France & Switzerland Itinerary 14 Days: Alpine Peaks to Parisian Charm
Embark on a 14-day journey through the cultural heart of France and the majestic landscapes of Switzerland. Begin in the iconic city of Paris, explore the historic streets of Lyon, and then venture into the breathtaking Swiss Alps, concluding your adventure in picturesque Lucerne.
- 1Paris
- 2Lyon
- 3Interlaken
- 4Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive in Paris
Arrive in the City of Lights, settle into your accommodation, and begin your French adventure with an evening stroll to the iconic Eiffel Tower, followed by a relaxing Seine River cruise.
Highlights
- Transfer from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to central Paris via the RER B train, a journey of approximately 40 minutes.
- See the illuminated Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Parisian romance and engineering marvel.
- Enjoy a scenic Seine River cruise, offering unique perspectives of the city's landmarks.
Day 2: Parisian Art and Gardens
Immerse yourself in Paris's rich artistic heritage at the world-renowned Louvre Museum, then unwind with a leisurely walk through the elegant Tuileries Garden.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and ancient collections at the Louvre Museum.
- Stroll through the beautiful Tuileries Garden, connecting the Louvre to Place de la Concorde.
Day 3: Montmartre's Artistic Charm
Explore the charming, bohemian streets of Montmartre, visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and soak in the district's unique artistic atmosphere.
Highlights
- Wander through Montmartre, known for its artistic history and picturesque squares.
- Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views over Paris.
Day 4: Day Trip to Historic Rouen
Take a train day trip to Rouen, a city rich in history, to admire its magnificent Gothic Cathedral, explore the historic Place du Vieux-Marché, and delve into the story of Joan of Arc.
Highlights
- Travel by SNCF TER train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen Rive-Droite, with tickets starting from €10.
- Marvel at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, famously painted by Monet.
- Visit the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was martyred, and the Historial Jeanne d'Arc museum. Earliest outbound departure from Paris is 05:15, latest return from Rouen is 23:11.
Day 5: Travel to Lyon
Journey by train from Paris to Lyon, France's gastronomic capital. Upon arrival, explore the Renaissance architecture of Vieux Lyon and savour a traditional Lyonnaise dinner.
Highlights
- Take a Trenitalia or SNCF TGV INOUI train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part Dieu, with tickets starting from €24.
- Wander through Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site with traboules and historic buildings.
- Enjoy a classic Lyonnaise dinner, perhaps trying Quenelles De Brochet or Salade Lyonnaise.
Day 6: Day Trip to Picturesque Annecy
Enjoy a scenic train day trip to Annecy, often called the "Venice of the Alps." Explore its picturesque Old Town, visit the iconic Palais de l'Isle, and admire the beautiful Lake Annecy.
Highlights
- Travel by SNCF TER train from Lyon Part Dieu to Annecy, with tickets starting from €17.
- Discover the charming canals and pastel-coloured houses of Annecy's Vieille Ville.
- See the Palais de l'Isle, a medieval island palace and former prison. Earliest outbound departure from Lyon is 05:00, latest return from Annecy is 23:01.
Day 7: Lyon's Roman and Modern Heritage
Discover Lyon's rich history and panoramic views with visits to the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the ancient Roman Theatres, then explore the bustling Presqu'île district.
Highlights
- Ascend to the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière for stunning city vistas.
- Step back in time at the Théâtres Romains de Fourvière, ancient Roman ruins.
- Explore the Presqu'île, the central peninsula between Lyon's two rivers, known for its elegant streets and shops.
Day 8: Travel to Interlaken, Switzerland
Travel by train from Lyon into the heart of the Swiss Alps, arriving in Interlaken. Settle in and take a leisurely walk along Höhematte to admire the surrounding mountain views.
Highlights
- Take a train from Lyon Part Dieu to Interlaken, with tickets starting from €165.
- Enjoy the scenic journey as you transition from French cities to Swiss alpine landscapes.
- Stroll across Höhematte, a large open meadow offering classic views of the Jungfrau region.
Day 9: Day Trip to the Valley of 72 Waterfalls
Experience the breathtaking Lauterbrunnen Valley on a train day trip, visiting the iconic Staubbach Falls and the powerful, glacial Trümmelbach Falls.
Highlights
- Travel by SBB train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen, with tickets starting from €9.
- Witness the majestic Staubbachfall, one of Europe's highest free-falling waterfalls.
- Explore Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside the mountain. Earliest outbound departure from Interlaken is 00:28, latest return from Lauterbrunnen is 23:57.
Day 10: Interlaken's Panoramic Views
Ascend to Harder Kulm for breathtaking panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Jungfrau region, then explore the town's charming lakeside areas.
Highlights
- Take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for unforgettable alpine vistas.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.
Day 11: Travel to Lucerne
Journey by train through stunning Swiss scenery from Interlaken to Lucerne. Upon arrival, explore the iconic Chapel Bridge, the historic Water Tower, and the charming Old Town.
Highlights
- Take a SBB or Luzern-Interlaken Express train from Interlaken West to Luzern Bhf, with tickets starting from €21.
- Walk across the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Europe's oldest covered wooden bridge.
- Admire the Water Tower, a medieval landmark next to the Chapel Bridge.
Day 12: Day Trip to Cosmopolitan Zurich
Take a train day trip to Zurich, Switzerland's largest city. Stroll along the famous Bahnhofstrasse, visit the impressive Grossmünster church, and enjoy the serene Lake Zurich promenade.
Highlights
- Travel by SBB train from Luzern Bhf to Zürich HB, with tickets starting from €12.
- Shop or window-shop along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping avenues.
- Visit the Grossmünster, an iconic Romanesque church with twin towers. Earliest outbound departure from Lucerne is 00:01, latest return from Zurich is 23:58.
Day 13: Lucerne's Culture and History
Delve deeper into Lucerne's cultural offerings with a visit to the Swiss Museum of Transport and the poignant Lion Monument, allowing time for further exploration of the city's historical sites.
Highlights
- Discover the extensive collections at the Swiss Museum of Transport, a top attraction.
- Pay respects at the Lion Monument, a moving tribute carved into rock.
- Explore the Sammlung Rosengart, featuring works by Picasso and other modern masters.
Day 14: Depart from Lucerne
Enjoy a final morning in Lucerne, perhaps for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final view of Lake Lucerne, before heading to Zurich Airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Take a direct train from Lucerne Railway Station to Zurich Airport (ZRH), a journey of approximately 77 minutes.
- Alternatively, consider departing from EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) or Geneva Airport (GVA), both accessible by train.
