Switzerland, often hailed as a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, boasts a myriad of attractions and activities waiting to be explored. From the majestic Swiss Alps to the tranquil lakeside towns, this enchanting country offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s preference.
While ideally, one would require more time to fully immerse themselves in Switzerland’s beauty, we understand that sometimes, time is of the essence. Therefore, we’ve curated a three-day itinerary that encapsulates some of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations Switzerland has to offer. So, if you find yourself with just a short stint in this alpine wonderland, fret not. Embark on this adventure with us, and let us guide you through the best parts of Switzerland in three unforgettable days.
Arriving at Basel Airport, conveniently served by numerous flights from European countries and offering competitive fares compared to other Swiss cities, we kickstart our journey through Switzerland’s wonders.
Day 1: Exploring Basel City, unveiling the city’s Treasures and Charms
Start your swiss adventure by exploring the vibrant city of Basel, nestled on the banks of the Rhine River.
In the morning visit the iconic Spalentor gate, a historical entrance that welcomes you into a world steeped in history and charm. Afterwards we highly recommend the Basel Zoo, especially if you will be traveling with kids.
In the afternoon, visit the Basel Town Hall and the beautiful Basel Cathedral Square where you can enjoy panoramic views of the serene Rhine River. Continue your exploration as you stroll through the enchanting streets of Grossbasel and Kleinbasel, where charming buildings and intricate fountains tell stories of times gone by.
As the sun sets, make sure to visit the Mittlere Bridge, a vantage point that will give you a breathtaking view of the city’s transformation in the golden hour.
Finish your day at a local restaurant by the river where you can indulge your palates and senses in a delicious meal accompanied by the soothing sound of flowing water. This meticulously crafted day will unveil Basel’s treasures, from its architectural marvels to its natural beauty, creating memories that will forever be etched in your hearts.
Day 2: Journey to Mount Pilatus
On the second day we suggest you experience an unforgettable day excursion to Lucerne and Mount Pilatus with the Golden Round Trip, where a fusion of adventure and natural splendor awaits. Embark on a scenic train journey from Basel to Lucerne, the gateway to Mount Pilatus. As you travel through the picturesque Swiss countryside, marvel at the rolling hills, pristine lakes, and snow-capped mountains that pass by outside your window.
📌 We recommend to take an early train so that you will have time in the afternoon to explore the charming city of Lucerne.
Upon reaching Lucerne, make your way to the base of Mount Pilatus, embarking with a serene boat voyage from Lucerne to Alpnachstad, immersing yourself in the inspiring panoramas of Lake Lucerne and the encircling Alps.
📌 The starting point for the boat voyage from Lucerne to Alpnachstad is conveniently situated just outside the train station at Pier 2.
Upon arrival at Alpnachstad, you’ll embark on a thrilling ascent to the summit with the cogwheel railway, the steepest in the world.
At the summit, take some time to explore the various hiking trails and viewpoints, including the famous Dragon’s Path. After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious meal at one of the mountaintop restaurants, where you can savor traditional Swiss cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking vistas.
As the day draws to a close, descend back to Lucerne with the panoramic gondola and aerial cable car for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Alpine landscape.
📌 The entire journey from Lucerne to Mount Pilatus and back typically spans about 5 hours. This encompasses a picturesque 1.15-hour boat voyage, a 30-minute ascent on a cogwheel train, an hour of leisure at the summit to savor the stunning views, and a 45-minute escapade involving the Dragonfly and cable car experiences. Please be aware that during peak seasons, there might be wait times for the cogwheel train. For a seamless experience, we recommend reserving your seat in advance, allowing you to make the most of your time and relish every aspect of this extraordinary trip.
📌 Although the entire Golden Round Trip is not covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, the boat and bus rides are included. Additionally, you are entitled to a 50% discount on Pilatus tickets (2023).
Spend the evening relaxing by the shores of Lake Lucerne, reflecting on the day’s adventures and anticipating what lies ahead.
📍Start at Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), Lucerne’s most iconic landmark. The Chapel Bridge, adorned with beautiful paintings depicting Swiss history, stretches gracefully across the Reuss River. Take a leisurely stroll along the bridge, admiring the views of the river and the historic Old Town.
📍Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal): From the Chapel Bridge, take a short walk to the Lion Monument, a poignant sculpture carved into a rock face to commemorate Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Spend some time reflecting on this powerful symbol of bravery and sacrifice.
📍Old Town Exploration: Dive into the charming streets of Lucerne’s Old Town, where you’ll find medieval buildings, colorful frescoes, and cozy cafes. Wander through narrow alleyways, stopping to admire landmarks like the Town Hall (Rathaus) and the Water Tower (Wasserturm). Don’t forget to browse the shops for souvenirs and Swiss delicacies.
Day 3: Lake Brienz and Lauterbrunnen Valley
On day three, venture into the heart of the Swiss Alps as you make your way to the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley. Begin your day with a scenic train journey from Basel to Lauterbrunnen via Lucerne, passing through charming villages and verdant valleys along the way.
Upon arriving in Lauterbrunnen, take a moment to marvel at the towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls that surround the valley. Continue with a visit to the iconic Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, where you can feel the spray of the water against your skin as it plunges over 300 meters into the valley below.
Next, make sure not to miss the incredible Trümmelbach Falls. These natural wonders aren’t just a sight to behold; they’re an adventure for the senses. With water thundering through the heart of the mountains, it’s an experience that promises to leave you in awe.
📌 The attraction is not included in the Swiss Pass. Admission is CHF 14 for adults and CHF 6 for children aged 6-15 (2023). Please note that children under 4 and dogs are not allowed.
After working up an appetite, indulge in a hearty Swiss meal at one of the cozy restaurants nestled in the valley, where you can savor traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try the cheese fondue, a quintessential Swiss delicacy that’s sure to warm you up on a chilly Alpine day.
In the afternoon take the train back to Interlaken and embark on a breathtaking journey to explore the hidden gem of Interlaken – the mesmerizing Lake Brienz! Nestled amidst the Swiss Alps, this enchanting cruise is an absolute must-do activity for anyone visiting Interlaken.
📌 Key Highlights:
Scenic Villages: Quaint houses, colorful gardens, and stunning mountain backdrops create a postcard-perfect scene at every turn.
Swiss Pass Inclusion: This extraordinary Lake Brienz cruise experience is included in the Swiss Pass.
In conclusion, it’s worth noting that during our visit to Switzerland we have mainly used trains for our transportation as they offered a convenient and efficient way to travel around the country. However as trains in Switzerland are rather expensive, purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass can be a cost-effective option. Not only does it provide unlimited travel on Switzerland’s extensive public transportation network, but it also offers discounts on various attractions and excursions, making it a valuable investment for visitors looking to make the most of their Swiss adventure. After extensive search we found that GetYourGuide offered the most competitive price, you can check the link here below.
GetYourGuide Swiss Travel Pass
