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The Green Peaks of German Switzerland

8 Days / 7 Nights

Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, Zurich

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue
See the high points and even higher ones of Switzerland's German-speaking areas, over the course of a fast-paced week. You'll start at beautiful lakeside Lucerne, famous for its medieval covered bridge, and near Mt. Pilatus, which you can visit via the world's steepest railroad. Then spend time between lakes at Interlaken, taking time to climb up the Jungfrau. You'll visit the quiet de facto capital of Bern, with its charming UNESCO-listed Old Town, then enjoy the big city pleasures of prosperous Zurich.

The services we provide as part of our comprehensive packages include accommodations, private door-to-door long-distance transfers, train tickets, airport and train station transfers, city tours, and day trips. In addition to the tours included, we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to contact your JayWay tour manager throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 2-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
Route for Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, Zurich tour

2 Nights in Lucerne

2 Nights in Lucerne

3 days in Lucerne
3 days in Lucerne

2 Nights in Lucerne

If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.

If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Lucerne

Upon your arrival at Zurich's airport, a driver will pick you up and take you to your accommodations in Lucerne, after an hour's drive.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne

Lucerne Private Walking Tour

Lucerne Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the fascinating abundant heritage of Lucerne. Simply being there gives the feeling of being trapped in time, but strolling the streets and hearing true medieval stories from a local guide will definitely take you back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Eager to hear some recent history, art and culture? Your private guide is on top of these topics as well.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Mt. Pilatus Is Golden

Suggestion to explore on your own

Experience five different modes of transport and one amazing mountain, all in one day! Take a boat from Lucerne, then conquer the amazing Mt. Pilatus via the steepest railroad in the world. After the breathtaking ascent, you will be rewarded by equally spectacular views from the top. Excellent leisure facilities await you at the summit, have some refreshments on the panoramic terrace or in one of the cozy restaurants. On your way back, descend with the "Dragon Ride" aerial cableway to Fräkmüntegg and finally take a gondola to Kriens. From Kriens, you can return to Lucerne on the modern trolleybus, thus completing the convenient circular journey.

Golden Mt. Pilatus

Day 3

Day 3 - Traveling to Interlaken by Private Transfer

Today you will travel to Interlaken. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodations in Lucerne and take you to the home of the Jungfrau mountain. The drive itself takes about an hour, but en route we'll include a stop at Grandhotel Giessbach. There, you'll have a few hours, which you can enjoy by taking a cable car to see breathtaking waterfalls, and maybe having a lunch with a splendid view. Please note that this transfer does not include a guide, any entrance fees are not included.

Interlaken by Private Transfer With a Giessbach Stop
We also offer the following excursions in Lucerne

Bernese Oberland Pick and Mix Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Bernese Oberland and Jungfrau Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Chocolate, Mountains, and Medieval Towns Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours
City and Fondue Private TukTuk Tour
Easy1 hour 30 minutes

2 Nights in Interlaken

2 Nights in Interlaken

3 days in Interlaken
3 days in Interlaken

2 Nights in Interlaken

The gateway to the Bernese Highlands, Interlaken's name is fitting, as it straddles the scenic lakes of Brienz and Thun, linked by the turquoise River Aare. A tourist heaven, this hub offers a wide variety of active ways to explore the surrounding area, home to some of Switzerland's most famed peaks.

The gateway to the Bernese Highlands, Interlaken's name is fitting, as it straddles the scenic lakes of Brienz and Thun, linked by the turquoise River Aare. A tourist heaven, this hub offers a wide variety of active ways to explore the surrounding area, home to some of Switzerland's most famed peaks.

Day 3

Day 3 - Arrival in Interlaken

Your driver will take you to your accommodations in Interlaken.

Cheese & Chocolate Private Tour

The Swiss Diet

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Once in Switzerland, make sure you treat yourself with some cheese, chocolate, beer, and wine, all of which you can find at their best in Interlaken. The variety of offers is so grand that you can actually dedicate a day to just going from cheese factory to chocolate shop, from wine shops to beer houses. Fine dining, rural cuisine and comfort food is as delicious and local as anywhere in Switzerland. Try the real Swiss diet!


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8-9 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Interlaken

The "Virgin" and Other Peaks

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

See the Top of Europe, the "Jungfraujoch" saddle between the Mönch ("Monk") and Jungfrau ("Maiden") by train. You can ride the Bernese Oberland Railroad from the Interlaken Ost station to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, then ride the Wengernalp rack railroad to Kleine Scheidegg, where you'll make one last transfer, taking the Jungfrau Railroad directly to the Jungfraujoch, a total journey of two amazingly scenic hours. The railroad stations along the way offer plenty of hiking routes, which can serve as alternatives to trains. Along the way, there are plenty of sights and highlights to see (like the Eismeer lookout, the Alpine Sensation, or the Ice Palace), to say nothing of the activities at the top. Be sure to set aside a full day for this route, or go with a private guide. Already conquered this peak? Take the top of Schilthorn!

Jungfraujoch Private Tour

Jungfraujoch Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Learn about alpine history and local legends and witness spectacular views along the way during this tour to the Jungfraujoch, the saddle between the Jungfrau and Monch, mountains over 4,000 meters (13,100 feet) high. After taking Europe's highest railroad, you'll get a tour of the "Top of Europe" complex, including one of the world's highest observatories. Along the way, you'll visit the beautiful village of Lauterbrunnen.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 7 hours

Schilthorn Private Tour

Schilthorn Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

On this tour, you'll head by train, bus, and cable car up to the mountaintop Schilthorn Station, where you'll take in the absolutely stunning views. The rotating restaurant atop this peak was named for, and used to film, the Bond film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service," so you'll naturally get to visit its James Bond exhibition.


Activity Level : Strenuous
Duration : 6 hours

Day 5

Day 5 - Traveling to Bern by Private Transfer

Today it's time to visit the city of Bern. We will arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodation in Interlaken and take you there. The nonstop non-guided transfer should take less than an hour, but we recommend making this a half day trip and stopping to see the Spiez Castle on the way, as well as the charming town of Thun. The journey takes around 4 hours including the 3-hour stop in Spiez Castle and Thun.

Bern by Private Transfer with a stop in Spiez Castle and Thun
We also offer the following excursions in Interlaken

Alpine Paragliding Excursion (Single Seat)
Moderate1 hour 30 minutes
Around the Lake Thoune Private Tour
Strenuous8-9 hours
Grimsel Canyoning Group Tour
Strenuous5 hours 30 minutes
Half Day Kayaking Group Tour on the Lake Brienz
Moderate3 hours

1 Night in Bern

1 Night in Bern

2 days in Bern
2 days in Bern

1 Night in Bern

Switzerland's de facto capital may not look like you'd expect. Instead of massive government buildings, you'll find kilometers of covered arcades, and streets boasting clocktowers and fountains amid colorful homes. The city's UNESCO-listed Old Town is located on a peninsula, nearly surrounded by a bend in the turquoise River Aare, while the other bank is home to parks (one just for bears). Despite its compact size, Bern was once the largest free city-state north of the Alps, and has long punched above its size historically, with Einstein, Klee, and Dürrenmatt among its famous inhabitants.

Switzerland's de facto capital may not look like you'd expect. Instead of massive government buildings, you'll find kilometers of covered arcades, and streets boasting clocktowers and fountains amid colorful homes. The city's UNESCO-listed Old Town is located on a peninsula, nearly surrounded by a bend in the turquoise River Aare, while the other bank is home to parks (one just for bears). Despite its compact size, Bern was once the largest free city-state north of the Alps, and has long punched above its size historically, with Einstein, Klee, and Dürrenmatt among its famous inhabitants.

Day 5

Day 5 - Arrival in Bern

Your driver will take you straight to your accommodations in Bern.

Bern Old City Private Tour

Bern Old City Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old City never ceases to fascinate, with its distinctive limestone buildings, charming alleys, and impressive monuments. Let a local guide show you the history, culture, and local life of this amazing city. Participate in this walking tour and see memorable sights from the late Gothic Bernese Minster, to the “Kindlifresserbrunnen,” the "Child Eater Fountain."


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 2 hours

A Night with Roses

Suggestion to explore on your own

Ascend to the Rose Garden on your first night in Bern, and you'll fall in love with the city. Just two hundred meters above the UNESCO-listed Old City, you'll find yourself in a captivating natural environment, with fantastic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Guaranteed postcard shots! This public park offers 400 types of roses and irises, as well as 28 cultivars of rhododendrons and Japanese cherry trees. Hungry after the stroll? The Rosengaten restaurant awaits, with fine fare.

A Night with Roses

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Zurich by Train

Today you'll make your way to Zurich. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Bern's train station. We have included second class train tickets, but you can upgrade to first class for an extra fee. The direct train takes about two hours.

Zurich by Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Zurich by Private Transfer

Zurich by Private Transfer

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Bern

Bern Old City Group Tour
Moderate1 hour 30 minutes

2 Nights in Zurich

2 Nights in Zurich

3 days in Zurich
3 days in Zurich

2 Nights in Zurich

Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.

Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Zurich

Upon your arrival to Zurich's main train station, you'll be picked up by a driver and taken to your accommodations.

Zurich Private Walking Tour

Zurich Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Grab the opportunity to discover Zurich with a private guide, exploring the city and your related interests at your preferred pace. Visit the major sights or ask for special route and sights so you can get a glimpse behind the scenes, or just rely on your professional local guide, who will undoubtedly ease your appetite for history tidbits, spoil your eyes with architectural highlights, and answer all your questions about Zurich.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Zurich

Hike the Hill

Suggestion to explore on your own

Zurich has its own hill, the Uetliberg, which offers great views amid green majesty. You can easily reach it by train from Zurich's main station, or by taking a streetcar from the Fifa World Football Museum. Choosing the latter option will let you add an easy 20-minute hike to the top, following the "Planetenweg" ("Planets Path") route, although there are several others to try. As the name implies, the route passes models of the planets (each meter equals one million kilometers), so you can get a feel for the solar system's true size. Once you're above the city, enjoy the hill's panorama, and refreshing air and nature.

Hike the Hill
Zurich Fondue eTukTuk Private Experience

Tasty Zurich

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Zurich's diverse dining scene varies from from rustic taverns to haute cuisine and culinary delicacies from around the world. If there is just one local dish you should taste, make it "Züri Gschnätzlets," thinly sliced stripes of a veal with sauce and rösti, the Swiss classic reminiscent of hash browns. Zurich also happens to be the birthplace of muesli, which makes for a great way to start your day. Finally, don't forget to take the time for some fondue, whether on your own, or as part of a tour.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 90 minutes

Day 8

Day 8 - Departure Day

A driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Zurich's airport with plenty of time to spare before your departing flight.

We also offer the following excursions in Zurich

Bernese Oberland Pick and Mix Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Bernese Oberland and Jungfrau Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Chocolate, Mountains and Medieval Towns Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours
Lake Lucerne Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Lucerne

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zurich Airport - Lucerne Private Transfer
Lucerne Private Walking Tour
Lucerne - Interlaken Private Transfer with Stop at Grandhotel Giessbach

Interlaken

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Interlaken - Bern Private Transfer with Stop at Spiez Castle and Thun

Bern

1 Night Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Bern Old City Private Tour
Bern Train Station Transfer
Bern - Zurich Train

Zurich

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zurich Train Station Transfer
Zurich Private Walking Tour
Zurich Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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