Switzerland by Train in 7 Days
Switzerland
Overview
Switzerland's train network is precise enough to build an entire trip around it. This route runs from Zurich through Lucerne's lake, the Jungfrau region above Interlaken, car-free Zermatt beneath the Matterhorn, and finishes in Geneva — a Swiss Travel Pass covers nearly every leg.
- Duration
- 7 days
- Pace
- Balanced
- Transport
- Public transport
- Estimated budget (comfortable)
- €1,300–€1,650
Route
1. Zurich2. Lucerne3. Interlaken4. Zermatt5. Geneva
Highlights
- Jungfraujoch, 'Top of Europe', by cogwheel railway
- The Matterhorn from car-free Zermatt
- Lucerne's Chapel Bridge and lakefront
- Scenic rail legs through the Alps
Worth knowing
- One of the most expensive countries in Europe for food and lodging
- Jungfraujoch tickets are pricey and weather-dependent for views
- Book Zermatt accommodation well ahead — no cars means limited hotel stock
Day by day
Day 1
ZurichMain activities
- Arrive
- Old town and Lake Zurich promenade
Optional additions
- Kunsthaus Zurich
Overnight: Zurich
Day 2
Zurich → LucerneMain activities
- Train to Lucerne (~1h)
- Chapel Bridge and old town
- Lake Lucerne waterfront
Optional additions
- Mt. Pilatus cable car
~1 hourOvernight: Lucerne
Day 3
Lucerne → InterlakenMain activities
- Scenic train to Interlaken (~2h)
- Between the lakes town walk
~2 hoursOvernight: Interlaken
Day 4
Interlaken areaMain activities
- Jungfraujoch day trip by cogwheel railway
Optional additions
- Trümmelbach Falls
Overnight: Interlaken
Day 5
Interlaken → ZermattMain activities
- Scenic train via Visp (~3h)
- Car-free village walk, first Matterhorn views
~3 hoursOvernight: Zermatt
Day 6
Zermatt → GenevaMain activities
- Gornergrat railway for Matterhorn views
- Train to Geneva (~4h)
~4 hoursOvernight: Geneva
Day 7
GenevaMain activities
- Jet d'Eau and old town
- Departure
Optional additions
- Lake Geneva boat trip
Overnight: Geneva
Alternatives
Shorter version · 5 days
Drop Zermatt and go Zurich → Lucerne → Interlaken → Geneva directly.
Longer extension · 10 days
Add Lugano and the Italian-speaking south via the Gotthard Panorama Express.