WHAT TO DO IN SWITZERLAND IN 10 DAYS
Are you looking for an exciting 10-day Switzerland itinerary? Then read on because you will find many travel tips on how to spend 10 days in Switzerland.
From towering snow-capped mountains to tranquil Swiss lakes and charming small towns – this tiny landlocked country in Central Europe is simply bursting with incredible sights! After I have spent countless weeks in this gorgeous country, I have created this itinerary that helps you plan a trip you will not forget!
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.
ITINERARY FOR 10 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND
Ready for an unforgettable itinerary? You’ll find all the exciting details, including tips on how to get around, etc., just a bit further down, but this list here gives you a great overview already.
- 1 DAY – Zurich
- 1,5 DAYS – Lucerne & Mount Rigi
- 1 DAY – Jungfraujoch & Kleine Scheidegg
- 1 DAY – Lake Brienz + Brienzer Rothorn + Giessbach Waterfalls
- 1 DAY – Lauterbrunnen & Mürren & Schilthorn
- 1 DAY – St. Beatus Caves & Lake Thun & Thun
- 1 DAY – Lake Oeschinen and Lake Blausee
- 1 DAY – Montreux
- 1,5 DAYS – Zermatt
Let´s start with the 10-day Switzerland itinerary.
Zurich – 1 Day
On your first day, dive into Zurich! Switzerland’s biggest city has it all: a charming medieval Old Town, a buzzing cultural vibe, and landscapes that’ll have your camera working overtime.
Perched along the scenic Limmat River with the mountains photobombing beautifully in the background, Zurich effortlessly blends historic charm with sleek modern architecture—plus, there’s lovely Lake Zurich surrounded by lush greenery just begging for a leisurely stroll.
THINGS TO DO IN ZURICH
✔️ Explore the Bahnhofstrasse – known as the world’s priciest street! It might not look overly flashy, but it actually tops New York’s 5th Avenue in rental prices.
✔️ Stroll through Zurich’s Old Town – wander charming, narrow streets lined with colorful, historic buildings.
✔️ Head up to Uetliberg Mountain – Zurich’s very own “house mountain,” perfect for stunning panoramic views.
✔️ Feeling active? Grab a free rental bike and pedal your way around Zurich. A great way to see more of the city!
✔️ Unwind at Lake Zurich – relax for your final hours of sightseeing. Enjoy fine dining at lakeside restaurants or pick up tasty snacks from a nearby supermarket for a laid-back picnic.
✔️ Hop on a Lake Zurich boat tour – as a true boat tour enthusiast, I simply can’t resist recommending this relaxing ride on the water!
Ending Your Day at Lake Zurich – A Perfect Zurich Experience
There’s truly no better way to wrap up a day in Zurich than by spending some time at Lake Zurich. Especially during warm summer evenings, when street musicians play lovely tunes, and locals and visitors alike gather by the lakeshore, Zurich delivers that perfect summer feeling!
The atmosphere here is wonderfully laid-back compared to other Swiss destinations. You’ll quickly notice Zurich’s open-minded vibe, with a friendly mix of locals and travelers enjoying the scenery together.
Of course, Zurich has much more to offer! For additional tips and ideas, check out my guide on the top things to do in Zurich.
With 10 days in Switzerland, spending at least one full day in Zurich sets a fantastic tone before you head off to your next destination.
WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH
- LUXURY: Baur au Lac – Zurich has some great luxury hotels that are amazing for getting spoiled and enjoying life. Baur au Lac is one of the best-rated luxury hotels close to the city center. ➡️ Book your stay at Baur au Lac here.
- MID-RANGE: The Glärnischhof by TRINITY – This 4-star hotel is one of the best-rated mid-range hotels close to the city center, right next to the famous Bahnhofstrasse. ➡️ Book your stay at The Glärnischhof by TRINITY here.
- BUDGET: Oldtown Hostel Otter – Oldtown Hostel Otter in Zurich’s Old Town offers a stylish atmosphere for the young and young at heart. Located just 300 meters from both the Zurich-Stadelhofen train station and the lake, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy the city’s vibrant energy. ➡️ Book your stay at Oldtown Hostel Otter here.
Ebenalp Mountain and Appenzell – 1 Day
FROM ZURICH TO EBENALP – I suggest doing a day trip from Zurich
- BY CAR: About 1,5 hours
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 2 hours
Ebenalp Mountain and Aescher Guesthouse
Have you seen pictures of the world-famous cliffside mountain guesthouse, the Aescher? If you’re eager to experience it yourself, plan a visit to Appenzellerland in northeastern Switzerland!
Ebenalp Mountain is one of Appenzell’s most beloved destinations, rising to 912 meters (2,992 feet) above sea level. From its summit, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of lush green valleys and rugged alpine peaks.
Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of activities to choose from:
- Hiking scenic mountain trails
- Mountain biking through stunning landscapes
- Experiencing the thrill of paragliding
But the highlight that steals the show is undoubtedly the spectacular, picturesque, and truly iconic Aescher Mountain Guesthouse, perched dramatically on a sheer cliff face, offering visitors an unforgettable Swiss experience.
THINGS TO DO IN EBENALP MOUNTAIN
✔️ Hike up to the Aescher (or take the cable car) and treat yourself to a drink or lunch at the iconic cliffside Aescher Mountain Guesthouse—one of Switzerland’s most unique and photogenic spots.
✔️ Visit the Wildkirchli Caves – explore these fascinating prehistoric caves and learn about their history and connection to early human life in the Alps.
✔️ Hike down to Seealpsee – a picture-perfect alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks. It’s an incredible reward after your hike!
ℹ️ How to Get There:
Ebenalp is easy to reach from Zurich—about 1.5 to 2 hours by car or train. Head to Wasserauen Station, and from there, either hike up or take the cable car to Ebenalp.
⏱️ Depending on your chosen route (cable car or hiking), plan for 2 to 6 hours to explore the area.
➡️ Need more info? Check out my detailed guide to visiting the Aescher and Appenzellerland with all the tips you need!
Stop in Appenzell Town
Once you’re back in the valley, either head to your hotel or make a quick detour to the adorable town of Appenzell—just a few minutes’ drive away.
This charming town in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden is home to just over 5,000 people and sits at 797 meters (2,619 feet) above sea level. With its rolling green hills, traditional painted houses, and laid-back vibe, I lovingly call it Little Tuscany—it truly reminds me of the gentle landscapes of Tuscany!
Appenzell may be small, but it’s full of charm! You won’t need much time to explore it, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality. The town is packed with brightly painted buildings in every color of the rainbow, making it feel like a postcard come to life.
It’s a perfect example of a traditional Swiss village—quaint, peaceful, and undeniably photogenic. If you ask me, this is Swiss village life at its finest.
End your day by wandering its cheerful streets and consider spending the night in one of the cozy town center hotels before continuing your Swiss adventure.
WHERE TO STAY IN APPENZELL
I recommend doing a day trip from Zurich to Appenzell, so you have to change hotels less often.
Lucerne & Mount Rigi & Mount Pilatus – 1,5 Days
FROM ZURICH TO LUCERNE
- BY CAR: About 1 hour
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 1 hour
Lucerne is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland—and in my opinion, it absolutely deserves 1.5 to 2 days of your itinerary.
Located right on the shores of Lake Lucerne, this city is one of Switzerland’s top tourist destinations—and for good reason. It offers breathtaking views of the Alps, charming lakeside scenery, and a historic old town that feels like it stepped out of a storybook.
One of Lucerne’s most iconic landmarks is the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a covered wooden bridge built in 1333, famous for its 17th-century paintings inside. It’s one of Europe’s oldest surviving truss bridges and an absolute must-see.
Lucerne isn’t just beautiful—it’s surrounded by breathtaking spots that are well worth a visit. The city itself offers a stunning old town, packed with historic charm and must-see sights like the Lion Monument and views of Lake Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s largest lakes.
If you’re short on time, even a few hours can be enough to see the highlights on a walking tour through the historic center.
For a relaxing break, grab a seat at one of the many outdoor cafés and enjoy the atmosphere, especially lovely in the warmer months.
THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE
✔️ Visit Chapel Bridge – Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge, built in the 14th century as part of Lucerne’s fortifications. In the 17th century, painted panels were added inside, illustrating scenes from Swiss and Lucerne history.
✔️ Explore the Old Town – wander through narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings and colorful facades full of character and charm.
✔️ Take a Lake Lucerne Boat Cruise – not just a scenic ride from point A to B, but also a relaxing way to soak in the panoramic views of the mountains and lake.
✔️ Relax at Weggis – discover a hidden lakeside spot perfect for a swim. Skip the lido and head to this quiet gem with your blanket, snacks, drinks, and swimsuit. A peaceful way to end the day!
➡️ Check out my travel guide for Lucerne
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE
- 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.
- MID-RANGE: Hotel des Alpes – On my last Lucerne trip, I stayed at Hotel des Alpes. The view from the room was amazing (and included views of the Chapel Bridge and Mount Pilatus). ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel des Alpes here.
- BUDGET: The Bed + Breakfast – If you want to stay in a budget hotel, look at this B&B. Some rooms have a shared bathroom, and some have a private one. ➡️ Check out prices for The Bed + Breakfast here.
Click here to read my full post on the best hotels in Lucerne.
Mount Rigi
If you cannot get enough of gorgeous mountain views, head to Mount Rigi for the sunset.
Mount Rigi – also known as the Queen of the Mountains – with its mountain peak, Rigi Kulm at 1.779 meters (5836 feet) – is quite easily accessible from Lucerne. From there, you have stunning views of the Alps and the three lakes: Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz.
Mount Rigi is not very far from Weggis, so you can easily combine the trip. Riding up the mountain (funicular) is a feast for the eyes. Getting up while looking at the Alps, Lake Lucerne, and many lush meadows is a fantastic way to end your day.
On sunny days, the sunset from Mount Rigi is often amazing. Of course, you can also hike up or do a combination of the funicular ride and hiking. Here is some more info on the Mount Rigi excursion.
It takes about one hour from Lucerne by boat or public transportation (less if you get there from Weggis), and the funicular ride takes about 50 minutes one-way. So you should plan at least about 4-5 hours for this excursion (6-7 hours would be better).
ℹ️ This trip is also covered with your Swiss Travel Pass – whether you get here by boat or train/bus and use the funicular, you do not have to pay any extra fees.
TIP: Two funiculars get you up via Vitznau and Goldau. The way via Vitznau is 1000% more scenic than via Goldau, so opt for that route.
Mount Pilatus
Alternatively, you can visit Mount Pilatus. This mountain stands at 2,128 meters above sea level (6.981 feet) and offers some of the best panoramas in Central Switzerland. Whether you get to (or better, arrive at) Mount Pilatus by boat, car, or public transportation, the next few hours will be wonderful once you are there.
Since there are many possible activities that you can do up there (including paragliding, hiking, and more), it would be easy to spend a full day on Mount Pilatus.
So, thus, I recommend this excursion only if you have the time to do it; otherwise, a trip to Mount Rigi is a great alternative. You get a 50% discount on the funicular/cable car ride with your Swiss Travel Pass.
INTERLAKEN AND JUNGFRAU REGION – 5 DAYS
FROM LUCERNE TO INTERLAKEN
- BY CAR: About 2 hours
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 2 hours
If you take the train, take the Luzern-Interlaken Express. It is one of the best train rides in Switzerland, offering stunning window views. Base yourself in Interlaken and explore the regions of Jungfrau and Interlaken for the next few days.
This area is like heaven on Earth. There is so much to do, so make sure to book at least three nights in this region.
Jungfraujoch and Kleine Scheidegg – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO JUNGFRAUJOCH – I suggest doing a day trip from Zurich
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 2 hours (including all the scenic rides)
A trip to Jungfraujoch is probably the most famous—and most iconic—day trip in Switzerland. Known as the “Top of Europe,” the Jungfraujoch is a high-altitude saddle connecting the mighty 4000ers Jungfrau and Mönch, and sits at a staggering 3,463 meters (11,000 feet) above sea level.
It’s also home to the highest train station in Europe. Getting there honestly feels like stepping into another world—there’s an entire mini village waiting for you at the top!
Attractions? There’s no shortage. Wander through the magical Ice Palace, experience the Alpine Sensation, and—yes—you’ll see snow every single day of the year. That means winter sports in summer are absolutely possible! Whether it’s snow tubing, sledding, or even a bit of skiing at the Snow Fun Park, you can channel your inner snow bunny no matter the season.
While the snow activities may come with an extra fee, most main attractions are included in your regular train ticket—just be sure to check what’s currently open.
On your way up, spend some extra time at Kleine Scheidegg. At 2,061 meters, this scenic mountain pass between the Eiger and Lauberhorn peaks is a wonderful spot for a break, a bite, or even a short hike. If you’re up for it, you can even hike up to Kleine Scheidegg and take the train from there to Jungfraujoch—it’s a rewarding mix of adventure and alpine beauty.
Now, the big question: Is Jungfraujoch a must-visit in 10 days in Switzerland?
I’ve been three times—and yes, it’s a unique experience each time. But I’ll be real with you: it’s not cheap, and it can get quite crowded, especially in peak season. If you’ve always dreamed of standing on a snow-covered peak in the heart of the Alps, this is your moment. If you are on a budget, there are also many other mountain excursions in the region.
ℹ️ If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you get a discount on this quite expensive day trip.
If you still have some time and energy left after your Jungfraujoch adventure, I highly recommend spending the rest of your day in the charming alpine village of Grindelwald.
With its postcard-perfect setting and dramatic mountain views, Grindelwald is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and just take it all in. Stroll through the village, pop into a few local shops, or simply find a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
And for the perfect ending to the day? Have dinner in Grindelwald.
Lake Brienz + Brienzer Rothorn + Giessbach Waterfalls – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO BRIENZ VILLAGE – I suggest doing a day trip from Interlaken
- BY CAR: About 2o minutes
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 20 minutes (+ 60-minute ride up Brienzer Rothorn)
If you’re in the mood for a calm, scenic start, head to Lake Brienz and begin your morning with a relaxing boat tour.
This lake is actually my favorite in all of Switzerland. The water here has the most mesmerizing turquoise color—it shimmers and sparkles in a way that feels almost unreal. It’s peaceful, it’s stunning, and honestly, it’s the kind of place that makes you pause and just breathe.
Next up: one of the most scenic mountain adventures in the region—Brienzer Rothorn. This beautiful peak stands at 2,350 meters above sea level, and while the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, the journey to get there is just as magical.
Normally, you’d take a boat to Brienz station (you can also get there by car/train). From there, you’d hop aboard the historic steam locomotive that chugs its way up the mountain. It’s an experience that feels like stepping back in time.
And the panorama at the top? Spectacular. One of my all-time favorite mountain excursions! I’ve done this trip twice, and both times, I was completely in awe. The sweeping views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding Alps are unforgettable.
Many visitors choose to hike back down, soaking in the changing landscape as they descend.
After your mountain adventure, continue by boat to Giessbach Waterfalls—one of the most stunning waterfalls in Switzerland.
ℹ️ Get off at the Giessbach boat stop. From there, it’s a short uphill walk or a ride on the charming hotel funicular to reach the historic Grandhotel Giessbach. The views over Lake Brienz and the cascading waterfall are fantastic.
ℹ️ The Grandhotel Giessbach is closed in winter. It’s one of my favorite hotels in Switzerland—elegant, a bit quirky, and with an unbeatable setting. Overnight stays can be pricey, but even just enjoying a drink on the terrace or dinner at the restaurant is a wonderful experience. This can easily be your dinner stop for the day.
ℹ️ Visiting Brienzer Rothorn (when operating), Lake Brienz, and Giessbach is a full-day trip.
Tip: If this plan doesn’t work out or you want to switch things up, I’ve got more great alternatives in the region.
Lauterbrunnen & Mürren & Schilthorn – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO LAUTERBRUNNEN – I suggest doing a day trip from Lauterbrunnen
- BY CAR: About 2o minutes
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 20 minutes
If you’re in the mood to visit one of the most popular spots in the region, head to the breathtaking valley of Lauterbrunnen.
Famous for its dramatic cliffs and roaring waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is a hotspot for adrenaline lovers—skydiving, bungee jumping, and base jumping are all part of the scene here. But don’t worry if that’s not your thing—this is still Switzerland, and there are plenty of hiking trails to enjoy as well.
Whether you’re chasing thrills or just a peaceful walk surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen delivers both.
Lauterbrunnen is famous for its 72 waterfalls, with the most iconic being the Staubbach Falls, cascading down nearly 300 meters, and the powerful Trümmelbach Falls, hidden inside a mountain and accessible by tunnel lift.
The valley is also home to the impressive Schilthorn mountain, known not just for its panoramic views but also for its starring role in the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
ℹ️ A visit to Lauterbrunnen, especially if it includes hiking or a trip up to Schilthorn, will likely take most of the day—there won’t be much time left for other activities.
ℹ️ On the way to Schilthorn, don’t miss Mürren, a car-free mountain village perched on a terrace high above the valley. It’s accessible by cable car and train, and well worth the detour for the views and peaceful atmosphere.
ℹ️ End your day with dinner in the heart of Lauterbrunnen before heading back to your hotel. A cozy meal with waterfall views is a pretty sweet way to wind down.
St. Beatus Caves & Lake Thun & Thun – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO ST. BEATUS CAVES – I suggest doing a day trip from Interlaken
- BY CAR: About 15 minutes
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 15 minutes
Another dreamy destination to include in your 10-day Switzerland itinerary is the St. Beatus Caves, located between Interlaken and Thun, right on the shores of Lake Thun.
With their dramatic cliffside setting, underground chambers, and panoramic lake views, these caves offer a mix of natural wonder and fairytale vibes. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful yet impressive detour in the Bernese Oberland.
You can reach the St. Beatus Caves by bus, boat, or car. From the drop-off point, it’s about a 10-minute uphill walk to the entrance—a short “hike” that rewards you with one of the most stunning views in the Interlaken region.
It’s not the altitude that impresses, but the setting—a dramatic cliffside location, a magical cave system, and a restaurant terrace overlooking Lake Thun. The Panorama Restaurant is a great spot for lunch, with views that might just steal the show.
After exploring the caves, walk down the other side of the hill. It’s a short and easy trail, but the view is fantastic. You’ll quickly see why road-tripping in Switzerland is such a joy—these little scenic backroads are made for discovering gems.
Check out my more detailed guide on the St. Beatus Caves.
ℹ️ This trip to the St. Beatus Caves likely won’t take a full day, so you’ll have time for a few more lovely stops nearby.
One great option is to head to Sigriswil and cross the Panorama Bridge, a suspension bridge offering stunning views over Lake Thun and the surrounding Alps. If you’re in the mood for something quirky, stop by Grabenmühle—a wonderfully odd little place with animal encounters, playful corners, and a cozy café vibe.
ℹ️ Both Sigriswil and Grabenmühle are accessible by car or bus.
If you’re craving a bit of city life, the vibrant town of Thun is also nearby. With its charming old town, lakeside promenade, and relaxed energy, it’s a great way to round off the day.
You can visit castles there, spend time at the park, and end your day at one of the numerous cafes in town. Here is my more detailed Thun city guide.
Blausee & Oeschinensee – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO KANDERSTEG – I suggest doing a day trip from Lauterbrunnen
- BY CAR: About 4o minutes
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 1 hour
One of my favorite tips for exploring the Bernese Oberland is to visit a few more of the region’s stunning lakes, and Kandersteg is home to two real beauties.
First up: Blausee. This tiny lake is famous for its crystal-clear, deep blue water and peaceful forest setting. It’s inside a small nature park, perfect for a relaxing stroll along the shoreline. Swimming isn’t allowed, but you can hop on a short glass-bottom boat ride or simply enjoy a meal at the lakeside restaurant with lovely views.
Is it a must-see? If you’re a true lake lover, it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s peaceful and scenic. However, it is also very small, and there is not much else to do.
Make sure to add Lake Oeschinen – another gorgeous, mind-blowing lake in the Bernese Oberland. It sits at an elevation of 1,578 meters (5,177 ft) and is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
Enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, or kayaking around the lake’s circumference and taking in the majestic views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also a popular destination for ice skating and skiing in the winter season.
At the lake, you can swim or have a picnic (or have lunch in the restaurant next to the lake). Check out my Lake Oeschinen guide.
To end your day, you can head to the towns of Thun or Interlaken.
READ MORE: 50 THINGS TO DO IN INTERLAKEN
WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN
If you explore the above-mentioned places in the regions of Interlaken and Jungfrau, I recommend staying in Interlaken and then doing day tours instead of changing hotels several times.
- 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 have 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 – Hotel du Nord is centrally located and is quite nice. It is one of my favorite accommodations for your 10-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, which is 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.
Montreux – 1 Day
FROM INTERLAKEN TO ZERMATT
INTERLAKEN OST – MONTREUX
If you’re ready to explore a different part of Switzerland for a day, consider a day trip from Interlaken to Montreux—a journey that blends breathtaking scenery, culture, and a touch of elegance.
Morning: Scenic Train Ride on the GoldenPass Line
Hop on the GoldenPass Line, one of the most scenic train routes in the country. The ride from Interlaken to Montreux takes around 3 hours, offering panoramic views of mountain passes, charming villages, and lush vineyards as you make your way to the French-speaking part of Switzerland.
Welcome to Montreux
Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux is known for its stunning lakeside promenade—honestly, I think it’s the most beautiful in all of Switzerland. With its flower-lined paths, palm trees, and views of the French Alps across the lake, the town is just gorgeous.
You’ll find historic architecture, cozy cafés, and a dash of music history (Montreux is home to the famous Montreux Jazz Festival in summer). It’s the perfect mix of culture and relaxation—ideal if you want a break from hiking boots and waterfalls for a day.
During the Day: Montreux Promenade
Once you arrive in Montreux, take your time strolling along the picturesque lakeside promenade. Lined with vibrant flowers, exotic trees, and whimsical sculptures, it offers incredible views of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped Alps—it’s pure postcard perfection.
Don’t miss the Freddie Mercury statue, standing proudly by the water. The legendary Queen frontman lived in Montreux for several years and recorded music here. If you’re a music fan, step inside the Queen Studio Experience, located in the former Mountain Studios at the Casino Barrière. It’s a small but fascinating exhibition featuring original instruments, memorabilia, and an inside look at Queen’s time in Montreux.
While in Montreux, be sure to visit the iconic Château de Chillon, a stunning medieval fortress set right on the edge of Lake Geneva. Dating back to the 12th century, this fairytale-like castle is one of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks.
With its dramatic location and rich history, it has inspired many—including Lord Byron, who wrote The Prisoner of Chillon after visiting the site. You can still see the cell where the poem’s protagonist was imprisoned, complete with Byron’s name carved into the wall.
Explore the castle’s towers, underground vaults, and lakeside walkways—it’s an unforgettable mix of history, legend, and scenery.
Zermatt – 1,5 Days
FROM INTERLAKEN TO ZERMATT
- BY CAR: About 2,5 hours
- BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: About 2,5 hours
Next, it’s time to head from Interlaken to Zermatt—a journey that’s not too far in distance but can be surprisingly tricky if you’re driving, with mountain tunnels, winding roads, and traffic to navigate.
If you’re driving, remember that Zermatt is car-free. You’ll need to leave your car in Täsch, a nearby village, and take the shuttle train into Zermatt. It runs frequently and only takes about 12 minutes.
If you’re traveling by train, you’re in for a scenic treat—expect gorgeous window views of valleys, peaks, and charming alpine villages along the way.
Once you arrive, you’ll quickly see why Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations. Framed by the iconic Matterhorn, the town is pure alpine charm with postcard views in every direction.
Whether you’re into skiing, mountaineering, paragliding, mountain biking, or simply strolling scenic trails, Zermatt offers year-round outdoor adventures in one of the country’s most stunning mountain settings.
Though Zermatt is officially car-free, you’ll still see a few electric taxis, buses, and hotel shuttles buzzing around. But honestly, the village is so small and walkable that you won’t need anything more than a good pair of shoes. Everything—from charming shops and restaurants to scenic viewpoints—is easily accessible on foot.
THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT
While in Zermatt, one of the top experiences is taking the cable car up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, also known as Klein Matterhorn. At over 3,800 meters, it offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Alps, reaching as far as Italy and France. Just be aware: the high altitude can be tough on the body, especially if you’re not used to it—altitude sickness is a real thing, even on short visits.
Another unforgettable mountain excursion is a trip up to the Gornergrat summit. The ride on the cogwheel train alone is beautiful, but the real magic happens at the top. From there, hike back down toward Zermatt, passing a series of alpine lakes—some of which reflect the Matterhorn like a mirror on calm days. It’s one of the most photogenic hikes in the country.
End your day with a relaxing walk along the Vista River, and maybe stop at one of the many cozy cafés or restaurants for dinner. The setting is peaceful, and the views stay stunning even after sunset.
The only downside to Zermatt? It’s fairly remote. Getting there takes time. That said, the scenic train ride is a highlight in itself, and clearly, the effort doesn’t deter anyone—Zermatt is packed in both summer and winter. Despite the journey, it remains one of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations for a reason.
➡️ Here is my post on more fun things to do in Zermatt.
WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT
For Zermatt, I also have a couple of hotel suggestions for you.
- LUXURY: Hotel Mont Cervin Palace – Hotel Mont Cervin Palace defines luxury. If you are looking for a 5-star hotel in Zermatt, this might be perfect for you because it has everything you could be asking for in luxury accommodation. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Mont Cervin Palace
- MID-RANGE: Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments – Hotel Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments is in the heart of Zermatt’s historic center. Decorated in a classic Alpine style, it boasts a wellness area with three different saunas. The hotel is conveniently situated just a two-minute walk from a ski bus stop. ➡️ Book your stay at Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments here
Click here to find my accommodation guide for Zermatt.
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 10-DAY SWITZERLAND ITINERARY
This 10-day Switzerland itinerary included many of my favorite places in the country – and it is a wonderful mix of breathtaking Alpine scenery and rich cultural heritage.
10 days in Switzerland is not a lot. I wish we could squeeze in many more destinations. Though the country is small there are many best places to visit – so, we have to make compromises.
Also, I did not add the impressive St.Moritz and the Engadine Valley – but it is a top destination where you can do some of the best outdoor activities in Switzerland. Bern, the beautiful Swiss capital city, is not on the list, and neither is the stunning Flims Area with the Cauma Lake and more.
So, here is another post with several 3-day itineraries for Switzerland, in case you want to add these different places to your itinerary.