Switzerland 2 Day Itinerary

Switzerland in 48 Hours: A Two-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on exploring the iconic Swiss city of Lucerne, assuming you arrive in Zurich.

Day 1: Charming History & Scenic Views

  • Morning: Arrive at Lucerne station (Lucerne Hauptbahnhof).

    • Transportation: Take a direct train from Zurich to Lucerne (approx. 1 hour). Switzerland has an excellent and efficient public transport system.

  • Things to do:

    • Wander the Altstadt (Old Town): Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Lucerne’s Altstadt, or Old Town. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture like the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, and explore the charming shops and cafes.

    • Experience the Swiss Museum of Transport: This museum is a must-see for any visitor interested in transportation history and technology.

    • Visit the Lion Monument: Pay your respects to the brave Swiss soldiers who fought for France during the French Revolution. The iconic lion sculpture is a powerful reminder of Switzerland’s historical neutrality.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal and a local beer at one of the many restaurants in the **Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Day 2: Nature & Culture

  • Morning: Explore the charming streets and alleys of Lucerne, taking in the sights along the Reuss River. Visit the historic Lucerne Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and enjoy the views from the top of Mount Pilatus.

  • Afternoon: Hike up to Mount Rigi for stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.

  • Things to do in the evening:

    • Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne.
    • Explore the nightlife scene around the lakefront.

  • Evening: Take a relaxing stroll through the Altstadt (Old Town) at sunset, enjoying the beautiful architecture and the charming atmosphere of the city.

  • Things to know about Switzerland for tourists:

    • Switzerland Schengen Visa: For stays under 90 days, citizens from many countries (including those within the EU/EFTA) do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. However, check the specific Schengen visa requirements for your nationality as they vary.

  • Currency: The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF).

Getting around:

  • Switzerland has a fantastic public transport system. You can easily get around Lucerne by train, bus, or boat.

Things to know before travelling:

  • Train: Switzerland’s train network is comprehensive and reliable. You can purchase a Swiss Travel Pass, which allows for unlimited travel on most forms of public transportation within the country.
  • Public Transport:
    • Boat: Take a scenic boat ride to explore the beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The boats offer beautiful views of the landscape and are a great way to see the country’s breathtaking scenery.

Things to know:

  • This itinerary assumes you will be arriving in Lucerne on a train, but you can adjust it based on your preferred mode of transportation and starting point.

  • Switzerland Schengen Visa: For stays longer than 90 days or if you are not from the Schengen area, you will need a Swiss visa.

  • Languages: The main languages spoken are German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

  • Transportation:

    • To get to Lucerne from Switzerland’s Zurich Airport, you can take a train to Lucerne (approx. 1 hour).

  • Things to do:

    • Enjoy the beauty of the city: Explore the charming streets and alleys of Lucerne, taking in the sights along the Reuss River

  • Currency: The currency used in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF).

Accommodation:

  • You can easily find a hotel within walking distance from the Lucerne station.
  • Consider staying near the old town for easy access to attractions and a lively atmosphere.

Things to consider:

  • Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance as Lucerne is a popular tourist destination and hotels can fill up quickly.
  • Budget: Choose a hotel that fits your budget, as prices vary greatly.
  • Location: Switzerland’s public transport system makes it easy to get around the country. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats.

Food & Drink:

  • Swiss cuisine: Enjoy the delicious variety of Swiss food, like fondue or raclette (cheese dishes).
  • Cheese: Switzerland is famous for its cheese! Don’t miss out on trying some of their local cheeses, which are a must-try for any visitor.

Transportation:

  • Take a train from Lucerne to Switzerland, the Swiss Rail system offers convenient and scenic connections throughout the country.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Try a variety of restaurants and cafes in the Altstadt, which is a great place to sample local delicacies and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Indulge in a traditional Swiss meal of fondue or raclette.
  • Take advantage of the Swiss Travel Pass: This will give you access to all the attractions and destinations mentioned in this itinerary.

Transportation:

The way you get around depends on your preferences and budget.

  • Train: Switzerland’s train network is excellent for getting to the mountaintop, but it might not be ideal for exploring the whole city.
  • Walking: Lucerne has a charming and compact Altstadt (Old Town) with cobblestone streets and picturesque bridges.
  • Public Transportation: You can easily travel around the city by bus or boat.

Things to see:

  • The Swiss Museum of Transport: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and future of transportation.

  • Lake Lucerne: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on this beautiful lake, which offers stunning views of the Alps.

  • Mt. Pilatus: Take a gondola up Mt. Pilatus for breathtaking panoramas and access to hiking trails.

  • Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): Explore the history of this iconic landmark and enjoy the picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Things to see and do:

  • Explore the Altstadt: Wander through its charming streets and admire the architecture.**

  • Visit a museum: Learn about Swiss culture and history.

  • Go for a boat trip on Lake Lucerne: Enjoy the city from a different perspective.

  • Enjoy hiking:

  • Experience traditional Swiss food:

Zurich:

  • Explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt), with its charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.

  • Visit Mount Rigi, a majestic mountain offering breathtaking views of the Alps.

  • Enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps: Take a scenic train ride to one of the mountain peaks near Lucerne for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Other things to do:

  • Boat tours and cruises: Enjoy a leisurely boat tour on Lake Lucerne, which is a beautiful setting for a relaxing trip with breathtaking scenery.
  • Explore the city’s history: The Swiss Museum of Transport offers an interesting look at the evolution of transportation in Switzerland.

Enjoy a scenic walk along the lake: This popular activity lets you soak up the beauty of the Swiss Alps while enjoying the fresh air and the calming waters.

  • Visit other attractions:

  • Take a day trip to Lucerne’s surrounding towns: Lucerne is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Switzerland.

  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lucerne - Take a walk along the lake, explore the charming old town with its historic buildings and charming streets, visit the beautiful lakefront promenade and enjoy the cafes and restaurants in the area.

Things to consider:

  • Travel time: 2 hours or less, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation.
  • Cost: The cost of travel and activities varies depending on the season and booking time.

Enjoy the beauty of Switzerland: