Germany and Switzerland Itinerary: Alpine Peaks and Historic Cities by Train
Embark on a 7-day rail adventure through Germany and Switzerland, starting in Munich, exploring the cultural richness of Lucerne, and concluding in the art-filled city of Basel. This journey combines vibrant city exploration with scenic train travel.
- 1Munich
- 2Lucerne
- 3Basel
Day 1: Arrive in Munich and Old Town Charm
Your German adventure begins in Munich. After arriving at Munich Airport (MUC), transfer to the city centre to settle in and enjoy an initial exploration of its historic heart.
Highlights
- Travel from Munich Airport (MUC) to München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Central Station) via S-Bahn (35-45 minutes) or Lufthansa Express Bus (45 minutes).
- Wander through Marienplatz, Munich's central square, to admire the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel.
- Explore the surrounding historic Old Town, soaking in the Bavarian atmosphere.
Day 2: Munich's Royal History and Green Spaces
Dedicate a full day to discovering Munich's imperial past and relaxing in its expansive urban park, offering a blend of history and nature.
Highlights
- Step back in time at the Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of Bavarian monarchs, with its lavish rooms and treasury.
- Stroll through the vast English Garden, one of the world's largest urban parks, featuring meadows, a river, and beer gardens.
- Consider trying traditional Bavarian cuisine, such as Weißwurst or Schweinsbraten, at a classic beer hall like Hofbräuhaus München.
Day 3: Day Trip to Salzburg: Mozart's City
Take a train journey to Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart, and immerse yourself in its musical heritage and impressive fortress. Trains from Munich to Salzburg start from €18.
Highlights
- Catch an early train from München Hbf to Salzburg Hbf, with the earliest departure at 00:02 and a journey time of around 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Visit Mozart's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the famous composer's early life.
- Ascend to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a magnificent Baroque hilltop fortress offering panoramic city views. The latest return train from Salzburg to Munich departs at 23:58.
Day 4: Scenic Train to Lucerne
Enjoy a picturesque train journey from Munich into the heart of Switzerland, arriving in Lucerne, where you'll begin your exploration with its iconic wooden bridge. Train tickets from Munich to Lucerne start from €32.
Highlights
- Board a train from München Hbf to Luzern Bhf, with an average journey time of 5 hours 11 minutes.
- Upon arrival, take an evening stroll along the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Lucerne's famous 14th-century covered wooden bridge.
- Admire the adjacent Water Tower, a historic octagonal landmark on the Reuss River.
Day 5: Lucerne's Lakeside Charm and Culture
Spend a full day exploring Lucerne's diverse attractions, from its renowned transport museum to its poignant historical monuments and beautiful lake.
Highlights
- Discover the Swiss Museum of Transport, a family-friendly museum showcasing trains, planes, cars, and interactive exhibits.
- Reflect at the Lion Monument, a moving rock-cut sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards.
- Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Lucerne, perhaps with a leisurely walk along the Nationalquai promenade.
Day 6: Art and Architecture in Basel
Travel by train to Basel, a city celebrated for its art and architecture, and spend the afternoon exploring its world-class museums and historic cathedral. Train tickets from Lucerne to Basel start from €22.
Highlights
- Take a train from Luzern Bhf to Basel SBB, with an average journey time of 1 hour 9 minutes.
- Immerse yourself in art at the Kunstmuseum Basel, one of Europe’s leading art museums.
- Visit the impressive Basel Minster, a red sandstone cathedral overlooking the Rhine, offering superb views and rich history.
Day 7: Depart from Basel
Enjoy a final morning in Basel for some last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping before heading to the airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Explore Marktplatz, Basel’s lively market square, and admire the historic Basel Town Hall.
- Consider some last-minute souvenir shopping for local specialties like Basler Läckerli.
- Depart from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL), accessible by Bus No. 50 from Basel SBB railway station in 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, Zurich Airport (ZRH) is connected to Basel SBB by direct train (approx. 1 ho
