Affordable Switzerland Itinerary (7 Days) for Tourists

Every Indian’s dream is to see Switzerland. Made popular because of bollywood’s iconic movies, this country is prettier in reality. The endless scenic beauty coupled with majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and charming villages, makes it the perfect winter holiday. 

Planning a trip to Swiss Alps is not easy, there is too much to do in a short while. Most people make the mistake of overscheduling their trip and end up exhausted. To help you enjoy your trip, we have created the best Switzerland itinerary (7 days). Keep reading! 

Perfect Switzerland Itinerary 7 Days

Here is the perfect itinerary with the best places to visit in Switzerland in 7 days:

Week Plan	Things To Do
Day 1	Land in Zurich and explore its charming Old Town. Get lost in its narrow cobblestone streets, browse the small boutiques, and admire the colorful guild houses. Take a trip to the Lindt Factory, head to the Casino or admire its beautiful museums.
Day 2	On your second day, explore the city of Zurich, its churches and enjoy a morning picnic brunch by the lake. Do some shopping in the luxurious streets of Zurich and explore the grand Shopville – the train station/mall that’s open everyday.
Day 3	Head to Grindelwald, explore the charming village, take a hike to the Lower Grindelwald Glacier Gorge or visit Lake Bachalpsee. You can enjoy a quiet dinner amidst the beauty of Swiss Alps.
Day 4	Head to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. This is a full-day excursion, and you will be amazed by the beauty of this mountain peak.
Day 5	Take a short train ride from Grindelwald to Interlaken Ost (approximately 30 minutes). You can enjoy some fun-filled activities and explore the town.
Day 6	Enjoy a final morning in Grindelwald. You can take a short walk, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain views. Head back to the city of Zurich in the evening.
Day 7	On your last day in Zurich, spend some time enjoying the city, do some souvenir shopping, buy the best cheese and chocolates and head to the airport for your flight.

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich – Make Your Own Chocolate!

Upon arrival at Zurich Airport (ZRH), follow the signs to the train station located directly beneath the airport. Book a hotel in the Old Town; it is connected to all the significant landmarks and a perfect place to soak in the old Swiss charm. You can take a train or a cab. 

Things to Do: 

• Explore Zurich’s charming pedestrian Old Town. Get lost in its narrow cobblestone streets, browse the small boutiques, and admire the colorful guild houses. If you visit during Christmas, the place turns magical and hosts the beautiful Christmas Market Dörfli.
• Visit the Swiss National Museum to learn about Switzerland’s past, diplomacy, and development. Fees starting at INR 1,300.
• Walk along the Limmat River, enjoying the picturesque views of the city.
• Cross one of the bridges to visit the Grossmünster, Zurich’s iconic twin-towered cathedral. You can climb one of the towers for panoramic city views.
• Make your own chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate and learn about the history of chocolate and its production in Switzerland. You must try the cafe there!
• Swiss Casino Zürich is an excellent spot for those who love to try their luck. The grandeur of this establishment, the frenzy, and the sound of winning are the perfect way to start your adventure. 

Watch a show at the Zürich Opera House, admire its architecture, and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Old Town. 

• Steakhouse Old Town: Amazing steaks with a fantastic wine collection. 
• Zum Königstuhl: Serves the best Cheese Fondue, Salads and Panna Cotta.
• Swiss Chuchi Restaurant: You must try the Swiss onion soup, meat fondue, and wine. 
• Trattoria Sempre Zürich: Must try the Vodka Pasta and Carpaccio.

Flights and Switzerland Visa for Indians

• Switzerland is part of the Schengen territory, and to visit, you must apply for a Schengen Visa. 
• If you plan to spend most of your vacation in Switzerland, you must submit your visa application through the Swiss Embassy. 
• Flights between India and Switzerland are frequent, and the round-trip cost is ₹50,000 if you book 3-4 months in advance.
• With a Schengen visa, you can visit other European countries such as Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, and France. 

Tips: 

• The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
• Get a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, and other advantages, such as discounts on attractions. 
• To all your internal trains, head to SBB or download their App to understand the train navigation system. 
• Switzerland is pricey; check out local markets and convenience stores for healthy, inexpensive meals. 
• Switzerland is a beautiful country, and the urge to see everything is natural, but try not to overstuff your itinerary with activities. Choose one or two spots and explore them leisurely. 
• Take free or discounted guided tours for popular cities like Zurich and Grindelwald. 
• Tap water is good enough to drink; you don’t need to buy bottled water. 

Must Read: Switzerland Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

Day 2: Picnic at Lake Zurich, Shopping at ShopVille & the Bahnhofstrasse

Start your morning with a trip to the beautiful Lake Zurich. Pack a nice morning picnic for brunch and spend some time by the lake. You can walk and relax by the promenade, rent a paddleboat, or consider a scenic boat cruise on the lake.

Spend the afternoon shopping, exploring, and eating at the grand ShopVille Zurich Main Train Station. This train station slash shopping mall is the best place to get souvenirs and chocolates, and grab a quick bite. 

Next up is the luxury streets of the Bahnhofstrasse. It is one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, with designer boutiques and Swiss watchmakers. You can expect to see palatial stores of international brands like Dior, Prada, Tiffany, and Swiss brands like Rolex, Bally, Akris, Trois Pommes, Grieder, and many more! 

If you are feeling energetic, you can also cross off iconic landmarks like:

• Immerse yourself in art at the Kunsthaus Zürich, which houses an impressive Swiss and international art collection.
• Visit the Fraumünster Church, famous for its stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.
• Explore the vibrant Langstrasse area, known for its multicultural atmosphere and trendy bars and shops.

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Zurich before preparing for your journey to Grindelwald. If you are on a budget, you can get some ready meals from supermarkets like Coop or Migros.

Also Read: Schengen Visa Extension for Indians: A Complete Guide 

Day 3: Train to Grindelwald & Village Exploration

Next on your 1 week in Switzerland itinerary is the village of Grindelwald. This charming village nestled in the Bernese Alps is a beautiful place to unwind, enjoy numerous outdoor adventures, and experience the local Swiss life. 

If you are headed in January, you must catch the World Snow Festival to see the most beautiful icy art. 

You can take a scenic train journey from Zurich to Grindelwald. This will likely involve one or two changes (e.g., in Interlaken Ost). Enjoy the stunning Swiss landscapes along the way. Check into your accommodation in Grindelwald.

Explore the village of Grindelwald. Walk through the main street, admire the traditional wooden chalets, and soak in the views of the surrounding mountains.

• Consider a short and easy hike to the Lower Grindelwald Glacier Gorge.
• Visit Lake Bachalpsee by taking a cable car from Grindelwald to First and hiking a 1-hour easy trail.

Enjoy a hearty Swiss dinner at a local restaurant in Grindelwald. Try a traditional cheese fondue or raclette.

Also Read: Switzerland Visa Rejection for Indians (A Simple Guide) 

Day 4: Grindelwald’s Adventures 

Head to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. This is a full-day excursion, and you will be amazed by the beauty of this mountain peak. 

Take a scenic cogwheel train journey up to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. 

• Explore the ice palace and the Sphinx Observatory for panoramic views, and walk on the Aletsch Glacier. 
• Enjoy skiing, sledding, and other winter activities in a dedicated fun park.

Enjoy dinner in Grindelwald. You can head to Café 3692 or Barrys Restaurant, Bar & Lounge to enjoy a lavish meal.

Must Read: Switzerland in January 

Day 5: Adventure in Interlaken – Paragliding & Canyoning

Take a short train ride from Grindelwald to Interlaken Ost (approximately 30 minutes).

Today is dedicated to adrenaline-pumping activities!

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of flying over the stunning Interlaken landscape with breathtaking views of the turquoise lakes (Thun and Brienz) and the surrounding mountains. Pre-book your paragliding flight with a reputable operator.
• Canyoning: Embark on a canyoning adventure, rappelling, sliding, and jumping through a beautiful mountain gorge. Several experienced companies in Interlaken offer canyoning tours suitable for different levels of experience.

After your adventurous day, take the train back to Grindelwald for a relaxing evening.

Also Read: Festivals in Switzerland: 20 Must-Experience Celebrations 

Day 6: Travel back to Zurich

Enjoy a final morning in Grindelwald. You can take a short walk, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain views.

Take a train from Grindelwald back to Zurich. This will again involve a change or two in Interlaken Ost. Check back into your accommodation in Zurich.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Zurich. You could revisit a favorite spot or try a new neighborhood. 

Must Read: Exploring Switzerland’s Famous Foods 

Day 7: Farewell: Souvenirs, Relaxation, and Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have time for some last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping in Zurich.

• Consider visiting the FIFA World Football Museum if you’re a football fan.
• Explore the Lindenhof hill for more great views of the city and the Limmat River.

Enjoy a final Swiss lunch before departing to Zurich Airport (ZRH).

Also Read: Switzerland in February 

Accommodations in Switzerland

Here are all the accommodation options for staying in Zurich and Grindelwald on your 7-day trip to Switzerland:

Zurich	Grindelwald
Budget Zurich Youth Hostel Hotel Limmatblick Pension Furdich Central Plaza Hotel	Budget Youth Hostel Grindelwald Naturfreunde Hostel Lehmann’s Herberge Chalet Swiss Valley Hostel Grindelwald
Midrange Sorell Hotel Rütli Hotel Adler Zürich Helmhaus Swiss Quality Hotel Hotel Hirschen am See  Wellenberg Swiss Quality Hotel	Midrange EIGER LODGE Hotel Spinne Eiger View Alpine Lodge Hotel Gletschergarten Sunstar Hotel Grindelwald
Luxury Widder Hotel Storchen Zürich Baur au Lac  Boutique Hotel Wellenberg  Courtyard by Marriott Zurich North Ruby Mimi Hotel & Bar	Luxury  Bergwelt Grindelwald – Alpine Design Resort Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Boutique Hotel Glacier Regina Swiss Alps Aspen alpin lifestyle hotel Grindelwald

Shopping in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and shopping here can be hard on the pocket. If you are planning to indulge in some retail therapy, here are some different market and mall options for you to explore based on your budget. 

Christmas Markets	Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station: One of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe, featuring a huge Christmas tree decorated with Swarovski crystals, numerous stalls selling crafts, gifts, food, and drinks. Best to Buy: Christmas ornaments,  handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, mulled wine (Glühwein), and traditional Christmas treats. Weinachtsmarkt in der Altstadt (Old Town Christmas Market): A romantic market spread through the narrow streets of the Old Town, offering a more traditional and cozy atmosphere. Best to Buy: Handmade crafts, unique gifts, local artisanal products, festive food, and drinks. Wienachtsdorf (Christmas Village) at Sechseläutenplatz: Located near Bellevue, this market often has a lively atmosphere with food stalls, bars, and entertainment. Singing Christmas Tree (Werdmühleplatz): A unique attraction where choirs sing Christmas carols from a tree-like stage. Stalls around offer typical Christmas market goods.
Luxury Shopping	Bahnhofstrasse: While technically a shopping street, it functions like an open-air mall with high-end boutiques and department stores. You will find Prada, Gucci, Dior, Rolex, and a range of luxury brands specializing in fashion, jewelry, watches, and chocolate. Best to Buy: Swiss watches, high-end jewelry, designer clothing, premium Swiss chocolate.
Supermakets	Coop: One of the two major supermarket chains in Switzerland, with numerous locations throughout Zurich. Best to Buy: Swiss chocolates, local cheeses, Migros own-brand products (often good value), everyday groceries. Migros: The other major supermarket chain, also with extensive coverage in Zurich. You can get a range of groceries and household items at Migros. It has its own popular brands and often focuses on regional and sustainable products. Note that Migros does not sell alcohol. Best to Buy: Ready-made meals, chocolates, Swiss yogurts, regional specialties.

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FAQs

Is 7 days enough to explore Switzerland?

Yes, 7 days are enough to explore Switzerland. You can easily cover cities and towns like Zurich and Grindelwald. The two tourists destinations are the perfect blend of city and countrylife. 

Zurich’s upscale boutiques, fancy restaurants, and fascinating museums are a great contrast to Grindelwald. The charming village of Grindelwald offers the views of Swiss Alps, pristine nature and thrilling outdoor adventures.

What is the average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in Switzerland?

Switzerland is an expensive city and the daily cost may be higher than usual. It can be anywhere between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 on average. You can reduce the cost by booking hostels and making your own meals. 

Which is the best month to visit Switzerland?

While Switzerland is gorgeous all year along. You must experience this country in midst of December. Snow-capped mountains, dreamy villages, and extravagant Christmas markets offer an unforgettable experience for tourists. 

How much money to take to Switzerland for 7 days?

You should carry ₹1.5- ₹2 lakhs for your trip to Switzerland. Restaurants, adventure activities and shopping are pricey so budget well and make sure you book everything in advance to get the best price.

Which area of Switzerland is best to stay in?

In Zurich, you must stay in the old town and experience the heart of the city. Its cobbled streets, gorgeous riverside, museums and medieval architecture will transport you to a different time. 

How do I get around in Switzerland?

The best way to get around in Switzerland is visa public transport. You can get a Swiss travel pass to get discounts on trains, trams, buses and even at some stores and restaurants. It is a great saving hack for tourists. 

What does a 7-day Switzerland itinerary include?

Your Switzerland itinerary 7 days should include the gorgeous city of Zurich and the charming village of Grindelwald. You can take a day trip to Interlaken, admire the Swiss alps and take part in some fun adventure sports. Make sure your itinerary is not overscheduled and you have time to soak in the charm of the city and village you are in.