cost you CHF 3.40 and take 12 minutes.

If public transportation is not your thing, get a taxi from Zurich airport to the city.

Now that we have that out of the way, let`s get to why we are here:

10 Days Switzerland Travel Itinerary

Switzerland is a beautiful country filled with stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and charming cities.

With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Switzerland can be overwhelming, especially if you have limited time.

A 10-day itinerary is an excellent way to see the highlights of Switzerland while still allowing for some flexibility and relaxation.

This itinerary covers some of the most popular destinations in Switzerland, including Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and Lugano.

It also includes two scenic train rides on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, which are considered some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

With this itinerary, you’ll have the chance to experience the Swiss Alps, explore charming old towns, indulge in Swiss chocolate and cheese, and take in breathtaking views of lakes and mountains.

Day 1: Zurich

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, and it is a great starting point for your 10-day itinerary. The city is located at the northern end of Lake Zurich and is surrounded by the Swiss Alps.

Zurich is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and art galleries.

One of the best ways to explore Zurich is by wandering through the old town (Altstadt). The old town is the historic city center of Zurich and is divided into two sections by the Limmat River.

The narrow, pedestrian-only streets in Nieder dorf are lined with shops, restaurants, hotels, and the residences of the locals.

With a series of bridges, it’s easy to crisscross back and forth as you explore Zurich.

While in Zurich, make sure to visit the Fraumünster Church. The church is famous for its stained-glass windows, which were designed by Marc Chagall.

The windows are some of the most beautiful in Europe and are definitely worth seeing.

Another must-see attraction in Zurich is the Kunsthaus Zurich. The museum is home to one of the largest collections of art in Switzerland, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The museum is a great place to spend a few hours and is perfect for art lovers.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, take a stroll along Lake Zurich.

The lake is surrounded by beautiful parks and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also rent a boat and explore the lake on your own.

Overall, Zurich is a great starting point for your 10-day itinerary in Switzerland. With its beautiful architecture, museums, and art galleries, there is something for everyone in Zurich.

Day 2: Travel to Lucerne

Lucerne is a charming city located in the heart of Switzerland. It is surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps and is home to a beautiful lake.

Lucerne is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Switzerland’s nature and culture.

I assume you`ll be using public transport when in Switzerland.

Traveling by public transportation is very convenient, from Zurich, you can use the SBB regular train, the journey takes between 41 minutes to 1hr and costs 25CHF.

Morning

Start your day by exploring the cobbled streets of Lucerne’s old town. The best place to start is Lucerne’s iconic Chapel Bridge, which is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe.

The bridge is decorated with beautiful flowers and offers stunning views of the city and the lake.

After crossing the bridge, head to the Lion Monument, which is a sculpture of a dying lion carved into a rock face.

The monument is a tribute to the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. The sculpture is a masterpiece of art and is considered one of the most famous monuments in Switzerland.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a trip to Mount Pilatus, which is located just outside of Lucerne. Mount Pilatus is one of the most scenic mountains in Switzerland and offers stunning views of the Alps and panoramic views of the city of Lucerne.

To get to the top of the mountain summit, take the cable car Pilatus Railway, which is the steepest cogwheel railway in the world.

The railway takes you through beautiful forests and pastures and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the city.

Once you reach the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the mountain restaurants take a stroll around the summit, and enjoy unspoiled natural beauty using one of the many hiking trails.

You can also take a cable car down the mountain for a different perspective on the scenery.

Please note that the cogwheel train is closed from November to mid-May.

Evening

In the evening, head back to Lucerne and take a stroll along the lake. Beautiful parks and gardens surround the lake and offer stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the small villages.

You can also take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the sunset over the mountains.

Lucerne is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the city’s history and culture or enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps, and snow-capped mountains, Lucerne is a perfect destination for your Swiss itinerary.

Lucerne Chapel Bridge:

The Chapel Bridge is the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, built initially as a fortification the bridge is 650 years old.

It has since become an iconic landmark and symbol of Lucerne due to its aesthetic beauty and historical significance.

he tower is 39 meters in width and 34.5 meters in height.

The bridge has served different purposes over its lifetime including being a prison, and a lookout post but mostly for linking the town.

Visit Lucerne Old Town

The first thing worth mentioning is that the old town is a car-free walk all you want without worrying about any traffic.

Enjoy the old town with its historical-cultural details, drink water from the historical fountains as you stroll, and relive the former wine market at Mühlenplatz.

Other places in Luzern old down:

• Church or ST.Leodegar
• Jesuit Church
• Franciscan Church
• Musegg Wall and its 9 towers
• Needle dam
• Lucerne Townhall
• Weinmarkt 
• Mühlenplatz
• Kornmarkt 
• Kapellplatz.

Embarking On The Golden Round Trip By Boat From Lucerne

The adventure begins with a scenic boat cruise across Lake Lucerne, where you can admire the picturesque landscape and charming Swiss villages that line the shore.

Upon arrival at Alpnachstad, you board the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, which climbs an impressive gradient of up to 48%.

As the train ascends, you are treated to panoramic views of Alpine meadows, rugged cliffs, and sparkling mountain streams.

At the summit of Mount Pilatus, standing at 2,132 meters (7,000 feet) above sea level, visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps and the surrounding lakes.

There are numerous hiking trails, restaurants, and even a hotel if you wish to extend your stay on the mountain.

The descent from Mount Pilatus is equally thrilling, as you board the aerial cableway known as the “Dragon Ride.”

This cable car offers a bird’s-eye view of the dramatic Alpine landscape before arriving at the Fräkmüntegg station.

Finally, the journey concludes with a ride on the Panorama Gondolas, which glide gracefully over lush forests and rolling hills, back to the town of Lucerne.

The Golden Round Trip is an essential Swiss experience, offering awe-inspiring views and a true appreciation for the country’s natural wonders and engineering feats.
For those visiting Switzerland, especially in the summer months, this once-in-a-lifetime journey to the summit of Mount Pilatus is not to be missed.

Visit the Dying Lion Monument

Lucerne’s dying lion monument is a famous sandstone sculpture that has held a place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, for centuries.

Located on the edge of Lake Lucerne, the dying lion is an homage to the soldiers who were ready to pay with their lives to defend.

The Lion Monument is visited by around 1.4 million people every year, but if you go back in history.

You`ll learn that the monument was created to honor Swiss guards who died protecting the life of  King Louis XVI of France and paid with their lives.

The lion still has appeal worldwide to this day. American author Mark Twain called it “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.”

I don`t speak Latin and maybe I should I don`t know but “they say” Its Latin inscription roughly translates as ‘to the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss’.

Day 3: Interlaken

On the third day of the 10-day Switzerland itinerary, visitors will find themselves in the charming town of Interlaken.

This picturesque town is located between two stunning lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and is surrounded by the breathtaking Swiss Alps.

One of the main attractions in Interlaken is the Harder Kulm, a mountain peak that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area.

Visitors can take a funicular up to the top of the mountain and enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck.

Another must-see attraction in Interlaken is the St. Beatus Caves, a series of underground caves that are filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about the history and geology of the area.

For those interested in history, the Oberhofen Castle is a must-visit destination.

This 13th-century castle is located on the shores of Lake Thun and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and furnishings.

For a more adventurous experience, visitors can take a trip to the Trummelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls that are located inside a mountain.

Visitors can take a lift up to the falls and explore the caves and tunnels that lead to the falls.

Overall, Interlaken offers visitors a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

With so much to see and do, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming Swiss town.

Day 4: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch

On the fourth day of the 10-day Switzerland itinerary, visitors can take a day trip to Jungfraujoch, one of the most popular destinations in the Jungfrau region, and a UNESCO world heritage site.

Jungfraujoch is known for its stunning views of the Swiss Alps, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

To get to Jungfraujoch, visitors will need to take a train from Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg, where they will transfer to the Jungfrau Railway.

The train ride to the top of Jungfraujoch takes approximately 45 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Once at the top, visitors can explore the Jungfraujoch Sphinx Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the Alps and houses a variety of scientific instruments.

The Ice Palace, located nearby, features a series of ice sculptures and tunnels carved into the glacier.

There are also several hiking trails around Jungfraujoch, including the Eiger Trail, which offers stunning views of the Eiger North Face.

Visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants on site, which offer traditional Swiss cuisine and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

It’s important to note that Jungfraujoch is located at a high altitude, and visitors should take precautions to prevent altitude sickness.

It’s recommended to drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed while exploring the area.

Overall, a day trip to Jungfraujoch is a must-see for anyone visiting Switzerland, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

Day 5: Day Trip to Lake Brienz

On the fifth day of your 10-day Switzerland itinerary, visitors can take a day trip to Lake Brienz, one of Switzerland’s most idyllic lakes.

Located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Lake Brienz is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

To get to Lake Brienz, visitors can take a train from Interlaken Ost to Brienz, which takes around 20 minutes.

From Brienz, you can take a boat trip across the lake to explore the surrounding area. The boat trip offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains.

You can hop off at various stops along the way to explore charming towns and villages, such as Iseltwald and Giessbach.

One of the highlights of a trip to Lake Brienz is a visit to the Giessbach Falls.

These stunning waterfalls are located on the eastern shore of the lake and are accessible by boat or on foot.

Visitors can take a funicular railway up to the falls and enjoy a stunning view of the cascading water.

For those looking for a more active day out, there are plenty of hiking trails around Lake Brienz. One popular hike is the Panorama Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

You can also rent bikes and cycle around the lake, or try your hand at water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Overall, a day trip to Lake Brienz is a must-do for anyone visiting Switzerland.

With its stunning scenery, range of activities, and charming towns and villages, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this incredible country.

Day 6: Zermatt

On the sixth day of your 10-day Switzerland itinerary, you will explore more of Zermatt.

This charming town is surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, and there are plenty of activities to do to make the most out of the day.

One of the highlights of Zermatt is the Matterhorn, the iconic mountain peak that is visible from almost every corner of the town.

Visitors can take a cable car to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is the highest cable car station in Europe. From there, they can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

For those who prefer a more active day, Zermatt offers plenty of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness.

You can hike to the Gornergrat, which offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains.

Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride to the Gornergrat and enjoy the views from the comfort of the train.

Zermatt is also known for its skiing and snowboarding, and visitors can hit the slopes in the winter months.

There are plenty of ski resorts in the area, and even beginners can take lessons and learn how to ski.

In the afternoon, visitors can explore the town of Zermatt. The town has a pedestrianized center that is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Sample Swiss chocolate, buy souvenirs, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the views of the Matterhorn.

Overall, Zermatt is a must-visit destination in Switzerland, and visitors should plan to spend at least a day exploring this beautiful town.

Day 7: Glacier Express Trip

On the seventh day of your 10-day Switzerland itinerary, you can embark on a scenic journey on the Glacier Express train.

The Glacier Express is known for being the slowest express train in the world, taking approximately 8 hours to travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

The leisurely pace allows passengers to fully appreciate the stunning views of the Swiss Alps and picturesque villages along the way.

The journey on the Glacier Express is a unique experience that should not be missed. The train features panoramic windows that provide uninterrupted views of the beautiful scenery.

Glacier Express journey includes a stop in the charming town of Chur, known for its well-preserved Old Town and historic buildings.

Travelers can also enjoy a delicious meal on board the train, featuring local Swiss cuisine and wines.

The Glacier Express is a great way to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Switzerland.

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season. First-class tickets offer additional amenities, such as more comfortable seating and complimentary snacks and drinks. 

Remember 1st class costs the double price so get your snacks and drinks before boarding then use 2nd class which is also as comfortable.

Overall, the Glacier Express trip is a highlight of the 10-day Switzerland itinerary and a must-do for any traveler visiting the country.

Day 8: Bernina Express Trip

On the eighth day of the Switzerland 10-day itinerary, travelers can experience the breathtaking and unforgettable  Bernina Express Train journey.

The Bernina Express is an iconic train ride that takes passengers through the Swiss and Italian Alps, showcasing stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine forests.

The train ride starts at Chur in Switzerland and ends at Tirano in Italy, covering a distance of 144 km.

This journey takes around four hours, during which passengers can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Swiss Alps and the Poschiavo Valley.

You`ll pass through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, including the famous Landwasser Viaduct, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can book your ticket here

Purchase tickets for the Bernina Express online or at the train station. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Passengers can choose between first and second-class tickets, with first class providing more spacious seating and complimentary snacks and drinks.

During the journey, passengers can also enjoy audio guides in multiple languages, providing information about the history and culture of the region.

There are also panoramic windows on the train, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the stunning scenery.

The train stops at several stations along the way, including St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Poschiavo, providing opportunities for passengers to explore these charming alpine towns.

Overall, the Bernina Express Train journey is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Switzerland.

It is a perfect way to witness the beauty of the Swiss Alps and the surrounding region and enjoy the alpine meadows providing unforgettable memories and stunning photo opportunities.

Day 9: Lake Lugano

On the ninth day of the Swiss itinerary, you should get to explore the stunning Lake Lugano.

Located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of Switzerland, Lake Lugano is a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

One of the best ways to explore the lake is by taking a scenic round-trip cruise from town. The cruise offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque towns along the lake.

Alternatively, travelers can also use the ferry to hop from point to point along the lake or ride the ferry to Gandria and walk back to town from here.

For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

The Olive Trail is a popular trail that takes hikers through olive groves and vineyards, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

In addition to the natural beauty, there are also several charming towns around the lake that are worth exploring in a short stay.

Lugano, the largest town on the lake, is known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, high-end shopping, and delicious Italian cuisine.

Other towns worth visiting include Morcote, a picturesque village with narrow streets and colorful houses, and Gandria, a quaint fishing village with a rich history.

Overall, Lake Lugano is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Switzerland.

With its stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and endless outdoor activities, it offers something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• This 10-day itinerary covers some of the most popular destinations in Switzerland, including Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and Lugano.
• The itinerary includes two scenic train rides on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, which are considered some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
• With this itinerary, you’ll have the chance to experience the Swiss Alps, explore charming old towns, indulge in Swiss chocolate and cheese, and take in breathtaking views of lakes and mountains.

Day 10: Back To Zurich

After spending nine days exploring the beautiful cities and towns of Switzerland, it’s time to head back to Zurich.

Depending on your preferences, you can take a direct train from St. Moritz to Zurich or take a detour and visit some other places on the way.

If you decide to take a detour, one of the most popular options is to take the Bernina Express from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy(yes Italy the country).

This scenic train journey takes you through the Swiss Alps and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and valleys. From Tirano, you can take a train back to Zurich via Milan.

If you prefer to go straight to Zurich, there are several direct trains that run from St. Moritz to Zurich every day.

The journey takes around 3.5 hours, and the trains are comfortable and well-equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and food service.

Once you arrive in Zurich, you can spend the rest of the day exploring this vibrant city. Zurich is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Some of the must-visit attractions in Zurich include the Old Town, Grossmünster Church, Fraumünster Church, and the Swiss National Museum.

If you have some extra time, you can also take a boat trip of Lake Zurich or visit the nearby Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe.

And of course, no trip to Zurich is complete without trying some of the local specialties like Swiss chocolate, cheese fondue, and raclette.

Overall, Day 10 is a great way to wrap up your 10-day itinerary in Switzerland.

Whether you choose to take a scenic train journey, visit places like St. Gallen or head straight to Zurich International Airport, or relax in a hotel, there’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much would a 10-day Switzerland itinerary cost?

The cost of a 10-day Switzerland itinerary depends on various factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.

On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around 2,500 to 3,500 Swiss francs per person, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around 3,500 to 4,500 Swiss francs per person.

Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of 5,000 Swiss francsper person. However, these costs can vary depending on the season, location, and personal preferences for things like accommodation because luxury hotels are quite expensive.

What is the best itinerary for Switzerland?

The best itinerary for Switzerland depends on personal preferences and interests.

However, a popular itinerary is starting in Zurich and spending a few days exploring the city before heading to Lucerne and Interlaken.

From there, travelers can visit the Jungfrau region, Zermatt, and Montreux before ending the trip in Geneva. This itinerary offers a mix of city exploration and outdoor activities.

Are 10 days enough for Switzerland?

While 10 days is enough time to see some of Switzerland’s highlights, it may not be enough to see everything the country has to offer.

Travelers should prioritize their must-see destinations and activities and plan accordingly.

Additionally, travelers should consider the time it takes to travel between destinations and factor that into their itinerary.

How many days is enough in Switzerland?

The number of days needed to explore Switzerland depends on personal preferences and interests.

However, a minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to see some of the country’s highlights.

For those who want to explore more areas or engage in outdoor more activities, 10-14 days may be necessary.

Switzerland 10-day itinerary summer

A 10-day Switzerland itinerary in the summer can include visiting cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva, as well as exploring the Swiss Alps.

Travelers can hike in the Jungfrau region or the Jura region, visit the Matterhorn in Zermatt and take a scenic train ride to St. Moritz. Additionally, travelers can enjoy water activities on Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne.

Switzerland itinerary 14 days

A 14-day Switzerland itinerary can include exploring cities like Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, and Geneva.

Additionally, travelers can take scenic train rides through the Swiss Alps, hike in the Jungfrau region and Matterhorn, and visit the picturesque villages of Appenzell and Gruyeres.

This itinerary offers a mix of city exploration and outdoor activities, providing a comprehensive Swiss experience.