Exploring Switzerland in 9 Days: An Active Itinerary for First-Timers
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SWITZERLAND ITINERARY: GENEVA, INTERLAKEN &JUNGFRAU, BERN & LUCERNE, Zurich & Engleberg
Recommended 9-Day Switzerland Itinerary:
Geneva (1 night)
Interlaken (2 nights)
Bern (2 nights)
Lucerne (1 night)
Zurich (2 nights)
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Total days: 9
Switzerland is known as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it’s no wonder why. From breathtaking mountains to crystal clear lakes, there are endless activities and sights to see while exploring this stunning country. If you’re planning your first trip to Switzerland, here is a 9 day itinerary that will help you make the most of your visit!
Day 1: Geneva
Start off your 9 day Swiss adventure by exploring Geneva, the second largest city in Switzerland. Take the opportunity to wander through its quaint cobblestone streets and admire its stunning architecture. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to explore if culture is more your thing. For example, take a tour of The United Nations Palace or immerse yourself in history at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking on Lake Geneva or taking a boat ride on some of its many canals. No matter what type of activity you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone in Geneva!
Day 2-3: Interlaken & Jungfrau Region
Next up on the itinerary is Interlaken, which is nestled between two glacial lakes - Thunersee and Brienzersee - making it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures such as paragliding, hiking or skiing during winter months. Be sure to take a cable car ride up to Jungfraujoch – Top Of Europe where you can experience breathtaking views from 11,333 feet above sea level. You can also explore some of the nearby glaciers including Aletsch Glacier and Eiger Glacier for an even more spectacular view! For dinner, try out Hotel Alpenruh’s restaurant which serves some amazing Swiss dishes with local ingredients. Afterwards, enjoy an evening walk around Lake Brienz before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 4-6: Bern & Lucerne
Following two days in Interlaken, it's time to move onto Bern – Switzerland’s capital city - where you can explore its well-preserved medieval Old Town with its picturesque cobbled streets and 15th century fountains. Don't miss out on visiting The Zytglogge – a clock tower built over 800 years ago which still rings out every hour!
After spending three days in Bern head over to Lucerne; its charming old town with its colorful buildings along Lake Lucerne will make for some incredible photo opportunities! Spend a morning exploring Lucerne's Old Town area where you'll find landmarks such as Chapel Bridge and Water Tower as well as boutique shops selling handmade Swiss items like watches or chocolates. One afternoon, take a boat ride around Lake Lucerne for some lovely views of Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi in the distance before grabbing dinner at Restaurant Weinstube Höfli which serves delicious Swiss-German cuisine with Italian influences.
Day 7-9: Zurich & Engleberg
Before ending your holiday make sure you spend three days exploring Zurich - Switzerland's largest city - where you'll be spoiled for choice with things to do such as visiting museums or taking part in some fun outdoor activities! And don't forget about Engleberg - located just outside Zurich - this ski resort has some incredible slopes perfect for winter sports enthusiasts or those wanting to simply marvel at their beauty from afar. No matter what type of activity you choose here, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience! For dinner, try some traditional Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Kronenhalle.
With so much beauty waiting around every corner it's no surprise why people come back again and again when they visit Switzerland! Whether it's exploring Geneva's cobblestone streets or admiring views from atop Jungfraujoch – Top Of Europe there are endless memorable moments awaiting travelers who embark on this incredible 10 day journey through this stunning country!
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Swiss adventure! Contact me to get started today!