HOW TO CREATE THE BEST ITINERARY FOR 5 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND
Switzerland might be a small country, but it’s packed with jaw-dropping scenery and picture-perfect towns. If you’re searching for the best places to visit during 5 days in Switzerland, this post has you covered.
I’ve been lucky enough to explore Switzerland extensively — with over 20 months of experience wandering its lakes, mountains, and cities, I know how to make the most of a short visit. And I’m excited to share my tips for creating a memorable and efficient 5-day Switzerland itinerary.
Sure, 5 days won’t let you see everything, but it’s still enough time to explore some of the most beautiful spots in the country — and maybe even the world. So save the long lie-ins for another trip, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most stunning destinations.
In this post, I share my tips on:
✔️ How to get around + more travel tips
✔️ Places to visit + things to do
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 5-DAY SWITZERLAND ITINERARY
Before getting into the actual itinerary, here are a few important travel tips that might come in handy as you plan your trip.
How to Get Around
When it comes to getting around, I’m torn between road-tripping and taking trains – both are awesome options for different reasons!
🚆 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION / SWISS TRAVEL PASS – 5-DAY TRAIN TOUR OF SWITZERLAND
For this Switzerland itinerary, I strongly recommend the Swiss Travel Pass.
- There are different Swiss Travel Passes available regarding flexibility and duration. Flexible passes allow you to use the pass for a certain number of days within one month, or the regular, more affordable option, which means you have to use the pass on consecutive days of travel.
- Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is quite expensive, but it will pay off, especially if you travel around (as I suggest for this itinerary), use boats and trains, and do mountain excursions.
- You can use buses and trains without any extra costs.
- Also, most boat cruises and some mountain excursions are included.
- The Swiss Travel Pass also covers most museums and entrances to castles.
- The great thing about it is that you never have to worry about finding parking spaces.
- The Swiss Travel Pass is valid for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days, and there is no option for 5 days exactly. That is the only downside of the Swiss Travel Pass. BUT, I have a tip for you.
- So my tip is to get the 4-day pass, and for the first day in Zurich, you can get the Zurich Card. You can buy the card in advance and use it as a ticket to get from Zurich airport to the city center. In Zurich, free public transportation in the city center is included, + a short cruise, entrances to several museums, and more.
- Alternatively, you can buy the 6-day pass, which is not much more expensive than the 4-day pass.
- ➡️ Click here to find the rates for a Swiss Travel Pass.
🚗 ROAD-TRIPPING SWITZERLAND FOR 5 DAYS
If you want to road trip, read my personal experience as I have driven through this majestic land 17 or 18 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
- The official currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). 1 CHF equals about 1,10 $ or 1 €.
- Most Swiss shops accept payment in dollars or euros. I still recommend changing money and having some Swiss Francs with you, as it gets more expensive if you pay in euros or even in US dollars.
- Also, you can often pay with your credit card, at least in bigger stores, but again, I suggest having at least some cash on you because some places only accept cash (even though it is 2025). P.S. If you have a foreign credit card, ensure it does not charge you an extra fee for payments in Switzerland.
- If you pay with a credit card, you might be asked whether you want to pay in CHF or your currency (shown at the credit card thingy). Pick CHF – this is the better currency exchange. If you pick your own currency, the exchange rate is normally much worse for you.
- Switzerland is expensive, so here are a few tips on how to save money during your trip.
PLACES TO VISIT IN 5 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND
So, let’s start with the places to visit in Switzerland in 5 days.
SWITZERLAND DAY 1 – MOUNT RIGI/MOUNT PILATUS + LUCERNE
GET TO LUCERNE
You’ll most likely arrive in Zurich — or Zürich, as it’s spelled in Swiss German. And don’t get me wrong: Zurich is a beautiful city. In fact, it feels like a second home to me. But with only 5 days in Switzerland, I recommend skipping it this time around. Don’t be too disappointed though — Lucerne is a fantastic alternative and a perfect starting point.
If you’re flying into Zurich International Airport, hop on a train to Lucerne — the journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the connection. Trains run frequently (2–3 times per hour), with one direct train every hour.
If you arrive late at night, it’s a good idea to stay at a hotel near the airport and begin your journey to Lucerne the next morning, feeling refreshed and ready to explore.
💵 This train ride is included in your Swiss Travel Pass.
DISTANCE ZUIRCH – LUCERNE: 52 km – 32 miles
🚗 It takes about one hour (52 km) by car.
🚆It takes about one hour by train.
Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus and Lucerne
Take some time to explore Lucerne and the amazing mountain attractions in the area! I suggest a trip to Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus for half of the day– both unforgettable experiences.
SWITZERLAND DAY 1 – MORNING
MOUNT RIGI
Make your way to the stunning Mount Rigi, which rises to 1,798 meters (5,898 feet) above sea level. What makes it extra special? It’s surrounded by not one, but three beautiful lakes: Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz — all of them absolutely gorgeous.
Standing at the top of Mount Rigi and looking out over these shimmering lakes is one of those moments you won’t forget anytime soon. It’s the kind of view that stays with you.
There are several ways to reach Mount Rigi (specifically Rigi Kulm, the summit), but if you’re after stunning views along the way, I highly recommend this route — in my opinion, it’s by far the most scenic.
HOW TO GET TO MOUNT RIGI (RIGI KULM)
Start your Mount Rigi adventure with a scenic boat ride from Lucerne. Just head to the dock right in front of the Lucerne train station and hop on one of the regular boats to Vitznau. The one-hour cruise across Lake Lucerne is absolutely stunning — with Alpine peaks, sparkling water, and cute lakeside villages, I never get tired of this view.
Once you arrive in Vitznau, hop off the boat — and that’s when the real fun begins. This little trip is always a highlight for me, and it takes about 5–7 hours, which still gives you time to explore Lucerne’s old town later in the day.
No matter how often I visit, Mount Rigi is one of the places I always return to. It’s so easy to reach, and the views are simply unforgettable. And yes — it’s free with the Swiss Travel Pass, which is a nice bonus.
ℹ️ Good to know: The full Mount Rigi excursion — including the boat and cogwheel ride — is included in the Swiss Travel Pass in 2025.
If you’re into hiking or want to save on transport, you can also hike part or all of the way. I’ve done it both ways — and honestly, mixing hiking with a train ride gives you the perfect mix of effort and ease.
MOUNT PILATUS
Mount Pilatus is a fantastic alternative to Mount Rigi, so it really depends on your interests and travel style — either one is a great choice.
At 2,128 meters (6,981 feet), Mount Pilatus offers everything from paragliding to scenic hiking trails. But don’t worry if hiking’s not your thing — you can also reach the summit by cogwheel train or gondola, making it accessible for most travelers.
Just keep in mind that visiting Mount Pilatus will take about 6–8 hours, so it’s a good chunk of your day. That said, every minute is absolutely worth it for the stunning views and unique experience.
Don’t plan too much in Lucerne on this day — a visit to Mount Pilatus is time-consuming and will take up most of your day!
✔️ If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll get a 50% discount on the ride up to Mount Pilatus. You can reach the base either by boat or bus — both are free with the Swiss Travel Pass.
Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus — which one is the better choice for your 5-day Switzerland trip?
Personally, I’d go with Mount Rigi. Why?
-
It’s completely free with the Swiss Pass in 2025, and
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It’s super convenient and a bit “quicker,” meaning you’ll still have time to explore Lucerne’s charming old town afterward.
SWITZERLAND DAY 1 – AFTERNOON / EVENING
LUCERNE
Lucerne may be small, but it’s packed with charm. You’ll find beautifully preserved medieval architecture, the impressive Museggmauer — a 14th-century rampart that still stands tall — and the moving Lion Monument, a sorrowful stone lion carved into a rock face as a tribute to fallen soldiers.
But one of the true highlights is walking across the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) — a covered wooden footbridge that stretches across the River Reuss. Lined with 17th-century paintings under its roof, it’s not just a picturesque photo spot, but a step back in time.
THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE
✔️ Walk along beautiful Lake Lucerne
Take a peaceful stroll along the lake promenade — the views of the water and surrounding mountains are simply stunning.
✔️ Cross the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
This famous wooden bridge is one of Lucerne’s top landmarks. It’s incredibly photogenic and features 17th-century paintings under its roof, adding a unique historical touch to your walk.
✔️ Enjoy dinner with a lake view
Choose one of the many cafés or restaurants by Lake Lucerne to end your day. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll find plenty of spots with fantastic views.
✔️ Walk along the Museggmauer
Explore parts of the Musegg Wall, a well-preserved 14th-century city wall. A few of the towers are open to the public, and the views over Lucerne are worth the short climb.
✔️ Stroll through Lucerne’s old town
Wander the cobbled streets, admire colorful facades, and visit landmarks like the Lion Monument, which honors the Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
Lucerne is one of my go-to destinations — I return again and again, sometimes for a day, sometimes longer. Even with only 5 days in Switzerland, I highly recommend including it in your itinerary.
ℹ️ Read my detailed Lucerne guide with more info on Lucerne and the mountain excursion.
ℹ️ If you visit Switzerland and Lucerne in winter, check out my Lucerne in winter travel post.
WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE
- Luxury: Schweizerhof Lucerne – If you want to book a luxury hotel in Lucerne, I recommend this beautiful 5* hotel, right in the heart of Lucerne. ➡️ Book your stay at Schweizerhof Lucerne here.
- Mid-Range: Hotel des Alpes – 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 Hotel des Alpes 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.
SWITZERLAND DAY 2 – INTERLAKEN REGION
Make sure to experience the breathtaking beauty of Interlaken and the surrounding Jungfrau Region! Nestled between two stunning lakes — Lake Brienz and Lake Thun — this area feels almost too magical to be real. This region absolutely deserves a spot at the top.
From glacier-covered peaks to turquoise lakes and iconic mountain villages, the Interlaken/Jungfrau Region truly delivers when it comes to unforgettable scenery and classic Swiss charm. It’s easily one of the most scenic areas not just in Switzerland, but in all of Europe.
DISTANCE – LUCERNE – INTERLAKEN: 70 km (43 miles)
🚆 Hop on the scenic Luzern – Interlaken Express train – one of my favorite train rides for breathtaking mountain views from your window seat. Make sure to set aside two hours of travel time. I even named this route one of the best train rides in Switzerland.
🚗 By car, it takes about 90 minutes and is no less scenic, especially when you drive the Brüning Pass.
Once you’ve arrived, check into your hotel—if you’re early, you can usually store your luggage—and then head straight out to explore more of this stunning region.
SWITZERLAND DAY 2 – MIDDAY: LAKE THUN & ST. BEATUS CAVES
You’ve already passed beautiful Lake Brienz on your way from Lucerne, but today, but now check out Lake Thun.
From Interlaken West Station, make your way to the breathtaking St. Beatus Caves. Located just a couple of kilometers south of Interlaken, this spectacular spot promises panoramic views.
ℹ️ Getting to the caves is easy: hop on the local bus or, even better, enjoy a scenic boat cruise directly from Interlaken West.
With the Swiss Travel Pass, your Lake Thun boat tour is already covered—no extra fees required!
Enjoy a leisurely 1-km walk along an illuminated path, marveling at magnificent stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years inside the impressive St. Beatus Caves.
Don’t miss the cave museum, where you’ll learn fascinating facts about speleology and the history of this geological wonder.
Personally, I find the St. Beatus Caves especially refreshing on hot summer days, definitely one of my favorite spots to cool off in the Jungfrau Region.
TIP: Always check the cave’s opening hours in advance, as they typically close during winter.
And honestly? I believe the view from the cave entrance, overlooking beautiful Lake Thun, might just be the best part of the visit!
SWITZERLAND DAY 2 – EVENING: THUN
Wrap up your day exploring the charming town of Thun, beautifully nestled along the shores of Lake Thun. With its picturesque old town (“Altstadt”), quaint cobblestone streets, and vibrant half-timbered houses, Thun is easily one of my favorite places in Switzerland.
It’s pure eye candy and the perfect spot to soak in Swiss charm before calling it a day.
THINGS TO DO IN THUN
✔️ Explore Thun’s charming historic old town, with its delightful alleys and cozy atmosphere.
✔️ Don’t miss Thun Castle, an impressive 13th-century fortress offering stunning views over the town and the picturesque River Aare flowing below.
✔️ Consider visiting Schloss Schadau, a beautiful castle situated right on the shores of Lake Thun—another gem worth exploring.
✔️ To perfectly round off day two in Switzerland, I highly recommend taking a relaxing sunset boat cruise on Lake Thun, followed by a delicious dinner in one of Thun’s inviting restaurants.
➡️ Check out my Thun travel guide for more info.
➡️ Find my 50 recommendations for Interlaken activities here.
SWITZERLAND DAY 3 – JUNGFRAUJOCH OR LAKE BRIENZ + GIESSBACH FALLS + BRIENZER ROTHORN
For your third day in Switzerland, you have two iconic destinations to choose from—both stunning, but very different. Pick the experience that best matches your personal taste (and budget!). Either way, prepare to be amazed!
JUNGRFRAUJOCH
SWITZERLAND DAY 3 – JUNGFRAUJOCH (FULL DAY)
Head up to Jungfraujoch and enjoy an awe-inspiring day out. It’s got Europe’s highest train station.
Embark on a breathtaking train journey to Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe.” Sit back and soak in the stunning alpine views as the train climbs towards the summit—just remember, you’ll need to set aside around 7-10 hours for this spectacular day trip from Interlaken.
There’s plenty to see and do up there! My personal highlights include exploring the fascinating Ice Palace and admiring the jaw-dropping views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Swiss Alps.
A truly unique bonus at Jungfraujoch is the chance to enjoy winter sports all year round. Yep, you heard that right—at the Snow Fun Park, you can go skiing or snowboarding even during the warm summer months, as the summit maintains snow cover year-round.
However, I have to be honest: it’s definitely touristy and a bit pricey. Still, it’s popular for good reason—the experience is quite unique.
ℹ️ You get a 25% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass.
➡️ Here is my more detailed post on the Jungfraujoch.
Is the Jungfraujoch really a must-see? I think, yes! And I think, no! Let me explain: it is an impressive sight that left me speechless – the view of Aletsch Glacier is unbelievable. But if time or money is tight, don’t worry – there’s plenty to explore around Interlaken without breaking your budget!
So, in case you want to visit Jungfraujoch, you can spend the late afternoon and evening in Interlaken – see below.
LAKE BRIENZ + GIESSBACH WATERFALLS + BRIENZER ROTHORN
Here is an alternative to the Jungfraujoch. Explore stunning Lake Brienz with its waterfall, and then escape to Lake Thun where adventure awaits at St. Beatus Caves!
SWITZERLAND DAY 3 – MORNING: LAKE BRIENZ & GIESSBACH WATERFALLS
Start your third Swiss day the right way with a boat tour along beautiful Lake Brienz! Head to Interlaken Ost bost/bus station and hop aboard for an incredible journey.
Get off at the Giessbach Waterfall boat station – you want to see that majestic waterfall view up close. It is one of the most scenic waterfalls in Switzerland, but what many people do not know is that you can even walk behind the waterfall! I loved the easy but steep uphill walk.
✔️ Get out at the Giessbach Waterfall boat station and do a 20-minute hike up to walk behind the waterfall. In the summer, there is even a funicular – Giessbach Funicular – that takes you up halfway and is, for Swiss standards, also quite affordable (about 7 CHF one way).
✔️ Enjoy the views of and from behind the waterfalls – this will be your physical activity for this day!
✔️ There is a beautiful hotel and restaurant open in summer here, too. I recommend having a drink on the terrace of this gorgeous hotel (it is closed in winter) before heading to your next destination.
✔️Hop back on the boat for the return trip. The boats are predictably punctual and run about every hour or two, so don’t forget to plan accordingly!
ℹ️ Lake Brienz boat tours are available from mid-April to mid-October, so this is the perfect activity in the main travel months. Though there are some boat cruises in December, I recommend this tour during the warmer months.
ℹ️ The boat cruise on Lake Brienz is free with a Swiss Travel Pass. Check out my guide on stunning Lake Brienz.
SWITZERLAND DAY 3 – MIDDAY/AFTERNOON: BRIENZER ROTHORN
One of my all-time favorite mountain excursions was my trip to Brienzer Rothorn! Thus, I have been there twice. I was in awe both times.
The Brienzer Rothorn is a mountain at an elevation of 2,350 meters above sea level, and the train ride itself is impressive, but so is the panorama.
ℹ️ Arrive at Brienz station by boat or by train.
ℹ️ Then take the old steam locomotive to get up the Brienzer Rothorn and hike back down.
ℹ️ You can have dinner in the small and overly beautiful village of Brienz or end your day in Interlaken.
TIP: 50% discount on the locomotive ride with a Swiss Travel Pass.
WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN
For Day 2 and 3 of your itinerary, I suggest staying in Interlaken because its central location allows you to 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 have heard: This hotel is amazing. This is probably the best pick if you are looking for a fancy place in Interlaken. ➡️ 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 quite nice. It is one of my favorite accommodations for your 5-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
Are you ready to explore some of the most stunning places on Earth? Interlaken and Jungfraujoch have made me fall in love with them! My suggestion box is full – I’ve got fabulous ideas for things to do around the area.
SWITZERLAND DAY 4 – LAUTERBRUNNEN VALLEY
I have two options for you – either stay in the region of Interlaken/Jungfrau or go to Zermatt.
If you want to stay near Interlaken, consider these day trips:
- Lauterbrunnen – with its remarkable waterfalls and green meadows
- Lake Oeschinen for some incredible views, surrounded by nature
- or the lesser known but equally stunning Lake Gelmersee.
Alternatively, head to Zermatt for the last two days of your 5-day Swiss trip.
LAUTERBRUNNEN / MUERREN / SCHILTHORN
DISTANCE – INTERLAKEN – LAUTERBRUNNEN: 13 km (8 miles)
🚗 About 20 minutes by car
🚆 About 20 minutes by train
SWITZERLAND DAY 4 – FULL-DAY TRIP: LAUTERBRUNNEN
Cannot get enough of Mother Nature’s beauty? Then, visit the majestic mountain village of Lauterbrunnen! It is a daunting destination for daredevils seeking thrilling adventures like base jumping. But trust me – if crazy sports aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of incredible sights.
Lauterbrunnen Valley is the valley with its epic 72 waterfalls! Take some Instagram-worthy pics of the stunning Staubbach Waterfall. Visit Trümmelbachfälle during the summer months for an unforgettable experience – just make sure to bring waterproof clothes so that you can fully appreciate all this natural beauty in comfort after a rainstorm.
➡️ Check out my Lauterbrunnen guide for more detailed information.
Get ready for Murren, one of the cutest towns in the Swiss Alps, with incredible views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. I always look forward to the gondola/train ride and am always sad when it ends after just 20 minutes.
Enjoy views of the amazing Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains (known as the Swiss Skyline)- they are gorgeous (at least on a clear day). You can see this natural skyline from many places in the Jungfrau Region, but one of the best places to see it is from Mürren/Lauterbrunnen.
Here is more info on Mürren!
From Murren, get up the legendary “James Bond Mountain” – Schilthorn! The Schilthorn mountain is a special place for James Bond fans.
You can opt for more relaxed cable cars from Lauterbrunnen/Stechelberg/Muerren – your James Bond dreams will come true when you reach the summit!
It was featured in the 1969 movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”, in which James Bond skis down the slopes of Piz Gloria. The cable car journey up to the summit was also filmed here, and it has since become one of the most iconic James Bond scenes.
At the top, you have stunning views of the Alps, the 007 Walk of Fame, and an exhibition dedicated to the movie! It’s a unique way to experience one of Hollywood’s most famous movies.
You can have dinner at the revolving mountain restaurant at Schilthorn, Muerren, Lauterbrunnen, or Interlaken.
I am not a James Bond fan, but the activities, the restaurant, and of course the panorama make Schilthorn an exceptional destination even for people like me.
SWITZERLAND DAY 5 – INTERLAKEN
SWITZERLAND DAY 5 – MORNING/MIDDAY: INTERLAKEN
Since I recommend staying in Interlaken, you only now get to experience the beauty of the town! Interlaken is located between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and has been popular with visitors for centuries.
The town center is small and actually not really spectacular, but there is a pretty park worth a visit. So start the day in a more relaxed way and take a leisurely walk.
✔️ Buy some snacks from the supermarket at Höheweg Street or a takeaway meal from one of the numerous restaurants, and then head to Höhenmatte Park. The perfect setting for a dinner picnic. This must be one of the most easily accessible places to admire the Swiss Alps and have a picnic at the same time!
✔️ Watch the many, many paragliders on a sunny day. This is what Interlaken is known for: outdoor sports like para and hang-gliding in the most impressive setting. Or why not book a paragliding tour yourself and see Interlaken from above?
SWITZERLAND DAY 5 – AFTERNOON: HARDER KULM
If you cannot get enough gorgeous mountain views, plan a few hours to visit Harder Kulm Mountain. Harder Kulm is Interlaken´s local mountain and is perfect for watching sunsets and having dinner or drinks.
Now, how does one conquer Harder Kulm at 1,322 meters (4,337 feet) above sea level? Well, there are two options:
If you want to be very active Interlaken itinerary, take on the “challenge” of a hike. If you’re looking for an uphill journey that requires less ‘huff and puff’, there’s always the funicular. Just sit back and enjoy those picture-postcard views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
Once you’ve reached the top, treat your taste buds to an alpine fiesta at the panoramic restaurant. Descend from Harder Kulm via a blissful hike or kick back on the funicular for a more relaxed trip downhill-
TIP: 50% discount with a Swiss Travel Pass for the funicular ride.
This would also be the end of your amazing Switzerland itinerary. However, as mentioned above, you could stay only 2 days in the region of Interlaken and then also squeeze in Zermatt and the mighty Matterhorn Mountain to your itinerary. I understand that Zermatt is high on many people´s bucket lists, so I will also give you some tips.
SWITZERLAND DAY 4+5 – ZERMATT
As mentioned above, I recommend getting to Zermatt on day 4 and staying overnight here if you skip any other place mentioned above. As much as I recommend all places on my AMAZING 5-day itinerary, squeezing Zermatt in can stress you out. So, decide which places you want to leave out if you want to visit Zermatt.
Zermatt
DISTANCES – INTERLAKEN – ZERMATT: 110 km (69 miles)
🚆If you start from Interlaken, it takes about 2,5 hours or so by train.
🚗 Zermatt is car-free, so if you road trip, you need to leave your car in a parking house in a small village near Zermatt (Taesch). From there, you have to take a train up to Zermatt. This should also take about 2,5 hours
Zermatt is a charming mountain village situated at the base of the iconic Matterhorn – known for car-free streets and electric taxis.
This alpine paradise offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
During the summer, explore the village and its many attractions, including a cable car to the Gornergrat viewpoint, beautiful hiking trails, and an open-air ice rink.
I have been to Zermatt many times, during all seasons, and can say that Zermatt is truly a magical place to visit at any time of year!
✔️ Make your way up to the majestic Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (also known as Klein Matterhorn) – at 4.000 meters above sea level – for a birds-eye view of Switzerland! But remember, altitude sickness can be a real bummer. So if you want to make it up there by cable car, take some time and don’t rush -it’s worth taking in those stunning views at a steady pace!
✔️ With 5 days in Switzerland, getting up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is not really a must-do activity (it is very time-consuming and also expensive). I actually recommend admiring the Matterhorn from below rather than hopping onto a cable car. Alternatively, get up Gornergrat Mountain, which is another peak with great views of the glaciers around and the Matterhorn.
✔️ You can have a wonderful time simply exploring the cute little town.
✔️ Take trillions of pictures of the amazing Matterhorn and do some hikes in this beautiful part of the world.
➡️ Here are more Zermatt travel tips
WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT
For Zermatt, I also have a couple of hotel suggestions for you.
- LUXURY: HOTEL MONT CERVIN PALACE – Why not book a stay in one of Zermatt´s best hotels? Hotel Mont Cervin Palace defines luxury. If you are looking for a 5-star hotel, this might be perfect for you. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Mont Cervin Palace
- Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments – A more affordable option is the Hotel Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments, which opened in December 2012, and is located 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 & Apartments here
DEPARTURE
The public transportation system is super reliable, and the roads are in great condition. However, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: make sure you leave early, especially if you’re headed to the airport.
Trust me, the last thing you want is to miss your flight and end your trip on a sour note. So, if you’re traveling from Zermatt to Zurich (which takes around 3.5-4 hours), plan accordingly and give yourself some extra time to account for any delays.
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
CONCLUSION: ITINERARY FOR SWITZERLAND IN 5 DAYS
Switzerland knows how to impress with its stunning alpine scenery, beautiful medieval towns and cities, and precision engineering. There is so much to do and see that I can easily spend months here without getting bored.
As one of Switzerland’s biggest fans, I’d highly recommend spending at least 5 days in Switzerland. I admit that it is a jam-packed and ambitious itinerary. Still, it is definitely doable.
If you like it a bit more relaxed, I would skip Zermatt. My tip: Spend the last 3 days in Interlaken and visit Lake Oeschinensee.
For more information on what else is available during your stay, be sure to check out my other blog posts – they’re full of helpful tips and tricks for making the most of your Switzerland in 5 days trip.