Switzerland Train Travel Itinerary: Alpine Peaks to Lakeside Cities
Embark on a 7-day Swiss train adventure, exploring the majestic Matterhorn in Zermatt, the adventure hub of Interlaken, the charming village of Grindelwald, and the historic beauty of Lucerne.
- 1Zermatt
- 2Interlaken
- 3Grindelwald
- 4Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive Zermatt
Arrive in the car-free village of Zermatt, settle in, and begin to soak in the iconic views of the Matterhorn.
Highlights
- Your journey begins with arrival at Zermatt railway station. For most travellers, Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the most straightforward choice, with trains departing directly from the airport terminal and requiring one change
- Zermatt is a car-free village; explore the historic Hinterdorf district with its preserved wooden barns.
- Visit the poignant Mountaineers' Cemetery, honoring climbers lost on the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
Day 2: Explore Zermatt
Dedicate your day to Zermatt's stunning high-altitude panoramas, accessible by the legendary Gornergrat railway.
Highlights
- Take the Gornergrat railway for sweeping views of the Matterhorn and many 4,000m peaks.
- Explore the Zooom the Matterhorn exhibition at Gornergrat, explaining geology and Alpine exploration.
- Consider a scenic walk to Stellisee, a picturesque Alpine lake reflecting the Matterhorn on calm days.
Day 3: Zermatt -> Interlaken
Enjoy a scenic train journey to Interlaken, then explore the town and ascend Harder Kulm for spectacular lake and mountain vistas.
Highlights
- Travel by SBB and Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn train from Zermatt, Bahnhof to Interlaken West or Ost station.
- Ascend Harder Kulm for unforgettable views over both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and the surrounding peaks.
- Stroll through Höhematte, a large open meadow in central Interlaken offering classic Jungfrau views.
Day 4: Bookable day trip from Interlaken to Wengen
Embark on a day trip to the classic Alpine village of Wengen, experiencing the Jungfrau region's majestic scenery.
Highlights
- Travel by SBB and Berner Oberland-Bahnen train from Interlaken Ost to Wengen (earliest departure 00:13).
- Explore the car-free village of Wengen and its central promenade, Dorfstrasse, for local character.
- Experience the historic Wengernalpbahn mountain railway for steep climbs and scenic views. Return to Interlaken by train (latest departure 23:57).
Day 5: Interlaken -> Grindelwald
A short train ride brings you to Grindelwald, where you can explore dramatic natural attractions and mountain experiences.
Highlights
- Travel by SBB and Berner Oberland-Bahnen train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald.
- Walk the thrilling First Cliff Walk for panoramic views and a unique perspective.
- Discover the dramatic Grindelwald Glacier Gorge with its walkways through steep rock walls.
Day 6: Grindelwald -> Lucerne
Journey through picturesque landscapes to Lucerne, a city of historic charm, and explore its iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Take a scenic train journey with SBB, Luzern-Interlaken Express, and Berner Oberland-Bahnen from Grindelwald to Luzern Bhf.
- Walk across the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge and admire the historic Water Tower.
- Explore the preserved old town square of Weinmarkt, lined with frescoed historic buildings.
Day 7: Depart Lucerne
Spend your final morning in Lucerne, visiting a renowned museum before departing from this beautiful city.
Highlights
- Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, featuring trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits.
- Enjoy a final stroll along the Rathausquai, the car-free riverside promenade.
- Depart from Lucerne railway station (Luzern Bhf). Zurich Airport (ZRH) offers direct train connections for your onward journey.
Switzerland
