10 Days in Switzerland: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors [2025]

I knew Switzerland was going to be beautiful, but I still wasn’t ready for just how insane spending 10 days in Switzerland would actually be.

I lost count of how many times I said, “There’s no way this is a real place.”

One day, I’m walking through a quiet village with cows grazing nearby and wooden chalets. The next, I’m hiking along a mountain ridge with views that make me stop in my tracks.

Wondering if you can experience Switzerland’s best in just 10 days? Absolutely.

I did it, and it was packed with epic hikes, ridiculous views, and more Swiss chocolate than I probably should admit.

This Switzerland itinerary is built from my own trip – I’ll cover where to stay, how to get around, and the best experiences to book ahead of time so you can focus on enjoying every second while you’re there.

So grab your hiking boots, charge your camera, and let’s dive in—here’s how to do 10 days in Switzerland, the right way.

Switzerland Itinerary Map

How to Spend 10 Days in Switzerland

Day 1: Arriving in Zurich

You made it! If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to keep this first day simple because jet lag is real, and ambitious plans rarely survive a long-haul flight.

Airport & Rental Car Tips

Getting through Zurich Airport was surprisingly quick—customs took barely any time at all. But getting through the rental car line… that line was long. If you’re renting a car, be prepared to wait, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you plan on driving into Italy (which we’ll be doing later in this itinerary), make sure to tell the rental company in advance. It’ll affect the type of car they give you, and they’ll provide a permit and vignette, a toll sticker.

That said, you don’t actually need a car for Switzerland. Switzerland’s public transportation is easy to use and affordable.

But if you like the flexibility of road trips (and packing without worrying about hauling your luggage on public transportation), renting a car is worth it.

Where to Stay for 1 Night in Zurch

Since I knew I’d be exhausted, I booked the Courtyard by Marriott Zurich North, which is close to the airport. A good spot to get to a hotel quickly because you’ll probably want to rest immediately.

For dinner, I took a quick walk to Coop grocery store to stock up on snacks and water, then got dinner at the hotel. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, but after a long travel day, I was ready to call it a day.

Day 2: Stoos Ridge Hike & Lunch in Lucerne

After a good night’s sleep, it’s time to hit the road. Since you’ll be in Interlaken for the first half of your trip, today you’ll start making your way there.

The drive from Zurich to Interlaken takes about 1.5 hours, but we’re going to break up the drive with a hike along the way.

Morning: Hike Stoos Ridge

One of the things I was looking forward to most was hiking near Interlaken and some of the most beautiful trails in the country.

About halfway to Interlaken, I made a detour for Stoos Ridge, and trust me—it was worth it.

Getting There:
You’ll drive to the Stoos Gondola Station, where there’s plenty of parking in front. From there, hop on the gondola up to Stoos, and head to the trailhead.

The Stoos Ridge Hike:

• Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Mostly easy with a few challenging spots, but doable for all fitness levels.

The hike is beautiful and a great introduction to the Swiss Alps. You’ll walk along a ridgeline with overlooking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps.

You may meet some friendly Swiss cows who are totally unfazed by hikers.

Midday: Stop in Lucerne for Lunch & Sightseeing

After finishing the hike, Lucerne is a spot to grab lunch before heading to Interlaken.

There are plenty of cafés and restaurants near the water, for lunch and a view.

If you have time, check out:

• Chapel Bridge – A famous wooden bridge with centuries-old paintings inside
• Lion Monument – A sculpture honoring Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
• Lake Lucerne Promenade – A great spot to walk along the lake.

Evening: Arrive in Interlaken & Dinner at Riedboden

Once you’re ready to go, drive the rest of the way to Interlaken and check into your hotel.

I stayed at Strandhotel Seeblick and had an incredible view of the water. It’s a beautiful hotel just 10 minutes outside Interlaken.

My favorite part of this hotel was the sauna on the lake. You can step straight from the sauna into the chilly waters of Lake Thun. Highly recommend staying here!

After settling in, head to Riedboden for dinner, a cozy, authentic Swiss restaurant with hearty food.

Day 3: Spend the Day in Grindelwald

Morning: Breakfast at Velo Café

Start your day with breakfast at Velo Café in Interlaken. I got their avocado toast topped with eggs and cheese and a (few) cups of coffee – so good.

Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to hit the road—Grindelwald is about a 30-minute drive from Interlaken.

First Stop: Grindelwald First & Cliff Walk

Once you arrive, walk to the Firstbahn cable car station and take the gondola up to Grindelwald First Station.

Do the Cliff Walk:

The First Cliff Walk is a metal walkway bolted into the side of a mountain, wrapping its way around the cliffs with beautiful panoramic views.

If you’re scared of heights, this is where things get interesting.

What to Expect:

• The path narrows in some spots, making you very aware of the drop below.
• There’s a suspension bridge that sways slightly (but not too much, I promise).
• At the very end, you’ll reach a viewpoint that juts out over the cliff—aka, the “Instagram-famous” photo spot.
• The main viewpoint usually has a long line. If you don’t want to wait, keep walking up the stairs to a less crowded platform with the same view.

Midday: Toboggan Run & Fly Line at Pfingstegg

After the Cliff Walk, take the gondola back down to Grindelwald and walk over to the Pfingstegg cable car station.

At the top, you’ll have two choices for activities:

Toboggan Run: A mountain rollercoaster winding ride down the mountain with beautiful views. You control the speed, so it’s as thrilling or cautious grandma mode as you want.

Fly Line: A slow, scenic zip line that twists through the forest, giving you a peaceful bird’s-eye view of the landscape

Lunch at BaseCamp Restaurant

By now, you’re probably ready for food. BaseCamp Restaurant is a great casual spot with salads, soups, and different entrees.

Afternoon: The Infamous Canyon Swing

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you have to make the 90-meter jump at the Canyon Swing, located in Glacier Canyon, just outside Grindelwald.

After screaming your lungs out, you will be rewarded with a free drink to calm the adrenaline nerves. Much needed.

Want the ultimate adrenaline rush? Book the Canyon Swing now before spots fill up—this is one adventure you don’t want to miss:

Evening: Fondue Inside a Gondola

If you’re somehow hungry after flinging yourself off a cliff, it’s time for dinner!

Head to Fondue Gondola, where you’ll eat Swiss fondue inside a gondola cabin, with cozy blankets and an amazing view.

Make sure to make a reservation – gondola seats book up fast!

Day 4: Spend the Day in Lauterbrunnen & Mürren

Today, you’ll feel like you walked straight into a storybook.

Morning: Drive to Lauterbrunnen & Head Up to Mürren

I started the morning with a quick stop at Coop for coffee, breakfast, and some snacks for the day.

Once you are fueled up for the day, drive about 20 minutes from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen.

You’ll park in the main Lauterbrunnen parking garage. Starting in the parking garage, follow them to the Lauterbrunnen Gondola Station and take the cable car up to Grütschalp.

Once you get off, hop on the train to Mürren (it’s the only train you can get one. The views along the way are already stunning, but just wait until you get there.

Midday: Explore Mürren & Lunch with a View

Mürren is a peaceful, car-free village sitting high in the mountains with the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks hovering above.

Since our main goal was to do the Stechelberg to Lauterbrunnen walk, we didn’t linger too long, but we did stop for lunch at Alti Metzg Bistro, a little spot with incredible views.

We ordered a light lunch of Swiss fondue and charcuterie.

Afternoon: The Most Beautiful Walk in Switzerland (in my opinion)

Once you’re done exploring Mürren, walk to the other end of the village and take the gondola down to Stechelberg.

Once you exit the Stechelberg Station, head to the parking lot, where you’ll find the trailhead for the walk back to Lauterbrunnen.

This is a 4-mile (6.5 km) paved trail that might just be the most scenic walk of your life. The path is completely flat, making it more of an easy stroll.

You’ll be walking through a lush green valley, surrounded by towering cliffs on both sides.

Lauterbrunnen is home to 72 waterfalls, and you’ll spot many of them along the way.

Evening: Explore Lauterbrunnen & Dinner in Interlaken

Once you’re back in Lauterbrunnen, take some time to wander through the town and stop into a few shops.

Then, when you’re ready, drive back to Interlaken.

For dinner, I highly recommend just wandering around and seeing what looks good.

Sometimes, the best meals are the ones you stumble upon, and Interlaken has plenty of great spots to choose from.

Day 5: Paragliding Over Interlaken & Sunset at Harder Kulm

Morning: Breakfast & Paragliding Over Interlaken

Start your day at Café Runft, a cozy café known for its fresh, homemade bread and hearty breakfasts.

Paragliding Over Interlaken
If you’re up for an adventure, paragliding over Interlaken was one of my favorite things to do in Interlaken that I’m excited to recommend.

You’ll meet at the designated spot in Interlaken, get shuttled up the mountain, and be paired with an instructor who will (briefly) explain how to run off the edge.

The scariest part is takeoff. But once you’re in the air, it’s smooth sailing and absolutely unreal.

Pro tip: Double-knot your shoes before takeoff! I learned this the hard way—my shoe flew off mid-run, and an instructor had to chase it down the mountain. Guess who got called ‘Cinderella’ for the rest of the trip?

The views are unlike anything else—you’ll soar over Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the entire Interlaken valley. If you’re on the fence about doing this, trust me: book it.

✨ Book your Paragliding flight ✨

Midday: Lunch & Paddle Boarding on Lake Brienz

After landing, head to Layaly Beirut for a casual yet delicious Lebanese lunch. Their falafel wraps and hummus plates are fresh, flavorful, and a perfect light meal post-paragliding.

Paddle Boarding on Lake Brienz
In the afternoon, rent a paddle board from SUP Brienzersee. I chose this rental shop because it let you take the boards out on your own and not with a tour.

Lake Brienz’s turquoise water is unbelievably clear and peaceful.

You can paddle at your own pace—whether you want to explore the lake or just to float and take in the views.

Evening: Dinner at Mia Osteria Pizzeria & Gelateria

End the day with some of the best pizza in Interlaken at Mia Osteria. Order the Campagnola pizza— it was the best pizza i’ve ever had.

Our server raved about their gelato saying it’s the best that ever existed, and they weren’t wrong—it was hands down the best we had in Switzerland.

Day 6: Hike Augstmatthorn & Sunset at Harder Kulm

Your last day in Interlaken deserves something unforgettable, and hiking Augstmatthorn will be exactly that.

With some of the most jaw-dropping ridgeline views in Switzerland, this hike is challenging but worth it.

Afterward, you’ll wrap up your time in Interlaken with a sunset dinner at Harder Kulm.

Morning: Breakfast & Hiking Augstmatthorn

Before tackling the hike, I recommend grabbing a quick breakfast from your hotel so you can get an early start.

You have two options for hiking Augstmatthorn, depending on how much of your day you want to spend hiking.

Option 1: The Traditional Route (11 miles, 6.5 hours)

Take the Harderbahn funicular from Interlaken to Harder Kulm and begin at the trailhead.

This is the longer route. It’s challenging but less technical than the shortcut and the trail is well-maintained.

Option 2: The Shortcut via Lombachalp (4 miles, ~2.5 hours)

Drive to Lombachalp. The trailhead parking is across the street from the Jägerstübli Lombachalp restaurant (plug this restaurant into Google Maps).

This route is steep and challenging, with a 1,873 ft elevation gain in a short distance. It’s difficult but I found it doable as a casual hiker—just take your time!

Either route you choose, Insane panoramic views of Lake Brienz, the Swiss Alps, and a dramatic ridgeline trail.

Note: The Harder Kulm funicular doesn’t open until 9:10 AM which is why I opted for the shorter route to get an early start.

Evening: Sunset at Harder Kulm & One Last Stroll Through Interlaken

Depending on which route you took:

• If you hiked from Harder Kulm, Grab lunch at Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant and enjoy the views before taking the funicular back down.
• If you took the shortcut via Lombachalp → Head back to your hotel, freshen up, and get ready for dinner at Harder Kulm at sunset.

Enjoy dinner on Harder Kulm, with views of the sunset over Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Interlaken Alps.

Once you’re done with dinner, wander through Interlaken one last time. Make sure to stock up on Swiss chocolate at Läderach before you leave!

Day 7: Drive to Lugano & Lake Lugano Activities

Today, we leave the dramatic peaks of Interlaken and head south to Lugano, where Switzerland starts to feel a bit more like Italy.

After days packed with adventure, this part of the trip is going to be about slowing down and enjoying your remaining time in Switzerland.

Morning: The Most Scenic Drive of Your Life

Lugano is about a 2.5 hour drive from Interlaken. I highly recommend getting an early start, not just to make the most of your time in Lugano, but because you’ll want to make stops along the way.

This might just be the most beautiful drive you’ll ever take.

If you have time, take a detour to the 007 Bungy Jump at Verzasca Dam. If not to make the jump, but just to walk.

Just outside Locarno, this 220m (720ft) dam is where James Bond leaped off in GoldenEye.

I, however, happily stayed on solid ground and watched other people take the plunge.

If you’re into extreme sports, you can book a jump in advance (warning: you’re not allowed to cancel)—otherwise, it’s worth stopping just to witness the insanity.

Afternoon: Arrive in Lugano & Settle In

Once you arrive in Lugano, take your time settling into your hotel.

I recommend staying at the Continental Parkhotel Lugano. This is where I stayed, and it’s a beautiful, wooded property that sits just above Lugano.

We splurged a little on a lake-view room, and it was totally worth it—waking up to the view, reading on the balcony in the morning, and just soaking in the peaceful surroundings made all the difference.

It’s walkable to downtown, and the train is right across the street from the hotel if you plan on taking any day trips or are traveling by train.

Evening: Wander Lugano

Unlike Interlaken, Lugano is smaller, quieter, and made for slow exploring.

There’s no need to pack your first evening with plans. Stroll along the lake, pop into one of the restaurants along the water, and grab some Gelato from a vendor.

After all the paragliding, hiking, and adventure in Interlaken, this is the perfect transition into the second half of the trip—a little slower, a little more relaxed, but still just as beautiful.

Day 8: Day Trip to Milan VS. Lake Como

Today, you have two day trip options to Italy:

1. A day trip to Milan
2. Day Trip to Lake Como

Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong. Either way, you have to pop over to Italy since you’ll be so close.

Option 1: Milan Day Trip

This is the day trip I opted for. You’re going to take the train from Lugano to Milan. The train ride is about an 1 hr 15 min.

If you have a rental car, you will need to tell the rental car company that you plan on driving the car out of Italy.

Make sure they give you a Vingette, which is a pass for tolls and crossing the border.

Things to Do in Milan:

• Duomo di Milano | >> Book Tickets
  This will probably be the first stop you make because it’s pretty hard to miss. In the middle of the city, make sure you see the beautiful and intricately designed Duomo di Milano.
  
  Climb to the rooftop for an beautiful view of the city. (Don’t go to the rooftop if it’s raining like I did!).
  
  Make sure to get skip the line tickets, especially if you are short on time.
  
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  You can’t go to Milan and not go to these beautiful shopping galleries. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, take some time to window shop.
  
• Brera District
  Wander around the Brera District. This neighborhood is the artists disctrict with cute streets, boutiques, and the famous Pinacoteca di Brera art museum.
  
• Visit Sforza Castle | >> Book Tickets
  This is a medieval fortress that was built in the 14th century. Take some time to explore the caste museum and large grounds.
  
• See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper | >> Book Tickets
  If you want to see this, book tickets WEEKS in advance. I did not do this and we were disappointed we weren’t able to see this famous painting.

Option 2: Lake Como

For option number two, opt for spending the day lounging on the beautiful Lake Como.

Take the train from Lugano to Como or if you have a car, drive to Menaggio.

What to Do in Lake Como:

• Explore Como Town
  Start your day in Como Town, the village of the lake. Take a stroll along the water and take in the lakeside views.
  
  While you’re there, visit the Cathedral of Como, a cathedral from the Gothic and Renaissance era.
  
• Take the Funicular to Brunate
  For the best panoramic views over Lake Como, take the funicular up to Brunate.
  
• Rent a Boat on Lake Como | >> Book Your Boat
  One of the best ways to experience Lake Como is by renting a boat that you can drive yourself.
  
  Spend a couple of hours relaxing on the water and exploring the lake at your own pace.
  
• Visit Villa del Balbianello | >> Book Tickets
  This is an 18th-century villa that sits on a picturesque peninsula in Lavedo.
  
  Originally built in the late 18th century as a retreat for Cardinal Durini, the villa later became the private residence of Guido Monzino, an traveler and the first Italian to summit Mount Everest.
  
  It was also featured in Star Wars and James Bond: Casino Royale.

Return to Lugano in the evening and grab a bite to eat before heading back to your hotel.

Day 9: Walk the Olive Trail in Lugano

For the last full day in Lugano, slow things down and take in the views one last time.

The Sentiero dell’Olivo (Olive Tree Path) is an easy, scenic walk along Lake Lugano, winding through olive groves and small villages that feel like they belong in another time. After days of adventure, this is the perfect way to enjoy the quieter side of Switzerland.

Morning: Walk the Olive Tree Path

Walk along the Sentiero dell’Olivo (Olive Tree Path), a 9.5-mile trail follows the old routes of Ticino’s olive farmers.

The full route actually crosses into Italy, and if you’re up for it, you can hike the entire thing and take a boat back to Lugano.

We walked about 3.5 miles in before turning around.

My favorite part of the walk was passing through Gandria, a tiny lakeside village that feels frozen in time.

Narrow cobblestone alleys twist through the town, leading to homes, small cafés, and terraces overlooking the lake.

You take ten steps in any direction and you’re at your neighbor’s or family member’s house, a restaurant, or a shop.

Walking through it, naturally, I wanted to move in and live out my days in this villiage on the water of Lake Lugano.

If you do nothing else today, just take your time.

This isn’t a hike to rush through—it’s one to enjoy slowly, stopping for coffee or a drink along the way.

Afternoon: Exploring Lugano One Last Time

After the hike, head to your hotel to clean up and spend the afternoon wandering through Lugano one last time.

Here are a few things you can do if you haven’t already:

• Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli
  From the outside, this small church might not look like much, but inside, it has one of Switzerland’s most famous Renaissance murals, painted by Bernardino Luini, one of Leonardo da Vinci’s students. Entry is free.
  
• Stop by the Lugano Casino
  Honestly, when I think of any country in Europe, I don’t think of casinos, but there’s one in Lugano!
  
  Whether you gamble or not, it’s worth popping into to play a couple games.
  
  Maybe you’ll win back the money you spent on this trip (Switzerland is expensive!).
  
• Take one last walk along the lake – Head toward Parco Ciani, a beautiful park along the water. It’s one of the best spots in Lugano to just sit and take in the view before heading to dinner.

Evening: Dinner at Osteria Trani

For the last dinner in Lugano, head to Osteria Trani. You will have the choice of homemade pasta or fresh seafood. A delicious meal for your last night in Lugano.

Enjoy a glass of wine, linger a little longer than necessary, and just soak in the moment.

No rush, no itinerary—just good food, good company and delicious food that makes you wish you had one more night.

Day 10: Return to Zurich & Depart

We drove 2.5 hours back to Zurich, opting to head in the night before our flight just in case we hit any delays.

If you’re taking the train, this is definitely a smart move in case there’s train delays.

That said, even if you’re flying out the same day, the journey back is quick and easy.

If you do have extra time in Zurich, make the most of it!

Walk around the old town, explore Bahnhofstrasse (one of the world’s most famous shopping streets), or stroll along Zurich’s canal.

If museums are your thing, check out the Swiss National Museum or the Kunsthaus Zurich to see some incredible art and learn about Switzerland’s history.

Of course, I stopped at Zara and had to somehow squeeze my new purchases into my suitcase alongside all the chocolate I’d stocked up on. (Priorities, right?)

For our last night, we stayed at the Zurich Marriott Hotel. A great option if you want a place within walking distance of the city center.

It’s just a short walk to downtown, making it easy to squeeze in a little more time exploring before saying goodbye to Switzerland.

Wrapping Up: Is 10 Days in Switzerland Enough?

Switzerland is one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited. It’s a magical place that will have your heart long after you leave.

I hope you leave with incredible memories of hiking beautiful ridgelines, stuffing your face with fondue, and incredible scenery.

Whether you’re here for the adventure, the views, or just an excuse to eat chocolate for breakfast, this place delivers.

So if you’re thinking about it—go. Book the trip. Switzerland is pure magic, and trust me, you won’t want to leave.

Continue Planning Your Switzerland Trip:

• Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? (Honest Traveler’s Review)
• 21 Epic Things to Do in Interlaken, Switzerland
• Guide to Hiking in Interlaken: 8 Incredible Trails for Every Fitness Level

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