Switzerland Trip Itinerary by Train + What I’d Do Differently
Over nine days, my daughter and I traveled across Switzerland by train, starting in Geneva and making our way east through storybook mountain towns, sparkling lakes, and more jaw-dropping views than I could count. The trains were part of the adventure, enabling us to hop around the Jungfrau region to soak in all the Swiss mountain glory!
It was an unforgettable trip, but as any traveler knows, hindsight is a powerful thing. If I were to plan it again, I would make a few changes that would save time, reduce hotel hopping, and allow for more relaxed moments between adventures.
In this post, I will walk you through our exact Switzerland trip itinerary by train, share the highlights of each destination, and explain what I would do differently next time.
Want help planning a trip to Switzerland for yourself? I’m a licensed travel advisor and would love to help you plan your trip!
Quick Itinerary Overview
Here’s the route we took over 9 days in Switzerland, traveling entirely by train with a First-Class Swiss Travel Pass. This pass gave us unlimited train, boat, and bus travel, plus access to some of Switzerland’s most scenic railways.
Day 1 – Geneva (Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Geneva)
Days 2–3 – Zermatt (Stay: Hotel Ambiance Zermatt)
Days 4–5 – Grindelwald (Stay: Boutique Hotel Panorama Grindelwald)
Days 6–7 – Wengen (Stay: Hotel Jungfraublick Wengen)
Days 8–9 – Lucerne (Stay: Hotel Beau Séjour Lucerne)
Day 1: Geneva
Our Switzerland adventure began in Geneva, where we landed by train after a few days in Paris, but most US travelers will arrive after an overnight flight. I wanted to visit Geneva so Mia could have a little more experience speaking French before we moved the the German part of Switzerland.
I booked us a one-night stay at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix Geneva using Marriott points. The location, right on the edge of Lake Geneva, was perfect for a gentle start before our first big train journey the next morning.
We didn’t try to pack in too much sightseeing. Instead, we grabbed dinner at The Little Kitchen (a total tourist joint but had tasty burgers) along the water, before wandering our way through the old town.
The Old Town, with its cobbled streets and many hills, was worth wandering for a taste of the city’s history. There were some really cute shops but most were closed as we visited after dinner time. We grabbed some surprisingly affordable gelato at Gelatomania before heading back to the Ritz where they pampered Mia with a cocktail and cake to celebrate her high school graduation.
Where to Stay
- The Ritz-Carlton Geneva — Luxury stay with lake views and an easy walk to the Old Town. While the building is old and right on a main street, the location is excellent. And the service is absolutely wonderful! Perfect for using points or for a special splurge before your rail adventure begins. (Check reviews and rates here)
Travel Tip
If your flight arrives early, ask about early check-in so you can freshen up before exploring. Geneva is compact enough to see the highlights in half a day, making it an ideal first stop before heading into the Alps. If your flight arrives early enough, you could certainly plan to head straight into the mountains; however, it can be a risk if there are flight delays or cancellations.
Days 2–3: Zermatt & the Matterhorn
We boarded our first long scenic train ride to Zermatt, a car-free mountain village famous for its views of the Matterhorn. Even the journey in was an experience, with every curve of the track revealing lovely mountain scenes while we kept our eyes out for the iconic Matterhorn peak. We are Disneyland fans you know. :)
Arriving in Zermatt felt like stepping into a postcard — adorable Swiss chalets with flower boxes and that iconic triangular peak in the distance, although it was covered in clouds when we first arrived!
We headed into town and grabbed dinner at du pont where we enjoyed handmade mac n’ cheese. They’re known for their fondue and have an adorable upstairs section if you can get an open table. We came out from dinner to find the skies had cleared and we were gifted one of the most beautiful Matterhorn sunset shows that will forever be remembered by us both.
Our first full day was devoted to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondola and hiking. We took the gondola cars up to the viewing platform for panoramic views stretching into Italy and France. Our Swiss Travel Pass did grant us half price for the gondola, but be prepared that these rides are quite pricey!
At the top we walked outside in the freezing temperatures (don’t forget to pack a coat and gloves – even in the summer!), then headed indoors to venture through the ice caves and sculptures. We missed viewing the show in the Cinema Lounge which I regret, so make time for that if it’s something you’d like.
You will find skiers here, even in the middle of summer! There’s a small gift shop and a pay per use toilet (2€) at the top as well. If you don’t need the bathroom right away, you can take the gondola down to the next station where there are complimentary bathrooms.
After making our way back down on the Crystal Ride Matterhorn Glacier gondola — it has a clear floor and costs extra — to Trockener Steg, we continued on another gondola down to Schwarszee. Trockener Steg is a great spot to grab a souvenir, use the bathroom, or even grab a coffee if you need a break.
Then began our hike down toward Zermatt. Midway, we stopped for a long, leisurely lunch at Stafelalp, where the terrace looks out directly at the Matterhorn. It was one of those “how is this real?” travel moments. We actually passed cows grazing with their shepherdess while on the path before lunch and their bells were ringing with the Matterhorn in the background. Iconic!!
On our second day, we rode the Gornergrat Railway, another fun activity for first-time visitors. It’s the highest open-air railway in Europe and the world’s oldest electric cogwheel mountain railway built for tourism. The open views from the train windows made the short ride feel like an attraction in itself. At the top, we explored the trails and hiked down to find the famous Valais black-nosed sheep which are tracked via GPS during the daytime.
This hike was nice starting out from Gornergrat but it became a bit monotonus once we left the lake areas. And some parts seemed hard to follow the trail signs and maps so we ended up on construction roads instead of hiking trails.
I’d perhaps hike down from the top (assuming you’re in shape for mountain hiking) past the mountain lakes and then take the train back down from Riffelberg — with a stop off for the sheep at whichever station they’re closest to when you visit.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Ambiance Zermatt — I stayed in a mid-floor Matterhorn view room here, and while there is some nearby construction that can bring a crane into your line of sight during the day, the views are still incredible in the early mornings and late evenings. Zermatt has quite a few cranes at the moment, so when booking a Matterhorn view room, it’s worth asking your hotel if any construction could affect the view.
Hotel Ambiance is popular with tour groups, but it still is small and local. It feels personal thanks to warm and welcoming customer service. Breakfast was one of the best we had on our entire trip, and if you can, go for a larger room on the top floor to maximize the view, plus they have an elevator! Truly this is a gem of a family-owned hotel just a small walk outside the main town center.
The hotel is a bit of a hike uphill from the center of town, so I recommend hiring an e-cab for your luggage to and from the station. Rooms don’t have a fridge, and toiletries are minimal, so bring your own favorites. (Check reviews & rates here)
Travel Tip
- If you are short on time or budget, you may want to choose between Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the Gornergrat Railway. Both offer incredible views, but the experiences are different in cost, height, and style of travel (railway vs gondola).
There’s also Jungfraujoch which is the highest railway in Europe and probably one of the most popular mountain top snow/ice experiences in the region. It’s the priciest so we skipped that one. You can buy a Peak2Peak ticket for Matterhorn Glacier and Gornergrat that will save you a little if you want to do both. - When booking Gornergrat tickets, there is a priority boarding option which lets you on first as you’ll want to sit on the right side of the train going up. When the main doors open, it’s quite chaotic during peak tourist season with people racing to get seats and sit on the right side, so be prepared.
- For budget-friendly snacks, drinks, and perhaps some wine, the Migros grocery in town is a great stop to save money.
Days 4–5: Grindelwald & Lake Bachalpsee
From Zermatt, we continued east by train into the Jungfrau region, settling into the charming alpine village of Grindelwald. This is the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and start planning how you can come back for a longer stay. Surrounded by jagged peaks and green valleys, Grindelwald feels like a Swiss postcard brought to life. Just look at my instagram post for proof!
Our biggest adventure here was taking the First gondola up to the starting point of the Lake Bachalpsee hike. This trail is one of the most photographed in Switzerland — and for good reason. The lake is framed perfectly by snow-capped mountains, and on a calm day, the reflections are pure magic. The gondola ride itself is scenic, and you can also add on the First Cliff Walk, a metal walkway that hugs the cliffside and offers sweeping valley views.
Back in the village, we enjoyed strolling around town, grabbed lunch at Clubhaus Café & Crêperie, and taking in the views from our hotel balcony. Grindelwald makes an ideal base for exploring the Jungfrau region, with easy train connections to nearby Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Interlaken.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Panorama Grindelwald — This hotel truly lives up to its name, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks from nearly every angle. Rooms are cozy and alpine-inspired, many with balconies perfect for a morning coffee. The location is peaceful although a bit away from the city center. Your reservation comes with free bus service, so that’s an easy way to get up and down from the hotel. (Check reviews & rates here)
I splurged with this hotel and booked us the Grand Suite which had ample space and a wrap around balcony. We spent quite a bit of time outside on our balcony enjoying the scenery at the end of the day.
Travel Tip
- If you plan to hike to Lake Bachalpsee, try to start early in the day. Not only will you enjoy cooler temperatures, but you’ll also have a better chance of seeing the lake’s famous mirror-like reflection before afternoon breezes ripple the water. This trail is quite busy and does have some elevation climb sections – so while it’s considered an easy trail, you still need to be in shape or plan to slowly take your time.
- There are a ton of other things to do in this region, and my recommendation is this works as a great “home base” spot for your other daily adventures around the region.
Days 6–7: Wengen, Lauterbrunnen & Murren
From Grindelwald, we took the train deeper into the Jungfrau region and made Wengen our base for the next two nights. Wengen is a car-free village perched above Lauterbrunnen Valley, with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. It has a quieter, traditional vibe compared to Interlaken, and stepping off the train felt like arriving in a mountain hideaway.
One of our favorite outings was taking the train down into Lauterbrunnen Valley, often called the valley of 72 waterfalls. We visited a small llama farm, hiked behind the famous Staubbach Falls (was a bit of a let down during the summer as you couldn’t feel or see the water), visited the Trümmelbach Waterfalls (an UNESCO World Heritage Site with an admission fee), and wandered through the postcard-perfect valley floor.
Another day, we rode the cable car up the other side of the valley to Mürren, a tiny clifftop village that feels worlds away from the bustle of the lower towns. From Mürren, the views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains are some of the best in Switzerland. Unfortunately the day we visited was a rainy day, so our views were limited.
We also squeezed in a visit to Interlaken, though it felt more like a transportation hub than a destination for us. The contrast made us appreciate the charm of the smaller mountain towns even more. Interlaken does have famous boat tours around the lakes, which is included in your Swiss Travel Pass. We had a relaxing bite to eat at a hidden grotto spot, Pier One, near one of the boat harbors.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Jungfraublick — Wengen offers a few hotels with classic alpine charm. Staying here gives you access to Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Jungfraujoch excursions, while feeling a bit less crowded. This hotel was very simple and basic in regard to the rooms, but staff were friendly and the views of the mountains from top floors were excellent. (Check reviews & rates here)
- Grand Hotel Belvedere — if you’re looking to splurge and stay at a luxe hotel with a nice location near the train station, this one is for you. It’s tucked up on a private drive with some amazing views! (Check reviews & rates here)
Keep in mind that while the setting is beautiful, the logistics of moving around the region can eat into your day. Any time we wanted to do something, we had to wait for a train down from Wengen to Lauterbrunnen. I’d recommend staying four nights at Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald for your stay in the Jungfrau region instead of moving around and instead of staying in one of the higher mountain towns (Mürren or Wengen).
Travel Tip
- If you plan to visit Trümmelbach Waterfalls, it’s a bit outside of the main town area. Buses regularly run on a loop around the town to the falls, so if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, take advantage of hopping on the bus for free. It also has an admission fee and a lot of stairs.
Days 8–9: Lucerne & Farewell
Our last stop was Lucerne, a lakeside city that feels both historic and vibrant. After days in small mountain villages, it was fun to return to a place with lively streets, waterfront promenades, and easy day-trip options.
We chose Lucerne over Zurich for our final city stay, however some may choose to stay in Zurich if you’re flying out of that airport. We actually flew out of Frankfurt on Condor business class (which I booked with points!), so it was easy to choose Lucerne since the train bookings weren’t that hard to manage.
We started with a visit to the Lion Monument, a stone fountain memorial to the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. It’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks, and an easy walk from the city center. From there, we continued to the Museggmauer/Musegg Wall (castle wall) and climbed into the towers for sweeping views over the city and Lake Lucerne.
Back in the Old Town, we spent time wandering the streets and walking across the covered bridges. One of my favorite moments was Mia choosing a custom Swiss Army Knife as a souvenir. It’s a simple but lasting memento of the trip, and a uniquely Swiss keepsake that feels more meaningful than a t-shirt or magnet. That evening we had dinner at Restaurant Caravelle, a cozy Italian restaurant spot near the Lion monument.
Unfortunately, rain changed some of our plans for our final day in the city. We had hoped to ride the cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus and try the alpine slide, as well as take a lake cruise, but decided to save those for another trip since it was cloudy and rainy. Even with the weather, Lucerne was a lovely way to end our journey, offering a balance of culture, history, and lakeside relaxation.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Beau Séjour Lucerne — This boutique-style hotel is set along the lakefront, about 10 minutes from Lucerne’s Old Town (they provide a free bus pass for guests if you don’t want to walk). It has a welcoming, stylish feel, with bright rooms and an modern charm. All the rooms are different as it seems to be an old mansion turned into a hotel. We had originally added breakfast onto our room rate, however, found it to lack hot foods and protein dishes so asked for the charge to be removed and grabbed breakfast at a cafe in town instead. (Check reviews & rates here)
Travel Tip
- Lucerne is a great city to add on at the end of a Switzerland itinerary, especially if you want still want a mountain top adventure (like Pilatus) or if you want to do a lake cruise. Its compact size makes it easy to see in a couple of days, and it has frequent train connections to Zurich, where most international flights depart.
What I’d Do Differently
Looking back, this itinerary gave us an incredible mix of cities, mountain towns, and scenic train rides. But if I were to plan it again, I would make one key change: spend less time switching hotels and more time based in one spot within the Jungfrau region.
While Wengen was beautiful, the logistics of going up and down the valley for day trips made it feel like we were spending too much time in transit. Next time, I would probably choose Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen as our base for 4 nights. From there, it’s simple to take the train or cable cars to places like Wengen, Mürren, and Interlaken without the constant packing and moving.
Mürren in particular is magical, but it felt too isolated to use as a base for exploring. I’d keep it as a day trip rather than an overnight stay.
Overall, I wouldn’t change the start or finish of our route — Geneva was an easy entry point, Zermatt was spectacular, and Lucerne worked well for airport logistics. But condensing the middle section into fewer hotel changes would have made the trip more relaxed and left us with extra time to soak in the views instead of juggling train timetables.
Another thing I’d mention is that if you’re really interested in specific hikes and lake views, research those in advance and book hotels in towns near the hikes.
Mia really wanted to do the Oeschinensee lake hike, however we discovered that from Grindelwald or even Interlaken we’d spend hours on trains to reach the start of the hike, so we skipped that. Many of the hikes around Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are pretty busy so if hiking is important, research your hikes then book your hotels based on those starting points.
I’ll also say that the beauty of Swizerland in my opinion is in their mountain towns. If I was helping a friend book a trip, I’d tell them to spend the least amount of time possible in the cities and instead to plan more time in the mountain towns. I think mix of a more popular town with a more unknown mountain town near one special hike would be the optimal use of time. I’d also make a boat lake cruise in Interlaken or Lucerne more of a priority; however, Mia does not enjoy those so we skipped it.
Want help planning a trip to Switzerland for yourself? I’m a licensed travel advisor and would love to help you plan your trip!
Closing Thoughts
Traveling through Switzerland by train was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with postcard-perfect views, bucket-list hikes, and unforgettable mother-daughter memories. If you’re planning your own Switzerland trip itinerary, I hope this gives you inspiration — and a few lessons learned to make your trip even smoother.
If you’re curious about costs, tips for the Swiss Travel Pass, or how to pack for a trip like this, stay tuned — I’ll be sharing more posts soon with all of those details.
