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3 days in switzerland itinerary

Do you only have 3 days in Switzerland and want to make the most of your visit? You’re right here. I’ve designed 11 different itineraries for various cities and travelers, so you can choose the perfect 3-day itinerary.

I lived in Switzerland for 3 years and visited all these beautiful places. Thanks to my experience, I’ve made these itineraries so you can have the best time possible.

So go through it, and choose the one that perfectly matches your interests.

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11 Itineraries For 3 Days In Switzerland

I’ve created various itineraries depending on the city you’ll start from, the travel style you like, and the purpose of your visit to Switzerland.

These 3-day Swiss itineraries will help you get the most out of your time in Switzerland, even if you only visit it for 3 days.

So choose the perfect itinerary that suits your interests and have a great time in Switzerland in 3 days.

➑ 3 Days In Switzerland Itinerary From Zurich

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Zurich – Lucerne
2.Lucerne – Mountain Excursion – Luzern-Interlaken Express – Grindelwald
3.Jungfrau Region – Zurich

The first itinerary on our list is the one that most travelers are interested in, as the majority of you land in Zurich.

Here is the 3-day itinerary in Switzerland from Zurich for you to make the most of your visit to Switzerland:

1. DAY: Zurich – Lucerne

On your first day, travel from Zurich to Lucerne. You’ll enjoy Lucerne on this day, soak up its unique atmosphere, and visit its museums.

I recommend visiting the Chapel Bridge with the Old Town. After, head to the GΓΌtsch Chateau for the best views.

Then, walk alongside the Lakeside Promenade towards the Swiss Museum of Transportation (or take a bus there). Learn how the Swiss transportation system is designed and works so efficiently.

Hang out in the town and have a typical Swiss dinner.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN LUCERNE: Hotel Des Alpes

3 days in switzerland itinerary zurich
Zurich

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: Zurich To Interlaken: Complete Travel Guide

2. DAY: Mountain Excursion From Lucerne – Luzern-Interlaken Express – Grindelwald

In the morning, make one of the following mountain excursions from Lucerne:

βœ… Mt. Pilatus
βœ…
Mt. Titlis
βœ…
Mt. Rigi

In the afternoon, hop on the Luzern-Interlaken scenic train. Enjoy the incredible ride with stunning views before leaving Interlaken Ost.

After, take a train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald. Enjoy the magical town, walk around, and have a nice dinner.

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: Where To Stay In Grindelwald: 9 Best Hotels

3. DAY: Jungfrau Region – Zurich

Before returning to Zurich, I recommend enjoying the beautiful Jungfrau region for a while today.

You can take mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn, hike in the stunning Swiss hills, or enjoy the adventure activities in Grindelwald First.

Towards the evening, take a train from Grindelwald back to Zurich.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH: Glarnischhof By Trinity

My Offers For Your Swiss Trip

I know how difficult it can get when you plan a trip to Switzerland, especially with all the travel passes, options, budget, and beautiful places. If you’re not sure where to start planning and what’s possible:

Let me help you with it!

I offer 2 services for your trip to Switzerland:

βœ… Guiding
βœ… Travel Itinerary Planning

βœ… Hire Me As Your Guide

I can take you on a trip through Switzerland and show you the highlights. Whether you’re a family, or a small group of people, I’ll create an itinerary based on your interests and will also guide you through the places.

If you’re interested in hiring me as your guide, contact me at: info@voicesoftravel.com

πŸ‘‰ Read about my guiding experience here.

βœ… Request A Travel Itinerary

If you like to explore Switzerland on your own, but don’t know where to start planning, you can also request a customized travel itinerary from me.

I’ll create one based on your interests, so you can skip the planning process, pack, and set off.

If you’re interested in getting a customized travel itinerary, fill out the form below (scroll down).

πŸ‘‰ Learn more about my travel itinerary planning services here.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

✈ Did you know? I design customized travel itineraries.
➑ Whether you’re traveling somewhere for the first time and don’t know where to start and how to plan your trip…
➑ Or you don’t want to spend a thousand hours planning your perfect trip…

πŸ‘‰ LET ME HELP YOU – I’ll design a travel itinerary based on your needs and interests (fill out the form below πŸ‘‡).

➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Geneva

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Geneva – Glacier 3000 – Montreux
2.Montreux – Zermatt
3.Zermatt – Geneva

On a 3-day trip from Geneva, you’ll enjoy the beautiful Swiss Riviera at Lake Gevena and Montreux, an exciting mountain excursion to Glacier 3000, and have a lovely time in Zermatt.

1. DAY: Geneva – Glacier 3000 – Montreux

On the first day, make an excursion to Glacier 3000, one of the most exciting mountains in Switzerland.

Afterward, spend some time walking on the Lakeside promenade in Montreux and enjoy some of its museums, including The Queen Studio, Montreux Museum, and Charles Chaplin World.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic

2. DAY: Montreux – Zermatt

The next day, visit Chillon Castle in the morning before you travel to Zermatt.

You can take a boat from Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva back to Montreux, then hop on a train to Zermatt.

In Zermatt, make one of the mountain excursions:

βœ… Matterhorn Gornergrat
βœ… Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Or go hiking around the 5 stunning lakes with views of Matterhorn.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT: Backstage Boutique Spa Hotel

3 days in switzerland itinerary zermatt
Zermatt

3. Zermatt – Geneva

Spend some more time in Zermatt, and enjoy what you didn’t manage to do yesterday. You have the entire day, so make the most of it.

I recommend making the mountain excursions on day 2. and on this last day, enjoy some hikes around Zermatt (the 5 Lakes hike is amazing).

In the evening, take a train back to Geneva.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GENEVA: Hotel d’Angleterre or Hotel Bernina

➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Basel

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Basel -Bern -Gruyeres
2.Bern – Glacier 3000 – Montreux
3.Montreux – GoldenPass Express – Basel

Basel has one of the most affordable flights to EuroAirport. So, if you land in Basel, take this 3-day itinerary to get the most out of your visit to Switzerland.

1. DAY: Basel – Bern

On the first day, visit Bern, the capital city of Switzerland.

Stay in Bern and enjoy its magical atmosphere. Walk through the Old Town and the Kramgasse to see the famous Zytglogge. Then visit the Einstein House and the Bern Cathedral.

If you want to, you can make a half-day visit to the town of Gruyeres. It’s one of my favorite Swiss towns. You can taste delicious Fondue in a traditional house and visit the La Maison du Gruyeres Cheese factory.

Learn how the Swiss make their cheese and come back to Bern.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN BERN: Best Western Plus Hotel Bern

2. DAY: Bern – Glacier 3000 – Montreux

Today, I recommend visiting the Glacier 3000 mountain on the way to Montreux.

In the morning, go to Les Diablerets and start the mountain excursion. Enjoy the breathtaking views, the Glacier path, the fun park, and all the chairlifts.

In the afternoon, make your way to Montreux. Visit some museums if you still have time and enjoy the beautiful Lakeside Promenade.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic

Switzerland itinerary 8 days by train Montreux riviera Chillon Chateau
Montreux Riviera (Lake Promenade) & Chillon Chateau

3. DAY: Montreux – GoldenPass Express – Basel

In the morning, visit the Chillon castle and learn about its history. Then start making your way back to Basel.

I recommend taking one of the most beautiful panoramic trains in Switzerland, the GoldenPass Express, from Montreux to Spiez.

Then change to other trains to Basel.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN BASEL: Hotel Marthof Basel

➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Lugano

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Lugano & Mountain Excursions & Bellinzona
2.Lugano – Flims
3.Flims – Bernina Express – Tirano

On this 3-day Swiss itinerary from Lugano, I’ll take you to explore the stunning Grisons Canton, often forgotten by travelers.

We’ll visit the beautiful city of Bellinzona and Lake Lugano, charming town of Flims, and take one of the best scenic trains to the Italian town called Tirano.

1. DAY: Lugano & Bellinzona

On the first day, stay in Lugano and make an excursion to San Salvatore Mountain or Mt. Bre. Both of them have stunning views, and you can have lunch or walk around.

In the afternoon, visit the charming town of Bellinzona. Hop on the Artu tourist train and travel up to Montebello Castle. Then, come back to the town center and explore the Catelgrande.

In the evening, take a train back to Lugano.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN LUGANO: Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola or Historic Lakeside Hotel

2. DAY: Lugano – Flims

Today, I’m taking you to the picturesque Swiss town of Flims. Not many people visit it, but it’s a small, charming town with some of the most beautiful lakes.

So in the morning, take a train from Lugano to Chur. Then change to a bus to Flims. Enjoy the views on the way.

Afterward, make some nice walks to the Cauma Lake and the Spir II viewing point, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Swiss Grand Canyon.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN FLIMS: Romantic Hotel Schweizerhof & Spa

3 days in switzerland itinerary cauma lake flims laax
Cauma Lake – Flims

3. DAY: Flims – Bernina Express – Tirano

Today it’s the day of the famous Bernina Express panoramic train.

In the morning, take a bus from Flims to Chur. Then hop on the Bernina Express and enjoy panoramic views from the train.

It’s one of the most beautiful journeys in Switzerland, during which you’ll see the Bernina Glacier and Lago Bianco, and make your way down to the Italian town called Tirano.

This is where your itinerary ends. You can travel elsewhere from Tirano and continue visiting northern Italy. Or travel back to Lugano/Milan.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN TIRANO: Le Rondini Rooms

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➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Milan

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Milan – St. Moritz
2.Glacier Express Ride
3.Zermatt – Milan

Are you visiting Milan and want to add a bit of Swiss beauty to your itinerary? I have you covered.

Take this 3-day Swiss itinerary from Milan and experience some of the country’s best places and train rides.

1. DAY: Milan – St. Moritz

Travel from Milan to St. Moritz. It’s one of the most luxurious towns in Switzerland, where you can enjoy high-end shops and walk around the beautiful Lake St. Moritz.

But I brought you here mainly because of the scenic train Glacier Express, which starts in the town.

So relax, and tomorrow morning, be ready to experience the most beautiful panoramic train in the world.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz or Hotel Waldhaus Am See

2. DAY: Glacier Express (St. Moritz – Zermatt)

Today is the day to experience the most beautiful scenic ride in the world – Glacier Express.

In the morning, board the train and enjoy the 8-hour ride to Zermatt. Sip a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or champagne while listening to the commentary and seeing the breathtaking views.

The highlights are the Landwasser Viaduct, the Swiss Grand Canyon, Oberalp Pass, and the charming town of Andermatt before you arrive in Zermatt.

Stay in a beautiful wellness hotel in Zermatt and enjoy the views of Matterhorn.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT: Backstage Boutique Spa Hotel

3 days in switzerland itinerary glacier express
Glacier Express – Landwasser Viaduct

3. DAY: Zermatt

Take your time to enjoy Zermatt and its activities. Whether you feel like hiking or making some of the best mountain excursions in the country, it’s up to you.

I recommend the following mountain excursions:

βœ… Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
βœ…
Matterhorn Gornergrat

If you want to enjoy hiking, the 5 Lakes Hike is one of the most beautiful around Zermatt, with stunning views of the famous Matterhorn mountain.

In the afternoon, enjoy the car-free town before you take a train back to Milan.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN: The Corner Duomo Hotel or IQ Hotel Milano

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: 11 Cheapest Ways To Travel Switzerland On A Budget

➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary From Paris

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Paris – Geneva
2.Geneva – Montreux – Zermatt
3.Zermatt

Are you in Paris, considering visiting Switzerland for a while, but don’t know how to plan it?

Get this 3-day itinerary from Paris and visit the beautiful Switzerland.

1. DAY: Paris – Geneva

Take the TGV Lyria high-speed train from Paris to Geneva on the first day.

Then enjoy Geneva for a while, take a cruise on Lake Geneva, or go wine tasting in the stunning Lavaux vineyards.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GENEVA: Hotel d’Angleterre or Hotel Bernina

2. DAY: Geneva – Montreux – Zermatt

Today, travel to the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt. On the way, I recommend visiting the charming town of Montreux and its Castle Chillon.

Then, continue by train to Zermatt. Enjoy the car-free village, walk through, and visit the Matterhorn museum. Then relax in a spa at your hotel.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT: Backstage Boutique Spa Hotel

Switzerland itinerary 8 days by train Zermatt 5 Lakes Trail
Zermatt & 5 Lakes Trail

3. DAY: Zermatt – Paris

Make one mountain excursion early in the morning before you return to Paris.

I recommend the following mountain excursions:

βœ… Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
βœ…
Matterhorn Gornergrat

If you want more time in Zermatt, skip Montreux and Castle Chillon on the second day and travel straight to Zermatt. On the second day, you could enjoy hiking or one of the mountain excursions.

Whenever you’re ready, return to Paris by train.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN PARIS: Hotel Marignan or Cler Hotel

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

✈ Did you know? I design customized travel itineraries.
➑ Whether you’re traveling somewhere for the first time and don’t know where to start and how to plan your trip…
➑ Or you don’t want to spend a thousand hours planning your perfect trip…

πŸ‘‰ LET ME HELP YOU – I’ll design a travel itinerary based on your needs and interests (fill out the form below πŸ‘‡).

3-Day Itineraries In Switzerland For Different Seasons

This section is for you if you have more flexibility and can start your itinerary in any city.

These itineraries are based on the season, so whether you have 3 days in Switzerland in winter or summer, they’ll help you get the most out of your visit.

➑ 3 Days In Switzerland: Summer Itinerary

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald
2.Jungfrau Region
3.Grindelwald – GoldenPass Express – Montreux

This is the ultimate 3-day itinerary for Switzerland to experience the highlights and a bit of everything the country offers.

This itinerary is mainly suitable for the summertime. It includes panoramic trains, a beautiful Swiss city, mountain excursions, and hiking in nature.

1. DAY: Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald

In the morning, take 2 hours to walk through Lucerne’s Old Town and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Then hop on one of the most stunning train rides – Luzern-Interlaken Express from Lucern to Brienz.

Get off in Brienz and hop on the steam train to Brienzer Rothorn. The entire ride takes 1 hour to get to the top. But wait for the breathtaking views. You can walk around, get to the cross, soak up the atmosphere, and then return to Brienz.

Then you can take a 2-hour boat ride from Brienz to Interlaken or train. Then, continue by train to Grindelwald.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel or Boutique Hotel Glacier

2. DAY: Jungfrau Region

Today is an exciting day in the Jungfrau region. I recommend making a mountain excursion in the morning (either Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn) and enjoying some hikes in the afternoon, like the Eiger Trail or the Panorama Trail.

Alternatively, you can take a cable car to Grindelwald First, enjoy the adventure activities, and hike to Bachalp Lake.

Enjoy your day in one of the most beautiful Swiss regions. Relax in a spa at your hotel in the evening.

best things to do in Jungfrau region & Interlaken Grindelwald Eiger Trail
Me hiking the Eiger Trail

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: How To Get To Gelmerbahn Switzerland

3. DAY: GoldenPass Express – Montreux

On the last day, you’ll make one more scenic train ride – the GoldenPass Express.

Hop on the train in Interlaken and enjoy the beautiful Swiss hills and forests while sipping a cup of hot chocolate or coffee before the breathtaking Lake Geneva opens up in front of you.

Get off in Montreux and enjoy the town for a while. Then, visit Castle Chillon and walk on the Lakeside promenade to enjoy the stunning Lake Geneva.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic

➑ 3 Days Itinerary In Switzerland In December & Winter

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Bern
2.Bern – Zermatt
3.Glacier Express Ride

If you’re visiting Switzerland in winter for 3 days, this is what I recommend you visit. Winter is also a great time to explore the country, even if you’re a nonskier. So, get the most out of it.

You can also follow this itinerary if you’re for 3 days in Switzerland in December and enjoy the beautiful Christmas atmosphere and markets in cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern.

1. DAY: Bern

Visit the charming capital of Switzerland – Bern on your first day. Walk through the Old Town and the famous Kramgasse Street to see the Zyglogge.

Then, visit the Bern Cathedral and the Einstein House. In December, you can also enjoy the magical Christmas markets in the Kleine Schanze Park or in front of the Bern Cathedral.

If you have time, you can also visit Gruyeres and learn how locals make Swiss cheese in the La Maison Du Gruyeres.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN BERN: Best Western Plus Hotel Bern

2. DAY: Bern – Zermatt

Early in the morning, take a train from Bern to Zermatt.

Enjoy Zermatt for the day and its beautiful winter sights. You can go skiing or winter hiking.

While doing so, don’t forget to make at least one of the famous mountain excursions: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise & Matterhorn Gornergrat.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZERMATT: Backstage Boutique Spa Hotel

Switzerland in November Skiing Zermatt Diavolezza
Me skiing in Switzerland

3. DAY: Glacier Express Ride (Zermatt – St. Moritz)

What better way to enjoy the Swiss winter wonderland than from a beautiful panoramic ride while sipping a hot chocolate from your comfortable seat?

That’s exactly what we’re going to do today. In the morning, hop on the Glacier Express train, sit back, and relax on this 8-hour ride to St. Moritz.

Listen to the commentary to learn more about the Swiss history, culture, and sights you’ll see.

The highlights are Andermatt, Oberalps Pass, Swiss Glacier Canyon, and the Landwasser Viaduct (among others).

Once you arrive in St. Moritz, enjoy luxury shopping or just soak up the atmosphere of this town on an evening walk. Then relax at the spa in your hotel.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz or Hotel Waldhaus Am See

3-Day Swiss Itineraries For Different Types Of Travelers

I’ve also got a couple of itineraries for each travel group.

So whether you’re a solo traveler, a first-timer in Switzerland, you want to make a perfect honeymoon, or enjoy it with your husband and kids as a family, there is one itinerary for you:

➑ 3-Day Switzerland Itinerary For First Timers & Solo Travelers

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald
2.Grindelwald & Adventure Activities
3.Grindelwald – Lugano

Is it your first time visiting Switzerland? Or are you traveling solo? I’m excited you’re about to explore it. Whether you’re by yourself or in a group, take this 3-day itinerary and enjoy the country fully.

1. DAY Lucerne – Brienz – Grindelwald

On the first day, spend your first 2 hours visiting Lucerne in the morning. Explore the Old Town and admire the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

After, hop on the panoramic train Luzern-Interlaken Express and enjoy the stunning views until you reach Brienz.

Get off in Brienz and hop on the historical steam train to reach Brienzer Rothorn. This mountain excursion is incredible, and you shouldn’t miss it. Walk around and enjoy the views.

On the way back, buy a local Swiss cheese at the Planalp (middle station) if a woman sells it.
After, take a boat or a train to Interlaken, and then the last train to Grindelwald.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel or Boutique Hotel Glacier

2. DAY: Grindelwald

Join other travelers and have fun up on Grindelwald First with its adventure activities. Fly above the Swiss mountains overlooking glaciers and mowing cows.

Then, go on some hikes in the Jungfrau region, such as Faulhorn, Bachalp Lake, or Eiger Trail.

You can also make mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch, Mannlichen, or Schilthorn. But plan ahead as they usually take a lot of time.

best time to visit switzerland september in switzerland
Me enjoying Switzerland in September

3. DAY: Grindelwald – Lugano

To experience all the sights of Switzerland, travel to the southern part and enjoy the Mediterranean feel in Lugano.

Stroll through its tiny streets, go to San Salvatore for the best views of Lake Lugano, and have a delicious gelato.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN LUGANO: Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola or Historic Lakeside Hotel

➑ 3-Day Switzerland Itinerary For Honeymooners

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Grindelwald
2.Grindelwald – Andermatt
3.Glacier Express Ride (Andermatt – Zermatt)

If you’re visiting Switzerland with your partner and want to enjoy a romantic gateway, it’s a great choice. I think Switzerland is the perfect country to go to.

So here is my 3-day Swiss romantic itinerary for you:

1. DAY: Grindelwald

From wherever you are, make your way to Grindelwald as soon as possible so you have the entire day to enjoy it.

Check in to your hotel with a private jacuzzi overlooking the stunning mountains. And then enjoy this romantic town the way you like.

You can go hiking (Eiger Trail, Panorama Trail, Via Alpina, Bachalp Lake), enjoy the adventure activities on Grindelwald First, or visit mountains like Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn if you’re a James Bond lover.

Then spend a romantic evening in your jacuzzi in the hotel room and have a nice dinner.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel or Boutique Hotel Glacier

2. DAY: Grindelwald – Andermatt

In the morning, take a train from Grindelwald to Andermatt and enjoy the breathtaking Swiss landscape on the way.

Andermatt is another romantic village in Switzerland you can enjoy. It’s particularly great to enjoy some spa and treatments as a couple. It’s also quiet, so you can explore the area and enjoy some privacy in luxury hotels.

The alternative would be to visit Zermatt if you were into it, but it’s slightly more touristy than Andermatt.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ANDERMATT: The Chedi Andermatt or Boutique Hotel The River House

3. DAY: Glacier Express Ride

On your last day, enjoy some romance from the most beautiful panoramic train in Switzerland – the Glacier Express.

Take it from Andermatt or Zermatt to St. Moritz. Have a glass of champagne with your partner and enjoy the stunning Swiss landscape.

You can spend the night in St. Moritz in a spa hotel and enjoy an evening walk through the old town and alongside the lake.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ST. MORITZ: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz or Hotel Waldhaus Am See

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: Honeymoon In Switzerland: How To Plan Your Romantic Gateway

➑ 3-Day Swiss Itinerary For Families

DAY:DESTINATION:
1.Zurich & Lindt Chocolate Museum
2.Grindelwald & Mannlichen
3.Jungfrau Region Activities & Mountain Excursions

Are you visiting Switzerland as a family, and do you want to have some fun together? There are plenty of activities to keep your kids entertained.

So take this 3-day Swiss itinerary for families and experience the best of it:

1. DAY: Zurich

Zurich is a good place to start with kids, as you can visit the Lindt Chocolate Museum. It’s a nice interactive place to taste various chocolate types and see a huge chocolate waterfall.

Then, cruise around Lake Zurich or take a train to Utlisberg for nice views of the surroundings.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH: Glarnischhof By Trinity

2. DAY: Grindelwald & Mannlichen Mountain

On the next day, take a train from Zurich to Grindelwald. If you like cheese, you can detour to Gruyeres and visit the cheese factory La Maison du Gruyeres. Otherwise, get to Grindelwald, so you can enjoy activities there.

Grindelwald has a nice playground, but I recommend taking a cable car to Mannlichen Mountain. There is a big playground with a cow statue. You can walk the Royal Walk, see many cows, and follow the cow pathway to the middle station.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD: Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel

3 days in switzerland itinerary mannlichen
Mannlichen Mountain & Playground

3. DAY: Jungfrau Region

On the last day, enjoy some activities in the Jungfrau region.

The best way to spend time with kids is to do adventure activities on Grindelwald First or walk on the Thrill Walk on Birg station and visit the James Bond exhibition on Schilthorn.

Jungfraujoch is also a great alternative, where you can walk through the ice cave and see the Ice Age Squirrel.

BONUS: Best Of Switzerland Itinerary For 8 Days

If you have more time or want to explore more of Switzerland, take my 8-day Swiss itinerary and see the highlights.

It includes everything from panoramic trains to hiking spots, best locations, cheese and chocolate tasting, and some of the best mountain excursions.

So take the itinerary, skip the planning, pack, and enjoy Switzerland fully. Click on the image below to get the itinerary:

Practical Tips For Visiting Switzerland In 3 Days

To help you plan your visit to Switzerland even more in detail, I’ve got some more tips for you. See how many days are enough to visit, how to plan, best time to visit, how to get around, and how much to budget.

Are 3 Days Enough In Switzerland?

No, 3 days is not enough to visit Switzerland. You should spend at least 8 to 10 days to fully immerse in the country’s beauty.

But if you only have 3 days, it’s certainly some time, and you can visit at least a few highlights.

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed!

How To Get Around Switzerland

To make any of these itineraries, the best way to get around Switzerland is by car or train.

If you want to rent a car, you can do so via Discover Cars. They have the best deals.

I recommend getting a Swiss Half-Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass if you want to explore Switzerland by train.

A Half-Fare Card is usually a great option for those who want to do only a few things and get from one place to the next.

The Swiss Travel Pass is great for those who want to explore many different things and ride many trains, buses, and boats within the 3 days you’ll spend in Switzerland. The pass will save you so much money as it includes almost everything.

Best Time To Visit Switzerland

The best time to visit Switzerland is June, September, and winter (mainly December).

June and September have beautiful landscape colors, and you can enjoy all the activities fully. June is overall amazing as Switzerland shines with different colors, and it’s exactly what you picture Switzerland to be.

Winter in Switzerland is also a good time to visit. You can go skiing, and even as a nonskier, you can enjoy many activities like panoramic trains, winter hikes, sledding, and fun activities.

How Do I Plan A Switzerland Itinerary?

To get the most out of your time in Switzerland, think about the places you want to visit. Write them down on a piece of paper.

Once you know which places you want to visit, list all the activities like visiting a chocolate and cheese factory, making mountain excursions, hiking, etc. Then I recommend adding at least one panoramic train and a cruise on a Swiss lake to make great memories.

After, see how to get from one place to another (that you wrote to your list). Spend at least 2 days in each place, depending on what you want to do. And get a Swiss Travel Pass to be able to do it all for less and be flexible.

What To Pack For A 3-Day Swiss Trip

Things you need to bring for your trip depend on the activities and places you want to visit. Generally, the weather in Switzerland changes a lot, so prepare for different conditions.

Pack a waterproof light jacket and an umbrella. If you go to the mountains, pack hiking boots or trekking shoes. And something fancy for the Swiss cities.

When I visited Switzerland for the first time in a month, I managed to pack into a small 40L backpack. So, I’ve created this packing list to help you pack for your Swiss trips.

Click on the image below and download my Swiss packing list for free:

3 Days In Switzerland Cost

As a mid-range traveler who wants to enjoy everything Switzerland offers, you can expect to spend around $200 per day per person.

So a 3-day trip to Switzerland costs about $600 per person if you want to stay in a nice mid-range hotel with a spa, do all the activities, get a travel pass, and enjoy panoramic trains with cruises.

Here is a budget breakdown for each traveler type:

➑ 3-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $200
➑ 3-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers: $600
➑ 3-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers: up to $1500

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending on a 3-day trip to Switzerland. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences.

πŸ‘‰ READ ALSO: Is Switzerland Expensive? Ultimate Guide To Budget Your Trip

FAQs

I’ve also answered some of the frequently asked questions. Check my answers below:

How Many Days Do I Need In Switzerland?

8 to 10 days is the perfect amount to spend in Switzerland. This way, you’ll enjoy all the highlights, including hiking, mountain excursions, cheese and wine tasting, panoramic trains, and cruises on the stunning Swiss lakes.

What To Do In Switzerland In 3 Days?

I recommend spending 3 days in Switzerland in the Jungfrau region as it’s the perfect Swiss location you picture when planning a trip to the country.

Besides, add at least one panoramic train and a cruise on a Swiss lake to your itinerary.

Is It Better To Visit Geneva Or Zurich?

Zurich is better to visit than Geneva as it has more to offer. Zurich has the Lindt Chocolate Museum that you can visit, take a cruise, and see the nearby largest waterfalls in Europe (Rhinefalls). Geneva is better for those who like to add wine tasting to their itinerary.

Should I Visit Lucerne Or Zurich?

Lucerne is more charming than Zurich. You can do similar activities in each city, but Lucerne is cozier and more beautiful than Zurich. Besides, you can enjoy excursions to the Swiss Alps, closer to Lucerne than Zurich.

WRAP-UP: 3 Days In Switzerland Itinerary

These are my 3-day itinerary suggestions to maximize your time in Switzerland. Even though it’s not enough, you can see a few highlights and enjoy the country if you plan and create a great itinerary. So plan, get a travel pass to be flexible, and visit as much as you can within 3 days in the Swiss places.

If you have any more questions or need a customized travel itinerary, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com. I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

voices of travel about me photo

About the author: Nicoletta is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SWITZERLAND: Interested in more articles for Switzerland?
Check out my Switzerland Travel Page.

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