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Switzerland 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Switzerland Trip - Sep 15, 2026 to Sep 19, 2026

Sep 15 - Sep 19

A 5-day journey through Switzerland focusing on picturesque lakes, historic old towns, and local culture. This itinerary includes city explorations, a scenic lake tour, and a delightful wine region day trip, based primarily in Zurich and Lucerne.

Switzerland view
1

Arrival in Zurich & City Charm

Tuesday, September 15
1.1
Morning

Arrive in Zurich

Arrive at Zurich Airport (ZRH), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel in the city center.

Settle in and prepare for your Swiss adventure.

Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited train, bus, and boat travel, and free entry to many museums.

Zurich Airport (ZRH) & City Center

From ZRH, take a direct train to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station), then a short walk or tram to your hotel. Swiss public transport is highly efficient.

1.2
14:00 - 17:30
EUR 115 for 1 person

Zurich 360 City Walk Tour

Explore the heart of Zurich with a comprehensive city walk, uncovering hidden spots, historical anecdotes, and local legends from BC to the present day.

Enjoy regional delights and capture great photos.

This tour offers a fantastic overview of Zurich's rich history and vibrant present. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

1.3
19:30

Dinner by Lake Zurich

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with views of Lake Zurich.

Savor local Swiss cuisine as you take in the evening ambiance.

Consider restaurants along the Bürkliplatz or Sechseläutenplatz areas for great views.

2

Scenic Train to Lucerne & Old Town Exploration

Wednesday, September 16
2.1
09:00 - 10:00

Train to Lucerne

Take a scenic train ride from Zurich to Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities, known for its medieval architecture and stunning lakeside setting.

Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Lucerne Station

Direct trains run frequently (approx. every 30 minutes). Your Swiss Travel Pass covers this journey.

2.2
11:00 - 14:00

Explore Lucerne Old Town

Wander through Lucerne's charming Old Town, admiring the beautifully preserved medieval houses, painted facades, and narrow cobbled streets. Visit the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and its Water Tower.

Don't miss the Hofkirche (Church of St. Leodegar) and the Jesuit Church for their beautiful interiors. Grab lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant in the Old Town.

2.3
14:30 - 15:30

Visit Lion Monument

See the famous Lion Monument, a moving tribute carved into a rock face, commemorating the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution.

The area around the monument is also home to the Glacier Garden, a natural monument with glacial potholes.

3

Lake Luzern & Alpine Panorama Tour

Thursday, September 17
3.1
09:00 - 18:00
EUR 877 for 1 person

Lake Luzern Pick & Mix Tour

Embark on an exclusive private tour in a Mercedes Mini Van, exploring the beautiful Lake Luzern region.

You'll have the flexibility to visit highlights like Bürgenstock, Rigi Seebodenalp, and other charming attractions around the lake, enjoying stunning views and picturesque Swiss countryside.

This is a private, customized tour, allowing you to tailor the day's activities to your interests. It's a fantastic way to see a lot of the region in comfort.

4

Alsace Wine & Medieval Villages Day Trip

Friday, September 18
4.1
08:00 - 09:00

Travel to Basel

Take a morning train from Lucerne back to Zurich, then connect to Basel, your departure point for a delightful wine tour into the nearby Alsace region of France.

Lucerne to Basel SBB

Trains run frequently. Your Swiss Travel Pass will cover the journey to Basel. Ensure you have your passport for the border crossing into France during the tour.

4.2
10:00 - 16:00
EUR 314 for 1 person

Alsace Wine & Villages Tour

Join a small group guided tour from Basel to the picturesque Alsace wine region in France.

Enjoy tasting exquisite wines and exploring charming medieval villages like Eguisheim or Colmar, known for their unique architecture and floral displays.

The tour includes free collection from your accommodation in Basel (or a designated meeting point). Be prepared for a day of scenic drives and wine appreciation.

4.3
17:00 - 18:00

Return to Zurich

After your delightful tour, take the train back from Basel to Zurich.

Basel SBB to Zurich Hauptbahnhof

Direct trains are frequent and fast.

4.4
19:30

Farewell Dinner in Zurich

Enjoy a final Swiss dinner in Zurich, perhaps trying a traditional fondue or raclette.

Consider restaurants in the Niederdorf (Old Town) area for a cozy atmosphere.

5

Departure from Zurich

Saturday, September 19
5.1
Morning

Leisure & Souvenirs

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Zurich.

Perhaps visit a local market, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or revisit a favorite spot.

Check out the Bahnhofstrasse for luxury shopping or the smaller boutiques in the Old Town for unique finds.

5.2
Afternoon

Depart from Zurich

Transfer from your hotel to Zurich Airport (ZRH) for your flight back to Toronto, Canada, carrying wonderful memories of Switzerland.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Trains from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to ZRH Airport are frequent (every 10-15 minutes) and take approximately 10-15 minutes.

This 5-day itinerary for Switzerland can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.