Two Week in Switzerland: 14 Days Itinerary

An adventure in Switzerland combines spectacular scenery with historic landmarks and vibrant cultural experiences for a memorable trip. Ready to make the most of your visit?  Here is a wonderful Switzerland itinerary for 14 days that will help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting country, designed by our Switzerland travel experts.

About this Switzerland itinerary for 14 days

This Switzerland itinerary for 14 days offers you a journey through some of the country's most iconic landscapes and charming towns. From Lake Geneva's tranquil shores to Zermatt's alpine trails and the glittering resort town of St. Moritz, you'll experience the country's diverse beauty. You'll take scenic train rides, walk along breathtaking trails, and explore both bustling towns and quiet valleys. It's the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation and stunning scenery. Grab your hiking boots and maybe some elastic pants to eat all those cheeses and chocolates!

• Day 1: Arrive in Geneva.
• Day 2: Day trip to Gruyères.
• Day 3: Travel to Grindelwald.
• Day 4: Visit Jungfraujoch.
• Day 5: First Cliff Walk and the Bachalpsee Lake.
• Day 6: Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
• Day 7: Travel to Zermatt.
• Day 8: Matterhorn and Five Lakes Trail.
• Day 9: Explore Zermatt.
• Day 10: Travel to St. Moritz.
• Day 11: Travel to Lugano.
• Day 12: Explore Lugano.
• Day 13: Travel to Zurich.
• Day 14: Depart from Zurich.

Day 1: Arrive in Geneva

Land in Geneva, but don't delay - your adventure begins immediately. Hop on a train to Montreux, a postcard-perfect town on the shores of Lake Geneva. With the Swiss Travel Pass, the ride is smooth, scenic and completely hassle-free.

How to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a golden ticket for unlimited travel on trains, buses and boats throughout Switzerland. Buy it online on the official Swiss Travel System website or pick it up at the main train stations in Switzerland.

Pro tip: Get the digital version to avoid the hassle of paper tickets.

Where to stay in Montreux

The best places to stay in Montreux are close to the center of the action, with stunning views of Lake Geneva. Look for lakefront accommodations for easy access to restaurants, stores, and the legendary Chillon Castle. Prefer something a little more laid-back? Stay in charming neighborhoods up the hill, where you'll find quiet nooks and breathtaking panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Day 2: Day trip to Gruyères

Travel time: around 1.5 hours each way by train

Swap the charm of Lake Montreux for the fairytale village of Gruyere, an easy day trip that's as delicious as it is scenic. Your Swiss Travel Pass covers all trip costs, so sit back and enjoy a scenic drive.

Start your visit at Gruyere Castle, perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the countryside. Wander its medieval halls and learn about its 800-year history. Afterward, indulge in a sweet treat at the Maison Cailler chocolate factory in Broc. Take a tour to learn how Swiss chocolate is created (and don't miss the free samples at the end). It's a day of castles, cheese and chocolate - what more could you want?

Day 3: Travel to Grindelwald

Travel time: around 4 hours by train via the GoldenPass Line

Today, journey to the alpine village of Grindelwald, one of Switzerland’s most scenic mountain destinations. The GoldenPass Line offers panoramic views of lakes, lush valleys, and towering peaks — so keep your camera handy. Once you arrive, take it easy. Stroll through the charming village, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and soak up the views of the iconic Eiger North Face.

Where to stay in Grindelwald

Stay close to the village center for easy access to restaurants, shops, and cable cars. If you’re after peace and quiet, consider accommodations on the outskirts, where you’ll wake up to uninterrupted views of the mountains. Grindelwald’s compact size means most places offer easy access to its main attractions.

Day 4: Visit Jungfraujoch

Get ready for a day at dizzying heights — Jungfraujoch, famously known as the "Top of Europe," is one of Switzerland's most iconic experiences. Start your journey early and take the train up to this 11,332-foot-high alpine wonderland.

Once at the top, step into the Ice Palace, where intricately carved ice sculptures sparkle in the freezing cold. Don’t miss the Sphinx Observatory, where the panoramic views of Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks will leave you speechless. Feeling adventurous? Brave the snowy plateau for a quick walk — it’s an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to dress warm and take it slow — the altitude can hit harder than you think.

Day 5: First Cliff Walk and the Bachalpsee Lake

Today’s adventure is all about alpine thrills and postcard-perfect views. Start with the First Cliff Walk, a metal walkway clinging to the side of a mountain. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience with unbeatable views of the surrounding peaks.

From there, hike to Bachalpsee Lake, a serene alpine lake that reflects the surrounding mountains on a clear day. The trail is about an hour each way and fairly easy, making it accessible for most hikers. Not up for the walk? You can also take the cable car part of the way. Either way, don’t forget your camera — this is Switzerland at its most stunning.

Day 6: Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley

Spend the day soaking up the dramatic beauty of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, known for its sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Start with Staubbach Falls, one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. You can follow a short path to get up close and even feel the mist on your face.

Next, visit Trümmelbach Falls, a series of glacial waterfalls thundering inside the mountain. These falls are accessible via tunnels and platforms, making them a truly unique experience.

If you crave adventure, take a day trip to the Schilthorn. The cable car will take you up to 9,744 feet where you can enjoy 360-degree views of iconic peaks like the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Don't forget to check out the “Bond World” exhibit - yes, that Bond movie was filmed here.

Day 7: Travel to Zermatt

Travel time: around 3–4 hours by train from Grindelwald

Today, make your way to Zermatt, a charming car-free village nestled at the foot of the legendary Matterhorn. The train ride is an experience in itself, with views of snow-capped peaks and peaceful valleys. Once you arrive, take the evening to explore Zermatt’s cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. It's the perfect chance to unwind and soak in the alpine atmosphere.

Where to stay in Zermatt

For convenience, look for accommodation in the village center, where you'll be close to the train station, restaurants, and cable cars. If you want a more tranquil vibe, opt for the outskirts of town, where you can wake up to uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn. Wherever you stay, Zermatt’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate.

Day 8: Matterhorn and Five Lakes Trail

Kick off your day with a ride on the Gornergrat Railway, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. As you ascend to 10,135 feet (3,089 meters), you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, and surrounding peaks. At the summit, snap photos of the iconic mountain and soak in the breathtaking alpine panorama.

In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots for the Five Lakes Trail. This moderately easy hike takes you past five stunning alpine lakes, each offering a unique perspective of the Matterhorn reflected in their waters. The trail is about 6 miles (9.3 km) and takes roughly 2.5–3 hours to complete.

Day 9: Explore Zermatt

Spending an extra day in Zermatt will allow you to delve deeper into its alpine wonders. If you want to do more hiking, explore the Edelweissweg, which offers stunning views of the valley and surrounding peaks. Prefer a more relaxed adventure? Take the cable car up to the glacial paradise of the Matterhorn, the highest cable car station in Europe at 12,739 feet. Here you can enter an otherworldly ice palace, walk through shimmering ice sculptures, and gaze out over a sea of 14,000-foot peaks stretching into Italy and France.

Day 10: Travel to St. Moritz

Travel time: around 8 hours by train on the Glacier Express

Board the legendary Glacier Express, known as the “slowest express train in the world,” for an unforgettable journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This 8-hour ride takes you through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including deep gorges, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain passes. It’s not just a mode of transportation — it’s a bucket-list experience.

Once you arrive in St. Moritz, unwind with a leisurely evening stroll around Lake St. Moritz. Surrounded by forested hills and luxurious hotels, the lake is the perfect place to soak in the tranquil beauty of this glamorous alpine town.

Where to stay in St. Moritz

The best areas to stay in St. Moritz depend on your vibe. For easy access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife, stay in the town center. If you’d rather be closer to nature, look for accommodations near the lake or slightly outside the town, where you’ll find peace and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 11: Travel to Lugano

Travel time: Around 3-4 hours by train from St. Moritz

Today, head south to Lugano, where Switzerland takes on an Italian flavor. The scenic journey winds through the Swiss Alps and into the sun-drenched Ticino region. Once there, immerse yourself in the laid-back charm of this lakeside town.

Start at Piazza della Riforma, the heart of Lugano, where the square is lined with lively cafes. Take a peaceful stroll along Lugano's lakeside promenade, or if you're feeling adventurous, take the cable car up Monte Bre. From the top you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake, the city and the surrounding mountains.

Where to stay in Lugano

Stay near the city center for easy access to Piazza della Riforma, shops, and restaurants. If you’re after a quieter experience, look for accommodations near Lake Lugano or in the surrounding hills for serene views and a more tranquil atmosphere.

Day 12: Explore Lugano

Soak up Lugano's unique blend of Swiss precision and Italian charm on the twelfth day of this Switzerland itinerary for 14 days. Start your morning with a visit to Parco Ciani, a magnificent landscaped park on the shores of the lake. Stroll along the tree-lined paths, admire the colorful flower beds and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Lugano.

Next, head to Monte San Salvatore, either on foot or by cable car. The panoramic view from the top is worth the effort: a sparkling lake framed by dramatic mountain peaks. If you're feeling adventurous, descend back down through charming villages such as Carona.

In the afternoon, explore Lugano's Old Town. Wander the cobbled streets, visit the elegant San Lorenzo Cathedral and sample a gelato in a piazza café. End the day with a lakeside aperitivo - la dolce vita is out of the question in Lugano.

Day 13: Travel to Zurich

Travel time: 2–3 hours by train from Lugano

Head north to Zurich, Switzerland's largest city and a vibrant center of culture and history. Once you arrive and check into your hotel, don't delay and start soaking up the atmosphere of the city's main attractions. Stroll through the Old Town (Altstadt), where medieval streets are lined with boutiques, cafes and centuries-old churches such as Grossmünster and Fraumünster.

If you’re a museum enthusiast, the Swiss National Museum is a must-visit for its fascinating exhibits on the country’s history and culture. Prefer to shop? Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, offers everything from luxury brands to Swiss watches. End the day on the shores of Lake Zurich, where locals gather to relax and enjoy the beauty of the city.

Where to stay in Zurich

Stay near the Old Town or Zurich's main train station (Hauptbahnhof). Both areas are convenient for exploring the city, and there are plenty of restaurants and nightlife nearby. If you are looking for a quieter atmosphere, check accommodation near Lake Zurich, where you can enjoy tranquil views.

Day 14: Depart from Zurich

Your Switzerland itinerary for 14 days comes to an end today. Depending on your departure time, you may have time for a morning stroll along Lake Zurich or a last coffee in one of the city's cozy cafes. Zurich Airport is just a short train ride from the city center, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure.