2 Weeks in Switzerland: Exploring the Best of the Swiss Alps

If someone looks at a world map for the first time and tries to guess how long it would take to explore Switzerland, they might think a few days to a week is enough. After all, it’s just a small dot in Europe! But in reality, even though Switzerland is a small country, you’d need at least two weeks to truly experience it.

It’s not just about the mountains in the Alps. There are futuristic cities, impressive museums, fairytale castles, and well-preserved medieval villages to discover. Still, the highlight is the Swiss Alps. They make Switzerland a unique destination in Europe, and the country’s picturesque alpine countryside is just the beginning.

That’s why this two-week itinerary focuses on the Swiss Alps, with a mix of other experiences to make the trip even more worthwhile. Let me break down the details for you.

Summary

Map of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

This 14-day Switzerland itinerary starts in Zurich and ends in Geneva, covering some of the best places to visit in the country. It’s perfect for summer or the shoulder seasons and works especially well for first-time visitors.

The route goes through scenic cities like Lucerne, Bern, and Montreux, with stops at some incredible destinations like Bernese Oberland, Zermatt, and Gruyeres. It’s a journey from the northeast to the west, mixing city life with breathtaking alpine landscapes.

Even though Switzerland is small, staying in different locations makes the trip more practical and enjoyable. Two nights in Zurich, three in Bern, three in Interlaken, two in Zermatt, two in Montreux, and one in Geneva allow for a good balance of sightseeing and downtime without feeling rushed.

Renting a car isn’t necessary since Switzerland’s public transportation is incredibly efficient. A Swiss Travel Pass is highly recommended because it covers trains, buses, and even museum entries, making travel easier and more cost-effective.

Zurich, Day 1 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 1 — Zurich City Tour

Summary: Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a great starting point for your trip. With plenty of train and flight connections worldwide, getting there is easy. But there’s more to it than just convenience—you’ll see why as soon as you start exploring on your first day.

Your 14-day trip to Switzerland starts in Zurich, the country’s largest city and financial center. Zurich is known for its lively nightlife, international vibe, and top-tier museums. Sitting in the northeast, it stretches along the shores of its own lake, giving travelers a scenic escape after exploring a city that blends modern life with tradition.

I assume you’ll be arriving in Zurich in the morning, so we’ll start exploring in the afternoon. There are plenty of options depending on what interests you. You can check out Bahnhofstrasse to experience Zurich’s famous shopping district or take a walk along the lakefront for a small preview of the incredible views waiting for you in the Swiss Alps.

That said, I highly recommend spending more time in Zurich’s Old Town, where you can visit historical sites and museums. Since the rest of your trip will involve a lot of time in nature, exploring the city now will give your itinerary a nice balance.

Don’t miss Zurich’s iconic churches, like Fraumünster, which features stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall. Stop by the Swiss National Museum for a glimpse into the country’s history and culture. At sunset, head up to Uetliberg for a panoramic view of the city.

Zurich is known for having the best nightlife in Switzerland, so if you’re interested, you might want to check it out. I’m not really into nightlife, so I can’t give specific recommendations, but Langstrasse is a good place to start since it has a mix of bars and clubs. If you’re not up for partying on your first night, no worries—you’ll be in Zurich until the night of Day 2.

Discover Zurich by Reading this Guide

Find Hotels in Zurich

Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, Day 2 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 2 — Day Trip to Lucerne & Mount Pilatus

Summary: From Zurich, you’ll visit Lucerne, a city I consider my utopian getaway and one of the most beautiful in Switzerland. With its charming streets covered in colorful murals, scenic waterfronts with views of medieval landmarks, and mountain destinations with breathtaking panoramas, Lucerne won’t disappoint.

I wouldn’t recommend partying too hard on your first night in Zurich since you’ll need to wake up early for a day trip to Lucerne.

This city is one of the most beautiful in Switzerland, and getting there from Zurich is easy—it’s just a 45-minute direct train ride. Even better, Old Town Lucerne is just a short walk from the train station, so you can start exploring as soon as you arrive.

That said, I suggest heading straight to Mount Pilatus first. Many consider it one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountains, and it’s worth visiting for the incredible views of Lake Lucerne, exciting activities, and unique experiences.

One highlight is the Pilatus Railway, the steepest cogwheel train in the world. If you’re traveling with family, the mountain’s toboggan run makes the trip even more fun. The best part? Visiting in the morning means fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience. You won’t have to deal with long lines, and you’ll get to enjoy the scenery without the midday rush.

You can spend either half a day or a full day at Mount Pilatus, depending on your schedule, but make sure to save enough time to explore Old Town Lucerne afterward.

There’s plenty to see, including Europe’s oldest wooden covered bridge, the Chapel Bridge, which looks especially beautiful in the summer when it’s decorated with flowers. Another landmark worth visiting is the Musegg Wall, the best-preserved medieval wall in Switzerland. Lucerne’s historic churches, like the Jesuit Church with its ornate baroque interior, are also worth checking out.

If you want some guidance while exploring Lucerne, you might find my Lucerne walking tour or other guided tours helpful. Some tours even include transportation from Zurich to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, so you won’t have to worry about booking tickets separately. If you prefer to visit on your own, the Swiss Travel Pass offers a discount for Mount Pilatus.

Take a look at these resources to help you get the best experience in Lucerne and Mount Pilatus:

One Day in Lucerne Itinerary

Everything You Need to Know About Mount Pilatus

Free Things to Do in Lucerne (beautiful landmarks)

Old City of Bern, Day 3 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 3 — Exploring the Old City of Bern

Summary: To me, Bern—your next base for exploring Switzerland (for Day 3 to Day 5)—has the most impressive architecture in the country. Whether you’re strolling through the Old City or enjoying the views from restaurants along the Aare River, you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera again and again.

The second part of your 14-day Switzerland trip kicks off on the morning of your third day. You’ll be traveling from Zurich to Bern, where you’ll start exploring the beautiful spots in and around the Swiss capital.

The train ride from Zurich to Bern takes about an hour, so you’ll arrive in no time. Once you’ve checked in or dropped off your bags at your hotel and taken a short break, it’s time to head out and explore the Old City of Bern, which, in my opinion, has the most impressive architecture in all of Switzerland.

Did you know the Old City of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? As the country’s capital, it reflects Switzerland’s wealth and deep-rooted history. The arcades, colorful fountains, and grand landmarks set Bern apart from other Swiss cities, making it worth visiting no matter how long your trip is.

There’s a lot to see in Bern, but I highly recommend checking out the Bern Cathedral, Zytglogge, Kramgasse, and Bundeshaus. You can explore these places at a relaxed pace in about half a day.

After that, head to the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the Old City. The view is especially breathtaking at sunset. If you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, the Rose Garden Restaurant offers alfresco seating with a lovely atmosphere, especially on a nice evening.

By the time you’re done, it’ll probably be nighttime—perfect for the Spooky Bern Tour. This guided walk will take you through the city’s darker history, with stories of witches and restless spirits lurking in Bern’s past.

Let me give you all the details on how to explore Bern.

See the Highlights of Bern in Half a Day

How to Explore Bern in One Day

Find Hotels in Bern

Einstein Museum in Bern, Day 4 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 4 — Interesting Discoveries in the Museums of Bern

Summary: By the end of your fourth day in Switzerland, you’ll have explored a lot, especially in Bern’s museums. From the artwork at the Paul Klee Museum to Albert Einstein’s contributions and old communication devices from centuries past, you’ll gain plenty of interesting insights.

On your third day in Bern, you’ll likely come across several viewpoints. Some of them, like the one behind the Bundeshaus, offer a glimpse of the Alps. If you love mountains, you’ll probably be excited to explore the Swiss Alps. If the weather is clear, you might even see Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from the city.

But before heading to the mountains, take some time to visit Bern’s museums. If you’re interested in art, history, technology, or science, there are a few worth checking out. Save them for the fourth day of your Switzerland trip!

Start with the Bern Historical Museum, where you’ll get a look at Bern’s history and how the city and country have evolved over time. You’ll also learn a lot about Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern for a few years.

Another great museum to visit is the Museum of Communication. It covers how people have connected over the years, from handwritten letters to old-school phones and even everyday objects you might not think of as communication tools. The museum is interactive and has plenty of games, making it a fun stop if you’re traveling with friends or family.

If you have extra time or enjoy modern art, check out the Paul Klee Museum. It’s just a short ride on bus number 12 from Bern’s Old City. The museum highlights the work of Paul Klee, a Swiss painter known for his distinctive style and creative use of color and form.

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can enter these museums for free.

Before wrapping up your day, consider dining at Kornhauskeller Restaurant & Bar. It’s on the pricey side, but the grand architecture, vaulted ceilings, and intricate artwork make it feel like stepping back in time.

Thun, Day 5 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 5 — Day Trip to Thun

Summary: From Bern, you’ll take a day trip to Thun, one of the closest towns to the Swiss Alps (one of the most picturesque as well). With its castles, lakes, charming old town, and mountain views all in one place, it feels like a fairytale. The train ride takes only about 30 minutes… so, it is an easy and convenient day trip!

Thun, about 30 kilometers south of Bern, is often called the gateway to the Bernese Alps. If you ask me, Thun feels like a smaller version of Lucerne but with even more fairytale-like experiences.

Did you know Thun has its own lake named after the city? In my opinion, it’s the most magical lake in Switzerland—not because of mythical creatures, but because it has the most storybook-like castle. Around Lake Thun, you can visit five castles, but for this 14-day trip, I recommend focusing on three: Schadau Castle, Thun Castle, and Oberhofen Castle.

Schadau Castle is a romantic castle set in a scenic park along the shores of Lake Thun. It’s the first place I recommend visiting when you arrive in Thun. Just a 15-minute walk from the train station, the castle isn’t open to the public, but you can enjoy its beautiful surroundings and take in the fresh air from the lake and mountains.

After Schadau Castle, head to Thun’s Old Town, where you’ll see Thun Castle towering over the city. Take some time to explore, then step inside—visiting this castle is the highlight of a trip to Thun. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the town’s history and the surrounding region. The best part is the view from its towers, where you can see the city, Lake Thun, and the Bernese Alps all in one breathtaking panorama.

Thun is a charming place to wander, with plenty of hidden gems, especially in its Old Town. Like Lucerne, it has a flower-adorned wooden bridge that’s perfect for photos. The bridge is near the train station, so you’ll probably come across it without even trying.

Your day trip to Thun doesn’t end in the Old Town, especially since you’ll likely have extra time after visiting Thun Castle. From there, take bus #21 to Oberhofen, where you’ll find Oberhofen Castle, the most picturesque castle in Central Switzerland. Its stunning location right on the shores of Lake Thun makes it unforgettable.

In the summer, you can join a guided tour to see its unique rooms, which date back to the medieval era and feature Eastern-inspired designs. The castle also has a beautiful garden and a restaurant where you can unwind while enjoying the peaceful view of Lake Thun.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, it covers your boat and bus rides, as well as entry to the attractions, making your day trip from Bern even easier.

Make the most of your day trip to Thun from Bern with the resources I’ve linked below.

Visiting Thun on a Day Trip

Thun Old Town Walking Tour

Picturesque Spots in Thun

Lake Thun, Day 6 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 6 — Saint Beatus Caves & Lake Thun

Summary: It’s day six, and you’re out exploring Lake Thun—Switzerland’s fairytale lake—filled with amazing spots that also offer incredible views of the snowcapped peaks of the Bernese Oberland! There’s plenty to experience, from hidden wonders beneath the mountains to a lakeside town and a scenic viewpoint that gives you a taste of the incredible sights still to come in the Swiss Alps.

This day, you’ll finally get to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps. It’s time to leave Bern and head to Interlaken, the gateway to the Jungfrau Region—one of the most incredible places in the Alps. You’ll be staying here for three days and nights, giving you enough time to explore its top sights.

Getting from Bern to Interlaken is super easy since the train ride takes only an hour. But make sure you have everything sorted—accommodation, reservations, and anything else you need—by the morning of day six, because there’s so much to see! I’m really excited for you. We’re not wasting a single minute just hanging out. LOL. You’ll have plenty of time to relax at night.

First, we’re exploring the attractions around Lake Thun, starting from Interlaken. First stop? Saint Beatus Caves.

According to legend, this cave is tied to Saint Beatus, a hermit who supposedly defeated a fire-breathing dragon that once lived here. Getting there from Interlaken is easy—just hop on bus number 21 toward Thun, and you’ll arrive in about 15 minutes.

The main highlights of the caves are the impressive rock formations and interactive displays that share interesting facts about the area’s history and geology.

But the real reason I’m bringing you here? The Saint Beatus Caves restaurant. It’s the perfect spot for lunch, offering a fantastic view of Lake Thun. Consider it a preview of all the breathtaking scenery you’ll be seeing in the next few days. Just be sure to book a table a few weeks in advance—the place fills up fast, especially in summer!

After lunch and exploring the cave, head to the dock near the Saint Beatus Caves trail and catch a boat. Enjoy the peaceful views as you cruise across Lake Thun toward Spiez for a quick stop. This town has a bit of a Mediterranean vibe and is home to a castle with a unique view of the Bernese Oberland. Walk around the castle grounds and head to the back of the chapel for the best overlook of Lake Thun.

From Spiez, take a train back to Interlaken, where your final stop for day six is just a short ride away—Harder Kulm. This spot offers the best panoramic view in Interlaken, stretching from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun, with the town and the Jungfrau massif in between. There’s also a restaurant where you can enjoy dinner while taking in the view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, making it a great place to watch the sunset.

To make things smooth, book your restaurant table and Harder Kulm skip-the-line ticket online in advance (you get a discount with the Swiss Travel Pass). Getting there is easy—it’s just a 10-minute funicular ride from Interlaken. After soaking in the views, I’d recommend heading back to your hotel for an early night’s rest.

If you need more details about today’s plans, check out the resources linked below.

Top Attractions Around Lake Thun

Things to Know Before Going to Harder Kulm

Find a Hotel in Interlaken

Lauterbrunnen, Day 7 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 7 — Lauterbrunnen & Grindelwald

Summary: The real adventure begins on day 7 as you visit two must-see destinations in the Swiss Alps: Lauterbrunnen, often called heaven on earth, and Grindelwald, the region’s adventure hub. Get ready to be surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and feel the adrenaline kick in!

In a nutshell: you’ll visit Lauterbrunnen, often called Heaven on Earth. After that, you’ll head to Grindelwald, but not before stopping at Mannlichen, known as the best viewpoint in the Jungfrau Region. Mannlichen is a mountain above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, offering a panoramic view of the area.

I recommend getting to Lauterbrunnen early in the morning to experience the village and valley at their quietest. The streets are empty, and the mist and morning light create a dramatic atmosphere. Don’t forget to check the viewpoints in Lauterbrunnen I prepared for you for the best views!

Don’t worry about waking up too early—Lauterbrunnen is just a 30-minute train ride from Interlaken. Just be sure to arrive before the day-trippers from major Swiss cities, who usually leave around 8 or 9 am and get to Lauterbrunnen by 9:30 or 10:00 am.

In Lauterbrunnen village, there isn’t much to do besides admiring the incredible scenery, relaxing at cafes, and taking photos from different viewpoints. After exploring, we’ll head to Wengen, another village in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. From here, you can enjoy amazing views of the valley and catch the cable car to your next stop: Mannlichen. Once you reach the top cable car station, hike to the summit for a wide-open 360 degrees view of the Jungfrau Region.

For an even better experience, try the Mannlichen Royal Ride—a special cable car where you ride on the top balcony of the gondola from Wengen to Mannlichen.

From Mannlichen, you have two ways to get to Grindelwald, your next destination. You can either hike down to Kleine Scheidegg and take a train to Grindelwald or take the cable car directly there. If you like hiking, I recommend the first option, which gives you an incredible view of Eiger’s famous north face. The trail is fairly easy and mostly downhill.

Once you arrive in Grindelwald, there are plenty of fun activities to try. You can ride zip lines, trottibikes, and other attractions on Mount First. You can also explore the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon and try the Canyon Swing.

But if you want the best experience, head straight to the First Cliff Walk and hike to Bachalpsee. The cable car to these spots isn’t free, but you can take your time enjoying the scenery. Bachalpsee is one of the most photogenic lakes in Switzerland.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll get a 50% discount on the cable cars in Grindelwald. For more details about the places mentioned, the resources below should help:

How to Visit Mannlichen and Get the Best Experience

Free Activities in Grindelwald (Including First Cliff Walk & Bachalpsee)

Jungfraujoch, Day 8 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 8 — Jungfraujoch

Summary: Today’s plan is all about Jungfraujoch, one of the top places to visit in the Bernese Oberland. You’ll have an unforgettable day, from seeing the largest glacier in the Alps to exploring everything this place has to offer. There’s so much to do here that we’ve set aside an entire day for it. Even the journey to Jungfraujoch is an experience in itself!

Known as the ‘Top of Europe,’ it’s home to the highest railway station on the continent. But the experience goes beyond just a scenic train ride. You’ll get to see the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and explore the Ice Palace, where tunnels carved into the ice house adorable sculptures. Even in summer, you can play in the snow or try snowshoeing since the snow at nearly 4,000 meters never melts.

If the weather isn’t great, the Alpine Sensation Exhibition offers an interesting look at the history of the Jungfrau Railway through multimedia displays. When you’re ready to eat, a restaurant on-site serves Swiss cuisine with a view. Plan to spend about 5 to 6 hours here, with a full day needed to enjoy everything, including the train ride from Interlaken.

There are two ways to get to Jungfraujoch from Interlaken and back.

The first option is a round-trip train ride: take a train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, transfer to another train to Kleine Scheidegg, and then board the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch. The return trip follows the same route.

The second option is a faster and more affordable route: take a train from Interlaken to Grindelwald, then ride the Eiger Express cable car to Eigergletscher, and finally take the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch. The return trip follows the same path.

Getting here is an experience in itself. The Eiger Express cable car and Jungfrau Railway offer an incredible journey, from impressive engineering to breathtaking scenery that changes along the way.

However, no matter which route you choose, booking your tickets in advance is a must. Jungfraujoch is a popular destination, and tickets sell out fast, especially during peak season.

Gornergrat, Day 9 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 9 — Gornergrat & Alpine Culinary Tour

Summary: Zermatt is one of the top destinations in the Swiss Alps, best known for its most famous peak—the Matterhorn. On the morning of your ninth day, you’ll travel here from Interlaken and start exploring what makes this town so special. The views, scenic train rides, picturesque lakes, and delicious food are just the beginning!

I recommend leaving Interlaken early so you can get to Zermatt before lunch. The train ride takes at least two hours with two transfers, but depending on train schedules, it can take up to two hours and 45 minutes. For this itinerary, I suggest staying one night in Zermatt since a single day isn’t enough to experience the main attractions.

If you arrive in Zermatt before lunch, you’ll still have half a day to explore, which is plenty of time to enjoy Gornergrat. In about four hours, you can take the scenic cogwheel train up to Gornergrat, visit the observation deck, see the Gorner Glacier, and relax at the restaurant while taking in the incredible view of the Matterhorn.

If you finish early, you can hike down to Riffelberg and Riffelsee, a lake known for its amazing Matterhorn reflection. If you enjoy photography, this is a spot you won’t want to miss. On clear days, you can capture the Matterhorn’s reflection on the lake’s still surface.

You can buy your Gornergrat Bahn tickets in Zermatt, and if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll get a 50% discount.

By the time you return to Zermatt, it will likely be evening. You can unwind at your hotel, stroll through the village, or try something different—an alpine dining experience. You can join a tour, but it’s just as easy to explore on your own. Zermatt has plenty of restaurants, especially around Bahnhofstrasse, where you’ll find a variety of Swiss cuisine.

Discover more of Zermatt:

Explore the Best of Zermatt

Find Hotels in Zermatt

Stellisee, Day 10 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 10 — Klein Matterhorn & Sunnegga

Summary: Your next day in Zermatt is all about enjoying more of the region’s incredible scenery. You’ll get to see the Matterhorn from different angles and viewpoints in the mountains. If you’re up for it, you can also visit some stunning alpine lakes that reflect the Matterhorn perfectly on their surfaces.

Today, we continue exploring Zermatt by visiting two more well-known spots: Sunnegga and Kleine Matterhorn, also called Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

While I recommend checking out these places, keep in mind that Zermatt has plenty of other attractions worth exploring. There are also hidden gems that offer budget-friendly alternatives to Sunnegga and Kleine Matterhorn, giving you a different experience beyond the usual hiking and sightseeing.

If you’d rather visit the well-known spots, we’ll start with Sunnegga, which sits just above the village. To get there from Zermatt, take the funicular from the Sunnegga Valley Station, conveniently located in town. The ride takes about 10 minutes and offers amazing views of the Matterhorn.

Once at Sunnegga, you’ll get a different perspective of the mountain. There’s also a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the scenery.

From Sunnegga, you can hike to scenic spots like Leisee or take a cable car up to Rothorn for more mountain views. Another option is to ride a gondola to Blauherd and start the classic Five Lakes Trail, a hike that takes about three to four hours. If you’re interested in this hike, it’s best to start early so you’ll still have time to visit Kleine Matterhorn in the afternoon. You’ll need at least four hours for Kleine Matterhorn, including the round-trip cable car ride.

Also called Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Kleine Matterhorn—or “Little Matterhorn”—is home to one of the highest cable car stations in Europe. From here, you’ll get incredible views of the Alps and the famous Matterhorn.

To reach Kleine Matterhorn from Zermatt, take a gondola to Furi, then to Trockener Steg, and finally to the top. Click here for more details and to book your tickets.

The experience has similarities with Jungfraujoch but the view is more compelling because you’ll see mountains from three different countries (Switzerland, Italy, and France) at one spot. Of course, weather permitting, Kleine Matterhorn also offers a view of the Matterhorn that makes the scenery unique. In Kleine Matterhorn, you can also go inside a glacier. They call it Glacier Palace.

Discover more about Zermatt:

Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Attractions in Zermatt

Zermatt Viewpoints and Best Views of Matterhorn

Chillon Castle, Day 11 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 11 — Montreux & Chillon Castle

Summary: After your eleventh day in Switzerland, you’ll probably agree that it’s like a natural version of a romantic getaway. Montreux and Chillon Castle, located in the westernmost part of the Swiss Alps, will make you feel that way. These are your next stops after Zermatt.

After exploring the Jungfrau Region and Zermatt, two of the most famous spots in the Swiss Alps, it’s time to see a different side of Switzerland.

Did you know there’s a place here that feels like the Mediterranean in Switzerland? That’s Montreux, a scenic lakeside city in the canton of Vaud. With its vineyards and stylish lakeside promenades, Montreux has a relaxed, upscale vibe that sets it apart.

On the morning of day 11 of your 14-day trip, you’ll be heading from Zermatt to this city. Try to get there by late morning so you can choose a restaurant that serves Mediterranean dishes and offers a great view of the lake. The train ride from Zermatt to Montreux takes about 2.5 hours, with a transfer in Visp.

After lunch, you’ll visit Chillon Castle from Montreux which is one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland. Sitting on a small rocky island in Lake Geneva with the French Alps in the background, it’s a place you won’t want to miss to see. Its mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture makes it even more impressive.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of rooms to explore, including the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the Dungeon. Each one has its own story, with historical artifacts and exhibits that bring the castle’s past to life.

Getting to Chillon Castle from Montreux is easy—you can take a train, hop on bus #201, or enjoy a scenic ferry ride. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the castle, which is usually enough to see everything. While booking tickets in advance isn’t necessary, it’s a good idea during peak season. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you can visit the castle and its contemporary art exhibitions for free.

After Chillon Castle, it’s time to explore more of the city and take plenty of pictures. Walk along the lakeside promenade, where you’ll find unique sculptures and artwork.

If you’re a music fan, don’t miss the Queen Studio Experience inside Casino Barrière de Montreux, which celebrates the British rock band Queen. If you have extra time, consider visiting the former home of Charlie Chaplin in Vevey, where you’ll find memorabilia from his life.

Montreux also has a lively nightlife, with plenty of bars where you can meet new people and enjoy the evening. You’ll be staying here for the night since there’s an exciting day trip you can take from the city the next day.

Learn More About Montreux

Find Hotels in Montreux

Gruyeres, Day 12 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 12 — Gruyeres

Summary: There are plenty of day trips to choose from in western Switzerland, where Montreux is located. But if you want a well-rounded Swiss experience, Gruyères is the one you shouldn’t miss. This medieval village is full of surprises!

Like southern France, southern Germany, and northern Italy, Switzerland has beautifully preserved medieval villages. One of them is Gruyères, just a 1-hour, 10-minute train ride from Montreux with a transfer in Montbovon.

But Gruyères is more than just a medieval village—it has an impressive castle, picturesque streets, beautiful countryside views, and unique museums. It’s also the place to try Le Gruyère AOP, the famous Swiss cheese. Naturally, many local dishes are made even better with Gruyère cheese.

Just outside the village, there’s a chocolate factory where you can enjoy unlimited samples after the tour. To make the most of your visit, check out my guide below.

Read the Full Guide to Visiting Gruyères

CERN in Geneva, Day 13 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 13 — International Museums in Geneva

Summary: Geneva is the last stop on this Switzerland adventure, and while some might call it boring, they couldn’t be more wrong. This city is full of fascinating discoveries waiting to be explored! The museums of international organizations are just the beginning. The moment you start exploring after arriving from Montreux, you’ll see exactly what I mean.

On the last two days of your 14-day trip to Switzerland, you’ll experience a different side of the country—a global center for diplomacy and international organizations. This is especially true in Geneva, Switzerland’s second-largest city and its westernmost.

Here, you’ll visit thought-provoking museums, see important modern landmarks, and unwind with views of the lake, mountains, and vineyards.

Since your departure from Switzerland is scheduled for the afternoon of day 14 and museums open later in the morning, we’ll focus on museum visits and tours of international organizations on day 13. It’s best to arrive in Geneva from Montreux by late morning so you have enough time to explore a couple of museums that afternoon. The direct train from Montreux to Geneva takes about an hour.

Which museums should you visit in Geneva? There are plenty of options, but if you ask me, I’d recommend the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, the Patek Philippe Museum, and CERN.

At the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, you’ll learn about the history, principles, and global impact of these humanitarian organizations through interactive exhibits and personal stories. It’s a great place to understand international solidarity and our shared responsibility in helping others.

The Patek Philippe Museum showcases why Swiss watches are world-famous. You’ll see beautifully crafted watches and clocks while learning about the legacy of Patek Philippe and the artistry behind precision timekeeping.

If you’re into science like I am, CERN is a must-visit. This world-renowned research center offers fascinating exhibits on particle physics and gives you a glimpse into groundbreaking discoveries made at its facilities. It’s one of the most interesting and educational places in Switzerland.

Here are some resources to help you plan your stay and get the most out of your visit to Geneva.

A Guide to the Experiences That Make Geneva Worth a Visit

Find Hotels in Geneva

Geneva, Day 14 of 14 Days Swiss Alps Itinerary, Switzerland

Day 14 — Geneva City Tour

Summary: Geneva, the westernmost city in Switzerland, is the perfect place to wrap up your Swiss adventure before kicking off another journey, like traveling to France. But before you move on, make the most of your time here—there’s so much more to explore beyond the museums!

If you’re leaving Switzerland in the evening, you still have the morning and early afternoon to explore Geneva. That’s enough time to visit some of the city’s most important historical landmarks.

So, what should you make sure to see? First, Jet d’Eau—a massive fountain that shoots water high into the air from Lake Geneva. It’s one of the city’s most recognizable symbols and can be spotted from many areas. A great viewing spot is Jardin Anglais, a beautiful park featuring a floral clock and a bronze fountain.

Not far from there is Geneva’s Old Town, home to the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. This church, which dates back to the 12th century, played a key role in the Protestant Reformation, with John Calvin delivering his sermons here. You can climb the towers for incredible views of the city and the lake. While at the cathedral, don’t miss the Chapel of the Maccabees. In my opinion, it’s Geneva’s most impressive piece of architecture. This Gothic-style chapel features a breathtaking chancel vault, an intricately designed pulpit, and striking stained-glass windows.

A visit to Geneva wouldn’t be complete without a selfie in front of the flags at Palais des Nations. This is the European headquarters of the United Nations and the second-largest UN center after New York. It’s also close to the Museum of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, which you might have visited on day 13.

Not far from Palais des Nations is another well-known landmark: the Broken Chair Sculpture. This massive chair with a broken leg symbolizes opposition to landmines and cluster bombs, serving as a reminder to the politicians and diplomats who gather in Geneva. Be sure to snap a photo while you’re there!

For a deeper look at the city, consider joining a guided tour. The great thing is that there are plenty of options to match different interests, from a tour of Geneva’s most photogenic spots to one that uncovers hidden corners of the city. There’s even a chocolate-themed walking tour and more.

More In Switzerland

Beyond the places included in this itinerary, there are many more worth exploring in this amazing country. If you enjoy less crowded destinations, I highly recommend Brig, Sion, and Kandersteg. Brig is the starting point of the Simplon Pass, one of Switzerland’s most scenic routes. If you’re traveling by car, this would be a great addition, with historical monuments and rustic landmarks along the way.

For a romantic destination, Sion is a great choice. As the capital of the Valais canton, it features two castles on hilltops in the middle of the city, making it one of the most romantic places in Switzerland, along with Chillon Castle near Montreux.

If you’re looking for incredible natural scenery, Kandersteg is worth visiting for Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes. Its beauty rivals Bachalpsee and the lakes in Zermatt. You can find more details about these destinations through the links below.

Discover Brig & Simplon Pass

Learn more about Sion

Check out Kandersteg and Oeschinensee

Kandersteg is in the Bernese Oberland and is easy to reach from Interlaken by train with a transfer in Spiez. If you have extra time, you can add it to your itinerary before heading to Zermatt from Interlaken. Sion and Brig, on the other hand, are in the Rhône Valley, which lies between the Bernese Oberland and the Pennine Alps, where Zermatt is located. Like Kandersteg, these two towns are worth considering if you have time before traveling to Zermatt after exploring Interlaken.

If you’re looking for a different city experience in Switzerland, Basel, located north of Bern, is a great option. It has excellent museums and scenic spots, which you can find in my guide for a quick visit. This city would be a great addition to your itinerary if you have extra time during your trip to Switzerland. It can also be a worthwhile day trip from Bern.

Discover Basel

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Other Ways to Explore Switzerland

Change of plans? Visiting Switzerland for fewer days? No worries! My week-long itinerary and extended weekend travel plan are free to access. They focus on Central Switzerland, mainly exploring the cantons of Bern and Lucerne. Check them out! you can check them out if you want to make the most of your trip. There are a lot of new thing

6-Day Switzerland Itinerary

4-Day Switzerland Itinerary

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