The Ultimate Itinerary for a Solo Trip to Switzerland in the Summer
When dreaming of a European summer, Switzerland is not always factored into one’s plans. However, after embarking on a solo trip to Switzerland in the summer, it has now become evident that this country is the missing piece of the puzzle for many travelers’ European summers. This country earns the respect of all its visitors as soon as they set eyes on this alpine sanctuary.
However, traveling to such a visually appealing country requires meticulous planning that can easily become overwhelming. After countless hours of research and firsthand experience of this country, I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary for a solo trip to Switzerland in the summer in the hopes that it will lessen the burden of planning for you! Feeling nervous about going solo? Read this blog for tips.
Head here to discover where to base yourself for the majority of your trip!
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Switzerland Day One: Zurich to Lucerne
Soon after landing in the cosmopolitan hub of Zurich, you'll want to whisk yourself away on a train ride to Lucerne, a treasure trove of Swiss allure. The picturesque journey weaves through lush countryside and past shimmering lakes, offering a glimpse of Switzerland's natural majesty. Upon arrival, the city's beguiling ambiance immediately envelops you, as cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval architecture beckon you to explore its timeless charms.
Book your ticket from Zurich to Lucerne on Trainline like I did!
Explore Old Town
Lucerne's Old Town, a living postcard, is an absolute must for any solo traveler in Switzerland. Step into a bygone era as you wander through its quaint alleys adorned with centuries-old facades and intricate frescoes. Take a leisurely stroll on the iconic Chapel Bridge and the promenade, which reveals medieval watchtowers and quaint squares.
See a Traditional Swiss Yodeling Show
A highlight of your solo evening in Lucerne awaits at Stadkeller Luzern, an atmospheric venue that offers an immersive cultural experience. Prepare to be enchanted by the captivating art of yodeling, a quintessential Swiss tradition that resonates with the nation's rich heritage. However, the fun doesn't stop here. you'll also witness cultural highlights such as the alpine horn, cowbells, and more. I even had the pleasure of being asked to come on stage to participate in a traditional Swiss folk dance, which made me feel so involved as a solo traveler. As you watch the show, you'll get to indulge in traditional foods like fondue. Stadkeller Luzern offers a truly authentic experience that fosters a deep appreciation for Switzerland's enduring traditions, making it the perfect way to kick off your solo trip to Switzerland!
Read more about the yodeling show at Stadkeller Luzern in this blog post!
Switzerland Day Two: Lucerne to Interlaken
After a fun introductory night in Lucerne, you’ll embark on a scenic train ride to Interlaken, which will serve as a central base for your next six nights in Switzerland.
Check Into Balmers Hostel
Nestled amidst the captivating scenery of the Bernese Oberland, Balmers Hostel offers a warm welcome to solo travelers. With its rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere, the hostel becomes a hub for fellow travelers to connect. The entire layout of Balmers Hostel is created for social connection. A quick walkthrough of the property will reveal a dart room, pool room, music room, relaxation room with hammocks, an outdoor bar with a foosball table, an underground club, and so much more.
Check availability here, as Balmers gets booked up quickly!
If you’re looking for affordable accommodations during your solo trip to Switzerland in the summer, Balmers Hostel is easily my top recommendation! However, I also have a blog post that lists all the affordable hostels in Interlaken.
Take the Harderbahn to Harder Kulm
After familiarizing yourself with your new headquarters, you’ll want to start exploring more of Interlaken. Interlaken is pretty walkable, making it easier to get from one attraction to the next. Your first stop will be the Harderbahn funicular, which ascends to Harder Kulm, an iconic vantage point that showcases Interlaken's unparalleled beauty. As the funicular makes its way up the steep slope, travelers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Jungfrau region and the glimmering waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz below. Once at the top, you’ll be able to step out onto the platform for 360° views of the scenery and will have a handful of hiking trails to explore.
Explore Interlaken and Have Dessert at The Funky Chocolate Club
Once back in the heart of Interlaken, the city invites exploration of its charming streets and boutiques, where Swiss craftsmanship and tradition intertwine. And for those with a sweet tooth, the Funky Chocolate Club proves to be a delightful indulgence. Here, confectionery artistry comes alive as skilled chocolatiers craft delectable treats with passion and flair. Perhaps your choice of dessert will include a cute Swiss flag, as mine did!
Switzerland Day Three: Brienz, Iseltwald, End in Interlaken
Ride the Historic Brienz Rothorn Bahn
A ride aboard the historic Brienz Rothorn Bahn is something that should be on everybody's Switzerland bucket list. Departing from Brienz, this historic cogwheel railway ventures into the heart of the Bernese Oberland, navigating steep gradients and breathtaking landscapes with grace. The rhythmic chug of the vintage locomotive will fill the air on this hour-long ride through the landscape. After reaching Mount Rothorn, you'll be able to complete a short hike to the summit before lining up for the trip back down.
Take a Boat Past Iseltwald and Return to Interlaken
If you've had enough trains for one day, you can board a serene lake cruise back to Interlaken. Cruising along, the boat charts a course that passes the charming village of Iseltwald, a hidden gem nestled along Lake Brienz's shoreline. As you pass by Iseltwald, you’ll get lakeside views of the Seeburg castle, standing firm on the peninsula. You’ll have the chance to disembark to explore Iseltwald further, or you can continue on to Interlaken.
Switzerland Day Four: Interlaken and Thun
Paragliding in Interlaken
Paragliding in Interlaken offers an unparalleled adventure amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps. While it was something I debated including in my itinerary for my solo trip to Switzerland, it ended up being one of my favorite memories from the trip. While I booked my tour with Paragliding Interlaken, there are a few more companies you can look into below!
You'll start the morning getting picked up and transferred to the launch site, where the instructors will brief you on the safety measures and general tips for having a safe flight with your experienced pilot. The professional paragliding instructors assure you of a safe and exhilarating experience, putting your mind at ease.
Once you reach the top, you'll get paired off with an instructor and will suit up for the flight. Once ready, you'll begin running forward until your feet are no longer touching the ground, signaling a successful start to your flight. You'll spend the next 20 minutes or so, weather permitting, gliding over Interlaken's lush valleys and turquoise lakes. Depending on your preference, your pilot can continue on a calm path forward or can demonstrate some of the "rollercoaster" moves for you if you're not prone to motion sickness.
I opted into purchasing the photos and videos from my flight, as my pilot was dedicated to capturing some great content for me. As a travel blogger, I simply couldn't say no to this! After safely landing on solid ground, my pilot transferred the photo and video content to my phone, which I promptly shared on Instagram, hardly believing that I had just been up in the sky!
Read my blog listing all the best places to go paragliding in Switzerland here.
Travel to Thun by Boat
After your heart-pounding aerial escapade, it's time to embrace a more relaxed journey, yet no less captivating. You’ll embark on a boat ride from Interlaken, bound for Thun. While this 2-hour boat ride takes up a small chunk of your day, the boat ride itself is full of beautiful views and is completely free if you’ve purchased the Berner Oberland Pass. Learn more about this pass here!
Once arriving in Thun, take some time to explore its cobblestone streets, lined with boutiques, cafes, and centuries-old architecture. I must confess that I wasn’t as drawn to Thun as some other travelers I met were. However, I’m still glad I embarked on this journey, as the boat ride alone was worth it. I suggest traveling back to Interlaken by train to cut down on time.
Switzerland Day Five: Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald
Explore Lauterbrunnen and Hike to Staubbach Falls
Nestled within the enchanting Lauterbrunnen Valley, a visit to Lauterbrunnen promises a delightful immersion into the heart of Swiss natural beauty. In fact, this town is what inspired my solo trip to Switzerland in the first place!
Read my full blog post below!
As you venture into the valley, you'll be surrounded by soaring cliffs adorned with cascading waterfalls, creating a picturesque landscape that feels almost otherworldly. One of the must-visit attractions is Staubbach Falls, a majestic waterfall that plummets from a dizzying height of 984 feet. Embarking on the hiking trail to Staubbach Falls rewards you with an up-close encounter with the raw power of nature, taking you through the mountain and right behind the waterfall itself. Take time to admire the scenery, but don’t exhaust yourself too much, as you’ll have another day to return to Lauterbrunnen for even more photo ops.
Travel to Grindelwald
From Lauterbrunnen, your journey takes you to Grindelwald, a charming mountain village renowned for its postcard-perfect alpine vistas. You can easily reach Grindelwald via train from Lauterbrunnen, as this town is often coupled with Lauterbrunnen for day-trippers.
Pfingstegg Toboggan Run
One of the top attractions on my bucket list for Switzerland was none other than the Pfingstegg Toboggan Run, a thrilling experience that offers an adrenaline-pumping descent through the mountainside. Embrace your inner child as you hurtle down the twists and turns of the toboggan run, admiring the scenic views the entire time. For a little over $6 USD, this experience is one you cannot miss!
Read my full post on how to book your tickets for the Pfingstegg Toboggan Run!
Bonus tip: If you’ve purchased the Berner Oberland Pass, it covers the cost of the gondola that takes you to the toboggan run!
More information on the Berner Oberland Pass here.
First Cliff Walk Grindelwald
Another main attraction included in the Berner Oberland Pass is First Cliff Walk Grindelwald. Perched on the edge of a sheer cliff, this suspended walkway offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. But first, you’ll embark on a lengthy gondola ride to the top, one of my favorite modes of transportation ever.
While the main attraction is the cliff walk itself, you’ll find other attractions at the top of the mountain, one of the most popular being the mountain carts that tourists enjoy riding down the mountain.
Grab your tickets below!
Switzerland Day Six: Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Wengen, and Lake Brienz
Take an Iconic Photo in Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is too pretty to see only in one day, which is why I've included it a second time in this itinerary, especially since it is a central point between the traditional villages of Mürren and Wengen tucked into the mountains. As you spend some more time wandering through Lauterbrunnen, you'll discover charming Swiss chalets adorned with vibrant flowers, lending a touch of whimsy to the scenery.
Where Is the Popular Photo Location in Lauterbrunnen? While Lauterbrunnen is photogenic at any angle, there is one iconic photo spot that has graced many travel blogs and Instagram accounts in recent years. Pictured below, you can find this address pinned here.
Explore Car-Free Mürren
To reach this car-free haven, you board the scenic Grütschalp gondola to Winteregg and then embark on a train that winds its way through the valley. Mürren, perched on a shelf overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley, boasts sweeping vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Take your time strolling through this village and prancing through flower fields.
Take a Train to Wengen for Lunch and Beautiful Viewpoints
Next on your itinerary is Wengen, accessible by train from Lauterbrunnen. This idyllic village exudes a timeless charm, with its wooden chalets and alpine meadows providing an authentic Swiss experience. Treat yourself to a lunch surrounded by stunning views in this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
End Your Day Relaxing at Lake Brienz
Conclude your day at the turquoise Lake Brienz. Although my initial itinerary didn’t include this stop, some friends I met at my hostel were raving about this spot. We all went together for a late afternoon dip, although it was a bit too cold for my liking. Regardless, there were many locals tanning here and enjoying the 360° views. I loved it enough that I couldn’t leave it out of my ultimate itinerary for a solo trip to Switzerland in the summer!
Switzerland Day Seven: Gelmer
Journey to Gelmer for the Gelmerbahn
Due to TikTok influencing me, I knew I couldn’t leave the Gelmerbahn out of my itinerary. I almost thought I wouldn’t be able to make this happen because there was a three-hour gap between the buses heading this way, and it made me miss my original ascent time on the Gelmer since tickets sell out online. However, I was able to snag another ticket that would give me 20 minutes to explore at the top before heading back down on my ticketed time. With Gelmer being over 2 hours via public transport from Interlaken, it was a bit of a stretch. However, it is one of my favorite things I did in Switzerland!
What Is the Gelmerbahn? The Gelmerbahn is one of the steepest funiculars in the world, offering a thrilling and adventurous ascent to the Gelmersee, a stunning glacial lake nestled high in the Swiss Alps. My best way to describe it is a slow-motion rollercoaster, as its steep descent resembles this exhilarating ride while also presenting the most sweeping views.
How to Get to the Gelmerbahn From Interlaken: To get here, you’ll embark on two train rides and a final bus to Gelmer. I suggest using the SBB Mobile App or Google Maps to direct you to the correct trains and buses. After hopping off the bus, it is a short walk up to the ticket office for the Gelmerbahn. Even if you reserved your ticket online, you’ll need to present this to the staff to get a printed ticket. While waiting for the Gelmerbahn, you can also embark on Handeckfall Bridge, a pedestrian walkway situated between mountain ranges. After this exhilarating experience, you’ll return to Interlaken for your final night in this region, soaking up your last moments at Balmers Hostel or your chosen accommodation.
Read my full blog post on how to get to the Gelmerbahn in Switzerland here!
Switzerland Day Eight: Bern
Bern was not initially included in my itinerary, but it ended up being my favorite city I visited during my solo trip to Switzerland. Listed below are my top recommendations for spending one day in Bern. However, view the full blog post here.
Explore Old Town
Your exploration begins in the heart of the city, the UNESCO-listed Old Town. As you wander through the cobbled streets lined with beautifully preserved medieval architecture, you'll find yourself transported to another era. The Zytglogge clock tower, with its ornate astronomical clock, chimes throughout the streets as tourists dine and shop. The iconic arcades that flank the streets offer a unique shopping experience, where you can browse through underground boutiques, record stores, and tango studios, to name a few.
Catch the Sunset at Rosengarten
As the day draws to a close, head to the Rosengarten, the city's famous rose garden perched on a hilltop. Here, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Bern's rooftops and the meandering Aare River, making it the perfect spot to view the sunset on one of your last evenings in Switzerland.
Switzerland Day Nine: Zurich
Your final day on your solo trip to Switzerland will bring you back to Zurich, the start of it all. As your flight home will likely be departing from this city, you’ll have some time on your hands to explore before settling in for your last evening.
Find train tickets from Bern to Zurich on Trainline.
Wander the Old Town
As you stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of Zurich's Old Town, you're surrounded by centuries-old buildings and countless restaurants. Stop by notable sights like the Grossmünster and the Fraumünster Church, with its exquisite stained glass windows.
Experience WOW Museum
For a dose of wonder and imagination, a visit to the WOW Museum is a must. This interactive museum is a playground for the mind, where art, science, and technology converge to create mind-boggling exhibits. From optical illusions that play tricks on the eyes to innovative artworks that blur the line between reality and imagination, the museum is an immersive adventure that delights visitors of all ages.
Enjoy Gelato by Limmat River
Zurich's scenic riverbanks provide the perfect setting to unwind and relish a scoop of creamy gelato. I recommend indulging in this treat by the Limmat River. However, watch out for the swans. I got bullied by one who ended up stealing my macaron! I saw it bully many others along the riverbank during my time there. It became entertaining after a while, but I definitely recommend grabbing your stuff and booking it up the stairs if you see one of these swans charging toward you.
Is Switzerland Good for Solo Travelers?
I found Switzerland to be an excellent destination for solo travelers. The country is known for its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transportation, making it a comfortable and convenient place to explore on your own. Whether you are an adventurous hiker, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Switzerland offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to solo travelers.
While the Swiss cities have a bit of a different feel than the small villages of Lauterbrunnen or Wengen, I never felt unsafe and truly enjoyed my time there! Meeting other solo travelers at Balmers Hostel also played a big role in my time there, as I quickly made acquaintances that I was able to explore with in the days to come. My solo trip to Switzerland turned out not to be so solo after all, which is one of the best parts of traveling, in my opinion. Meeting travelers from all over the world, forming meaningful connections in as little as a day, and finding people with similar passions will never grow old to me.
Overall, Switzerland's safety, natural beauty, and ease of travel make it an ideal destination for solo travelers.
How Much Should I Budget for a Solo Trip to Switzerland?
The cost of a solo trip to Switzerland can vary depending on factors such as your travel style, the duration of your trip, the cities or regions you plan to visit, and your choice of activities and accommodations. Switzerland is known to be a relatively expensive destination, but with careful planning and budgeting, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
After purchasing my most expensive flight to date, I was determined to lessen my expenses in other areas of my trip. I ended up spending less than $2,500 on my flights, accommodations, activities, and transportation, paragliding included!
The biggest cost-savers for me were staying at Balmers Hostel for six nights and purchasing the Berner Oberland Pass, which included unlimited use of the trains, funiculars, cable cars, buses, and boats in the region. This pass also included access to otherwise costly activities, such as the Brienz Rothorn Bahn and First Cliff Walk Grindelwald. Other travelers I met had to turn these experiences down because of their cost, whereas I felt that I got my money's worth out of the $400 8-day pass for the region within the first day!
Food is known to drive up the cost of travel in Switzerland, as the country is not known for its cheap eats. However, I was able to stay on budget by choosing affordable meals, grabbing croissants from bakeries, and opting for street food, which ended up being more tasty to me anyway!
I definitely believe it is possible for others to stay in this price range for their trip to Switzerland. However, don’t stop yourself from splurging if you’re able to do so. After all, most people are only in Switzerland once!
How Many Days in Switzerland Is Enough?
The duration of your solo trip to Switzerland ultimately depends on how much you’d like to see. My itinerary didn’t include Zermatt, a top sightseeing destination, simply because it didn’t appeal to me as much as the destinations I did include in my itinerary. You might want to lessen your time in one destination or add onto this itinerary to include Zermatt if it’s a must-see region.
In my opinion, anywhere from 7-10 days is plenty of time to visit Switzerland. I had nine full days of exploration of the country and felt like I had seen everything I set out to see. I left with a content heart, celebrating the dreamy destination I had just visited and the incredible people I met.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Switzerland?
Switzerland offers something special in each season, so it ultimately comes down to what you prioritize in your trip. While I embarked on a solo trip to Switzerland in summer and loved this time of year, that doesn't mean there aren't perks to visiting a different time of year. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:
Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder temperatures and blossoming landscapes as the Swiss countryside bursts with colorful flowers. This season is ideal for hiking, exploring cities, and enjoying outdoor activities. However, some mountain passes and high-altitude hiking trails may still be closed due to snow in early spring.
Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time to visit Switzerland. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on Swiss lakes. Cities come alive with various festivals and events. However, popular tourist destinations can get crowded during this season.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings stunning fall foliage to the Swiss landscape. The mountains and forests are painted with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. This is a great time for scenic drives, photography, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The weather is generally mild, but some Alpine regions may experience cooler temperatures.
Winter (December to February): Winter is a magical time to visit Switzerland if you enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Swiss ski resorts are world-renowned for their quality and variety. Christmas markets and festive decorations add to the charm of Swiss cities during this season. However, do note that some mountain passes and hiking trails may be inaccessible due to snow.
Whether it's catching a mesmerizing sunset at Rosengarten, boarding the Gelmerbahn for a thrilling ascent, or enjoying gelato by the Limmat River, Switzerland offers a plethora of experiences that cater to diverse tastes. With proper planning and a spirit of adventure, your solo trip to Switzerland can be just as rewarding as mine!
