Switzerland: A 7-Day Complete Travel Itinerary and Tour Guide

Switzerland is a dreamland of snow-capped Alps, pristine lakes, historic cities, and scenic train rides. This 7-day itinerary takes you through the country’s most iconic sights, giving you a taste of Swiss culture, landscapes, and urban charm. From breathtaking mountain vistas to charming medieval towns, here’s your guide to making the most out of a week in Switzerland, complete with a realistic budget breakdown.

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich and City Exploration

Morning:
Fly into Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city and a bustling hub of art, history, and culture. Check into your hotel, freshen up, and set out to explore the city’s beautiful Altstadt (Old Town).

Afternoon:
Visit the Swiss National Museum to get a sense of the country’s rich history (CHF 10 / USD 11). Wander through Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe’s most exclusive shopping streets, and stop by Lindenhof, an elevated spot with views over the Limmat River.

Evening:
Have dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant to try local specialties like fondue or rösti (around CHF 30 / USD 33).

Accommodation:
Budget options for Zurich start around CHF 80 / USD 88 per night for a hostel or budget hotel, while mid-range hotels average CHF 150 / USD 165 per night.

Day 2: Day Trip to Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus

Morning:
Take an early train (CHF 30 / USD 33 round trip) to Lucerne, a picturesque town with cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and a serene lake. Walk across the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) and explore the Old Town.

Afternoon:
Head to Mt. Pilatus via the Golden Round Trip, which includes a boat ride across Lake Lucerne, a cogwheel railway journey, and a cable car ride back down (CHF 72 / USD 80). Enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and a memorable mountain experience.

Evening:
Return to Zurich for the night. Have a casual dinner at a local eatery for around CHF 25 / USD 27.

Accommodation:
Stay overnight in Zurich.

Day 3: Travel to Interlaken and Explore

Morning:
Catch a train to Interlaken (CHF 35 / USD 38), a scenic town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, famous for adventure sports and breathtaking landscapes.

Afternoon:
After checking in, take a walk along the lakes, rent a bike (CHF 15 / USD 16 per hour), or simply relax and absorb the view. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a paragliding experience over Interlaken (CHF 160 / USD 176).

Evening:
Enjoy a meal with a view at one of Interlaken’s lakeside restaurants (around CHF 35 / USD 38).

Accommodation:
Budget hotels in Interlaken average CHF 100 / USD 110 per night, while mid-range options are around CHF 140 / USD 154.

Day 4: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – The Top of Europe

Morning:
Begin your day early with a train ride to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station (CHF 100 / USD 110 with the Swiss Half Fare Card). On this journey, marvel at the snow-covered landscapes and the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Afternoon:
At Jungfraujoch, visit the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observation Deck, and Alpine Sensation exhibit. The high altitude offers unmatched views, so bring a jacket and sunglasses.

Evening:
Return to Interlaken, and unwind with a cozy dinner in town (around CHF 30 / USD 33).

Accommodation:
Stay overnight in Interlaken.

Day 5: Travel to Zermatt and Explore

Morning:
Take a train to Zermatt (CHF 50 / USD 55), a charming car-free village at the base of the iconic Matterhorn mountain.

Afternoon:
Explore Zermatt’s quaint streets, visit the Matterhorn Museum (CHF 10 / USD 11), and take a short hike to get up close to the stunning landscapes. If time permits, ride the Gornergrat Bahn (CHF 40 / USD 44), which takes you to a beautiful viewpoint.

Evening:
Enjoy a hearty Swiss dinner in Zermatt, perhaps sampling raclette (around CHF 35 / USD 38).

Accommodation:
Accommodation in Zermatt averages around CHF 120 / USD 132 for a budget hotel, while mid-range options can be up to CHF 200 / USD 220 per night.

Day 6: Glacier Express to St. Moritz

Morning:
Board the Glacier Express, a scenic train that winds through Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes. The journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz is around 8 hours and includes panoramic views of valleys, mountains, and quaint villages (CHF 152 / USD 166 with reservation).

Afternoon:
Arrive in St. Moritz, a luxurious alpine resort town. Take a leisurely walk around Lake St. Moritz or stroll through the town center.

Evening:
Have dinner at a local restaurant in St. Moritz (around CHF 30 / USD 33).

Accommodation:
St. Moritz offers budget options starting at CHF 110 / USD 121 and mid-range hotels around CHF 180 / USD 198.

Day 7: Return to Zurich via Zurich Lake

Morning:
Return to Zurich by train (CHF 40 / USD 44) and spend your last day exploring the areas you may have missed, or take a leisurely boat trip on Lake Zurich (CHF 10 / USD 11).

Afternoon:
Take time for some last-minute shopping or relax at a café with a cup of Swiss hot chocolate.

Evening:
Fly out of Zurich or continue your journey through Europe.

Accommodation:
One last night in Zurich if needed before departure.

Total Estimated Budget for 7-Day Trip

With scenic train rides, iconic landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences, Switzerland promises a journey full of beauty and excitement. This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, giving you an immersive taste of Swiss life without breaking the bank.