Episode 170: The Perfect 7-Day Switzerland Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
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Are you planning your first trip to Switzerland and not sure where to begin? This episode lays out a complete Switzerland itinerary designed for first-time travelers who want a scenic, meaningful trip without feeling rushed. From mountain peaks and lakeside towns to quiet villages and world-famous train rides, you’ll get a clear path to follow from arrival to departure.
James Wilson, founder of Swiss Tailor Made, joins me to walk through a one-week route that includes stops in Lucerne, Wengen, Lenk, and Montreux. You’ll hear exactly how to move between these destinations with ease using the Swiss Travel Pass, and why this pass makes all the difference when navigating trains, boats, and Swiss cable cars.
We also talk about what makes each location special. Picture panoramic rides on the Golden Pass Line, traditional experiences at the Ballenberg Museum, and walks through the Lavaux vineyards.
You’ll also get practical hotel tips for places like the Bernese Oberland, Lake Geneva, and charming Swiss villages that offer comfort, charm, and incredible views. Plus, you’ll hear why a half-day trip to Stanserhorn is one of the best ways to start your adventure in Lucerne, with open-air cable cars and sweeping lake views.
This episode blends the well-known sights with off-the-path gems. We cover just enough to help you plan a trip that’s full of variety and still leaves room to relax and explore.
If you’ve been searching for a trip that includes scenic train journeys, quiet alpine hikes, and a taste of local culture, this is it.
Show Notes
In this episode you’ll learn about:
- Essential tips for planning your first itinerary in Switzerland, without trying to cram too much into your trip
- A recommended one-week itinerary that covers both hotspot destinations and hidden gems, traveling from Lucerne to Lake Geneva
- Advice on must-do scenic railway journeys, including the Lucerne–Interlaken Express and the GoldenPass Line
- Suggestions for mountain excursions and hikes, such as the Stanserhorn and the Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg trail
- Hotel recommendations in Lucerne, Wengen, Lenk, and Montreux, including unique properties with incredible views and history
- How to book your Swiss adventure, from using the Swiss Travel Pass to options for DIY travellers and those who prefer expert assistance
Our Guest
James Wilson is the owner of Swiss Tailor Made, a business that represents Swiss tourism companies, including railway companies, cableways and hotels, to English-speaking markets. The business also helps tour operators with the creation of new group and independent tours to Switzerland, and when time allows, James and his team offer private hosting services in the Jungfrau Region to individual guests.
James has lived in the Jungfrau Region for the past eight years and spends all his spare time exploring this stunning part of Switzerland.
The itinerary featured in this episode
Day 1
Arrive in Lucerne by midday. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy an excursion to Mt. Stanserhorn. Ascend the mountain by funicular and cable car. Return to Lucerne.
Overnight in Lucerne.
Day 2
Travel from Lucerne to Interlaken on the Luzern-Interlaken Express, stopping off at Brienz to visit the Ballenberg Swiss Open Air Museum.
Continue on to Interlaken and then connect to Wengen.
Overnight: Hotel Falken
Day 3
Mountain excursion from Wengen to Männlichen. Hike from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg (easy, 1.5 hour hike). Hike or take a train back to Wengen.
Overnight: Hotel Falken
Day 4
Wengen to Interlaken Ost, and then Interlaken West by train. Boat cruise to Spiez or Thun where you can catch a train to Lenk, via Zweisimmen.
Overnight: Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort
Day 5
Full day at leisure in Lenk. Soak in the thermal waters at the Lenkerhof’s wellness centre, catch the cable car to Betelberg or stroll around the village of Lenk.
Overnight: Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort
Day 6
Travel from Lenk to Zweisimmen by train and then join the GoldenPass Line to travel on to Montreux. Spend the afternoon sightseeing in Montreux.
Overnight: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic
Day 7
Morning sightseeing in Montreux or visiting the Lavaux vineyards.
Continue your journey to your next Swiss destination or abroad.
Like this itinerary?
If this itinerary appeals to you, see our trusted travel partners and exclusive discounts below, or get in touch and I can help you design your trip.
Planning a trip to Switzerland?
At Holidays to Switzerland we are passionate about sharing our love of Switzerland and helping you to plan the perfect trip. Read our guide to planning a trip to Switzerland to kick start your travel plans and join our free Switzerland Travel Planning group on Facebook to chat with other past and future travellers.
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Useful resources
This itinerary is suitable for all styles of traveller:
DIY – buy a Swiss Travel Pass and book your accommodation of choice. Listeners can get 15% off a stay at Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort by quoting the promo code FA26HTSWISS. Full details here.
With some assistance – book a rail package (which includes train tickets and accommodation) with Switzerland Travel Centre. You can select the hotels mentioned in this episode or choose alternatives. Contact Carolyn for assistance booking your rail package.
Note: A 5% discount applies to the rail packages listed on the Switzerland Travel Centre website when you quote the promo code HTSWISS but as the itinerary featured in this episode is a bespoke itinerary, the discount does not apply.
With full assistance – Watch & Cow can create and book your trip from start to finish and support you throughout your trip. Quote the promo code HTSWISS when enquiring/booking to receive 5% discount. Get in touch with Watch & Cow.
Learn more about Swiss Tailor Made, and listen to James’ previous appearances on the podcast:
👉 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit and Guide
> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.
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Where to listen
SWITZERLAND TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
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