How to Spend One Week Road Tripping Switzerland: The Perfect 7 Day Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

Are you looking for the ultimate 7-Day Switzerland Road Trip that includes adventure, scenery, and unforgettable memories?

In this 7 Day Switzerland road trip itinerary, I’ll cover exactly how to spend one week driving across Switzerland! Over 7 days, you’ll visit well known cities like Zermatt and Interlaken, plus some hidden gems as well!

This itinerary is JAM packed with adventure. If you aren’t someone that likes to constantly stay on the go, this itinerary may not be for you.

*Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Getting To Switzerland

Before we get into this itinerary, I wanted to cover how to get to Switzerland and which Swiss airport you should fly into.

This itinerary starts in Zurich and ends in Geneva. However, it can easily be reversed if you’d like to start in Geneva and end in Zurich.

It doesn’t matter which city you start in, just know the trip will be one way to optimize squeezing in the most sites!

Because this trip isn’t a round trip, you will need to book one-way flights (unless you plan to add days and return to the first city at the end of the trip).

Unfortunately, one-way flights can sometimes be a lot more expensive than round trip ones. To get the best price, use the multi-city function on Google flights or the airline that you are searching through.

The exception to this, is if you are using points to book your travel. We often do. In this situation, look up each individual flight as a one way ticket.

Things to Know Before Visiting Switzerland

Before embarking on your Swiss adventure, it’s essential to be aware of certain travel requirements and local nuances to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

ETIAS Authorization: Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before entering Switzerland and other Schengen Area countries. This online application costs €7 and is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It’s required for all travelers, regardless of age, though those under 18 or over 70 may be exempt from the fee. 

Currency: Switzerland’s official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), not the Euro. While some establishments may accept Euros, it’s advisable to carry Swiss Francs for convenience.

Language: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your experience.

Transportation: Switzerland boasts an efficient and punctual public transportation system. This itinerary is written as a self driving road trip. Consider investing in a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, as well as free or discounted entry to numerous attractions, if you would like to attempt this itinerary with public transportation.

Weather: The alpine climate can be unpredictable. Even in summer, it’s wise to pack layers and sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to explore mountainous regions.

By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Switzerland has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit largely depends on what you’re looking for.

This blog focuses on a 7-day itinerary best suited for the non-snowy months, making late spring through early autumn (May to October) ideal. During this time, the snow has melted from most hiking trails and the wildflowers are in full bloom.

The alpine lakes, like Oeschinensee and Bachalpsee, sparkle with their signature turquoise hues. Plus, the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking and via ferratas, with temperatures ranging from mild to warm.

While winter in Switzerland offers its own magic with skiing and Christmas markets, this itinerary avoids snow-related activities.

It focuses on summer adventures, making it perfect for those who want to experience Switzerland’s lush green landscapes, epic mountain views, and charming towns without the chill.

Day 1: Switzerland Roadtrip – Zurich to Appenzell

Morning: Hit the Road to Appenzell

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive to Appenzell, a picturesque town in northeastern Switzerland known for its colorful houses and traditional Swiss charm. The drive from Zurich to Appenzell takes about 1.5 hours, so leave early to make the most of your day.

This was the hike that I planned this entire Switzerland road trip around! I found a photo on Pinterest and my heart was set.

Afternoon: Schäfler Ridge Hike

Once you arrive in Appenzell, head straight to Ebenalp, where your hike to Schäfler Ridge begins. The Ebenalp cable car will take you up to the starting point of the hike. From here, the trail to Schäfler Hut (Schäflerhütte) offers some of the most stunning views in the region. Everything you need to know about hiking Schäfler Ridge can be found here.

As you hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Alpstein massif and the verdant valleys below. The trail winds through lush meadows and rocky ridges, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

Keep an eye out for the famous Wildkirchli caves and the Aescher mountain restaurant, which is built into the side of a cliff. We chose to see these the next morning on our way out.

Evening: Overnight at Schäfler Hut

After reaching Schäfler Hut, settle in for the night. The hut offers basic but comfortable accommodations, and the views from here are simply spectacular. Enjoy a hearty Swiss meal, watch the sunset over the mountains, and get a good night’s rest.

We chose to stay at the hut in order to avoid a hike back down the ridge in the dark. We also wanted to witness the incredible sunrise over the mountain range. Read everything you need to know about a stay at Schäfler Hut here.

Other Lodging Options

Hotel Appenzell

Hotel Restaurant Schlössli Sax

Day 2: Switzerland Road Trip – Stoos Ridge Hike and Interlaken

Morning: Drive to Stoos

Rise early and take the cable car back down to Ebenalp. (Don’t forget to get up early enough to catch the incredible sunrise!) From here, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive to Stoos, a small mountain village known for its breathtaking ridge hike.

Stoos is a car free village. You will need to park at the parking garage or in the lot across from the funicular. Purchase a ticket for the world’s steepest funicular and make the incredible ascent.

Don’t forget to take your parking ticket with you to pay before arriving back to your car.

Mid-Morning: Stoos Ridge Hike

Once you arrive in Stoos, take the chairlift up to Klingenstock, the starting point of the Stoos Ridge hike. This 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) hike offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

The trail is challenging, with steep ascents and narrow paths, but the panoramic vistas make it all worthwhile. I wrote an in depth review of the Stoos Ridge Hike here. Make sure to grab lunch at the Fronalpstock Restaurant.

Afternoon: Drive to Interlaken

After your hike, it’s time to head to Interlaken, about a 1.5-hour drive from Stoos. Interlaken will be your home base for the next few days, offering plenty of activities and stunning scenery.

Evening: Settle in Interlaken

Check into your accommodation in Interlaken and take some time to explore the town. Interlaken is nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, providing a picturesque setting for your stay.

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the local restaurants and rest up for another adventure-filled day. Find all of the best adventure activities in Interlaken here.

Day 3: Switzerland Road Trip – Grindelwald

Morning: Grindelwald First and Bachalpsee Lake

Start your day with a short drive to Grindelwald, a charming alpine village. From Grindelwald, take the First gondola up to the summit.

Once at the top, embark on the hike to Bachalpsee Lake, a serene alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. The hike is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) round trip and offers some of the best photo opportunities in the region.

Afternoon: Explore Grindelwald

After your hike, spend some time exploring Grindelwald. Wander through the village, admire the traditional chalets, and maybe grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the First Cliff Walk – a thrilling metal walkway clinging to the side of the mountain.

There are lots of fun activities to choose from at Grindelwald First. Some include trotti bikes, mountain carts, and ziplining!

Evening: Harder Kulm Gondola

Return to Interlaken in the late afternoon and take the Harder Kulm funicular up to the viewpoint. At 1,322 meters (4,337 feet), Harder Kulm offers panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, and Lake Brienz. Stay for dinner at the restaurant, where you can enjoy Swiss cuisine with a view, and watch the sunset over the Alps.

Day 4: Switzerland Road Trip – Explore Lauterbrunnen

Morning: Drive to Lauterbrunnen

After breakfast, drive to Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque village in a valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. The drive takes about 20 minutes from Interlaken.

Mid-Morning: Staubbach Falls

Start your day by visiting Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe. A short hike will take you to the base of the falls, where you can feel the mist and hear the roar of the water as it plunges nearly 300 meters (984 feet) from the cliff above.

Afternoon: Trümmelbach Falls

Next, head to Trümmelbach Falls, a series of impressive underground waterfalls accessible by a tunnel lift. The falls are inside the mountain, and the sheer power of the water thundering through the narrow chasms is awe-inspiring. The falls are illuminated, creating a surreal and mesmerizing experience.

I thought it was quite cold and very wet. I recommend bringing a rain jacket! Learn from our mistakes.

Evening: Return to Interlaken

After a day of exploring Lauterbrunnen, return to Interlaken for your final night in town. Enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps with a stroll along the Aare River or a visit to one of the town’s cozy bars.

Day 5: Switzerland Road Trip – Oeschinensee to Zermatt

Morning: Drive to Kandersteg

Leave Interlaken early and drive to Kandersteg, about 45 minutes away. From here, you’ll hike to Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland.

Mid-Morning: Oeschinensee Hike

The hike to Oeschinensee is relatively easy, taking about an hour. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and leads you to the turquoise waters of the lake. Spend some time exploring the area, maybe even taking a dip in the chilly waters if you’re feeling brave.

Be sure to choose the panorama trail if you’d like to get a Birds Eye view of the lake. This trail is a little more challenging than the lakeside trail, which is flat.

Afternoon: Auto Train to Zermatt

After your hike, return to Kandersteg and take the Lötschberg car train to Goppenstein. This unique train allows you to drive your car onto a flatbed and travel through the mountain tunnel, saving you time and providing a unique experience.

Evening: Zermatt – The Car-Free Alpine Paradise

From Goppenstein, drive to Täsch, the gateway to Zermatt. Park your car at the train station and take the shuttle train to Zermatt, as this charming village is car-free. Once again, DO NOT drive your car to Zermatt despite what your Apple or Google maps may tell you.

Once in Zermatt, take the gondola up to Blauherd and hike to Fluhalp Hut. The hike takes about 1.5 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

Overnight at Fluhalp Hut

Settle into Fluhalp Hut for the night. This mountain hut provides basic but cozy accommodations and a spectacular view of the Matterhorn. Have dinner at the hut and watch the sunset over the iconic peak – a truly magical experience.

To read everything you need to know about staying at Fluhalp Hut and catching this incredible view of the Matterhorn at sunset, click here.

Day 6: Switzerland Road Trip – Sunrise at Stellisee to Montreux

Early Morning: Sunrise at Stellisee

Wake up early to watch the sunrise at Stellisee Lake, a short hike from Fluhalp Hut. The lake perfectly reflects the Matterhorn, creating a stunning scene that’s worth the early wake-up call. Bring your camera and capture the magic of the moment.

Morning: Explore Zermatt

After enjoying the sunrise, hike back to Zermatt and spend the rest of the morning exploring this charming alpine village. Stroll through the car-free streets, visit the Matterhorn Museum, and admire the traditional wooden chalets.

Afternoon: Drive to Montreux

In the early afternoon, take the train back to Täsch, pick up your car, and drive to Montreux. The drive takes about 2.5 hours and offers scenic views as you descend from the Alps to the shores of Lake Geneva.

Evening: Explore Montreux

Arrive in Montreux and spend the evening exploring the lakefront promenade. Montreux is famous for its beautiful flower-lined promenade, stunning views of the lake and mountains, and the iconic Château de Chillon, a medieval castle perched on the shores of Lake Geneva. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, visit the castle, and enjoy dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Day 7: Switzerland Road Trip – Depart

Morning: Final Explore and Drive to Geneva

Spend your last morning in Montreux soaking in the views and perhaps enjoying a leisurely breakfast by the lake. When you’re ready, drive to Geneva, about an hour away. Geneva is known for its cosmopolitan vibe, the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, and numerous museums and parks.

Afternoon: Explore Geneva

If time permits, explore some of Geneva’s highlights before your flight. Visit the Old Town (Vieille Ville) with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and Saint Peter’s Cathedral. Take a stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, or visit the United Nations headquarters and the Red Cross Museum.

Evening: Fly Home

Return your rental car and head to Geneva International Airport for your flight home. As you board your plane,