I was pleasantly surprised by my recent vacation to Switzerland. I didn’t know much about the country prior to planning this 5 Day Switzerland itinerary, but it has since become one of my favorites and I’m anxious to return.
We put together a carefully planned itinerary taking us from Geneva to Zurich staying in 5-star hotels and eating at all the best restaurants. If you like to eat great food, leisurely stroll through old cities, and drink champagne on rooftops – this luxury itinerary is for you!
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Basics for Traveling to Switzerland
Language: French, Italian, German
Adapter: European Adapter needed
Currency: Swiss Francs
Location: Located in Europe surrounded by France, Italy, Germany and Austria
Read before you go: Swiss Watching by Diccon Bowes is a fun read from the perspective of a British man living in Switzerland. He is very witty and it gives you a good foundation on the history of the country and insight into the culture of the Swiss people – my kind of people! Get it on Amazon.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you would like to do. I loved visiting in the summer to enjoy the lakes, do some light hiking, drink on rooftops, and soak up the warmer weather. If you have skiing in mind, you’ll obviously want to visit in winter when there is plenty of fresh snow.
I love September for trips to Europe as school is back in session and the summer crowd returns home. Plus, it starts to get a little cooler.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HIGH | 41 | 44 | 53 | 60 | 69 | 75 | 80 | 79 | 70 | 60 | 49 | 42 |
LOW | 30 | 30 | 35 | 41 | 49 | 54 | 58 | 57 | 51 | 46 | 37 | 32 |
PRECIP | 1.4″ | 1.25″ | 1.26″ | 1.63″ | 1.86″ | 1.77″ | 1.65″ | 1.51″ | 1.73″ | 2.15″ | 1.75″ | 1.77″ |
How to Get Around in Switzerland
I suggest a rental car for a road trip through Switzerland. As much as I wanted to train, based on our itinerary, driving made more sense. It helped to have a car to store our luggage as we made stops along the way for lunch or to explore a town.
Driving in Switzerland is not bad at all. The roads are super nice and the Swiss are the most friendly drivers on the planet. Beware to follow the driving laws or expect to receive a speeding ticket. Switzerland does not tolerate poor driving. You can apply for an international driver’s license at your local AAA location and rent a car in advance online. Make sure to confirm an automatic car if you can’t drive manual.
Best Switzerland Airports
There are two major airports located in Switzerland in Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA). For the purpose of this itinerary, I suggest flying into Geneva and out of Zurich. However, you can absolutely do this itinerary in reverse if you find better flights the other way around.
5 Day Switzerland Itinerary
We are starting off this 5 day Switzerland itinerary in one of my favorite cities: Geneva! I’ll structure this guide with a day-by-day itinerary featuring a mini travel guide for each overnight destination weaved throughout.
Geneva Mini Travel Guide
Geneva is known for its historic old town, beautiful Lake Geneva, and is a hub for international diplomacy being home to the United Nations, Red Cross and several international organizations. It’s located on the western side of the country bordering France. You’ll find many French and Italian influences here from the language to the cuisine.
Where to Stay in Geneva
Hotel Longemalle
Hotel Longemalle is the perfect location between Old Town and Lake Geneva. The hotel is an intimate boutique style hotel with comfortable rooms designed with thoughtful touches. It is the perfect hotel for a one night stay in Geneva.
Four Seasons Hotel de bergues Geneva
If you are looking for one of the nicest luxury hotel in Geneva, the Four Seasons is a top contender. The rooms overlook the lake and the hotel features one of the city’s best restaurants: Izumi. The service at any Four Seasons is unmatched and you simply can not go wrong.
Ritz Carlton Hotel de la Paix
Last but certainly not least, I suggest the Ritz Carlton Hotel de la Paix. It’s also located along Lake Geneva so be sure to book a room with a lake view!
Best Things to Do in Geneva
Explore Old Town
Place du Bourg-de-Four is a famous square with outdoor cafes, boutiques, and historical sites.
Sail Lake Geneva
Take a sail with one of the many providers like Geneva Boats.
Explore Carouge Area
Located right outside of Geneva’s borders, you will find Carouge. A bohemian area with local artisans, markets, mediterranean influenced homes and gardens.
Where to Eat and Drink in Geneva
- Osteria della Bottega is the best italian restaurant in Geneva. They serve homemade pasta, fresh veggies, and amazing wines. Choose to sit outside soak up the city during this short stay. Great vegetarian options!
- Brasserie Lipp is the place to go for amazing French cuisine. Being this close to France, this is a great choice for authentic dishes.
- Izumi, located at the Four Seasons Hotel, overlooks Lake Geneva and serves up amazing sushi!
- MET Rooftop Lounge is perfect for cocktails and a snack while you overlook the lake and Mont Blanc.
- If you are interested in Lebanese food, Balila is your restaurant! Located at the beautiful Hotel Longemalle, they serve favorites like falafel, hummus, muhammara, lamb and more! It’s a great option for vegans or vegetarians.
Day One – Arrive to Geneva
- First, check in to the beautiful Hotel Longemalle
- Have lunch at Brasserie Lipp
- Explore Old Town and/or Carouge area
- Drinks at MET Rooftop Lounge to take in the Lake and Jet d’Eau
- Dinner at Osteria della Bottega
Day Two – Stops in Bern and Interlaken
On day two of our 5 day Switzerland itinerary, we will spend the morning in Geneva before embarking on our road trip. We’ll stop at Bern for lunch and Interlaken to watch the skydivers before arriving to Lucerne where we’ll stay 2 nights.
- Start your morning with a walk/run around Lake Geneva visiting Jardin Anglais and Parc de la Grange
- Have breakfast and coffee along the balcony of Hotel Longemalle
- Pick up your rental car (walking distance from hotel) and check out of hotel
- Type BERN into your GPS for our first stop!
Stop One: Bern
Bern is a super small town, but is surprisingly the capital of Switzerland! If you need to visit the US Embassy while traveling, you’ll actually need to go to Bern – not a big city like Zurich or Geneva. I would have loved to spend more time in Bern – it’s such a charming, historic town. Literally right out of a fairytale!
They have a mascot – the Bern Bear – which you can find wandering around the river close to where you’ll have lunch!
Lunch at Altes Tramdepot Brewery
Altes Tramdepot Brewery is a great choice for lunch, although a bit touristy. I picked it for the outdoor seating overlooking the city and the river. I wanted lunch in a scenic spot to enjoy our short time there and the views were incredible! Plus, it is always fun to try local beers. The food was not anything to write home about – your typical brewery food, but really good! I had a great asian salad and sweet potato fries with a beer flight.
After lunch, stroll up the main street through Bern shopping, eating, and admiring the architecture.
Stop Two: Interlaken
We are back on the road to stop in Interlaken before arriving in Lucerne for the night. Interlaken means “between lakes” which is exactly what it is. A quaint town in between two of the most beautiful shades of blue lakes I have ever seen. This is a super popular place for skydivers as it’s located in a scenic valley! You can see them land in a big field in the city.
Find a spot to park and wander through town. Check out the local makers of Swiss Chocolate or shop for a new Swiss Watch!
Watch the Skydivers Land – you can’t miss the field in the middle of town. It’s right across from the luxury Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel.
Stop Three: Arrive in Lucerne for the night
Check in to the luxury, 5-star Burgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa for the next few nights of our 5 day Switzerland itinerary.
Lucerne Mini Travel Guide
Lucerne is a charming town situated along Lake Lucerne and surrounded by snowcapped mountains. It’s known for its’ well preserved medieval architecture and many historic sites. Lucerne is one of the most picturesque towns in Switzerland.
Where to Stay in Lucerne
Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa
The Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa is one of the nicest hotels I have stayed at so far. It’s located up the mountain from Lucerne and overlooks the lake and city. There is tons to do from tennis, golf, hikes, spa, pool, and more. The rooms are stunning and super spacious. Across the Resort, there are several hotels and even more amazing restaurants.
For more on this hotel, read my full review in this post.
Art Deco Hotel Montana
If you prefer to stay right in the center of town, I would pick the Art Deco Hotel Montana. It’s a luxury hotel, but way more affordable than Burgenstock. It overlooks the lake with incredible views and many dining outlets including a rooftop bar to soak up the scenery.
AMERON Luzern Hotel Flora
Ameron Luzern is a trendy boutique hotel located steps from old town. It is an easy walk to anywhere you want to reach including popular sites like Chapel Bridge. The hotel has tons of character and the dining options look amazing!
Things to do in Lucerne
Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
Chapel Bridge is a covered wooden bridge built in 1333. It’s super picturesque and one of the most photographed sites in Switzerland.
Explore Old Town Lucerne (Aldstadt)
The old town has preserved many of the historic buildings. They are painted in bright colors along stone streets making it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale! St. Peter’s Chapel is the oldest church in Lucerne built way back in 1178! Aldstadt is a great place to stroll around and admire the history.
Town Walls and Towers (Museggmauer & Türme)
On the North side of Lucerne’s old town you will see a wall with nine towers constructed in all different styles. A portion of it is still completely intact and you can even climb a few of the towers.
Where to Eat in Lucerne/Hotel
- Spices at Hotel Bürgenstock – features flavors from all around the world – like India, Japan, China, and Thailand. Enjoy Asian dishes like sushi, dumplings, tofu, pad thai, curry, rice noodles, and more. It is seriously so good!
- Grottino 1313 – is super intimate and easily the most charming restaurant in Lucerne. It’s a surprise menu every day, but expect homemade Italian dishes. They can also cater to dietary restrictions – let them know in advance!
- Pastarazzi – as the name indicates has amazing homemade pastas and freshly made sandwiches.
- PURA is a plant based restaurant with smoothies and vegan plates!
- Oak Grill at Hotel Burgenstock is a great lunch option. They started us off with a glass of champagne, then we had great options like grilled fish, salads, and fresh veggies.
Day Three – Explore Lucerne
Today, you will soak up the history in Lucerne and learn more about the Swiss culture. But first….
- After a long day in the car, start with morning spa appointments at the fabulous, Bürgenstock Hotel Alpine Spa. After, enjoy the infinity pool and sauna.
- Take the funicular down to Lake Lucerne where you will take the ferry across.
- Arrive in Lucerne and have lunch at Pastarazzi.
- Spend the afternoon exploring the city. Wander through the cobblestoned streets of Old Town seeing the Chapel Bridge and the Town Wall & Towers.
- Enjoy drinks along the lake at the outdoor Montana Beach Club – super scenic spot!
- Dinner is at Grottino 1883
- Return to your hotel
Day Four – Adventure at Bürgenstock Hotel
Today, we’ll check out more of this amazing Swiss Resort and even get in a little workout!
- First, order breakfast room service!
- Then take a leisurely hike up to the Hammetschwand Lift. From there, you can take the lift to the top.
- Once at the top, enjoy a beer after a well deserved hike. Be sure to bring cash!
- Make your way down the other side of the mountain or take the lift back down the way you began.
- Have lunch at one of the resort’s many restaurants. I would pick the Oak Grill & Pool Patio!
- Be sure to checkout the museum gallery and celebrity wall!
- Spend more time relaxing at the resort pool and spa – one visit is not enough!
- Dinner at Spices Restaurant
Zurich Mini Travel Guide
Zurich is a financial hub located along the Limmat River which runs through a historic, old town. The charming streets are filled with historical sites, restaurants, art galleries and more.
Where to Stay in Zurich
Hotel Storchen
Hotel Storchen is my top choice for where to stay in Zurich. It’s perfectly located along the river in Old Town featuring several restaurants throughout like Nest Rooftop and even a Michelin starred restaurant – La Rotisserie.
Widder Hotel
The Widder Hotel is the sister property to Hotel Storchen and is every bit as fabulous. The property has great dining outlets like the picturesque Widder Garden, the Widder Restaurant, AuGust, and several bars. Although it seems like a big hotel, there are only 49 rooms!
The Dolder Grande
The Dolder Grande simply exudes glamours. It’s located outside of town, but if you are looking for a luxury resort experience this is your spot for an extended trip in Zurich.
Best Things to Do Zurich
Explore Aldstadt
Aldstadt is the old, historic part of Zurich which is split in two parts by the Limmat River. It’s filled with charming pedestrian streets, cute boutiques, art galleries, and beautiful architecture on both sides. One of the best things to do is simply walk around this area at a leisurely pace.
Admire the Many Churches
There are so many beautiful churches in Zurich. Admire them from a rooftop bar or stop in for a tour at St. Peter’s, Fraumunster Church, or Grossmunster Cathedral.
Zurich West
Zurich West was once an industrial part of town, but is now very hip filled with creative minded people. You will find more locals here and plenty of restaurants and entertainment.
Museum Rietberg
Museum Rietberg is an arts museum set in one of the city’s best parks, Rieterpark. Enjoy works from places outside of Europe like Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
Where to Eat and Drink in Zurich
Trattoria Sempre – This Italian restaurant is on a pedestrian only street with indoor and outdoor seating either on the front sidewalk or back patio. Definitely get the gnocchi and ceviches!
Montmartre Cafe – a charming, French cafe and bistro along a pedestrian only street. Perfect for breakfast or lunch with salads, quiche, croissants, yogurt, and mimosas!
Ristorante Bindella – an Italian restaurant located along a narrow street with ample outdoor seating under umbrellas. Expect great seafood and lots of pasta options!
4 Tiere Bar – Great for drinks especially if you like gin. They offer more than 650 different gins from around the world.
Frau Geralds Garten – a fun atmosphere for lunch or dinner at this beer garden with dining outlets, markets, and local shops.
San Gennaro – I asked a local food blogger for her top recommendations and this was one of her picks for pizza! You can enjoy outdoor dining as the terrace is right up against the river.
Day Five – Explore Zurich
Today, we are heading to our last stop in the amazing city of Zurich.
- Check in to Hotel Storchen
- Return the rental car and walk back to the hotel
- Get a lay of the land with a cocktail at Nest Rooftop
- Explore Aldstadt – Old Town Zurich
- Late lunch at Ristorante Bindella
- Stroll down to Lake Zurich and other side of Old Town after lunch
- Drinks at Storchen Bar alond the river
- Dinner at Trattoria Sempre
Day Six – Depart 5 Day Switzerland Itinerary
- Finally, your trip has come to an end. Take a taxi to the airport for your departure flight.
- If you have a later flight, enjoy breakfast and more exploring.
5 day Switzerland Itinerary Overview
Here is a short overview of the detailed itinerary.
Day 1 – Arrive to Geneva
This 5 day Switzerland itinerary begins in one of my favorite cities: Geneva.
- Upon arrival to Geneva, check in at Hotel Longemalle
- Then, enjoy lunch at Brasserie Lipp
- Explore Carouge or Old Town
- Drinks at Hotel Metropole – MET Rooftop Lounge for views over the lake
- Later, wander through old town Geneva on your way to dinner
- Dinner at Osteria della Bottega
Day 2 – Let the Road Trip Begin
Next, we will head across the country to Lucerne making a few stops along the way.
- First, walk/run around Lake Geneva
- Then, breakfast at Hotel Longemalle
- Pick up Rental Car at Enterprise and check out of hotel
- Depart for one hour drive to Bern
- Lunch in Bern at Altes Tram Depot
- After, explore the town of Bern
- Depart for one hour drive to Interlaken
- Coffee Break in Interlaken, try some Swiss Chocolate
- Stop at some of the look out points as you make your way to the next stop
- Arrive to Lucerne
- Check in to Burgenstock Hotel
- Finally, enjoy dinner with a little room service
Day 3 – Spa Day & Explore Lucerne
- Start with spa appointments and pool time
- Ride the Funicular and ferry to Lucerne
- Lunch in Lucerne at Pastarazzi
- Explore sites of Lucerne
- Later, have dinner at Grottino 1883
Day 4 – Explore Burgenstock Resort
This will be our last day in Lucerne and at the Burgenstock Hotel.
- Begin with a hike to the Hammetschwand Lift
- Have a beer at the top, then back down the mountain
- Then, lunch at Oak Grill
- Pool time again at Alpine Spa
- Dinner at Spices
Day 5 – Zurich
Finally, we end the trip on the eastern side of Switzerland in Zurich. It’s close to Germany and Austria.
- First, check out of Burgenstock Resort – One hour drive to Zurich
- Check in at Hotel Storchen / Return Rental Car at Enterprise
- Get a lay of the land with a cocktail at Nest Rooftop
- Explore Aldstadt – Old Town Zurich
- Later, have lunch at Ristorante Bindella
- Stroll down to Lake Zurich and other side of Old Town
- Drinks at Storchen Bar that runs along the Limmat River
- Then, dinner at Trattoria Sempre
Day 6- Depart Switzerland
What to Pack for Switzerland
As you travel across Switzerland, you’ll want to be comfortable, but also fashionable. Zurich and Geneva are big international cities so you’ll see a little everything. There will be locals in business attire and also tourists dressed more casually.
Most importantly, you will need a good walking shoe and if you go for heels, stick with a wedge as the streets are historic cobblestones.
Depending on the season, you will want to bundle up with jeans and sweaters! In the summer, I was comfortable with dresses and a light jacket/sweater.
Here are a few ideas to get you headed in the right direction:
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