Best Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days From Zurich By Train – 8 Days In Switzerland

Switzerland is world famous for its scenic landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming cities. Exploring Switzerland by train is the most beautiful thing to do as it passes through scenic routes in the Alps. In this article, let’s read about 8 Day Switzerland itinerary by train with overnight stay options and must-do things. 

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Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days – Switzerland Itinerary By Train

Here’s a detailed Zurich itinerary 8 days, covering picturesque towns, alpine views, and cultural landmarks.

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Day 1 Of Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days – Zurich

Zurich is worth visiting for its vibrant cultural scene, picturesque old town, and stunning lake views. Starting your trip from Zurich allows you to experience Switzerland’s largest city, easily access the country’s efficient rail network, and enjoy a seamless blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Adler Zürich.

You can buy a Swiss travel pass, which offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network of trains, buses, and boats, making it convenient for tourists. 

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Things To Do In Zurich:

• Explore Bahnhofstrasse: Stroll along one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets.
• Visit the Old Town (Altstadt): Discover medieval alleys, the Grossmünster, and Fraumünster churches.
• Lake Zurich: Take a relaxing boat trip or walk along the promenade.

Travel Tip: Get a Zurich Card for free public transport and discounted entry to many museums.

Day 2 of Switzerland Itinerary from Zurich: Zurich To Lucerne

Lucerne is worth visiting for its stunning lakeside and mountain scenery, the iconic Chapel Bridge, and charming medieval old town. This picturesque city perfectly blends natural beauty and historical landmarks, making it a must-see in Switzerland.

Overnight Stay: Hotel des Balances Lucerne.

Distance: 52 km (32 miles)Time: Approximately 45 minutes by train

Things to Do:

• Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): An iconic wooden bridge with a history dating back to the 14th century.
• Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal): A poignant rock relief commemorating Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.
• Lucerne Lake: Take a steamboat cruise to admire the surrounding mountains.

Pro Travel Tip: Use Lucerne as a base to explore nearby attractions like Mount Pilatus or Rigi.

Day 3 of Switzerland itinerary 8 days: Lucerne to Interlaken

Distance: 68 km (42 miles)Time: Approximately 2 hours by train via the GoldenPass Line

Overnight Stay: Hotel Interlaken.

Interlaken is famous for its breathtaking alpine scenery between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and its status as a gateway to the Jungfrau region. This Alpine town is renowned for winter adventure sports and stunning views; it offers easy access to some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountains, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

9 Best Day Trips From Interlaken – Things To Do Around Interlaken, Switzerland

Things to Do:

• Harder Kulm: Take a funicular up to the viewpoint for stunning views of Interlaken and the surrounding peaks.
• Hohematte Park: Relax in this central park with views of the Jungfrau mountain.
• Lake Thun and Lake Brienz: Opt for a boat ride or lakeside walk.

Travel Tip: Consider buying tickets for the Harder Kulm funicular in advance to avoid long lines.

Day 4: Interlaken to Jungfraujoch

Distance: 25 km (15 miles) from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch (via Lauterbrunnen and Kleine Scheidegg)Time: Approximately 2.5 hours one-way.

Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is famous for its breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding Alpine peaks. It offers a unique experience with Europe’s highest railway station, an ice palace, and panoramic observatories, making it a must-visit destination for awe-inspiring natural beauty and adventure.

You can also make Interlaken as your base point and go for nearby Swiss cities tour by train – Read this guide for Switzerland itinerary from Interlaken by train.

Things to Do:

• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Visit the highest railway station in Europe and enjoy panoramic views of the Ice Palace and Sphinx Observatory.
• Aletsch Glacier: View the largest glacier in the Alps.

Overnight Stay: Return to Interlaken for the night.

Pro Travel Tip: Wear warm clothing and sunscreen, as it’s cold and sunny at high altitudes.

Day 5: Interlaken to Zermatt

Distance: 75 km (47 miles)Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by train.

Zermatt is renowned for its picturesque setting at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, offering world-class skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. Its car-free village atmosphere and stunning alpine scenery make it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a serene mountain retreat.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Alpenhof.

Things to Do:

• Matterhorn Museum: Learn about the history and mountaineering significance of the Matterhorn.
• Gornergrat Railway: Ride to Gornergrat for breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

Pro Travel Tip: Check the weather forecast before booking activities to ensure good visibility of the Matterhorn.

Day 6: Zermatt to Montreux

Distance: 150 km (93 miles)Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by train via the scenic Glacier Express route.

Montreux is famous for its stunning location on the shores of Lake Geneva, its beautiful lakeside promenade, and the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival. The charming town also boasts the historic Chillon Castle and spectacular Alps views, making it a popular destination for cultural and scenic experiences.

Overnight Stay: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic Montreux.

Things to Do:

• Chillon Castle: Explore this medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Montreux Promenade: Walk along the beautiful flower-lined promenade with stunning lake views.
• Queen: The Studio Experience: Visit the recording studio and museum dedicated to the band Queen.

Pro Travel Tip: Book tickets for the Glacier Express in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Day 7: Montreux to Bern

Distance: 91 km (56 miles)Time: Approximately 1 hour by train

Bern is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, and its status as Switzerland’s capital. Visitors love this city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque setting along the Aare River.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & THE SPA.

Things to Do:

• Zytglogge: Visit the medieval clock tower with its astronomical clock.
• Federal Palace: Tour the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly and the Federal Council.
• Bear Park (Bärenpark): See the symbol of Bern in this spacious riverside park.

Pro Travel Tip: Explore Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town on foot for a delightful experience.

Day 8 of Switzerland itinerary by train: Bern to Zurich

Distance: 121 km (75 miles)Time: Approximately 1 hour by train

Your Switzerland itinerary 8 days ends at Zurich again. Starting and ending your trip in Zurich ensures convenient access to Switzerland’s extensive rail network, making travel between Swiss destinations seamless. If you have a full day in Zurich, check in your luggage at lockers at Zurich railway stations and visit those places missed on day one of your trip.

Things to Do:

• Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zürich): End your trip with a visit to one of Switzerland’s most important art museums.
• Swiss National Museum: Learn about Swiss cultural history in an architectural masterpiece.
• Relax and Shop: Spend your final hours shopping for souvenirs and enjoying Zurich’s vibrant cafes. 

Overnight Stay: This is not required if departing in the evening; otherwise, return to Hotel Adler Zürich or something similar.

Pro Travel Tip: Check your train schedule and airport transfer options in advance to ensure a smooth departure.

Switzerland itinerary by train – Is Swiss Travel Pass Worth Buying?

• Make your trip to Switzerland as easy as possible with a rail pass that gives you unlimited access to the Swiss train network. 
• Click here to buy a Euro rail Swiss travel Pass.
• Explore the Glacier Express, Golden Pass Line, Bernina Express, and other panoramic train routes.
• Benefit from free entrance to more than 500 museums
• Complete one of the included mountain excursions: Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos.
• Save up to 50% on many other mountain excursions. 
• Travel all over Switzerland with a Swiss Rail pass, valid all over the country. 
• You can choose between a 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive day pass.
• This pass includes museum admission, boat rides, and discounts on many mountain excursions. It also includes unlimited public transport and free entrance to over 500 museums across the country. 
• IMPORTANT – The earliest issue date of the Swiss All-in-One Travel Pass is 180-day before the valid date requested
• All travel by train, bus, and boat
• All travel on premium panorama trains (seat reservation required and surcharges apply)

Must-Do Guided Tours – Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days

Here’s a list of must-book guided tours in the cities mentioned in the itinerary:

Zurich

1. Old Town Walking Tour: Explore the historic streets and landmarks of Zurich’s Old Town with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Art and Culture Tour: Discover Zurich’s vibrant art scene and cultural heritage, including visits to museums and galleries.
3. Chocolate Tasting Tour: Indulge in Switzerland’s famous chocolate with a guided tour of Zurich’s best chocolate shops and confectionaries.

Lucerne

1. Mount Pilatus Tour: Take a guided tour to Mount Pilatus, one of Lucerne’s iconic peaks, and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.
2. Lake Lucerne Cruise: Join a guided boat tour on Lake Lucerne to explore the scenic beauty of the lake and its surrounding mountains.
3. Lucerne City Highlights Tour: With a local guide, discover the highlights of Lucerne, including the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Old Town.

Interlaken

1. Jungfraujoch Day Trip: Book a guided tour to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” for an unforgettable alpine experience.
2. Harder Kulm Panorama Tour: Take a guided tour to Harder Kulm for stunning panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding mountains.
3. Adventure Activities: Join guided tours for outdoor adventures like paragliding, hiking, or white-water rafting in the Interlaken region.

Zermatt

1. Gornergrat Railway Tour: Ride the Gornergrat Railway with a guide for spectacular views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
2. Village Walking Tour: On a guided walking tour, explore Zermatt’s car-free streets and learn about its history, culture, and mountaineering heritage.
3. Gourmet Food Tour: Join a guided tour to sample local Swiss cuisine and specialties at Zermatt’s best restaurants and eateries.

Montreux

1. Chillon Castle Tour: Explore Chillon Castle, one of Switzerland’s most visited historic landmarks, with a guided tour that takes you through its medieval history.
2. Wine Tasting Tour: Take a guided tour of the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy wine tastings at local wineries.
3. Montreux Jazz Festival Tour: If visiting during the Montreux Jazz Festival, book a guided tour to experience the highlights of this renowned music event.

Bern

1. Old Town Guided Walk: Discover Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town with a guided walking tour, exploring its medieval streets, arcades, and historical sites.
2. Einstein Museum Tour: Visit the Einstein Museum and learn about the life and work of Albert Einstein, who developed his theory of relativity while living in Bern.
3. Culinary Tour: Join a guided food or culinary tour to taste the specialties of Bern and visit its local markets, bakeries, and cafes for delicious Swiss delicacies.

These guided tours offer enriching experiences and insights into each destination’s history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable journey through Switzerland.

Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days Highlights

1. Efficient Travel: Switzerland’s world-class train network provides scenic and efficient travel between destinations.
2. Diverse Experiences: You will explore big cities like Zurich and Bern to go on nature alpine adventures in Jungfraujoch and Zermatt.
3. Historical and Cultural Insights: Explore Museums, medieval towns, and cultural landmarks in your Swiss tour.
4. Natural Beauty: Lakes, mountains, and stunning vistas are accessible and breathtaking.

Helpful Tips – Switzerland Itinerary Map (8 Day Switzerland Itinerary Map)

• Swiss Travel Pass: Consider purchasing for unlimited travel and free entry to many attractions. Utilize city cards like the Zurich Card and Lucerne Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions.
• Weather Considerations: Always check the weather for alpine visits to ensure the best experience.
• Packing Essentials: Bring layers, comfortable walking shoes, and essentials for city and mountain excursions.
• Advance Reservations: Book train tickets in advance, especially for scenic routes like Glacier Express and popular attractions, to avoid disappointment.
• Food and Dining: Try local specialties like fondue, raclette, and chocolate; be aware that dining out can be expensive.

Enjoy your Swiss adventure with this 8 day Switzerland itinerary by train. Every stop or Swiss city offers a new story and a unique charm!

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