One week in Switzerland: 7 days itinerary

While you’re probably already aware of Switzerland’s stunning scenery, you might not be as clued up on the country’s cultural attractions and culinary delights, which is exactly what’s covered in the 7 day Switzerland itinerary detailed below. As a bonus, here we also share five additional ways to enjoy 7 days in Switzerland, all of which are sure to provide plenty of fondue of thought for every type of traveler.

About this one week in Switzerland itinerary

Wondering what you can do in Switzerland in 7 days? Be assured that a richness of natural beauty, culture and adventure awaits.

But before we share day-by-day detail of this 7 day Switzerland itinerary, here’s an handy overview of what’s in store on a trip that covers a range of the best things to do in Switzerland.

• Day 1: Arrive in Zurich, take a guided tour
• Day 2: Day trip to Lucerne
• Day 3: Transfer to Grindelwald; take a trip to the top of Europe
• Day 4: Grindelwald mountain adventures
• Day 5: Transfer to Zermatt; visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Day 6: Transfer to Lausanne via Montreux and Chillon Castle
• Day 7: Discover chocolate, cheese and castles in La Gruyere

Not set on a 7 day trip to Switzerland? Take inspiration from our 14 days in Switzerland itinerary and 10 days in Switzerland itinerary.

Our feature on how many days you need in Switzerland might also come in handy.

Day 1: Arrive in Zurich, take a guided tour

After landing in Zurich, this 7 day Switzerland itinerary kicks off with an afternoon guided tour.

There’s no better way to see the city’s top attractions, among them the iconic Grossmünster, with its distinctive twin sugar-loafed towers, and Fraumünster church, which features Marc Chagall’s spectacular stained-glass windows.

Into art and culture? Be sure to stop by the Kunsthaus collection gallery and the Swiss National Museum.

Where to stay in Zurich

Zurich has a full range of accommodation, and despite being one of the most expensive cities in the world, if you book ahead you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to find someplace nice to stay.

You’ll find the highest concentration of inexpensive hotels in the Old Town’s Niederdorf district, while mid-range-standard hotels in Niederdorf are often pricey.

If you’re coming for culture, we recommend Alma Hotel — an upmarket boutique hotel located near the lake, south of the Opera House.

Looking for cosy charm in a central location? Check out Guesthouse fürDich. 

Wondering when’s the best time to visit Switzerland? If you’re not coming to ski, wise up on the best things to do in summer in Switzerland.

Day 2: Day trip to Lucerne

Day 2 of this 7 day Switzerland itinerary sees a shift in scenery and pace when you visit Lucerne, with a ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel cable car en route.

After taking the car to the summit of Mount Pilatus, you’ll be served spectacular views of Lake Lucerne and the Alps, with hiking trails revealing yet more remarkable vistas. 

Come the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Lucerne — one of the prettiest cities in Europe, and one of the reasons Switzerland is oft-hailed one of the most beautiful countries in the world. 

After rambling the old town, with its medieval bridges, baroque churches and charming squares, cruise Lake Lucerne on a vintage paddle steamer.

Day 3: Transfer to Grindelwald via the top of Europe

Day 3 will see you make a move to the Alpine resort town of Grindelwald in the Jungfrau region. 

After checking-in to your accommodation, it’s time to take a trip to Europe’s highest railway station. 

The journey begins aboard the Jungfrau Railway, a scenic cogwheel train that climbs through stunning alpine landscapes of snow-capped peaks, green valleys and cute villages.

At 3454 metres, Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest railway station, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier — the longest glacier in the Alps — and the surrounding peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. 

Start your exploration of the summit at the Sphinx Observation Deck, a glass-enclosed platform that provides jaw-dropping vistas.

Where to stay in Grindelwald

Accommodation in Grindelwald is largely of the chalet-style variety — in the main, crisply appointed, with charming cosy features and incredible views.

For rustic charm and warm-hearted service head to Hotel Gletschergarten. All rooms have balconies, there’s an open fireplace in the cosy lounge, and its window boxes are a delight.

Day 4: Grindelwald mountain adventures

Day 4 of this 7 day Switzerland itinerary brings adventure, beginning when you board the Grindelwald First Gondola — a 25-minute ride that offers panoramic views of the Bernese Alps, lush meadows and cascading waterfalls.

When you arrive at First — a mountain destination that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers — the adventure ramps up courtesy of the thrilling First Cliff Walk, a suspended walkway that hugs the mountain's edge.

The walk leads to a lookout platform that extends over the valley, offering breath-taking views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Eiger.

Next, it’s time to experience the First Flyer — a thrilling zipline that spans 800 metres at speeds of up to 84 km/h, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Grindelwald’s alpine beauty. 

For an even more adventurous flight, try the First Glider experience during which you’re strapped into a harness that resembles a giant bird in order to soar across the landscape.

Into adventure? Discover the best outdoor experiences in Switzerland.

Day 5: Transfer to Zermatt and visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

The next leg of your Switzerland 7 day itinerary starts with a move to Zermatt — gateway to the majestic Matterhorn.

After checking-in, it’s time to journey to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, boarding a series of cable cars and gondolas that take approximately 45 minutes to ascend to the highest cable car station in Europe.

At the summit, you’ll step into a magical world of snow and ice when you visit the Glacier Palace, an enchanting ice cave featuring intricate sculptures and glittering ice crystals. 

While adventurous types can enjoy snow tubing or skiing, everyone can soak up views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa massif from a viewing platform, and relax at the summit restaurant.

Editor’s tip: an alternate way to spend the afternoon is to ride the scenic Gornergrat Railway to enjoy views of 29 peaks. 

At the summit, the Mattterhorn views are among the best possible, and the huge Gorner Glacier is quite something to behold, too.

Where to stay in Zermatt

There are dozens of hotels in Zermatt, so you won’t struggle to find someplace that suits your needs. 

That said, you need to book well in advance if you’re planning to visit in the winter or summer high seasons. 

For the ultimate alpine experience — and the best views in town — Kulmhotel Gornergrat can't be beaten. This is the highest hotel in the Alps.

Looking for luxury? Living up to its name, Grand Hotel Zermatterhof is one of the finest hotels in Switzerland.

Meanwhile, cosy Hotel Allalin is a wonderful 4-star option. It has a spa, the service is outstanding, and there’s a balcony in every room.

Day 6: Transfer to Lausanne via Montreux and Chillon Castle

Day 6 of this Switzerland itinerary presents a rewarding range of experiences, beginning when you taking a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express line to Montreux (approx. 2.5–3 hours).

The journey offers breath-taking views of alpine peaks, valleys and vineyards as you descend into the Lake Geneva region.

After arriving in Montreux head straight to Chillon Castle — a magnificent medieval fortress located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It's easily accessed via a 10-minute bus ride or 30-minute walk along the picturesque lakeside promenade. 

After exploring the castle’s atmospheric halls, dungeons and towers — which once inspired Lord Byron’s poetry — return to Montreux for a leisurely lunch at a lakeside café, or to browse its boutique shops.

Come the afternoon, continue to Lavaux, a UNESCO-listed wine region that’s famous for its terraced vineyards. 

After taking a wine-tasting tour, it’s time to head to Lausanne — a staggeringly scenic city that also has a rep for lively nightlife.

Where to stay in Lausanne

Lausanne has accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes, but be aware that there are only a couple of hotels in the Old Town, and a few the heart of the city centre. 

Most visitors stay on or near the Ouchy lakefront. For example, we really rate the classy Angleterre & Residence. It occupies four eighteenth-century mansions, including the one in which Byron is reputed to have written The Prisoner of Chillon. 

If you’re look for something really special — and aren’t constrained by any kind of budget — consider Beau-Rivage Palace. One of the finest hotels in Switzerland, it’s set in ten-acre waterside gardens and has been gloriously restored to its 1861 grandeur.

Day 7: Discover chocolate, cheese and castles in La Gruyere 

Switzerland’s most famous culinary creations are in store on the last day of this Switzerland itinerary, beginning when you take the train from Lausanne to Broc-Fabrique (1.5 hours).

Here you’ll visit Maison Cailler, Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand, and take a guided tour to discover Cailler’s history Swiss chocolate-making traditions. Of course, you’ll also get to sample plenty of rich, velvety chocolate.

Next, head to nearby La Gruyère — a charming medieval village that’s renowned for its cheese.

After seeing how Gruyère cheese is crafted at the Gruyère Cheese Factory, spend the afternoon at Gruyères Castle.

Perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, it really is a joy to explore.

Next, for something entirely different, visit the HR Giger Museum and enjoy a drink at the adjacent Alien Bar, where the décor immerses you in Giger’s unique sci-fi world, before returning to Lausanne for the night. 

Next morning, it’s time to bid goodbye to Switzerland.

Optional Switzerland itinerary for 7 days

Before you book your 7-day Switzerland vacation, read on for more itinerary ideas.

Itinerary #1: Zurich and Lucerne 

Blending the breath-taking natural beauty of Lucerne with the lively urban appeal of Zurich across 7 days, this itinerary will have you enjoying a balance of culture and the great outdoors

Itinerary overview

This Switzerland itinerary starts in Zurich with an exploration of the Old Town before you head to Lake Zurich.

Next, day two features a visit to the Swiss National Museum and Zurich Zoo, while day three brings more art and culture through visits to Kunsthaus Zurich and Fraumünster Church, rounded off with dinner in Niederdorf. 

You'll move to lovely Lucerne on day four, with time to marvel at the Chapel Bridge and Old Town after you arrive.

Meanwhile, day five heralds a boat trip on Lake Lucerne along with an exhilarating excursion to Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi. 

Visits to the Swiss Museum of Transport, the Lion Monument and Glacier Garden are in store on day six, before you have time to stroll and shop in Lucerne on day seven.

Itinerary #2: Geneva and Montreux

Serving a satisfying mix of history, culture, and natural beauty through focussing on Geneva and Montreux, this is a wonderful way for culture vultures to spend 7 days in Switzerland.

Itinerary overview 

On arrival in Geneva, visit the United Nations Office, and take a walk around the charming Old Town. 

On day two, head to Lake Geneva to see the Jet d'Eau before exploring the International Red Cross Museum. If you have time, enjoy a late-afternoon stroll in the elegant Jardin Anglais.

Day three focuses on Geneva’s museums, including the Art and History Museum and the Patek Philippe Museum, ahead of tucking into a sumptuous dinner in the Carouge district. 

On day four, it’s time to travel to Montreux to visit Chillon Castle before you take a trip to Rochers-de-Naye on day 5.

Come day 6, you’ll visit Lausanne to see the Olympic Museum and explore the Old Town, with this itinerary winding up with time to shop in Montreux on day seven before you head to the airport. 

Itinerary #3: Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region

Our next additional 7 day Switzerland itinerary presents an unforgettable journey through Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region, and includes visits to the picturesque villages of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.

Itinerary overview

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this trip kicks off in Interlaken. On the first day, explore Höhematte Park, visit the historic Interlaken Monastery, and enjoy a mountain-view dinner. 

Day two is centred on enjoying a boat trip on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. Fancy more adventure? Book a paragliding experience.

On day three, take the train to Jungfraujoch — the "Top of Europe” — to visit the Ice Palace and Sphinx Observatory

Day four will see you explore the pretty village of Grindelwald to visit the exhilarating Grindelwald First walkway, hike, or take a cable car ride through stunning alpine scenery. 

You’ll discover the Lauterbrunnen Valley on day five through visits to its enchanting waterfalls, including Trümmelbach Falls.

On day six, a scenic train ride to Schynige Platte is in store. Here you can stroll botanical gardens and follow hiking trails before returning to Interlaken for dinner. 

This scenic Switzerland itinerary concludes with a relaxing morning in Interlaken on day 7 before you transfer back to the airport. 

Itinerary #4: Bern and the Emmental Region

Melding vibrant city life with picturesque landscapes, this itinerary uncovers a rich range of Switzerland as it takes you from Bern through the Emmental Region, via lovely lakes and opportunities to indulge in local culinary delights. 

Itinerary overview

The itinerary begins by exploring Bern’s Old Town, including seeing the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, and dining at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Bern’s history is the focus of day two, thanks to visiting the city’s Historical Museum, Federal Palace, and Rose Garden.

Day three is devoted to doing a deeper dive into Bern’s artistic heritage, when you’ll visit the Paul Klee Center and the Museum of Fine Art.

Come day four, it’s time to explore the Emmental region to visit a local cheese dairy and hike through rolling hills.

You’ll discover more of Emmental on day five, through visits to picturesque villages and Trachselwald Castle.

Meanwhile, day six is centred on a day trip to Thun, including visiting Thun Castle and taking a boat trip on the lake..

This trip concludes with a leisurely morning in Bern — hopefully you’ll have time to souvenir shop before you head to the airport. 

Itinerary #5: Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Covering the Zermatt and the Matterhorn region, this adventure-packed 7 day Switzerland itinerary also includes the chance to relax in Leukerbad’s thermal baths, and some special cultural experiences.

Itinerary overview

After arriving in Zermatt on day one, visit the Matterhorn Museum, take a stroll through the old town, and enjoy dinner with a Matterhorn view. 

On day two, ride the glorious Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the Matterhorn, followed by a scenic hike.

Day three is devoted to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where the wonders of the Glacier Ice Palace await.

On day four, visit the pretty alpine villages of Täsch and Randa before heading to Leukerbad on day 5 — the thermal baths here are truly sublime.

Thrills are in store on day 6, when you’ll take a scenic helicopter tour of Zermatt before visiting the Zermatt Folklore Museum when you’re back on the ground.

On the morning of day 7, enjoy a last leisurely stroll in Zermatt before heading to the airport.

Still hungry for more ideas? Take inspiration from our 14 days in Switzerland itinerary and 10 days in Switzerland itinerary.