My first trip to Switzerland was in 2008 as part of a three-week sampler tour of Europe. At the time, I knew very little and mostly associated Switzerland with watches, army knives, and chocolate. What I thought would be a perfectly fine, maybe even uneventful, two-day stop on the way to Paris turned out to be my favorite part of the trip.
From majestic mountain views and lush green villages to bustling urban cities surrounding tranquil clear turquoise lakes, Switzerland is a genuinely magical place that has something for every traveler.
Where and how long to stay:
Day 1 and 2: Zurich —
Consider a hotel in the Central district so you’ll be in easy walking or tram distance to everything. I loved the Hotel Zurcherhof. Great rooms, free breakfast, and friendly staff who will store your luggage after checkout, so you don’t have to rent a locker or haul it around while you explore.
Day 3 and 4: Bern — Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Wengen
Hoheweg Boulevard in Interlaken is filled with shops, restaurants, gardens, and beautiful hotels.
Lauterbrunnen and Wengen have hotels offering incredible views and charm. For the authentic Swiss chalet experience, stay at The Falken hotel in Wengen.
Day 5 and 6: Lucerne —
Try the Art Deco Hotel Montana. It overlooks Lake Lucerne and has a private funicular to save you from the steep climb up the hill to the entrance. Plus, the nighttime views from the hotel bar are absolutely magical.
For a luxury 5-star option, stay at the Hotel Schweizerhof Lucerne. Lakeside views and top tier service.
What to see:
Lake Zurich and city highlights —
Take a boat ride around Lake Zurich and find a city walking tour. It’s a great way to explore and learn a bit of Swiss history.
Explore the neighborhoods and the promenade around the lake before having a lakeside or streetside dinner. Most restaurants have outdoor seating complete with heaters or lap blankets so you can enjoy your meal during cool and cozy Swiss evenings.
Trams are a cheap and easy way to get between neighborhoods in just a few minutes.
Interlaken and Harder Kulm —
Take one of the many self-guided walking tours of the village then ride the funicular to Harder Kulm, known as the top of Europe, for gorgeous panoramic views of the village and Lakes Thun and Brienz.
Gimmelwald —
A quick bus ride from Interlaken followed by a cable car up the mountain provides access to this picturesque Alpine village. Stop at the restaurant next to the Mountain Hostel for a glass of wine and breathtaking views.
Lauterbrunnen and Wengen —
Cozy and walkable Alpine villages connected by mountain railways and marked trails that provide scenic hikes.
Visit Trummelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed natural waterfalls inside a mountain and accessible by a tunnel lift and stairs.
Dine at Da Sina in Wengen.
The terrace at the Maya Caprice hotel offers gorgeous views and a great place to unwind after a day spent hiking, skiing, or exploring.
Lake Lucerne and the historic city center —
Walking tours highlight Chapel Bridge and the city’s historic sights.
Visit the Lucerne Carnival right outside the train station.
Explore the shopping district for high end shops and cafes.
Walk the lakeside promenade and stop to relax, people watch and take in the view.
Traveler tips:
· Public transport is safe, clean, affordable, easy to navigate, and reliable as a Swiss watch. Skip the car rental and save yourself the hassle of trying to find parking.
· If you are using the SBB mobile app for train tickets, be sure to buy them in advance. You’ll be charged an additional CHF10 for purchasing them after you’re already on the train.
· Swiss Travel Passes are available for non-residents and can be a great deal for traveling throughout the country. The pass offers unlimited access to public transport — trains (including panoramic), buses, trams, and boats:
*Passes are valid only for a set number of days.
*Panoramic trains may require advance reservations.
*Tickets for mountain railways are not included with the pass, but they do offer a discount for passholders.
*Depending on your destination(s) and travel plans, be sure to price it out against the per segment costs before you buy.
· Get in walking shape. You’re in the Alps — there will be hills and inclines.
· Fondue, bread, and wine are on the menu. Indulge and enjoy.
· Given its geography, authentic Italian restaurants are everywhere.
· Asian food is incredibly popular. You’ll find Indian, Pakistani, Tandoori, and many other restaurants serving delicious regional Asian cuisines.
Originally published 11/3/2024