Planning a week on Swiss rails can feel overwhelming, but this clear 7 day Swiss pass itinerary breaks the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland into manageable, scenic travel days. Use this guide to map routes, schedule must-see stops, and get practical tips for an unforgettable week in Switzerland by train.
7 Day Swiss Pass Itinerary overview
This seven-day plan links Switzerland’s top panorama trains, scenic lakesides, and alpine villages. It balances long scenic stretches—like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express—with relaxed days for walking, short boat trips, and local culture. The Swiss Travel Pass coverage and regional connections make a week in Switzerland by train efficient and immersive.
Day-by-day route and highlights
Day 1: Arrival — Zurich to Lucerne
Arrive in Zurich, drop your luggage at the station lockers or your hotel, then take the short scenic ride to Lucerne. Spend the afternoon exploring the Chapel Bridge, the Old Town, and the lakeside promenade. Lucerne sets a relaxed tone for the week and is a great introduction to Swiss travel etiquette and transit ease.
Day 2: Lucerne to Interlaken via Brünig
Travel the Brünigbahn route into the Bernese Oberland. Stop in Meiringen or take a detour to Giessbach Falls. Arrive in Interlaken for postcard views of the Jungfrau massif and easy access to mountain excursions.
Day 3: Interlaken to Zermatt
Head south toward the Valais region and change at Visp for the Matterhorn-views approaching Zermatt. Allow time to wander Zermatt’s car-free streets and consider the Gornergrat Railway for some of the best alpine panoramas in the country.
Day 4: Zermatt to Montreux (Lake Geneva)
Descend from the mountains toward Montreux on the shore of Lake Geneva. Visit vineyards of Lavaux (a UNESCO site) and stroll the lakeside promenade. Montreux’s mellow vibe contrasts beautifully with the high-alpine days.
Day 5: Montreux to St. Moritz via Glacier Express section
Board the Glacier Express or the scenic regional trains that form part of the Grand Train Tour route. This long but visually spectacular stretch crosses alpine passes and deep valleys. Plan for a slow day on board with camera ready.
Day 6: St. Moritz to Tirano and Bernina Express to Lugano
Take the Bernina Express down to Tirano and continue by train into Italian-speaking Switzerland toward Lugano. The Bernina line is one of the highlights of any grand train tour switzerland itinerary—glacial views, viaducts, and hairpin turns make this stretch unforgettable.
Day 7: Lugano to Zurich (via Gotthard route)
Complete your loop back to Zurich via the Gotthard Panorama Express or fast intercity connections. If time allows, stop in Bellinzona to see its castles before returning to Zurich for departure.
Practical tips for traveling with a Swiss Travel Pass
- Validation: If you buy a flexible Swiss Travel Pass, validate dates in writing on the pass before your first journey.
- Reservations: Some scenic trains require seat reservations—book these early during peak season.
- Luggage: Use station-to-station luggage services if you prefer minimal transfers, or check local hotel delivery options.
- Pacing: Mix long scenic rides with shorter days to avoid travel fatigue.
Tip: Book panoramic train reservations and special excursions well in advance—popular routes can sell out, especially in summer and winter holidays.
Budgeting and accommodation ideas
Switzerland can be expensive, but a swiss travel pass reduces per-trip costs and simplifies planning. Consider a mix of hotels and guesthouses: cities like Zurich or Lugano offer international chains, while mountain towns often provide cozy family-run inns. Hostels and B&Bs are great for saving money and meeting fellow travelers. Meals vary: pick up picnic supplies from supermarkets for scenic stops and reserve restaurant meals for evenings.
Packing checklist for a week in Switzerland by train
- Layered clothing (weather changes quickly in the mountains)
- Comfortable walking shoes and a rain shell
- Travel charger and an adapter for Swiss outlets
- Personal ID, travel insurance, and physical or digital train reservations
- Reusable water bottle and snacks—stations often have kiosks with local goodies
Why this plan works for the Grand Train Tour
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland combines iconic panorama trains, beautiful lakes, and alpine towns. This 7-day route packs the essentials into a realistic pace: you get long scenic rides without missing cultural stops. For full route maps, timetables, and booking assistance, Read more.
Safety, accessibility, and itinerary tweaks
Swiss rail is among the world’s safest and most accessible. Many stations provide step-free access and staff assistance. If mobility is a concern, opt for shorter train hops and choose cities with flatter terrain. Families often prefer staying longer in Lucerne or Interlaken where child-friendly activities are plentiful.
Alternative routes and extensions
If you have additional days, extend to include the Jungfraujoch, more Glacier Express segments, or additional Italian-speaking towns along Lake Lugano. The swiss travel pass makes these extensions easy without repurchasing single tickets.
Q&A and common traveler questions
Q:
A: Do I need reservations for all scenic trains? Reservations are required on some panorama services, such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express; other regional trains do not need reservations but can get busy in peak season.
Q:
A: Can I do the Grand Train Tour in reverse? Yes—routes are fully reversible and timetables work both ways. Choose the direction that best fits your arrival and departure airports to minimize transfers.
Conclusion
This 7 day Swiss pass itinerary gives you a practical, scenic loop through Switzerland’s top rail experiences—balancing panoramic train rides, lakefront relaxation, and alpine village charm. Whether you aim to ride the Bernina Express, savor Montreux evenings, or stand beneath the Matterhorn, this plan helps you make the most of a week in Switzerland by train. Book reservations early, pack layers, and prepare for breathtaking views at every turn.