I'll be planning a trip to Switzerland in late September. It would be my first trip and I'm clueless as to which part of Switzerland I should travel to. There had been thoughts to go to Geneva, Bern and Zurich but I can't seem to work out the itinerary. Is it possible to cover these areas in 5 days?
I would love if my trip to Switzerland could cover scenic areas. Any recommendations?
Geneva, Bern and Zurich are all wonderful large cities. It should be possible to get a good peek at all 3 in 5 days. However, if you want scenic, you don't want to pass up the Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Berner Oberland with either Murren or Wengen as a place to stay. Stunning stuff. But now I've caused a problem. You wont' be able to see the 3 cities and the Berner Oberland in 5 days. You might need to stick to the cities.
I think by the time you get enough responces to your post, you will see that the Lauterbrunen valley will be high on everyone's list; and for good reason. So, pick up Rick's Swiss book and start planning... Just a couple of thoughts; If you fly open jaws into Geneva early, you could spend that day sight seeing there, and then take a late train to Lauterbrunen for the next 3 days. On day 5, early to Bern (an hour or so away), spend a few hours there. Continue on to Zurich and spend the rest of the day there. Fly out day 6. This way you can have a small taste of 3 cities, and a big plate full of the Alps! Have a nice trip...
I'm travelling from Innsbruck, Austria to Switzerland. Should my first stop in Switzerland be Zurich or Geneva? After Switzerland, my next destination would be Amsterdam.
I've heard Lucerne is a nice place to visit. If I have to choose between Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen, which should it be?
Hi,
You're coming from Innsbruck and you have 5 days/5 nights. Why not have 2 nights Luzern and 3 nights in the Berner Oberland (we loved staying in Wengen!)?
Paul
We were floored by the beauty of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Just walked/hiked and soaked it in. Stayed in Gimmelwald - it was great.
Another Lauterbrunnen fan. We stayed there 6 nights at the Valley Hostel. It was immaculate with full use of a kitchen.
http://www.valleyhostel.ch/index.php?lan=e&pag=0
I would suggest day visits to Gimmelwald, Murren, Wengen and Interlaken for night life.
The area is majestic.
If you want scenic, trade the cities for the countryside. Compared to the Alps, these cities are dull.
There are many alps to see, but the Lauterbrunnen area is justly popular.
I agree with Adam skip in the cites and spend your time in the alps. If you have to do one city, make it Luzern. Also there is a direct overnight train from Zurich and Basel to Amsterdam via City Night Line. www.citynightline.ch
Thanks everyone! Now I've a rough idea on where I should focus. Working on it now. I kinda like the idea of focusing on the countryside.
