Looking for the best Switzerland itinerary for your upcoming trip? You’re in the right place!
Switzerland is hands-down one of the most beautiful and picturesque countries that you could ever dream of exploring!
This 8 Day Switzerland itinerary includes a complete route guide and everything you need to know before you go, how to get around, the best places to visit, where to stay, and much more!
I’ve visited Switzerland on several occasions, so I think it’s safe to say that this is the only Switzerland travel guide you’ll need.
Table of Contents
OVERVIEW – BEST SWITZERLAND ITINERARY
Here is a quick overview of an ideal Switzerland 8 day itinerary that starts in Zurich and also finishes in Zurich.
- Day 1: Zurich
- Day 2: Luzern
- Day 3: Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen
- Day 4: Montreux
- Day 5: Zermatt
- Day 6: Glacier Express
- Day 7: St. Moritz
- Day 8: Zurich
This is the exact Switzerland by train route that I took, and although it was fast-paced, I found it to be a sufficient amount of time in each location to see the highlights.
If you have more time up your sleeve, feel free to add an extra day in each location, or venture to some other destinations not mentioned in this guide such as Bern and Geneva.
HOW TO BEGIN YOUR SWITZERLAND 8 DAYS ITINERARY
Arriving in Switzerland by plane is the easiest and most convenient way to begin your adventures in this picturesque country.
If you plan on following this exact itinerary, then your best bet is to fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) and begin your trip around Switzerland from here.
HOW TO GET AROUND SWITZERLAND?
I have put together this 8 Day Switzerland itinerary based on my trip around the country by train using the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass.
Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!
Get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!
Simply show your Swiss Travel Pass e-ticket on your smartphone to instantly start your rail adventure.
Once you have purchased the Swiss Rail Pass to travel Switzerland, you’ll receive an email with your ticket and further instructions for activating your pass and reserving seats on trains.
I also recommend downloading the SBB Mobile App on your smartphone from the App Store. You can use this app to check all train, bus, and boat timetables in Switzerland when you’re on the move.
HOW LONG TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND?
I recommend spending at least one week in Switzerland and, if possible, following this Switzerland travel blog 8-day itinerary.
While it’s not enough to explore each corner of the country, you can definitely fit all the most beautiful places, including Zurich, Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne, and St. Moritz.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISITSWITZERLAND?
The best time to travel Switzerland depends on what you plan to do.
I personally prefer the spring and summer months in Switzerland (April – September) when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are vividly green.
Note that when planning a Switzerland in June itinerary, accommodation prices will be higher since it’s the peak season.
My personal recommendation will therefore be to plan a Switzerland in September itinerary.
Alternatively, when planning a Switzerland October itinerary, you’ll get better prices for flights and accommodation, which is a good option.
However, visiting Switzerland in winter (December – March) is absolutely magical because the landscapes are completely covered in glistening white snow.
Visiting Switzerland in winter means you have to opportunity to go skiing in the Swiss Alps.
All in all, it’s a year-round destination suitable for all types of travelers in every season making it easy to plan your Swiss trip itinerary.
WHAT IS SWITZERLAND FAMOUS FOR?
Switzerland is a globally renowned country, well-known for its magnificent mountainous terrain and breathtaking alpine views.
It has also established itself as an industrial and financial powerhouse in Europe.
As a member of the United Nations, Switzerland is considered to be one of the most prosperous and stable countries in the world – with its citizens enjoying higher GDP per capita than many other nations.
On top of that, it’s known for its neutrality policy, which kept the country out of war since 1505.
Lastly, of course, Switzerland’s national dishes, such as fondue and raclette, only add a delicious layer to the trip!
SWITZERLAND ITINERARY – THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
CURRENCY:
The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Francs (CHF) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = $1 CHF.
All businesses accept debit and credit cards, and there are plenty of ATM machines around the country should you wish to withdraw any cash.
MOBILE DATA:
When you arrive in Switzerland, you’re going to want to get online, and purchasing a sim card is very simple. You can do this at the airport on arrival at one of the retail stores.
Alternatively, I recommend purchasing an eSIM in advance with pre-loaded mobile data so you can get online as soon as you land and stay connected on your Switzerland trip.
WEATHER:
The weather in Switzerland can be very sporadic so be sure to pack suitable clothes for all seasons and be prepared for unexpected changes during your ultimate Switzerland itinerary 8 days.
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DAY 1: ZURICH TO LUCERNE
The first leg of this 8 days Switzerland itinerary begins in Zurich, where I recommend boarding a train at Zurich International Airport or Zurich Hauptbahnhof Train Station bound for Lucerne, which is a short one-hour journey.
There is no validation required for your Swiss Travel Pass, simply jump on board the train.
When onboard, a ticket inspector will ask to see your Swiss Travel Pass or fare card as well as your passport or ID card, so make sure to have these documents handy on the train.
CHECK PRICES: 8-Day Swiss Travel Pass
THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, Lucerne is a must-see on any Swiss itinerary!
I have put together a separate guide on the best things to do in Lucerne which I highly recommend checking out.
Read It Here: 15 BEST Things To Do In Lucerne
I don’t want to crowd this blog post with every attraction in Lucerne, so below you will find a taste of the top 3 things to do in Lucerne.
#1 CHAPEL BRIDGE
When you arrive in Lucerne on day 1 of your Switzerland itinerary, I recommend checking out Chapel Bridge.
It’s the most iconic attraction in Lucerne and the oldest wooden bridge in Switzerland, dating back to the 14th century.
Chapel Bridge Lucerne stretches 200 meters across the Reuss River and attached to the bridge is an old water tower that served as a dungeon, an archive, and a treasury vault in medieval times.
It’s free to walk over Chapel Bridge and remember to look up to discover the colorful old paintings on the underside of the roof.
#2 BOAT TRIP ON LAKE LUCERNE
A boat trip on Lake Lucerne is a must on your 8 days in Switzerland itinerary.
With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can take a round-trip boat ride on Lake Lucerne which is the best way to see the region at a slow pace.
There are daily departures on Lake Lucerne, usually every hour during the day. Just head down to the ferry terminal located across the road from the Lucerne Main Train Station and jump on board when a boat arrives.
Before boarding, you’ll be asked to show your Swiss Travel Pass and possibly your passport or ID card as well, so make sure to have these documents handy.
BEST LUCERNE TOURS
Enhance your experience in Lucerne by embarking on one of these 3 top-rated tours, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
- Top-Pick: Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour
- Best-rated: Mount Pilatus Summit From Lucerne With Lake Cruise
- Must-Do: Mount Rigi, Lake Lucerne Cruise, Mineralbath Spa From Lucerne
#3 MOUNT RIGI
Mt Rigi, also known as the queen of the mountains, is a large mountain range in the Lucerne region and a must-see during your visit.
The best way to get to Mt Rigi, using the Swiss Travel Pass, is to take the one-hour boat ride from the Lucerne Ferry Terminal and get off at Vitznau.
From here, there is a special cog-wheel train that will take you up to the summit of Mount Rigi. This was my favorite part of the adventure as I was able to hang outside the windows of the cog-wheel train to take photos!
Panoramic views await at the summit of Mt Rigi, overlooking three lakes and phenomenal alpine peaks in the distance.
If you want to grab lunch or a beer you can simply pop into one of the hotel restaurants on the mountain and most have outdoor terraces with stunning views.
MUST READ: 21 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR ANY TRIP
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE
There are hundreds of accommodations in Lucerne, so I’ve handpicked some of the best in town that you’ll find here below for the perfect 8 day itinerary Switzerland.
Luxury: Lucerne Lake View Apartments
Offering stunning lake views, free wifi, and just walking distance to the center of the city, this 5-star accommodation is hard to beat!
Each apartment is fitted with a balcony, fully-equipped kitchen, dishwasher, sofa, TV, dining room, washing machine, private bathroom with a bath, fridge and freezer, microwave, and coffee machine.
Mid-Range: Hotel De La Paix
This 3-star hotel is located right in the heart of town, just a 200m walk to the old quarter in Lucerne, and close to various restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
There are single, double, and triple rooms available and breakfast is included for all guests.
Budget: Barabas Hostel
I personally stayed at Barabas Hostel, located just ten minutes walk from Lucerne Train Station.
Barabas Hostel is one of the coolest and most unique hostels in Luzern, the reason being that it was once an old prison.
The dorms and private rooms are the same rooms where prison inmates used to sleep back in the day (much cleaner and refurbished of course).
A buffet breakfast is also included with the room and the staff are overly helpful with their knowledge of the best things to do in Luzern and that’s definitely a great base for your Switzerland tour itinerary.
For All Other Places To Stay In Luzern, Search On Booking.com
DAY 2: LUCERNE TO INTERLAKEN
Continue your 8 day Switzerland itinerary from Lucerne to Interlaken using the Swiss Travel Pass.
Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau Region and Bernese Oberland and a good location to base yourself when visiting Lauterbrunnen Valley, which is also referred to as The Valley of 72 Waterfalls.
Also, it’s worth noting that the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau-Aletsch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll easily understand why when visiting.
HOW TO GET TO LAUTERBRUNNEN
From Interlaken East Train Station, using the Swiss Travel Pass, you can take a train to Lauterbrunnen Station.
The train takes only twenty minutes and you can disembark right in the center of Lauterbrunnen village.
9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
#1 VISIT STAUBBACH FALLS
Take a morning train on day 2 of your Swiss itinerary from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and from the station, it’s an easy walk through the village to a number of different scenic viewpoints of Staubbach Falls and upper Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Staubbach Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls I have ever seen! These glacial falls gush down from the 300m high peaks and emerge into the river that cuts through the village of Lauterbrunnen.
After taking some photos of the falls from Lauterbrunnen village, follow the road down till you reach the base of Staubbach Falls.
RELATED GUIDE: Things To Do In Lauterbrunnen
You can walk up the stairs and into a man-made grotto that leads behind Staubbach Falls.
From inside the grotto, peering out looks like a scene out of Jurassic Park, without the dinosaurs, unfortunately!
The view of the distant glacier-filled valley is mesmerizing and so insanely beautiful that you’ll feel like you are standing in a real-life postcard.
On a clear day, you can spot paragliders and base jumpers soaring around in the skies above and countless waterfalls flowing heavily over the edge of the towering cliffs into Lauterbrunnen Valley.
There is also an easy walking trail to the next village that will take you past several more Lauterbrunnen waterfalls and vast meadows.
#2 TRÜMMELBACH FALLS
Trümmelbach Falls can be found in the heart of Lauterbrunnen. They are the world’s only glacier waterfalls that are accessible underground by lifts, tunnels, paths, and platforms.
There is an easy walking trail from Lauterbrunnen Village that will take you through vast meadows in the direction of Trümmelbach Falls.
Trümmelbach Fallscarries the water from the glaciers of Jungfrau down to Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Up to 20,000 liters of water travel through the falls per second, they are a sight and a sound to behold.
This is one of the top things to see in Lauterbrunnen during your visit!
BEST LAUTERBRUNNEN TOURS
While I encourage you to do a Switzerland DIY itinerary, I recommend taking your experience in Lauterbrunnen further with these 3 top-rated tours to make the most of your visit:
- Best-Rated: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip From Zurich
- Top-Pick: Schilthorn Piz Gloria Small Group Tour
- Must-Do: Day Tour to Wengen From Lauterbrunnen
#3 MÜRREN VILLAGE
This delightful village of Mürren lies at the very end of Lauterbrunnen Valley, filled with traditional chalets and idyllic village life.
And for the ultimate free and easy Switzerland activity, wandering around Mürren is a great idea!
You can jump on the public bus No. 141 which runs from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren every thirty minutes.
The bus departs from outside Lauterbrunnen Railway Station or you can hail it down on the main road near Trümmelbach Falls.
The bus journey time is around twenty minutes. Click Here to see Lauterbrunnen Bus No. 141 timetables.
Mürren offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful restaurants and cafes offering traditional Swiss dining and is also a great starting point for hiking, cycling, or skiing trails.
#4 MOUNT SCHILTHORN
Once you have visited Mürren, next on the list of places to see in Lauterbrunnen is Mount Schilthorn, a must-see location on your one-week Switzerland itinerary or even longer.
Head to Stechelberg Gondola Station which is located in Mürren at the base of Mount Schilthorn and using the Swiss Travel Pass, you can ride the gondola all the way up to the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.
Note: Without the Swiss Travel Pass, a return trip on the gondola from Stechelberg to Mount Schilthorn will set you back 105 CHF ($105 USD).
Get the all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!
Get unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!
Simply show your Swiss Travel Pass e-ticket on your smartphone to instantly start your rail adventure.
Mount Schilthorn is a popular ski field in Lauterbrunnen if you wish to spend a day skiing in Lauterbrunnen.
Though if skiing is not your jam, you can still head up to the famous Piz Gloria viewpoint regardless to enjoy the view.
If you are a fan of James Bond 007, Piz Gloria located on the top of Mount Schilthorn is where one of the original 007 movies was filmed back in 1969. Expect to see James Bond memorabilia galore at Piz Gloria.
Aside from this, there is a 360-degree viewpoint at the summit of Mt Schilthorn, and the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant features floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering extensive views of the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau Region.
Also, if you are not afraid of heights, I dare you to take the knee-jittering thrill walk around the front face of Mount Schilthorn.
#5 WENGEN VILLAGE
Before the day is out, ride the gondola back down to the Stechelberg Gondola Station and jump on the public bus No. 141 to return to Lauterbrunnen Station.
Disembark from the bus and walk down into Lauterbrunnen Railway Station. Ask one of the staff members at the station which platform you need to wait on to take the train to Wengen Village and they will point you in the right direction.
The iconic yellow train will take you up and over the mountainside to Wengen Village which is located in the opposite valley and it’s one of the best places to see in Lauterbrunnen!
There is another ski field at Wengen Village if you visit Lauterbrunnen in winter and from the town, you can enjoy another perspective of the Swiss Alps in the Jungfrau Region.
There is an old church in Wengen Village which is a great vantage point to get some photos of the village and surrounding mountains.
I recommend spending an hour or so wandering around Wengen Village and seeing how the locals live their lives up here on the mountainside.
#6 PARAGLIDING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
If you are a thrill-seeker looking for the ultimate experience and the best views of the valley then this activity is one of the best things to do in Switzerland.
Flying over the Lauterbrunnen U-Valley, you can book an all-inclusive tandem paragliding experience.
Flying tandem with an instructor allows you to focus purely on the flight. Full safety equipment and an experienced pilot are part of this must-do activity.
The tour takes care of all other logistics offering pick-up from your Lauterbrunnen hotel to the launch site and even a post-flight drink included.
The experience will cost you around $225 and can be booked online in advance.
It lasts for around 1 hour and 30 minutes and you can expect to take in all of the aerial views of breathtaking Lauterbrunnen.
BOOK NOW: Paragliding in Lauterbrunnen
#7 HIKING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
There are many designated hiking trails in Lauterbrunnen Switzerland catering to every ability!
Some of the best trails to take when hiking in Lauterbrunnen are:
- Path to Murren through Blumenthal takes you through the Flower Valley.
- The iconic Eiger trail, a high route brings you right in front of the famous Eiger Nordwand.
- The trail to Wengen ascends most of the way but gives you glimpses of the Breithorn and Staubbach Falls cascading into Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Related Article: Must-Do Hikes In Lauterbrunnen
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#8 CYCLING IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
There are nearly 60 cycle routes dotted around Lauterbrunnen with something for every ability, ranging from the peaceful and relaxing to the hair-raising and thrill-seeking kind.
There are trails allowing you to cycle to most of the surrounding villages including Grindelwald, Wengen, and Gimmelwald as well as routes to take in all of the iconic mountains surrounding the valley including Jungfrau, Eiger, and Breithorn.
Lauterbrunnen Valley is a must for any cycling enthusiast, and enjoying the trails on your Switzerland summer itinerary is an excellent option.
#9 SKYDIVING IN INTERLAKEN
Skydiving in Interlaken is one of the best experiences you can have during your visit to Switzerland and I guarantee you will remember it for a lifetime!
What better way to finish off your adventures than tandem jumping out of a helicopter from 15,000 feet, freefalling over the magnificent mountains in the Jungfrau Region?!
The Swiss skydive masters make sure your safety is their number 1 priority. All tandem instructors are trained, licensed, and experienced to ensure you have the most incredible experience knowing that you are completely safe at the same time.
One of the best parts about skydiving here during your Swiss Alps itinerary is the phenomenal view from 15,000 feet in the air!
But don’t get too comfortable, because your instructor will shortly be opening the doors of the helicopter to take the leap.
Can you think of a more exciting activity to take in Switzerland in 8 days? I certainly can’t!
WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN
Luxury: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
This 5-star hotel is centrally located between two beautiful lakes in the picturesque town of Interlaken.
Victoria Jungfrau Hotel features a spa, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room. WiFi is free and breakfast is included for all guests.
The spacious rooms have elegant interiors and marble bathrooms, boasting views of the snowcapped mountains in the Jungfrau region.
Mid-Range: Hotel Interlaken
Hotel Interlaken is where I based myself for one night because it’s conveniently located just five minutes walk from Interlaken East Train Station and a twenty-minute train ride to Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Hotel Interlaken is the perfect accommodation for couples, families, solo travelers, or friends, featuring large rooms, mountain views, and a delicious buffet breakfast.
Budget: Valley Hostel
If you would prefer to stay in Lauterbrunnen as opposed to Interlaken, Valley Hostel is your best option for cheap accommodation.
Located in the heart of Lauterbrunnen Valley, this hostel is within walking distance of nearby waterfalls, retail shops, restaurants, and the main train station.
Valley Hostel offers dorms and private rooms to suit every traveler’s needs.
For All Other Places To Stay In Interlaken, Search On Booking.com
DAY 3: INTERLAKEN TO MONTREUX
On day three of your itinerary, check out of your hotel in the morning and find your way to Interlaken East Station to take the train bound for Montreux.
I highly recommend taking the Belle Epoque train on the Golden Line for an unforgettable experience on your Swiss itinerary for 8 days.
Also, make sure to book your Golden Line pass beforehand, especially during the peak season.
The Belle Epoque is an absolute charm that will take you on a timeless journey between Zweisimenn and Montreux.
THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX
Montreux is a beautiful little town located at the eastern end of Lake Geneva.
There is a strong French influence in Montreux, from the architecture to the people and a pleasant vibe fills the air.
One of the most relaxing things to do in Montreux is to take a stroll along the promenade that lines the water’s edge of Lake Geneva and enjoy the calmness of the lake and the impressive mountainous hills that surround it.
Dozens of bars and restaurants are dotted along the promenade, perfect for lunch or dinner with a view.
If you are up for a small adventure, take the local bus south to Chateau De Chillon, just fifteen minutes ride from Montreux.
Chateau De Chillon is an island castle located on the waters of Lake Geneva, an old medieval fortress that is now a museum.
The Swiss Travel Pass also gives you access to 500 museums in Switzerland and Chateau De Chillon is one of them.
There is the option of an audio headset tour when you visit Chillon Castle or you can just simply explore inside the walls at your own pace.
When planning a Switzerland in October itinerary, I also recommend saving one hour for the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, where you can taste all the best treats in the country!
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX
Luxury: Montreux Apartment On The Lake
These 5-star apartments are equipped with two bedrooms, flat-screen TVs, and fully equipped kitchens with a dishwasher, fridge, and microwave.
If you want to splurge a little in Montreux and make the most of your 8 days itinerary in Switzerland, this is the perfect accommodation for you!
Mid-Range: La Rouvenaz Hotel
If you are looking for mid-range accommodation I highly recommend staying at La Rouvenaz Hotel during your visit to Montreux.
It boasts incredible lakeside views, a central location, a reputable restaurant, and comfortable rooms.
Budget: Montreux Youth Hostel
Montreux Youth Hostel is the best bang for the buck, located just a few steps away from the lakeside promenade and a few hundred meters from the train station.
There are dorms, private double rooms, and family-sized rooms available with free WiFi and breakfast included.
For All Other Places To Stay In Montreux, Search On Booking.com
DAY 4 & 5: MONTREUX TO ZERMATT
Continuing on to days 4 and 5, enjoy a slow morning in Montreux before taking the train to Zermatt train station around lunchtime.
This train journey takes approximately two hours and thirty minutes, passing by beautiful farmlands, vast mountains, and deep valleys.
THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT
Zermatt is home to the iconic Matterhorn mountain which stands at a dominating 4,478 meters at its highest peak!
This one-of-a-kind destination is NOT to be skipped on any Swiss itinerary.
The Matterhorn is known all around the world for its unique pyramid shape and the famous Toblerone chocolate takes inspiration from the Matterhorn mountain.
To get atop the mountain, you’ll have to take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car – the views on the way are incredible!
Apart from the incredible Matterhorn, Zermatt is renowned for skiing, climbing, and hiking all year round and the Walker’s Haute Route is definitely a site to behold.
If you love skiing or snowboarding, Zermatt is definitely the place to do it!
If you’re not a skier, it’s still possible to ride the world’s highest gondola to the Glacier Paradise Station at the top of the mountain regardless.
On a clear day, the panoramic views of Zermatt and the surrounding mountains are absolutely insane!
Note: The Swiss Travel Pass does not cover this gondola ride so you’ll have to purchase a ticket at the gondola lift station upon arrival or book online in advance here below.
If you didn’t have time for it in Lauterbrunnen, I highly recommend going paragliding in Zermatt, which is an activity you’ll never forget!
I recommend spending one day on the mountain and the second day exploring Zermatt’s main street, Bahnhofstrasse, which is filled with retail shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, and an awesome apres-ski scene!
BOOK NOW: Matterhorn Glacier Cable Car
WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT
As Zermatt is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland there are hundreds of hotels, resorts, chalets, and lodges to choose from.
However, I have narrowed it down to a few of my recommended places to stay in Zermatt.
Luxury: Grand Hotel Zermatterhof
Absolute luxury can be found at the Grand Hotel, boasting three restaurants, a spa, a swimming pool, and a sauna – the perfect way to warm up after a day on the slopes.
The rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and most have a phenomenal view of the Matterhorn. The best part is the free wine and fruits upon arrival!
Mid-Range: Schlosshotel Life & Style Zermatt
One accommodation I can highly recommend in Zermatt is the Schlosshotel, a short two-minute walk from Zermatt Train Station.
I personally spent two nights here at the Schlosshotel and I can’t recommend it enough!
The staff members were super lovely, the room was very cozy, and it had an incredible view of the Matterhorn.
The hotel also features a sauna, spa, and an indoor heated swimming pool, and the buffet breakfast is to die for!
Budget: The Matterhorn Hostel Zermatt
Enjoy easy access to the ski slopes and hiking when you stay at The Matterhorn Hostel.
A fun and friendly hostel with clean, comfortable rooms and a bar and restaurant to enjoy a nice meal and something to drink.
This is by far one of the best hostels in Zermatt.
For All Other Places To Stay In Zermatt, Search On Booking.com
DAY 6: ZERMATT TO ST. MORITZ
This leg of the Switzerland travel itinerary is an experience you will never forget.
The Glacier Express is an unforgettable eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps, connecting Zermatt to St. Moritz and it is by far one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
Top-to-bottom glass windows offer panoramic views, lunch is served to you in your seat and there is also a bar for refreshments on board the Glacier Express.
Note: The Glacier Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass though you must make a seat reservation at an additional cost which you’ll have to book online in advance.
When purchasing the pass, choose your desired day of travel, make seat reservations, and get a discount using the Swiss Travel Pass.
You’ll most likely arrive late into St. Moritz and there won’t be much daylight left to explore so my recommendation is to head straight to a hotel and rest up and feel fresh for the following day.
OPTIONAL DETOUR TO LANDWASSER VIADUCT
If you’re up for an adventurous on your Switzerland trip itinerary, disembark the Glacier Express at Filisur Station, which is a few stations before St. Moritz, and head over to the famous limestone bridge known as the Landwasser Viaduct.
This impressive 6-arch curved bridge boasts 65-meter tall pillars and a freshwater stream runs right beneath it.
From Filisur station, it’s approximately a forty-minute walk to get to the Landwasser Viaduct and there are a few good viewpoints to take photos.
One is down by the freshwater stream directly beneath the bridge and the other can be found up a dirt trail to the very top of the mountain to get a birds-eye view of the bridge.
The top viewpoint is by far the best spot to take photos of the train as it passes over the Landwasser Viaduct.
Click here or on the map below for the exact directions from Filisur Station to the Landwasser Viaduct.
WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ
Luxury: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
A luxurious 5-star resort located in the center of St. Moritz, featuring six restaurants, an indoor pool, and free shuttle services.
Elegant rooms overlook the surrounding mountains, each with its own flat-screen TV, private bathroom, comfortable beds, and even a butler upon request!
In summer there is a tennis court for guests to enjoy that, funnily enough, turns into an ice skating rink in the winter. How freaking cool is that?!
Mid-Range: Hotel Piz St. Moritz
Both stylish and elegant, Hotel Piz is a 3-star hotel located close to the city center that features a pizzeria, free wifi, a sauna, and a steam room.
The rooms are spacious, each with its own TV, lock safe, and private bathroom.
Guests staying longer than two nights at Hotel Piz in summer will receive free tickets for the cable car, cog railway, and funicular.
Budget: St. Moritz Youth Hostel
Offering panoramic views of St. Moritz, the best feature of this hostel is the games room offering billiards and table tennis.
There are dorm rooms and private double rooms available that are bright and modernly furnished. This is the best place to stay in St. Moritz on a budget!
For All Other Places To Stay In St. Moritz, Search On Booking.com
DAY 7: ST. MORITZ
This Swiss travel blog wouldn’t be complete without St. Moritz – a dreamy city located on the far eastern end of Switzerland.
It is here where the notion of winter holidays was born and its stunning imagery is jaw-dropping.
This place is as good as it gets and one of my favorite places I visited on this Switzerland itinerary.
I am impressed by how active all the locals are here – mountain bike riding, hang gliding, skiing, snowboarding, kite surfing, and sailing on the lake.
One of the best things to do in St. Moritz is to ride the famous Bernina Express train through the snowy mountains to a place called Alp Grum.
The journey takes approximately one hour until it reaches the top of the Bernina Pass at Alp Grum.
Note: The Bernina Express is included in the Swiss Travel Pass though you must make a seat reservation at an additional cost which you’ll have to book online in advance.
Visit the BerninaExpress website to choose your desired day of travel, make seat reservations, and get a discount using the Swiss Travel Pass.
There is not much more than a restaurant and bar up here at Alp Grum, but the views of nearby glaciers in the mountains are stunning!
Take the Bernina Express back down to St. Moritz to spend the second last day of your travel itinerary for Switzerland exploring this beautiful lakeside town.
DAY 8: ST. MORITZ TO ZURICH
The last leg of the journey is taking the train from St. Moritz to Zurich which takes approximately three to four hours depending on which connection you take.
Zurich offers a great street scene in the old town with dozens of shops, cafes, and small cobblestone laneways and there are also a number of historical sites to visit if you have the time on the last day of your 8 day Switzerland itinerary.
If you are interested in seeing all the sites in one day, see below for the best Zurich City Tours.
WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH
To end this Switzerland trip blog, let’s go through the best accommodations in Zurich to consider for your stay.
Luxury: Park Hyatt Zurich
A contemporary 5-star hotel located in the heart of Zurich’s commercial district and within walking distance of the Bahnhofstrasse shopping street.
The rooms are very spacious with high-speed WiFi and there are restaurants, bars, and lounges inside the Park Hyatt.
Perfect for couples wanting a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Zurich.
Mid-Range: Motel One Zurich
An excellent 3-star hotel located in one of the best areas of the city.
There is free WiFi, private rooms with bathroom ensuites, and flat-screen TVs, and all of this is just within walking distance of Zurich’s main attractions, which is great for your itinerary for Switzerland.
Budget: Zurich Youth Hostel
One of the best hostels in Zurich with a modern design, various cuisines, and a cozy bar.
Its great location is just a stone’s throw from the lake’s shore and walking distance to train stations. Other features include a sunny courtyard and bright brooms.
With dorms and private rooms available, it’s the perfect place to stay in Zurich for travelers on a budget and to end this 8 nights Switzerland itinerary.
For More Options, See My Complete Guide On Where To Stay In Zurich
MAP OF SWITZERLAND
Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of the country and plan the best itinerary for Switzerland.
WHAT TO PACK FOR SWITZERLAND
When visiting Switzerland, here is a list of items I highly recommend adding to your travel packing list.
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
More Switzerland Travel Guides
Click the button below to view all articles related to Switzerland!
Explore More: Switzerland
FINAL THOUGHTS – SWISS ITINERARY
I hope you enjoyed reading this Switzerland blog post and if you have any questions at all about this Switzerland itinerary, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions about this Switzerland travel blog to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!
Search and book accommodation worldwide.
Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.
Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.
Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.
Search all rental cars in your next destination.
Need travel insurance for your next trip?
THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
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