Switzerland is a country where dramatic alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and storybook cities come together in perfect harmony. This 13-day itinerary in Switzerland is designed to help you experience the country’s diversity at a relaxed and enjoyable pace, combining iconic destinations with scenic journeys in between. From vibrant cities and historic old towns to peaceful lakeside towns and mountain resorts, each stop offers a distinct atmosphere and cultural flavor.
Over the course of thirteen days, you’ll travel through multiple regions, experience both German- and French-speaking Switzerland, and enjoy some of Europe’s most beautiful train and road routes. This itinerary balances sightseeing with downtime, giving you space to explore, unwind, and fully appreciate Switzerland’s natural beauty, rich history, and refined lifestyle without feeling rushed.
Noted: Visited in 2018
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Switzerland Travel: Day 1 - Arrived to Zurich
Welcome to Switzerland! You will spend 2 nights in Zurich —fun indeed!
Where I stayed: Helmhaus Swiss Quality Hotel
Switzerland Travel: Day 2 - Explore Zurich
Today, you’ll explore Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, where medieval charm blends with modern life. Known as the country’s main financial hub, Zurich consistently ranks among the world’s top cities for quality of living.
Set along the shores of Lake Zurich, the city offers scenic waterfront views and relaxing walks, framed by the Alps. Its Old Town, dating back over 2,000 years, showcases narrow streets, historic buildings, and rich cultural heritage.
Switzerland Travel: Day 3 - St. Gallen
Today, you’ll explore St. Gallen, a charming city in eastern Switzerland known for its rich history and calm atmosphere. It is home to the famous Abbey of St. Gallen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a more traditional Swiss feel compared to larger cities.
Located about 85 km (53 miles) from Zurich, St. Gallen is roughly a one-hour drive, making it an easy and scenic trip. The city is also known for its textile heritage and proximity to Lake Constance, blending culture, history, and nature in a relaxed setting.
Where I stayed: Hotel Dom
Switzerland Travel: Day 4 - St. Moritz
Today, you’ll explore St. Moritz, a world-famous resort town in the Swiss Alps known for its luxury and alpine beauty. Renowned as a pioneer of winter tourism, it has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and is celebrated for its elegant atmosphere and high-end lifestyle.
Located about 200 km (125 miles) from Zurich, St. Moritz is roughly a three-hour drive, offering a scenic journey through mountains and valleys. The town is also known for its crystal-clear lakes, sunny climate, and year-round outdoor activities, making it one of Switzerland’s most iconic destinations.
Where I stayed: Hotel Steffani
Switzerland Travel: Day 5 - Lugano
Today, you’ll explore Lugano, a beautiful city in southern Switzerland that blends Swiss efficiency with a strong Italian influence. Set along a palm-lined lake and surrounded by mountains, Lugano feels relaxed, sunny, and distinctly Mediterranean compared to the rest of the country.
Located about 215 km (134 miles) from Zurich, Lugano is roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive, often via the scenic Gotthard route. The city is known for Lake Lugano, mild weather, and a laid-back lifestyle that mixes culture, nature, and elegance.
Where I stayed: Hotel Federale Lugano
Switzerland Travel: Day 6 - Zermatt
Today, you’ll explore Zermatt, a legendary mountain village in the Swiss Alps famous for the iconic Matterhorn and its car-free charm. I spent two days here, soaking in the alpine scenery, cozy village atmosphere, and world-class mountain views.
Located about 215 km (134 miles) from Zurich, Zermatt is reached by a scenic train journey of around 3.5 hours, which adds to the experience. The village is known for its pristine nature, outdoor adventures, and peaceful setting, making it one of Switzerland’s most unforgettable destinations.
Where I stayed: SCHLOSS Hotel Zermatt nähe Bahnhof
Switzerland Travel: Day 7 - Zermatt
2nd day in Zermatt!
Switzerland Travel: Day 8 - Lausanne
Today, you’ll explore Lausanne, a vibrant city in western Switzerland set along the shores of Lake Geneva. Known as the Olympic Capital, Lausanne blends historic charm with a youthful energy, thanks to its universities, cultural scene, and scenic hillside setting.
Located about 230 km (143 miles) from Zurich, Lausanne is roughly 2.5 to 3 hours away by train or car. The city is famous for its lake views, terraced old town, and proximity to vineyards and the Alps, offering a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxed elegance.
Where I stayed: Hôtel de la Paix Lausanne
Switzerland Travel: Day 9 - Geneva
Today, you’ll explore Geneva, a cosmopolitan city in western Switzerland set along the shores of Lake Geneva. Known as a global center for diplomacy and international organizations, the city blends elegant architecture with beautiful lakefront scenery and alpine backdrops.
Located about 280 km (174 miles) from Zurich, Geneva is roughly 2.5 to 3 hours away by train. You’ll stay here for two days, with time to enjoy the lakeside promenades, historic Old Town, and the city’s refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
Where I stayed: Hotel d’Allèves
Switzerland Travel: Day 10 - Geneva
2nd day in Geneva.
Switzerland Travel: Day 11 - Neuchatel
Today, you’ll explore Neuchâtel, a picturesque city in western Switzerland set along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel. Known for its elegant architecture and French-speaking culture, the city offers a calm, refined atmosphere with beautiful lake and mountain views.
Located about 150 km (93 miles) from Zurich, Neuchâtel is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours away by train or car. The city is famous for its medieval Old Town, lakeside promenades, and nearby vineyards, blending history, nature, and relaxed Swiss charm.
Where I stayed: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac
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Switzerland Travel: Day 12 - Bern
Today, you’ll explore Bern, the capital of Switzerland, known for its timeless charm and relaxed pace. The city’s beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features sandstone buildings, arcades, and medieval towers that give Bern its storybook feel.
Located about 120 km (75 miles) from Zurich, Bern is roughly 1 to 1.5 hours away by train or car. Set along a bend of the Aare River, the city is famous for its scenic views, historic streets, and calm atmosphere that perfectly reflects Swiss life.
Where I stayed: Hotel Bären Am Bundesplatz
Switzerland Travel: Day 13 - Lucerne
Today, you’ll explore Lucerne, a postcard-perfect city in central Switzerland known for its dramatic mountain scenery and charming old town. Set beside Lake Lucerne, the city is famous for its historic wooden bridges and fairytale atmosphere.
Located about 50 km (31 miles) from Zurich, Lucerne is roughly 45 to 60 minutes away by train or car. The city is best known for the Chapel Bridge, lakeside views, and easy access to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, making it one of Switzerland’s most scenic destinations.
Where I stayed: Hotel de la Paix
Final thought
I enjoyed my time visiting Switzerland! I recommend visiting the country if you have the chance.
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