Compare Zurich - Lucerne - Chur by Train by TripMasters vs Walking and E-biking in the Swiss Alps by Exodus Travels

Day 1 in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Begin the afternoon by heading straight to Altstadt (Zurich`s Old Town) and find a place for lunch amongst the wide range of cafes and restaurants in the area. Spend a bit of time wandering the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, check out the colorful and wonderfully-preserved buildings, and stroll along the Limmat River. We highly recommend a walking tour to discover the city and learn about the history and culture that it offers.

From here, make your way to Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich`s premier shopping street and one of the bustling streets in Old Town where you`ll find window-shopping stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and much more! While here, it`s worth checking out Uhrenmuseum (Watch Museum) that is located in the basement of Beyer watch shop. You will learn the history and see the exhibition on time keeping dating back from 1400 BC to today.

Finish your day at one of the many restaurants or cafes on Bahnhofstrasse, some rich with tradition and many that are very inviting!

Day 2 in Zurich

Wake up early today and start your day off with a stroll along Lake Zurich. The lake is absolutely pristine and offers spectacular views of the Alps. Then head out on a boat cruise for about an hour ride on the lake and get lost in the stunning views and peaceful nature all around.

In the afternoon spend some time visiting Grossmunster, one of the most famous churches in Zurich. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city from the top. If time allows, head over to Church of Our Lady (or Fraumunster), built in the 9th century and famous for its graceful spire. You must see it to appreciate its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows that alone make it worth the visit.

As night approaches, head over to the Lindenhoff for sunset, a small climb will offer the most spectacular views of Zurich over the Limmat River and Old Town. You'll find numerous options for a great traditional Swiss dinner while in the downtown area offering views of the river.

Day 3 in Zurich

Start off your day by exploring the breathtaking views of Zurich and head to the Uetilber Mountain. Hike, jog, bike, or take the train up the mountain. At the top, take in the spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Zurich, the lake, and perhaps even a glimpse of the Alps. Relax with a cup of coffee or a bite to eat while taking in the fantastic views of the city and beyond.

Next, head over to the KunsthausZurich (Museum of Art); said to be one of the best museums in the city. Among an interesting collection of Swiss artists, the museum also hangs works by Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall and Claude Monet. And a visit to the top floors is a must!

On your final night, make your way to Zuri-West, a night life hotspot with a trendy, post-industrial edge. A revival has been taking place here for more than a decade, with converted industrial buildings offering everything from concert halls and rooftop bars to luxury flats. The area is now a hotspot for food design, art and culture.

Additional Days in Zurich

Should you be able to spend additional days in Zurich check out the picturesque beauty of Lucerne. Only a 45 minute drive from Zurich, this full day adventure will give you an understanding of why this is deemed one of Europe’` prettiest cities. Wonder around the city and marvel at the beautiful architecture and the oldest covered foot bridge in Europe. Then take a scenic boat ride to the base of Mount Pilatus and ascend on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world (only open in the summer months). This is an incredible journey up mountains offering the most breathtaking views to the top. Then make your way back down on the aerial cableways and panorama gondolas.

Your Last Day in Zurich

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Lucerne

Welcome to Lucerne! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Once you arrive in town, start your exploration at the Old Town, a maze of cobblestone alleys lined with brightly frescoed facades. Follow the old cobbled streets in the Old Town of Lucerne, and get lost amongst the many shops, fountains, restaurants and the historic painted buildings. The four main squares of the Old Town are Mühlenplatz, Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz and Kornmarkt.

Most of Old Town is spread across the north bank of River Reuss. On the south bank is the 17th century baroque style Jesuit Church of Saint Francis Xavier, identified by its dull-green twin onion domes. The flower-lined 14th century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) runs diagonally across the river and is the most well-known symbol of Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe and is full of history. As you stroll along the bridge and past the water tower, you can view the many paintings on the gables inside the bridge, which were painted by Hans Heinrich Wägmann in the 17th-18th century. Many of these paintings and the bridge were destroyed after a fire in 1993, but have since been reconstructed. You can also capture a gorgeous view of the town of Lucerne as well as a scenic view of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps.

Further down the river is Lucerne`s second covered wooden footbridge, the Spreuer Brudge or Mill Bridge, built in 1408. The bridge, in the city`s lower end, connected the mills to the baker`s quarter. Triangular panels on the roof depict a macabre series of paintings that show grinning skeletons in everyday human scenes. Cross over the bridge and stop in one of the charming al fresco riverside cafes. Make sure to try some delicious handmade chocolates and the variety of specialty cheeses you`ll encounter along the way.

Check out the brick-roofed Rathaus, the 17th-century town hall that now houses its own brewery and restaurant in the basement. Continue on and check out the Lion Memorial, a dying lion is carved into a sandstone rock rising above a pond of water, commemorating the Swiss guards who fell fighting for King Louis XVI in 1792 during the French Revolution. Check out the Glacier Garden found next to the Lyon monument which displays natural remnants from the Ice Age 20,000 years ago.

In the evening, enjoy an atmospheric dinner by the riverside, many restaurants offer both indoor and al fresco seating.

Day 2 in Lucerne

Start off your day with a cruise of the beautiful Lake Lucerne. Sit back and relax while you cruise past the stunning views of Switzerland. The average trip is about an hour-long and includes an audio guide of the main sights, as well as amazing views of the Alps. For something more active, you may want to explore Lake Lucerne by paddle boat and make your own way around the Lake.

After the cruise, stroll and people-watch along the active waterfront promenade. When the weather is warm, the stretch is full of young people rollerblading and old men playing pétanque (an age-old ball game). Find a restaurant in the area to enjoy some lunch and make sure to enjoy the cheese fondue, a must try while in Switzerland!

Continue along the promenade towards the Swiss Museum of Transport. The museum traces the history of road, rail, water and air navigation through simulators and multimedia displays. Don`t miss the vintage locomotives on display among the numerous exhibits. There is a film theater and a planetarium within the museum complex, but the highlight for kids and the kids at heart is the Chocolate Adventure. The interactive ride explains the history and making of chocolate through visuals, smells and tastings. Grab a snack at the in-house restaurant and take it with you for a picnic across the street at the beautiful lakeside park.

As evening approaches head back into Old Town to enjoy one of the lively cafes or restaurants in town. You may want to take in the live music and traditional folk performances, complete with yodelers, alphorn players and other Swiss performances. And end your night with a characteristically Swiss dessert, a cheese platter. It features different cuts of cheese paired with relish, jelly, walnut, fig, mustard and bread, and can be found on almost every menu in town.

Day 3 in Lucerne

On your last day in Lucerne, grab your comfortable shoes and take a day trip up the mountain to Mount Pilatus for a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne. Towering over Lucerne at 6,995 ft, Mount Pilatus has the world`s steepest cogwheel railway. Board the 126-year-old cogwheel rail that chugs up the mountainside at a steep angle, sometimes as sharp as 48 degrees, and operates from May to November. The train gently rolls up the mountain at 6 miles/hr and rolls through tunnels piercing straight through the rock face.

Another option to the top of Mount Pilatus is by gondola from Kriens through Krienseregg to Fräkmüntegg. The ride is a peaceful stretch complete with pristine views of the Mount Pilatus and the luscious green meadows and wildlife below. The final leg up from Fräkmüntegg to Pilatus Kulm by aerial cableway is the most exciting, but maybe not for the faint hearted. The total journey up to the mountain station is about 30 minutes.

When you arrive at the top, be prepared for the most spectacular views as soon as you step outside. From here, it is a 10-minute climb to the summit of the Esel (the central peak, but not the highest). And from Pilatus-Kulm, it is a 30 minute trek to the Tomlishorn, the highest peak of the mountain. The trip can also be combined with various types of sports or hiking tours.

In summer, indulge your active side at the Rope Park or the Toboggan Run. Grab a bite at the upscale Queen Victoria restaurant at Hotel Pilatus-Kulm or the self-service restaurant with a sun terrace at the Hotel Bellevue. There`s usually a choice of set meals. The Panoramic Gallery linking the two hotels features a covered roof and is a good place to stop for breathtaking views of the mighty Alps.

On your last evening in Lucerne check out the Grand Casino, a perfect spot to try your luck in poker, roulette or blackjack. Or if you are looking for something a bit more cultural, and if you speak German, you can enjoy a performance at the Stadttheater. And after dark, the Old Town is a great spot to be with various pubs and cafes to enjoy.

Additional Days in Lucerne

Should you be able to spend additional days in Lucerne we recommend a day trip to the World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, located 50 miles from Lucerne, this is known as the Top or Europe and is home to the highest railroad station on the continent at 11,332 ft. A perfect way to enjoy this stunning Alpine scenery is on the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip. The journey would begin with a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland and a cogwheel train trip up to the Jungfraujoch, passing through the mountain pass of Kleine Scheidegg, beneath the famous Eiger North Face. While on the summit, you can stop to explore the Ice Palace and enjoy the stunning views from the Sphinx Observation Terrace.

Your Last Day in Lucerne

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Chur

Welcome to Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland! Upon arrival, make your transfer to your destination, arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Start your afternoon in the charming Old Town, one of the best preserved historic city centers in Switzerland. Just wandering through the twisting streets and alleys, gazing up at the beautifully preserved buildings and popping into a café to enjoy the ambiance is a great way to spend a few hours. The vibrant Old Town is completely car-free and offers a wide range of cultural activities, museums, shopping, cafes, authentic restaurants and relaxed bars. You may also want to consider a guided tour to learn more about the history of the area.

Make sure to admire the iconic Martinskirche (St. Martin`s Church) which has become the symbol of the city. Named after Bishop of Tours, St. Martin, the church which is located in St. Martin`s square, is famous for its distinctive spire and clock face. The church was originally built in the 8th-century but was rebuilt later in 1491 in the late Gothic style because of a fire that destroyed the building in 1464.

Learn more about the history and get some great insight of the area at the Ratisches Museum. The museum is housed in a baroque patrician residence and displays weapons, agricultural tools, Roman statuettes, as well as items related to politics and religion. There is also a display of jewelry from Bronze Age.

If you enjoy art, spend some time at the Bundner Kunstmuseum, a tall rectangular museum with a gallery in the Villa Panta. In the gallery, you`ll find the artistic legacy of Alberto Giacometti, one of the renowned Graubunden-born artists. The artworks are a reflection of the art historical significance of present day art forms of the area.

Some other notable landmarks worth seeing as you wander through the old town are the Episcopal Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, and the numerous boutiques and galleries.

Finish your afternoon at the Quaderwiese, a nice place for you to relax and spend some leisure time. The meadow`s lush grass is going to give you the feeling of tranquility and serenity. If you come in the winter, you won`t be able to see the green area as the Quaderwiese is transformed into an artificial ice rink. You can enjoy the pleasant winter atmosphere while ice skating in the rink between November to March.

Enjoy dinner in the lively old town before heading back to your hotel for a restful night`s sleep.

Day 2 in Chur

Chur is an important rail center, a terminal for several of the most scenic railway lines in Switzerland: the narrow-gauge rail line to St. Moritz (the Rhätische Bahn), the Chur-Arosa line, the Glacier Express, the Palm Express, and the Bernina Express. You might also go to Splügen, said to have the prettiest mountain-pass village in the area.

We recommend you spend today enjoying a memorable experience on the Bernina Express, known as one of the most scenic train journeys around the world. Connecting Chur to Poschiavo (Switzerland) and Tirano (Italy). The Bernina Express train`s classic route promises the most stunning views of the Graubunden canton from the north to south. The journey is a four hour journey available for travel in both winter and summer. At the highest point the train reaches 7,392 ft. above sea level. Part of the route is also shared with the equally famous Swiss scenic train the Glacier Express.

For almost the full four hours of the train ride, you`ll find yourself entranced by the views, beautiful mountains, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and bridges outside the panoramic windows of the train. It passes through five tunnels and crosses 196 bridges.

Depending on which way you travel, the line either ends in Tirano, Italy, a small town enjoyable to spend a few hours of exploring. From Tirano you can travel by bus to Lugano. Or, you can also take the other way and travel to St. Moritz. Either way won`t disappoint!

End your day back in Chur, enjoying a drink or bite to eat at a relaxed pub in town before calling it a night.

Day 3 in Chur

On your last day in Chur spend some time appreciating the wilderness surrounding it. There are a variety of outdoor sports including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, skating and swimming, all depending on what time of year you are here.

From the center of Chur a cable car will take you directly up to the high plateau of Brambrüesch (7,217 ft). In the winter there is great skiing offering a variety of runs from easy to difficult. In the summer months, you will be greeted by magnificent meadows, beautiful flora and stunning panoramic views. There are several wonderful hikes, the Alpen bike park, with 5 mountain biking free-ride routes, some fabulous tours, fun descents to choose from, and several charming mountain restaurants.

Another option, if you are visiting in the summer months, is the new open air panoramic train journeying between Chur and Arosa. Arosa is an attractive village tucked away in the stunning ranges of the Alps. You`ll find a variety of snow sport activities, as well as extended hiking tours in the summer months.

Additional Days in Chur

Should you be able to spend additional days in Chur and you are here in the summer months, we recommend you check out the Churer Fest, an annual summer festival typically held in the middle of August. This is the largest and most festive event in the southeastern part of Switzerland. Visitors who attend this legendary festival can expect to enjoy numerous attractions, treat from all over the world and the best music.

Alternatively, make your way to the well known regions of the Engadin and Prattigau valleys, very easily accessible from Chur. Here you will find the ski resorts of St. Moritz and Davos/Klosters.

Your Last Day in Chur

Depart your hotel for the train station or airport where you will head home or make your way to more Switzerland adventures. Savor the memories of a very special time in Chur.

Day 1 in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Begin the afternoon by heading straight to Altstadt (Zurich`s Old Town) and find a place for lunch amongst the wide range of cafes and restaurants in the area. Spend a bit of time wandering the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, check out the colorful and wonderfully-preserved buildings, and stroll along the Limmat River. We highly recommend a walking tour to discover the city and learn about the history and culture that it offers.

From here, make your way to Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich`s premier shopping street and one of the bustling streets in Old Town where you`ll find window-shopping stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and much more! While here, it`s worth checking out Uhrenmuseum (Watch Museum) that is located in the basement of Beyer watch shop. You will learn the history and see the exhibition on time keeping dating back from 1400 BC to today.

Finish your day at one of the many restaurants or cafes on Bahnhofstrasse, some rich with tradition and many that are very inviting!

Day 2 in Zurich

Wake up early today and start your day off with a stroll along Lake Zurich. The lake is absolutely pristine and offers spectacular views of the Alps. Then head out on a boat cruise for about an hour ride on the lake and get lost in the stunning views and peaceful nature all around.

In the afternoon spend some time visiting Grossmunster, one of the most famous churches in Zurich. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city from the top. If time allows, head over to Church of Our Lady (or Fraumunster), built in the 9th century and famous for its graceful spire. You must see it to appreciate its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows that alone make it worth the visit.

As night approaches, head over to the Lindenhoff for sunset, a small climb will offer the most spectacular views of Zurich over the Limmat River and Old Town. You'll find numerous options for a great traditional Swiss dinner while in the downtown area offering views of the river.

Day 3 in Zurich

Start off your day by exploring the breathtaking views of Zurich and head to the Uetilber Mountain. Hike, jog, bike, or take the train up the mountain. At the top, take in the spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Zurich, the lake, and perhaps even a glimpse of the Alps. Relax with a cup of coffee or a bite to eat while taking in the fantastic views of the city and beyond.

Next, head over to the KunsthausZurich (Museum of Art); said to be one of the best museums in the city. Among an interesting collection of Swiss artists, the museum also hangs works by Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall and Claude Monet. And a visit to the top floors is a must!

On your final night, make your way to Zuri-West, a night life hotspot with a trendy, post-industrial edge. A revival has been taking place here for more than a decade, with converted industrial buildings offering everything from concert halls and rooftop bars to luxury flats. The area is now a hotspot for food design, art and culture.

Additional Days in Zurich

Should you be able to spend additional days in Zurich check out the picturesque beauty of Lucerne. Only a 45 minute drive from Zurich, this full day adventure will give you an understanding of why this is deemed one of Europe’` prettiest cities. Wonder around the city and marvel at the beautiful architecture and the oldest covered foot bridge in Europe. Then take a scenic boat ride to the base of Mount Pilatus and ascend on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world (only open in the summer months). This is an incredible journey up mountains offering the most breathtaking views to the top. Then make your way back down on the aerial cableways and panorama gondolas.

Your Last Day in Zurich

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 Arrive Kandersteg

Arrive at the 3-star Hotel Alfa Soleil, well known locally for its excellent cuisine and enjoy a welcome drink before dinner. Dinner is included all week along with picnics or light restaurant lunches. Below is a suggested itinerary for the week but you are free to pick and choose where you walk and cycle each day, just be sure to check the e-bike availability with the hotel as they have been reserved for your on the days specified in the itinerary.

Day 2 Sudrampe Walk

Today starts with a 25-minute train ride (payable locally) through the Lotschberg mountain rail tunnel (14km long) to Hohtenn. The walk takes you high above a youthful River Rhone, through a landscape of gorges and hidden side valleys - and small hillside villages boasting traditional wooden chalets built on the upper edges of this fertile, vineyard-adorned valley. You follow part of the Lotschberger-Sudrampe railway trail - superb railway engineering with impressive viaducts, tunnels and bridges - but you don't need to be a train buff to enjoy this great little hike. A shorter walk is also available.

Day 3 Gasterntal Valley by e-bike

Today it's a glorious bike ride into the unspoiled landscape of Gasterntal. With your e-bike follow the route along the river Kander taking the steep, unpaved road up to the Gasterntal, offering the most breath taking views. The road continues through the valley to Selden or you can carry on to Heimritz. The descent passes through dark tunnels as you head back to Kandersteg.

Day 4 Oeschinensee Walk

Widely regarded as the jewel in the crown of the Bernese Oberland, Oeschinensee is one of the most beautiful Alpine lakes in Switzerland. After a short ride up on the gondola lift (included), follow a marvellous mountain path up to the Heuberg Viewpoint and picnic spot. The cobalt blue water of the lake, surrounded by the snow-capped, razor-edged peaks of the Doldenhorn (3,638m) and the Bluemlisalphorn (3,663m) towering 2,000m above, will be a lasting memory. Call in at the mountain chalets at Obberbargli and Underbargli for refreshments and soak up this unforgettable scenery as bell-toting cows munch at the grass in the pastures below, while dainty waterfalls trickle down from the Frunden Glacier.

Day 5 Blausee Blue Lake Walk

A gentle hour's stroll takes you down to the Natural Park of Blausee - the Blue Lake (discounted entry with short boat ride). Here you can wander through verdant woodland around the little lake, visit the organic trout farm and enjoy a drink on the lake terrace before returning to the hotel.

Day 6 Gemmi Pass by e-bike

A glorious bike ride through the impressive Gemmi pass today. You'll soon discover the benefit of an e-bike as you cross the two Swiss counties of Bern and Wallis passing the crystal-clear Lake Arven, as well as the famous Schwarenbach hotel and the stunning Daubensee lake. Reaching the summit of the Gemmi pass take in the spectacular views of the eleven peaks above 4000m that make up the imposing Mischabel massif, an ample reward for your efforts.

Day 7 Ueschinental/Allmenalp by e-bike

Glorious views of the Bluemlisalp mountain range today. Climb uphill from Kandersteg with steep curves on the paved path to Usser Ueschinen where you head right in the direction of Ryharts - Allmenalp. Continue your ascent where you are rewarded for your efforts with more impressive views. Descend from the Allmenalp or if you fancy a rest, you and your bike can use the cable car and then enjoy the easy bike ride back to Kandersteg via Ryharts - Usser Ueschinen.

Day 8 Depart Kandersteg

The tour ends in Kandersteg.