Round trip Switzerland per train

Make an impressive round trip of Switzerland

6 highlights of a round trip of Switzerland

1. Zurich – bustling beginning at the lake

Your journey begins in Zurich, where you will arrive in the city centre on a comfortable night train from the Netherlands. The city itself is a blend of culture, history and surprising intricacies. Take a stroll through the old town or join a guided tour to learn a great deal in a short time. For instance, you'll learn that Swiss clocks often display the number four as 'IIII' rather than 'IV'. Another interesting fact is that women have only been permitted to study at university since 1971. Did you also know that Zurich is one of the quietest cities in Europe, where even minor offences can result in a fine?

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere along the shores of Lake Zurich. In summer, locals jump into the clear water from jetties and you can enjoy a morning run or walk. In the evening, end the day in style with a classic cheese fondue at one of the charming restaurants.

2. Jungfrau-regio – peak of Europa

Interlaken

As its name suggests, Interlaken is located inbetween Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is the gateway to the Jungfrau region. From Harder Kulm, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of both lakes and the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps. The town centre is lively, with many shops and terraces, but thanks to the excellent train and cable car connections, you can also be out in nature in no time. Many travellers take the cog railway up and then walk a little further before taking the same train back down again. Walking up or down is, of course, also an option.

Grindelwald

Further on lies Grindelwald, nestled amongst imposing mountains such as the Eiger and the Wetterhorn. The village offers endless possibilities for walks and excursions, ranging from gentle routes to strenuous hikes along glaciers. Thanks to the cable cars, high vantage points are easily accessible, and thrill-seekers can opt for a summer toboggan run or a ride on a trottibike. The views are often breathtaking and it sometimes feels as though you are walking into a postcard. In good weather, everything seems almost too perfect. A trip to the Jungfraujoch, home to the highest railway station in Europe, is also an unmissable experience. If you still have some energy left, a half-hour walk will take you to the Mönchsjochhütte, Switzerland's highest mountain hut.

3. Kandersteg – the turquoise Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen, located near Kandersteg, is widely regarded as one of Switzerland's most beautiful mountain lakes. Meltwater from the surrounding glaciers gives the lake's water a deep blue colour that looks almost unnatural. The hiking trails around the lake resemble the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, yet this stunning Alpine setting is just a few hours' journey from the Netherlands. In summer, the area is wonderfully peaceful and perfect for walking, and you can even take a refreshing dip. In spring and autumn, some paths are closed due to avalanche risk, but the views are worth experiencing in every season. The charming village of Kandersteg is also a pleasant place to slow down the pace of your journey before continuing on your way.

4. Zermatt – with a view of the majestic Matterhorn

Zermatt is world-famous thanks to the Matterhorn, arguably the most famous mountain in Europe. However, this mountain does not reveal itself easily; it is often shrouded in clouds. When you first arrive, it can seem as if the mountain is not even there. But with a little luck, the sky will clear in the early morning and the iconic pyramid-shaped peak will appear in all its glory. This is a moment that many travellers come to see specifically.

Did you know that in 1865, the Matterhorn was the last major Alpine mountain to be conquered by climbers? It was a dangerous undertaking, and even today, climbing it remains challenging. Fortunately, however, there is no need to climb it to admire the mountain: you can also do so from viewpoints around the village or from one of the many mountain trains.

Even if you are unlucky with the weather, you will not be bored. The Matterhorn Museum recounts the impressive story of the first ascent and demonstrates just how dangerous that expedition was. You can also go on beautiful walks in the surrounding area. Sometimes, you may even encounter a herd of curious sheep who will gladly keep you company.

If the mountain does decide to show itself, the view is unforgettable. It is precisely this unpredictable interplay of clouds and peaks that makes Zermatt so magical.

Glacier Express – Switzerland's most beautiful train journey

The Glacier Express is more than just a train ride; it is an eight-hour journey through the Swiss Alps. Setting off from Zermatt, the panoramic train winds its way towards St. Moritz, passing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, as well as iconic landscapes such as the Rhine Gorge. This gorge is also known as the 'Swiss Grand Canyon'. As you travel, it feels as though you are in a moving cinema, with each window revealing a new panorama. Mountain villages, glaciers and deep valleys alternate continuously.
During the journey, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. You will also have the opportunity to witness the rapid changes in the landscape: from snow-capped peaks to lush green valleys. For many, the Glacier Express is the highlight of their trip — a once-in-a-liftime experience.

5. Chur – oldest city of Switzerland

After the panoramic drive, you will arrive in Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, which has been inhabited continuously for over 5,000 years. This historic city has a vibrant atmosphere. Take a stroll through the car-free Old Town, enjoy a good cup of coffee, admire the street art or visit the Bündner Kunstmuseum. Chur is ideal for visiting museums and galleries on rainy days.

On a clear day, the surrounding area is also worth exploring. You can walk alongside the Rhine through forests and imagine how this same water will reach the Netherlands in just a few weeks. One unique feature of Chur is the opportunity to spend the night in a former prison, complete with heavy cell doors that are still in use. This gives your stay an unexpected twist and makes it even more memorable.

6. Appenzell – tradition and nature

Your tour ends in Appenzell, a region known for its traditions, mountains and hospitality. The picturesque village has colourful houses and narrow streets where it seems as if time stands still. During holidays such as Pentecost, many Swiss people head for the mountains. You will immediately notice that the hiking trails are filled with families walking quickly and effortlessly uphill. It feels as if you are out and about with the locals.

As you walk, you will see cows grazing freely alongside the trails. They are used to hikers and pay little attention to visitors. Nevertheless, walking so close to these animals gives you a special feeling. After a brisk walk, local specialities such as rösti or a glass of fresh Appenzeller beer taste extra good. And remember to sample the famous Appenzeller cheese, which is still made according to centuries-old traditions.

Appenzell is also where nature and history meet. From the Hoher Kasten, you can enjoy panoramic views of Austria, Germany and Liechtenstein. On a clear day, you can see the mountain peaks and valleys stretching far into the distance. It makes for a fitting finale to a trip around Switzerland.

Travel times between Swiss destinations

To ensure comfortable travel distances, we recommend taking the following route. It strikes a good balance between travel time and sightseeing, enabling you to make the most of your trip.

When is the best time to travel around Switzerland?

Switzerland is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:

• Summer (June – September): ideal for hiking tours, mountain lakes and green alpine meadows.
• Spring and autumn (April, May, October): less busy and often cheaper, but some walking trails may still be (partially) closed.
• Winter (December – March): perfect for winter sports, with numerous ski resorts directly accessible by train.

Travel from the Netherlands to Switzerland

Switzerland is easily accessible by train. You can start your trip in Zurich or Basel. With ICE , you can travel from Amsterdam Central Station, Utrecht Central Station or Arnhem with a convenient transfer in Frankfurt. You will arrive in just 7.10 hours in the heart of Basel, or in hours in Zurich.

Would you prefer to travel at night? Then choose the Nightjet to Switzerland. This night train departs daily from Amsterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven, taking you directly to Basel or Zurich. You can sleep your way to Switzerland in comfort and arrive feeling well rested.

Book your tickets in our itinerary planner

Travel in Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel by train, bus and boat as much as you like, and use city transport in over 90 cities free of charge. Children under 6 travel for free and you will receive free admission to over 500 museums. You will also receive attractive discounts on many mountain railways and panoramic trains. This means you can travel throughout Switzerland conveniently and worry-free.