Switzerland Itinerary 7 Days: Alpine Peaks & Historic Cities by Train
Embark on a 7-day Swiss adventure, journeying by train and bus through vibrant cities and breathtaking alpine landscapes. This trip takes you from Zurich's urban charm to the majestic Matterhorn in Zermatt, with stops in historic Bern, picturesque Lucerne, and the adventure hub of Interlaken.
- 1Zurich
- 2Lucerne
- 3Interlaken
- 4Zermatt
Day 1: Arrive in Zurich
Begin your Swiss journey in Zurich, arriving at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and transferring to the city centre. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's historic heart and famous shopping street.
Highlights
- Take a train from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zürich Hauptbahnhof, a quick 10-15 minute journey costing around CHF 6.80.
- Wander through the Altstadt, Zurich's historic riverside old town, with its charming lanes and guild houses.
- Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's renowned shopping street, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city's atmosphere.
Day 2: Day Trip to Bern
Take an early bus from Zurich to Bern to discover the UNESCO-listed Old City, returning to Zurich in the evening after a full day of exploration.
Highlights
- For planning, the earliest outbound departure is 00:02 and the latest return departure is 23:46.
- Depart Zurich by bus as early as 00:02 for Bern; tickets start from €8 with BlaBlaCar.
- Explore Bern's UNESCO-listed Altstadt, featuring arcades, fountains, and historic facades.
Day 3: Scenic Train to Lucerne
Enjoy a scenic train journey from Zurich to Lucerne, then spend the day exploring Lucerne's iconic wooden bridge and historic water tower.
Highlights
- Board a train from Zürich HB to Luzern Bhf; tickets start from €19 with SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), or Südostbahn.
- Walk across the Chapel Bridge, an iconic 14th-century covered wooden bridge adorned with interior paintings.
- Admire the historic Water Tower, an octagonal landmark situated beside the Chapel Bridge, defining Lucerne's skyline.
Day 4: GoldenPass Line to Interlaken
Experience a panoramic train journey on the GoldenPass Line from Lucerne to Interlaken, arriving in the heart of the Bernese Oberland to explore its famous lakes.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Luzern Bhf to Interlaken Ost; tickets start from €20 with Luzern-Interlaken Express.
- Discover the Höhematte, a large open meadow in central Interlaken offering classic views of the Jungfrau region.
- Take in the serene beauty of Interlaken's surrounding lakes, Thun and Brienz, which define the region's landscape.
Day 5: Interlaken's Alpine Wonders
Dedicate a full day to Interlaken, venturing into the Jungfrau region and ascending to Harder Kulm for unforgettable panoramic views.
Highlights
- Ascend to Harder Kulm, a popular panoramic lookout above Interlaken, accessible by funicular, for sweeping views of both lakes and peaks.
- Explore the Unterseen Old Town, a historic area west of Interlaken with arcades and painted facades, offering a glimpse into local character.
- Consider trying a traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue, a classic Alpine meal popular in the Bernese Oberland.
Day 6: Alpine Train to Zermatt
Embark on an alpine train journey to the car-free village of Zermatt, where you'll be greeted by your first magnificent views of the Matterhorn.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Interlaken West to Zermatt, Bahnhof; tickets start from €43 with SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), or BLS AG.
- Witness the iconic Matterhorn, best admired from various viewpoints around the village or nearby lift stations.
- Wander through Hinterdorf, Zermatt's historic district, featuring preserved wooden barns and granaries on stilts.
Day 7: Depart from Zermatt
Enjoy a final morning exploring Zermatt's unique charm before making your onward journey from this car-free alpine village.
Highlights
- Visit the Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis to learn about village life and mountaineering history.
- Pay respects at the Mountaineers' Cemetery, honoring climbers lost on the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
- Depart from Zermatt, Bahnhof. For international flights, consider Geneva Airport (GVA), Zurich Airport (ZRH), or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), all accessible by train with transfers.
