Switzerland by Train Itinerary 7 Days: Alpine Peaks to Lakeside Views
Embark on a 7-day train adventure through Switzerland, connecting the dramatic peaks of the Bernese Oberland and Valais with the serene beauty of Lake Geneva and central Switzerland.
- 1Lauterbrunnen
- 2Zermatt
- 3Montreux
- 4Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive in Lauterbrunnen: Valley of Waterfalls
Settle into the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and numerous waterfalls. Arrive at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and take a scenic train journey to Lauterbrunnen railway station, typically taking 2 hours 40 minutes to 2 hours 57 minutes.
Highlights
- Marvel at the iconic Staubbachfall, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe.
- Stroll through the Lauterbrunnen Valley, admiring its U-shaped glacial landscape.
- Consider a visit to the impressive Trümmelbach Falls, a series of glacier waterfalls inside the mountain.
Day 2: Alpine Adventures in Grindelwald
Take a morning train from Lauterbrunnen to Grindelwald (approx. 31m, from €11) for a day of high-alpine exploration. The earliest train departs at 01:08, and the latest return from Grindelwald is 22:30.
Highlights
- Ascend to First by cable car for panoramic views and the thrilling Cliff Walk.
- Explore the dramatic Gletscherschlucht Grindelwald, a glacier gorge with walkways.
- Hike a section of the Panoramaweg Männlichen-Kleine Scheidegg for classic Eiger views.
Day 3: Scenic Journey to Zermatt: Gateway to the Matterhorn
Enjoy a picturesque train journey from Lauterbrunnen to Zermatt (approx. 2h 18m, from €60), arriving at Zermatt, Bahnhof. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming car-free village.
Highlights
- Wander through the car-free village of Zermatt, soaking in its unique atmosphere.
- Visit the poignant Mountaineers' Cemetery, honoring climbers lost on the Matterhorn.
- Discover Hinterdorf, the historic district with preserved wooden barns and houses.
Day 4: Matterhorn Majesty from Gornergrat
Dedicate your day to experiencing the iconic Matterhorn from various breathtaking viewpoints around Zermatt.
Highlights
- Take the Gornergrat cog railway for legendary panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
- Hike to Stellisee, a picturesque alpine lake famous for its Matterhorn reflections.
- Visit the Sunnegga viewpoint for another classic Matterhorn panorama.
Day 5: Lakeside Charm in Montreux
Travel by train from Zermatt to Montreux (approx. 2h 17m, from €26), arriving at Montreux station. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Geneva and its historic sites.
Highlights
- Explore the medieval Chillon Castle, set dramatically on Lake Geneva.
- Stroll along the Montreux Lakeside Promenade, adorned with flowers and public art.
- See the beloved Freddie Mercury Statue, a tribute to the Queen singer's connection to Montreux.
Day 6: Historic Lucerne: Chapel Bridge and Old Town
Embark on a train journey from Montreux to Lucerne (approx. 2h 38m, from €41), arriving at Luzern Bhf. Spend the afternoon discovering Lucerne's iconic landmarks and charming old town.
Highlights
- Walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, admiring its historic paintings and the Water Tower.
- Visit the poignant Lion Monument, a memorial carved into rock.
- Explore the Weinmarkt, a preserved old town square with frescoed buildings.
Day 7: Depart from Lucerne
Enjoy a final morning in Lucerne before departing. The itinerary concludes in Lucerne, with convenient train access to Zurich Airport (ZRH), typically taking 1 hour 2 minutes to 1 hour 17 minutes.
Highlights
- Revisit the Lion Monument for a quiet moment of reflection.
- Discover the Sammlung Rosengart, home to works by Picasso and Klee.
- Explore the Swiss Museum of Transport, a top family-friendly museum.
Switzerland
