Switzerland in 5 Days: 3 Recommended 5-Day Itineraries to Switzerland

- Marta G Rodriguez
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- Marta G Rodriguez
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- Jaimee
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- Kelsey
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Switzerland 5-Day Itinerary Options
Do you want to spend 5 days in Switzerland? Our Switzerland 5-day itinerary suggestions will help you explore the best of Zurich and hike to the peaks and lakes of this beautiful country.
5 Days in Switzerland Itinerary #1: From City Lights To Mountain Heights

Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in the vibrant urban hub of Zurich and shop on the famous Bahnhofstrasse | Arrival | Zurich |
Day 2 | Head to the enchanting lakeside town of Lucerne and take a cable car ride to Mount Pilatus | Hike | Lucerne |
Day 3 | Venture into the heart of the Swiss Alps to Interlaken and try paragliding for an adrenaline rush | Adventure | Interlaken |
Day 4 | Take a trip to Zermatt, a car-free village at the foot of this legendary mountain | Sightseeing | Zermatt |
Day 5 | End your journey in Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore | Departure |
This incredible five-day Swiss package begins in Zurich and takes you to some of Switzerland's most iconic places. On your Zurich tour, stroll around the enchanting Old Town and shop until you drop on the famous Bahnhofstrasse. Discover Lucerne's Old Town, cross Chapel Bridge, capture Water Tower moments, and climb Mount Pilatus for panoramic views. Try paragliding for an adrenaline kick or taking a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe.' After marveling at the breathtaking alpine scenery from Jungfraujoch, travel to Zermatt to see the iconic Matterhorn and ski to your heart’s content. To end the trip, explore the beautiful Brissago Islands in Lake Maggiore and unwind in Locarno's exquisite botanical gardens.
5 Days in Switzerland Itinerary #2: Best of Zurich


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Begin your trip in Zurich | Arrival | Zurich |
Day 2 | Enjoy a ferry ride on Lake Zurich and a cable car ride to the Felsenegg Viewpoint | Ferry & cable car ride | Zurich |
Day 3 | Explore Mount Rigi | Hike | Lucerne |
Day 4 | Spend a full day at the picturesque Grindelwald and Interlaken region | Nature | Interlaken |
Day 5 | Say goodbye from Zurich | Departure |
Want to spend five days in Zurich but also want plenty of excursions and day trips? Start by exploring the bustling city of Zurich, including a ferry ride on the stunning lake, before taking it all in from the city’s most beloved viewpoint, Felsenegg. Journey onwards to Mount Rigi with a trip on the Aerial Cable Car & Mountain Railway before floating across Lake Lucerne, otherwise known as the 'Lake of the Four Cantons.' Spend a day enjoying the natural wonders of Grindelwald and Interlaken, which are filled with views of the iconic Eiger, Möch, and Jungfrau mountains. Opt for a short hike in the Bernese Oberland mountains, or save your legs and jump on the funicular to the top of Harder Kulm for the best views! Describe your ideal 5-day holiday for a customized trip to Switzerland.
5 Days in Switzerland Itinerary #3: Swiss Peaks and Lakes Adventure

Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Zurich and journey to Interlaken | Arrival | Interlaken |
Day 2 | Tour Lucerne | Boating | Lucerne |
Day 3 | Check our Mt. Titlis and Mt. Stanserhorn | Hike | Lucerne |
Day 4 | Enjoy Zurich and the Rhine Falls | Hike | Zurich |
Day 5 | Depart from Zurich | Departure |
If you’re looking for a Switzerland 5-day itinerary plan that packs in a lot of major destinations, look no further. Upon arriving in Zurich, head straight to Interlaken, home to some of the most iconic mountains and scenic routes in the country, including the Eiger and Jungfrau. Spend the day exploring before journeying to Lucerne, where you can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and a cable car trip up the stunning Mount Rigi. Next, board cable cars and funicular railways to experience the majesty of Mount Titlis and Stanserhorn, complete with a ride over a stunning glacier. Then, begin your return to the amazing city of Zurich via the mighty Rhine Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in Europe. Once you’re back in Zurich, carve out time for a historical walking tour before you go!
Planning a Switzerland 5-Day Itinerary?
Whether you want to spend 5 days in Switzerland hiking, taking in mountain views, sailing across lakes, or experiencing the unique alpine architecture, you can definitely pack a lot into a short period of time. If you have longer time to spare, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Switzerland. Need a hand organizing your very own Swiss adventure? Our in-country travel experts can help you create a personalized trip to Switzerland to meet your preferences and budget needs.
Planning a trip to Switzerland? Whether you have a week or a bit more, be sure to explore our comprehensive guides on spending 6 days in Switzerland or 7 days in Switzerland for the ultimate travel experience. For a seasonal overview, check our guide on the best time to visit Switzerland.
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