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Where best to add days - Zurich, Lucerne or Bern?

Hello community. We'll be on the RSE tour starting 6/23/24 in Lucerne and ending in Bern. We're planning on flying in thru Zurich a day early. Any suggestions on the first night being in Zurich instead of Lucerne? That would mean an afternoon and evening to see Zurich. Similarly, we're adding a day after the tour, and flying out of Zurich, so any suggestions on that extra night being in Bern instead of Zurich? If Bern we would do a day trip somewhere vs an afternoon and evening in Zurich.

1 Zurich, 2 Zurichs or 0 Zurichs? I'm trying to weigh the benefit of fewer hotel/city changes vs missing out on a little taste of Zurich. Mainly we're interested in scenery, history and charm/old towns vs shopping and nightlife. Is Zurich just too important to completely skip? Thank you!

Posted by
485 posts

scenery, history and charm/old towns

This would describe both Bern and Luzern over and above Zürich.

Posted by
762 posts

I would consider staying in Zurich for your trip beginning. Coming off a plane, I think there's some benefit to a low-key arrival. AND I do think the Swiss National Museum is worth a visit, and is very well done if you'd like to get an overview of Swiss history before your trip begins. But agree with @ Maureen: given your other priorities, I'd pick Bern or Lucerne on the back end. Also the Swiss National Museum is closed Mondays, so take that into account...

Posted by
10 posts

Thank you both for your thoughts! If anyone else has opinions, feel free. Thanks!

Posted by
4706 posts

We always go thru to Lucerne when we first arrive. I love waking up with that view of the Chapel Bridge.
One last night in Zurich is fine. If it's warm, watch the swimmers jump off the bridge by the high-rise Marriott.
If your trip ends up on a Sunday, Bern is pretty quiet , as most businesses are closed.
We truly enjoyed the RS Swiss tour, it was fantastic!