PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND IN 4 DAYS
Are you looking for an exciting 4 days in Switzerland? Look no further! In this 4-day Switzerland itinerary, I’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the best landmarks that the beautiful country has to offer.
As a self-proclaimed Switzerland, I am happy to share the tea about how to make the most of a 4-day trip. I spend a lot of my time in Switzerland – while I never tire of its beauty, I know most people just have a limited time in Switzerland. And for those, I created this itinerary for 4 days.
From stunning mountain views and crystal clear alpine lakes to traditional Swiss villages and world-famous chocolate, I’ve got something for everyone.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it here.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR A 4-DAY SWITZERLAND ITINERARY
Before jumping to your itinerary, here are some very important tips to have a smooth trip.
ARE 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND ENOUGH?
Is it even possible to explore Switzerland in just 4 days?? Well, in all honesty, I have spent about 2 years in total in Switzerland, but still discover new places.
This is why I created this itinerary, to help you get the most out of your four days in Switzerland- the most beautiful places that are all easily accessible.
HOW TO GET AROUND
I’m torn between road-tripping and trail travel. You cannot go wrong with any of these two options.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION / SWISS TRAVEL PASS
Though I love road-tripping Switzerland, for this Switzerland itinerary, I strongly recommend that you use the Swiss Travel Pass – just because this is such a busy (and amazing) itinerary that you will be out all day. And you can still enjoy these wonderful window views while getting from one destination to the other.
Different Swiss Travel Passes are available regarding flexibility and duration. Flexible passes allow you to use the pass for a certain amount of days within one month or the regular, more affordable option, which means you have to use the pass on consecutive days of travel. I normally buy one (even when I road trip) because
ℹ️ The Swiss Travel Pass is quite expensive but it helps me save money.
ℹ️ I use buses and trains without any extra costs.
ℹ️ Also, most boat cruises and some mountain excursions are included.
ℹ️ The Swiss Travel Pass also covers most museums and entrances to castles.
ℹ️ The great thing about it is that I never have to worry about finding parking spaces and instead use buses and trains (and leave my car/van at the hotel/camping site).
ℹ️ The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days. You could choose the “Flexi” or “consecutive” ticket, but for a 4-day Switzerland trip I recommend just choosing the consecutive ticket.
➡️ Click here to find the rates for a Swiss Travel Pass.
ROAD TRIPPING SWITZERLAND
If, however, you prefer to drive around yourself, take advantage of my personal experience as I have driven through this majestic land 14 or 15 times and read my Switzerland road trip itinerary or my driving tips for Switzerland!
➡️ Click here to find the rental prices for your Switzerland road trip.
MONEY / CURRENCY
ℹ️ Switzerland is not part of the European Union and does not have the euro (€). They use Swiss Francs. At the moment, 1 Swiss Franc equals about 1€ or $1,10.
ℹ️ While euros are widely accepted, the exchange rate is terrible, so I recommend exchanging money at home or withdrawing cash from an ATM (if you don’t have to pay the fees or withdraw money just once to avoid paying fees several times).
ℹ️ Credit cards are widely accepted (especially Visa and Mastercard). Still, I recommend always having cash on you for the smaller things you need to pay for (especially in smaller towns and shops).
ℹ️ As mentioned, the country is not known as a backpacker’s paradise, mainly because accommodations are costly. Also, food is not cheap (though the quality is often better than in other European countries). Ideally, you can save money by reducing your meat, alcohol, and cigarette consumption for those seven days – and find out more about Switzerland’s budget tips here.
✈️ TIP: If you have not booked your flights to Switzerland yet, check out this site to find the best deals.
PLACES TO VISIT IN 4 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND
Let´s get started, here is what to do and see on a 4-day Switzerland trip.
- DAY 1 – Arrival in Zurich, getting to Lucerne
- DAY 2 – Lucerne – getting to Interlaken
- DAY 3 – Interlaken Region
- DAY 4 – Interlaken – departure
DAY 1 – LUCERNE & MOUNT RIGI
Day 1 of your amazing trip will start in Lucerne.
🚆 ZURICH TO LUCERNE
Most likely, you will arrive in Zurich. And Zurich (or Zürich as it is written and spelled in Swiss German) is a beautiful city – do not get me wrong. Zurich is like my second home BUT with only 4 days in Switzerland, skip Zurich. Do not be too sad though, Lucerne is an amazing alternative.
If you get to Zurich International Airport, take the train from there to Lucerne. Ideally, you arrive in Zurich early in the morning, so you will have almost a full day to explore Lucerne.
ℹ️ It takes about 60-90 minutes from Zurich Airport (Flughafen) to Lucerne city center. There is even a connection where you do not have to change trains. This train ride is included in your Swiss Travel Pass.
The trains run frequently (2-3 times an hour), the one without changing trains once an hour.
TIP: For finding train connections I use the sbb.ch website or the sbb app.
🛥️ BOAT CRUISE TO VITZNAU
The first few hours in Switzerland might have been stressful so you will enjoy some relaxing time on the boats.
Not many activities are as relaxing as a boat tour in Switzerland. So, after checking in, I board one of the regular boats that leave right from in front of the Lucerne train station and take a leisurely boat ride along Lake Lucerne, ending up at Vitznau.
This scenic journey takes about an hour. No matter how often I do this exact boat tour, I always appreciate the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the crystal clear waters of Lake Lucerne, as well as the picturesque villages along the shore.
This boat cruise is just the beginning of an amazing day of exploring Lucerne´s outdoor beauty.
❕Several boats leave from Lucerne. Get the correct one – the one that is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. They leave several times a day.
🚞 MOUNT RIGI
I get off the boat at Vitznau station and head to the funicular station. This is where basically everyone will go, so you cannot miss the funicular station. It is time for one of my favorite train rides – taking the iconic cogwheel railway up Mount Rigi, also known as The Queen of the Mountains.
This one-hour journey features incredible panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and surrounding mountains and Alpine meadows – all while traveling on tracks built in 1871!
Once at the summit of Mount Rigi (or Rigi Kulm in Swiss German) – which is 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level – I either just rest first or explore the area on foot. There are several hiking trails for all levels of experience.
There is a mountain restaurant at the top, but I normally simply soak in the scenery from many of the observation points scattered around the summit.
If you are lucky and spend your evening on a clear, sunny day, you most likely will experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in Switzerland. I noticed that here at Mount Rigi, sunsets are extra pretty!
Depending on my energy level, I sometimes hike down instead of just using the cogwheel. This might also be a great alternative to the funicular that beams you down.
ℹ️ The boat tour as well as the train journey to Zurich and the train/cogwheel ride up Mount Rigi is ALL INCLUDED in the Swiss Travel Pass. Yes, right! Even the mountain excursion is covered by this train pass.
ℹ️ So, by now it should not surprise you that I love the Swiss Pass and almost always buy them when I am in Switzerland myself.
🛏️ WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE FOR A 4-DAY TRIP
With only one night in Lucerne, I highly recommend staying in the old town. Accommodations there are – no surprise – pricy – but with only one day in the area, you do not want to spend too much time traveling. I have stayed in several hotels in Lucerne, and here are some tips.
LUXURY: Schweizerhof Lucerne – If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend this beautiful 5* hotel. ➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here. I stayed here once during my first trip and enjoyed the location, the interesting design, and the friendly staff.
MID-RANGE: Hotel des Alpes – On my last Lucerne trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes. The room view was amazing (and included views of the Chapel Bridge and Mount Pilatus). ➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.
BUDGET: The Bed + Breakfast – If you want to stay in a budget hotel, have a look at this B&B. Some rooms have a shared bathroom, and some have a private one. ➡️ Book your stay at The Bed & Breakfast here.
DAY 2 – LUCERNE CITY CENTER AND TRAVEL TO INTERLAKEN
It is time to explore one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland- Lucerne.
LUCERNE OLD TOWN
Lucerne, a city located in Central Switzerland, is traversed by the winding Reuss River and is encircled by snow-capped mountains. On the eastern shore of Lake Lucerne lies the Old Town, where cobbled streets and the iconic Chapel Bridge.
I always start by visiting the famous Chapel Bridge – one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe – lined with 17th-century paintings. It is one of the main sights and close to the train station. After crossing the bridge, I normally take a walk along the banks of Lake Lucerne.
I highly recommend having a peek at the Jesuit Church which is just a 5-minute walk from the Chapel Bridge before heading to the old town of Lucerne. This church did not impress me from the outside – but surprised me by its interior.
Then I love exploring the Old Town of Lucerne which is filled with amazing sights and attractions.
Often, I visit the iconic Lion Monument which is located in a small park near the old city wall. This impressive sandstone sculpture commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. Along with this iconic monument, there are plenty of other sights to explore in the Old Town.
I love strolling through picturesque lanes lined with colorful wooden shutters, exploring medieval buildings and narrow cobblestone pathways, or admiring the city’s beautiful fountains.
There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to check out in the Old Town. So, if you need a break – and lunch – this is the place to enjoy it.
After exploring Lucerne in a day, make your way to Interlaken, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.
CHECK OUT GUIDED WALKING TOURS IN LUCERNE HERE
🚆 LUZERN – INTERLAKEN EXPRESS
It is time, to get to your next destination where you will spend the rest of your time – let me talk about my favorite region in the world: Interlaken/Jungfrau.
Take the Luzern-Interlaken Express – I absolutely love this scenic train ride, because this 2-hour journey takes me through some of the most beautiful lake and mountain landscapes in the country.
As I normally sit there, passing by small villages, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountains, I am always reminded of why Switzerland is so special. Lake Lucerne, Lake Sarnen, Lake Lungern, Lake Brienz, the Swiss Alps, the countryside, and more – this all is what I see during the scenic train ride.
ℹ️ I have more good news for you: This ride is also included in your Swiss Travel Pass. There is no reservation fee, nothing – just a scenic free ride if you are a Pass-holder). The trip takes a bit less than 2 hours and these two hours are pure eye candy.
ℹ️ The train runs once an hour. For the best view, sit on the right side of the direction of travel (Lucerne to Interlaken) and be at the train 10-15 minutes before departure. The trains tend to be full and to snatch a window seat I recommend being on the train early.
ℹ️ The Lucerne train station is rather small (nothing compared to the Zurich train station) and easy to navigate around!
🍛 DINNER IN INTERLAKEN
After this amazing Luzern-Interlaken train ride, check in at your hotel in Interlaken and explore the small town center of the world-famous Interlaken. Built on a narrow stretch of valley, between the gorgeous lakes – Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – it is a must-see in Switzerland.
From stunning views of the surrounding Alps and glistening nearby lakes, this area offers a little something for everyone! I just loooove Interlaken. However, the town itself is rather small, so it normally just takes me 1-2 hours to walk through the town center.
You might want to have a nice dinner in Interlaken and end your day!
I normally opt for a picnic: Get some snacks and drinks at a supermarket on the main street Höheweg and enjoy it at the Höhematte Park, which is right in the heart of Interlaken. On sunny days, I love seeing the paragliders above me – making this park even more special (as if the views of Jungfrau Mountain were not amazing enough).
But sometimes I need, real proper food, and Interlaken has international restaurants – including Arabic, Indian – Swiss food, or fine dining experiences – that I love to try out.
🛏️ 4-DAY VACATION IN SWITZERLAND – WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN
I suggest staying in Interlaken because its central location allows to you get around easily.
LUXURY: VICTORIA JUNGFRAU GRAND HOTEL & SPA – The most luxurious hotel in Interlaken is the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. I have not stayed there myself, so I can only repeat what I heard: This hotel is amazing. If you are looking for a fancy place in Interlaken, this is probably the best pick. ➡️ Book your stay at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa here
MID-RANGE: HOTEL DU NORD – For your stay in Interlaken, I recommend this hotel – Hotel du Nord – which is centrally located and is quite nice. It is one of my favorite accommodations for your 4-day Swiss itinerary. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel du Nord here
BUDGET: BACKPACKERS VILLA SONNENHOF – If you are on a budget, I recommend staying in Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof next to the Höhenmatte. It is not the cheapest hostel but definitely worth the money and one of my all-time favorite hostels. ➡️ Book your stay at Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof here
DAY 3 – LAUTERBRUNNEN + MUERREN + SCHILTHORN
Whenever I am in Interlaken, I visit Lauterbrunnen and Muerren (and sometimes also add Schilthorn to my itinerary).
It is an easy day trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley. You might think that “Easy is boring”, but I can assure you: A trip to Lauterbrunnen is anything but boring, so buckle up.
🚆 To get to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, take a train from Interlaken Ost station to Lauterbrunnen station. The journey takes about 20 minutes and your Swiss Travel Pass will cover the tickets. It is a short yet scenic train ride!
LAUTERBRUNNEN
Lauterbrunnen is a small village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The village lies on the floor of an impressive U-shaped valley, surrounded by jagged peaks and thundering waterfalls.
Nicknamed the ‘Valley of 72 Waterfalls’, Lauterbrunnen is a must-visit for anyone wanting to take in the beauty of Switzerland’s natural landscapes.
Lauterbrunnen is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in Switzerland. The largest and most famous waterfall is the Staubbach Falls, located just outside of town. This dramatic waterfall cascades 300 meters and is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe. When I arrive in Lauterbrunnen by train, I can often see the waterfall already and my heart skips some beats. It is just very impressive from a distance.
There is another impressive waterfall, close by, the Trümmelbach Falls. This waterfall is unique because it is actually hidden inside the mountain, with tunnels and walkways leading to various sections of its cascades. So, I have been there “only” once, because there is an entrance fee and it is closed in the winter months. However, I recommend visiting it at least once.
The town center of Lauterbrunnen is also a great place I like to explore – no matter, how often I have been there. I visit the old church, take in the views of the valley from the many viewpoints, or explore the narrow pathways lined with traditional wooden chalets.
Lauterbrunnen however, is also known as a base jumpers paradise. Base jumping in Lauterbrunnen is a very risky activity. Known as one of the most dangerous sports in the world, base jumping has claimed many lives over the years.
The valley of Lauterbrunnen is a favorite spot for experienced base jumpers due to its steep cliffs, deep ravines, and impressive waterfalls.
I have been to Lauterbrunnen many times but luckily never seen anyone doing it, let alone seen anyone jumping to death. But apart from this risky activity, Lauterbrunnen is heaven!
Given Lauterbrunnen´s small size, I recommend combining a trip to Lauterbrunnen with Mürren.
MÜRREN / MURREN
Mürren (or Muerren/Murren) is an idyllic mountain village situated (at 1,650 meters – 5,413 feet – above sea level) above Lauterbrunnen and at the foot of the Schilthorn peak in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The village is well known for its stunning views of the Alps and meadows, as well as its many ski slopes in the winter months.
Once I arrive in Mürren, I am always rewarded with views that take my breath away. The village itself is quite small and quiet but there are many things to do here (like via Ferrata for climbers). Here I have written more in detail about Murren.
If I visit on a clear – and longer summer – day, then I normally add another stop to this 4-day itinerary for Switzerland.
🚆 Getting to Mürren from Lauterbrunnen is a piece of cake. All I have to do is take the gondola from Lauterbrunnen station to Grütschalp. From there, I’ll catch a train up to Mürren. The journey takes about 30 minutes in total and is included in my Swiss Travel Pass. What should I tell you??? This journey from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren is just…drop-dead gorgeous. Impressive. Beautiful. Stunning!
If you want to be more active, just get up via gondola to Grütschalp and then do an easy but incredible hike to Mürren. This slightly uphill hike takes about 90 minutes!
SCHILTHORN – PIZ GLORIA, SWISS SKYLINE, AND MORE
Schilthorn is a 9,744-foot (almost 3,000 meters) mountain peak – known for its spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
One of the best things about Mürren is that it provides easy access to the Schilthorn Peak which is a must-visit destination for any James Bond fan. If you know, you know!
From Mürren I take two gondolas to get to Schilthotn.
To get my thrills on the Schilthorn journey I stop at Birg and take in spectacular views from above as I bravely explore the Thrill Walk – its steel structure clinging to rock walls and wriggling under observation decks, topped off by awesome obstacles like rope crossings, tunnels, and glass floors!
Then I continue my journey to the top. The summit also houses the famous “Piz Gloria” revolving restaurant – known from the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
Visiting the James Bond Walk of Fame is part of my trip, which is a museum dedicated to Mr. 007 himself. It also houses memorabilia from the film and offers an interactive tour of the mountain peak.
And though I am not a James Bond fan (I have not even watched the movie yet), I highly recommend this day trip because of 1) the views and 2) more activities, which include skiing, snowboarding in the winter, and hiking in the surrounding trails in the summer months.
This is also a beautiful place to watch the sunset – so, if you are there on a clear, sunny day make sure to enjoy that spectacle before returning to Murren/Lauterbrunnen and then to Interlaken.
ℹ️ The trip to Mürren is free with a Swiss Travel Pass. The return ticket from Mürren to Schilthorn is about 88 CHF for adults – you get a 50 % discount with a Swiss Pass.
DAY 4 – DIFFERENT OPTIONS
Let´s talk about day 4 in Switzerland – here I have a couple of options for you!
JUNGFRAUJOCH
One popular attraction on many Switzerland itineraries is the famous Jungfraujoch. It is the highest railway station in Europe and allows me to take in spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier, Bernese Alps, and more from its observation deck at almost 3,500 meters (about 11,000 feet)!
Not only is it an amazing feat of engineering, but Jungfraujoch also offers a wealth of attractions and activities. This includes the Alpine Sensation, the Ice Palace (yes, a tunnel made out of ice), several viewing platforms (from which you have a fantastic panorama of the Aletsch Glacier), a Lindt Museum, and more.
In the summer months, I love exploring the breathtaking alpine meadows and glacier valleys or taking in the spectacular views from its many observation decks.
In winter, the opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowing are endless – though, Jungfraujoch is also special because you can also do winter sports in the summer months! Yes, it is true. There is always snow on the top of Jungfrajoch, and this always you to do some winter sports at the Snow Fun Palace.
I focus on the views, even in the winter, and enjoy being up in the mountains.
Jungfraujoch is definitely one of those special places that deserve to be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Not only does it offer breathtaking views and unique activities for all seasons, but it’s also a great way to get close to the heart of the Swiss Alps!
Check out my guide about Jungfraujoch for more info.
ℹ️ I get from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg and then you have to change trains one more time. The ride is one of the best train rides in Switzerland, so do not mind that the whole journey (one-way) is about 2 hours in total.
On your way back, take the gondola which stops at Grindelwald Terminal station. The gondola – via Eiger Express – is the faster way to get up/down the Jungfraujoch, but a bit less scenic in my eyes.
ℹ️ The trip to Wengen is free with your Swiss Travel Pass. From Wengen to the top of Junfraujoch you get a 25% discount with a pass.
The Jungfrajoch excursion is quite expensive – so, if you have to watch your budget closely, you can skip it and do one of the many other activities near Interlaken which are free or way cheaper. Thus, I have a few more recommendations for your last day in Switzerland.
GRINDELWALD & GRINDELWALD FIRST
Stunning views and activities to please every type of traveler await you in Grindelwald.
Grindelwald is a small village about 30 minutes from Interlaken. After a leisurely stroll through this traditional Swiss village with beautiful wooden chalets, I normally get up Grindelwald First at 2,166 meters (7,106 feet) above sea level.
Whether you hike up or take the cable cars – at the top, you have panoramic vistas of Eiger Mountain and a variety of activities you can choose from.
I think, the best way to experience this area is with a hike to Bachalpsee Lake – one of the most beautiful Swiss lakes. Hiking to the lake just takes about one hour – and the best is that it does not even include a steep uphill/downhill hike, which makes it very family-friendly.
Other popular activities in Grindelwald First include skiing, and snowboarding in the winter months, or hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Grindelwald First is also known as the Top of Adventure, as there are many activities like the Cliff Walk, First Glider, and more.
When you are in Switzerland for 4 days, then this is a great way to spend a day.
ℹ️ Just hop on a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald – it takes about 30 minutes to get there by train. Just make sure you sit in the right compartment – the train splits and one part of the train will continue to Lauterbrunnen, and the other part of the train will get to Grindelwald. This train ride is also, as you might have guessed, included in the Swiss Travel Pass.
ℹ️ The ticket to Grindelwald First is about 68 CHF – with a Swiss Travel Pass you enjoy a 50% discount.
LAKE THUN & THUN & SPIEZ
Interlaken is located on the northern shores of the stunning Lake Thun. With its majestic mountain views, blue-green waters, and quaint villages, Lake Thun is the perfect destination to explore. Hop on a boat at Interlaken West Station and enjoy a scenic boat cruise.
I recommend taking a day trip to this charming town situated at the north end of Lake Thun – Thun.
I love exploring Thun´s Old Town, its castles, shops, and other attractions. It surely is one of the most beautiful Swiss cities (or towns) and is a perfect mix of beautiful scenery and cultural sights. As much as I love the mountains, I also appreciate nice vibrant towns.
If time allows, visit also Spiez village! Spiez is different compared to the rest of the country! Whenever I stroll the gorgeous promenade, I get a Mediterranean Vibe and feel like I am somewhere on the French Riveria.
I also appreciate the amazing views of the uniquely shaped Niesen Mountain – which looks like a pyramid! As if that was not enough, Spiez is also home to a gorgeous castle, vineyards, and more!
And if you’re feeling brave enough dive into some exciting water activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddling on the lake. Check out my detailed guide on Lake Thun and Thun for more info.
ℹ️ At Interlaken West, I hop on the boat towards Thun. You can get out at any station (like Spiez, St.Beatus Caves. etc.) – this boat ride is scenic! From Thun, get to Spiez by bus or boat.
ℹ️ TIPS: Whether you get to Thun/Spiez (or any village in between) via boat or train – it is included in your Swiss Travel Pass. Also, the entrance to Thun Castle is included.
CUSTOMIZED ITINERARY PLANNING
If you need more help and are looking for customized itinerary planning, please check the services I offer:
Get your customized itinerary for Switzerland here
FINAL THOUGHTS ON MY 4-DAY SWITZERLAND TRIP
So, if you’re looking for adventure and exploration, then this Switzerland itinerary is just the thing for you. With its breathtaking alpine scenery, medieval architecture, and vibrant cities, there’s something here to suit everyone. I added a mix of everything, which makes this itinerary pretty perfect in my eyes.
Whether it’s exploring the lakeside towns or taking in the stunning views from atop a mountain peak, 4 days in Switzerland is sure to be a memorable experience.
You can also check out my other itineraries for more ideas on how to make the most of your days in this gorgeous country.