Trip Report
Trip Report
Central Switzerland By Train In 8 Days
A week transversing through Switzerland with stunning views on train rides and beautiful hikes in West and Central Switzerland
+ 18
Switzerland, United States, France8 days / August - September 2019
Highs & Lows
Every single train ride in Switzerland is stunning
Having to skip Jungfrau due to bad weather
Itinerary Overview
Switzerland is a vast and beautiful city and planning an itinerary to visit it for 7 days is not easy. With gorgeous cities, stunning railways, and majestic Swiss Alps, it’s important to prioritise your focus on your visit so you don’t overstretch yourself. After several headache episodes and being realistic about travel time and what I want to and can feasibly see, I’ve decided on a 8 day itinerary that focuses on hiking in mostly the western part of Switzerland.
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I would love more time in the Jungfrau region, and time to take a day trip to Bern!
Anything go wrong during the trip?
It's hard to predict the weather so unfortunately, I didn't go up to Jungfrau but went up to Schilthorn instead.
How was the food?
Co-op - the supermarket - is your best friend in Switzerland to keep your trip under budget! Eating out in Switzerland is expensive.
What tips would you give a friend?
Download the Swiss Train app to check the train time, you can also set reminders for getting off and changing lines. I also planned my trip meticulously to make sure that I don't miss out on anything.
Packing tips?
Definitely pack for warm and hot weather even in the summer. It was 0 degree celcius when I went up to Schilthorn!
Transportation Tips?
Get a Swiss Travel Train Pass - this saves you so much money and many attractions become free or 50% off.
Any surprises?
Schilthorn was a nice surprise - it wasn't on my radar but I was happy to visit it since Jungfrau wasn't an option (it's also cheaper).
Booking details?
Even the end of summer is a busy time in Switzerland, so definitely book your accommodations in advance.
Lodging
I stayed at a friend's apartment near the train station
I stayed at Barabas Hostel and Hotel which is walkable to the train station and on the edge of the old town in front of the Musegg Walls. Aside from its former prison status making the room stuffy (because the window is small), I enjoyed it a lot.
Valley Hostel! They had luggage storage and everything was quite DIY but you can’t beat the price point and the view of the town. The big kitchen and close proximity to the train station are also ideal!
Cervo Zermatt, which was an absolute dream come true with a great view of the Matterhorn, lovely breakfast, many free food in the room itself, and yes, a lovely and spacious room
