Switzerland, a nation known for its pristine landscapes, chocolate-box villages, and iconic Alpine peaks, beckons with an adventure like no other. In a land where postcard panoramas come to life, your 14-day sojourn through the Swiss Alps awaits. From the soaring Jungfrau and awe-inspiring cogwheel train rides to the thundering Rhine Falls and the dynamic city of Zurich, this itinerary is just a taste of Switzerland's finest.

If you have the time, you can easily add extra nights in Zurich, Interlaken, Brig, or Lucerne. But keep in mind, this itinerary can only be done from June to mid-October when Switzerland's mountain activities and routes are open.

Before setting off, remember to align your travel with the cable cars and mountain transport timetables. The Swiss Travel Pass is your ticket to seamless exploration. While it seems to come at a high price tag, it covers town-to-town transfers and provides access to buses, trains, and boats for day trips as well as deep discounts for several mountain excursions.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. Thanks for your support!

Day 1: Zurich to Bern & Interlaken

Your adventure commences in Zurich, the bustling heart of Switzerland. Set aside a bit of time to discover Zurich's charms, from its picturesque old town with winding cobblestone streets to its vibrant culture and culinary delights. But don’t linger too long, since you’ll be back to Zurich at the end of your trip.

Once you’re ready, board a train for Bern, the Swiss capital. Here you can explore the well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The charming cobblestone streets, clock towers, and sandstone buildings create a fairytale atmosphere that's steeped in tradition. Take a stroll along the Aare River, explore the Federal Palace, and visit the Zytglogge, the iconic clock tower.

After your excursion through Bern, you'll continue your journey on to Interlaken, your home base for the next couple of days. A picturesque one-hour train ride will take you from the urban splendor of Bern to the natural beauty of Interlaken. This small town, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is your entry point to the Swiss Alps.

Day 2: Mürren & Schilthorn

On your second day, you'll venture to Mürren and the iconic Schilthorn.

Your journey starts with a train ride to Lauterbrunnen, where you'll switch to a bus bound for Stechelberg. From there, you'll hop on a cable car that whisks you up to the Schilthorn. The Schilthorn is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. You'll also find the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, famous for its appearance in a James Bond film.

After enjoying the vistas and a meal at Piz Gloria, you'll descend by cable car to Mürren. A leisurely walk through Mürren and onwards to Grütschalp awaits, offering picturesque scenery. Once you’re done exploring Mürren, take a cable car back down to Lauterbrunnen, where you'll catch your train back to Interlaken for the night.

Day 3: Jungfraujoch

On the third day, you'll embark on a high-altitude adventure to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe." Your day begins with a scenic train ride from Interlaken Ost. The train takes you through the stunning Bernese Oberland region, passing by lush valleys and impressive waterfalls. You'll arrive at Kleine Scheidegg, a mountain pass nestled between three famous peaks: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The views from here are simply breathtaking.

Next, you'll board a cogwheel train that climbs steeply to Jungfraujoch through a tunnel within the Eiger and Mönch mountains. As you emerge at Jungfraujoch, you'll find yourself in a world of ice and snow, even in the summer. Be sure to pack your layers! At Jungfraujoch, which is 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level, you'll have several exciting options. Explore the Ice Palace, an underground cavern adorned with intricate ice sculptures. You can also enjoy the Snow Fun Park for snow sports and fun activities. The highlight of the day is the observatory, offering a 360-degree view of the Swiss Alps. On a clear day, you might even see neighboring countries. It's a truly remarkable sight.

After taking in the beauty of Jungfraujoch, you’ll descend through the iconic Eiger North Face, which has fascinated climbers for generations. The journey ends in Grindelwald, a charming Swiss mountain village. From there, you'll catch a direct train back to Interlaken Ost.

Day 4: The Lauterbrunnen Valley

On this day, you'll explore the captivating Lauterbrunnen Valley, taking in its natural beauty on foot. This hike can be as short or long as you’d like.

Starting from Wilderswil (just a 5-minute train ride from Interlaken), you'll walk through the picturesque towns of Zweilütschinen and Lauterbrunnen, heading toward Stechelberg and beyond. The trails are relatively easy, making this a flexible adventure. The highlight of this route is the renowned Staubbach Fall, located just past the village of Lauterbrunnen.

Trains back to Interlaken can be found at both Zweilütschinen and Lauterbrunnen. And a bus from Stechelberg can take you back to Lauterbrunnen.

Day 5: Interlaken to Brig

Today, you'll transition from the northern Alps to the south of Switzerland. I recommend traveling to Spiez by train, where you'll make a scenic switch to the Lötschberger train bound for Brig. This route offers more picturesque views compared to the faster InterCity trains that take a longer tunnel.

The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, affording you some time to enjoy either Interlaken in the morning or Brig in the afternoon.

Things to do in Brig:

Stockalper Palace (Stockalperpalast): This grand palace is a Baroque architectural masterpiece and an iconic landmark of Brig. You can visit its historic rooms and the beautiful garden, which offer a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Brig Simplon Tourism Office: Stop by here to get the latest information on local events, activities, and excursions. The friendly staff can provide you with up-to-date insights on the best things to see and do in Brig.
Brig Old Town (Altstadt): Stroll through the charming streets of the old town to discover quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. The historical ambiance of the town is a delightful backdrop for your exploration.
Morel Village: Just a short walk or drive from Brig, the picturesque village of Morel is known for its idyllic setting and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's a great place to soak in the serene Swiss Alpine atmosphere.
Brigerbad Thermal Baths: If you're looking for relaxation, consider a visit to the Brigerbad Thermal Baths. You can unwind in the thermal pools while taking in views of the mountains.

Day 6: Aletsch Glacier

It's time to explore the remarkable Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your journey begins with a train ride to the village of Betten, which treats you to some of Switzerland's most scenic landscapes along the way.

In Betten, you'll switch to a cable car that whisks you up to the car-free village of Bettmeralp. This charming alpine village is perched on a high plateau, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

From Bettmeralp, another cable car will take you even closer to the Aletsch Glacier, to Bettmerhorn. This vantage point provides a spectacular and up-close view of the glacier's icy-blue expanse that stretches out for miles.

If you're up for some light hiking, you can opt to walk from Bettmerhorn to Fiescheralp, a relatively easy trail that allows you to immerse yourself further in the stunning natural surroundings. Afterward, you'll descend from the mountains to the town of Fiesch and catch a train back to Brig.

Day 7: Zermatt & Gornergrat

Starting your day with yet another picturesque train ride, you'll arrive in Zermatt after about 1.5 hours.

In Zermatt, the primary mode of transportation is the cogwheel train, which you'll board to ascend to the Gornergrat. This approximately 30-minute journey is an experience in itself, offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and the neighboring peaks. Once you reach the Gornergrat, you'll find yourself on an observation deck that provides an unobstructed and awe-inspiring panorama. Take your time to absorb the grandeur of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains. This is a prime photo opportunity.

After descending from the Gornergrat, you'll have the opportunity to explore Zermatt's charming streets, dotted with alpine boutiques, eateries, and picturesque corners. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the ambiance of Swiss mountain life. In the late afternoon or early evening, your journey continues as you board a train back to Brig, where you can unwind and prepare for the next leg of your Swiss Alps adventure.

Day 8: Grimsel Pass & GoldenPass

On the eighth day, your adventure will take you through a mix of picturesque landscapes and diverse travel experiences. Start your day with a train ride to Oberwald, nestled in the easternmost part of the Valais canton. As you travel from Spiez to Oberwald, sit back and enjoy the beautiful countryside and charming towns along the way.

Upon arriving in Oberwald, you'll board the scenic Lötschberger train. This route crosses the Grimsel Pass, offering you breathtaking views of alpine landscapes and serene lakes. While it may take a bit longer than some other train options, the scenic view more than compensates for the extra time.

Meiringen is your next stop, providing an opportunity for a relaxed lunch and a chance to explore this delightful town and surroundings. Afterward, you'll hop on a train from Meiringen, which is part of the GoldenPass route on to Lucerne. In all, travel will take around six hours.

Day 9: Mount Rigi

With another full day of sightseeing ahead of you, begin with a train ride to Arth-Goldau, situated at the base of Mount Rigi. Here, you'll switch to a cogwheel train that ascends the slopes of the mountain. The ride up is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular views of the lush alpine landscapes.

Once at the summit of Mount Rigi, you'll be treated to expansive panoramic vistas and a car-free zone, ideal for exploration on foot. Here, you can choose to hike or opt for another train ride from Rigi Staffel to Rigi Kaltbad to explore a little further. After your mountain escapades, descend to Vitznau, a charming village by the shores of Lake Lucerne. End your day with a boat ride back to Lucerne.

Day 10: Lucerne

Your tenth day offers the opportunity to delve into the charms of Lucerne, a town steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Lucerne, located by Lake Lucerne and surrounded by mountains, presents a multitude of activities and sights to explore.

Consider starting your day with a visit to Lucerne's iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke). This picturesque covered bridge is not only an architectural gem but also a gateway to the Old Town. Wander through the cobbled streets, discovering centuries-old buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafes.

If you're interested in history and culture, the Swiss Museum of Transport provides an immersive experience, showcasing the development of Swiss transportation over the centuries. For a more artistic adventure, the Rosengart Collection houses an impressive selection of works by Picasso and other notable artists.

Lake Lucerne is a short stroll away, and a leisurely boat trip offers the chance to soak in the lake's serene beauty. You can also opt for a visit to the Lion Monument, a remarkable sculpture that commemorates Swiss Guards who perished during the French Revolution.

Your day in Lucerne is a flexible one, allowing you to choose the activities that intrigue you the most. You could also consider a Private Walking Tour to get the most of your time in the city.

Day 11: Pilatus Golden Round Trip

The "Pilatus Golden Round Trip” experience combines boat rides, a cogwheel train, and cable cars to immerse you in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Start your day with a boat ride from Lucerne to Alpnachstad. This tranquil journey on Lake Lucerne not only offers incredible views but also marks the beginning of your mountain adventure. At Alpnachstad, you'll switch to the Pilatus Railway, a famous train known for its steep ascent and breathtaking scenery. The train climbs to the summit of Mount Pilatus, where you'll be greeted by sweeping alpine vistas.

From the summit, you'll have the chance to enjoy panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Take your time to explore the area and savor the fresh mountain air. One of the highlights of the Pilatus journey is the descent by cable car, which not only offers a different perspective of the landscape but also adds an element of excitement to your day.

Following the cable car descent, a short bus ride will return you to Lucerne's center. The trip will take roughly half a day, leaving you with ample free time to further explore Lucerne or relax at your own pace.

Day 12: Lucerne or Zurich

You now have two options to consider. If you've grown fond of Lucerne and wish to explore more of the town, you can spend most of your day here. Afterall, Lucerne offers a wealth of activities and sights, from its well-preserved medieval architecture to its museums and vibrant cultural scene. You can also continue your journey around Lake Lucerne, taking in more of the beautiful surroundings.

Alternatively, you might choose to spend your day in Zurich, which is less than an hour away from Lucerne by train. Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and a global financial hub, offering a more dynamic urban experience. You can explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character, and visit world-class museums, art galleries, and shopping districts. And of course, don't miss the opportunity to stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich.

The decision between Lucerne and Zurich depends on your preferences. Both cities have their unique appeal and plenty to offer.

Day 13: Rhine Falls

Situated just an hour away from Zurich by train, Rhine Falls are among Europe's largest and most breathtaking waterfalls.

You start by taking a train to Schaffhausen, the town near the falls. A quick walk will get you to the waterfalls, and you’ll be able to get pretty close to them from various viewpoints. You can also choose to take a boat ride that brings you right up to the waterfall. It’s a thrilling experience, but definitely plan on getting wet.

Once you’re done at Rhine Falls, you can explore Schaffhausen, which is a charming town with an old historic area and cozy cafes. If you have more time, you can take a scenic boat ride from Schaffhausen to Stein am Rhein, another beautiful town known for its old buildings and lovely atmosphere.

Day 14: Zurich

While a single day won't do justice to all that Zurich has to offer, it's a good starting point to explore this vibrant city.

You might begin your day with a visit to the Old Town (Altstadt) of Zurich, where you can wander through narrow medieval streets, admire historic buildings, and discover charming shops and cafes. The Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches are iconic landmarks in this area and worth a visit.

For art enthusiasts, the Kunsthaus Zurich is a must-visit. This renowned art museum features an impressive collection of Swiss and international art, including works by famous artists like Marc Chagall and Alberto Giacometti. If you're interested in history, the Swiss National Museum provides insight into Switzerland's rich cultural heritage. It's located in a stunning neo-Gothic building, making it an architectural gem in its own right.

As your day winds down, take some time to savor Swiss cuisine. Zurich offers an array of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. Don't forget to try traditional Swiss dishes like fondue or raclette.

Before you leave, consider picking up some Swiss chocolates or other souvenirs to remember your fantastic journey through the Swiss Alps.

I hope this itinerary has inspired you. When you’re ready to start planning your personalized trip to the Swiss Alps, let me know!

Start Planning Your Next Adventure

The Best of the Swiss Alps: A 14-Day Tour Itinerary