Central Vietnam Itinerary

5 Days Central Vietnam Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Vietnam | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Heading to Central Vietnam, then be sure to check out our detailed travel guide blog. We reveal our best travel tips and highlights in this 5 Days Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An itinerary. You’ll explore off-beat cities, historical sites, and colorful lanterns, as well as amazing food there.

The central part of Vietnam is where the cities of Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang are located. These places are accessible from each other within one to two hours of the driving journey. Considered to be the popular touristic center of the country, this region is well-known for its well-preserved historical sites; charming streets of UNESCO recognized Old Town and breathtaking beaches. Added, the three World Heritages; Hue Imperial Citadel, Hoi An ancient town, and My Son Sanctuary, are located in Central Vietnam.

Five days in Central Vietnam to truly get a good feel for the city, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. The Central region of Vietnam contains a diversity of attractions, and plenty of things can be done and seen here. With the right plan and itinerary, all three cities can be explored and mastered within 3 to 5 days of the visit.

In this Central Vietnam travel guide blog, we will share with you our itinerary through Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. This route is perfect for those who are traveling to Central Vietnam for the first time and want to get a glimpse of the best highlights in the region.

Central Vietnam Travel Tips (Danang & Hoi An)

Travel Guide Blog to Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue

This detailed Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary will give you suggestions on which places to visit and where to eat for 5 days in Central Vietnam. It’ll have all the information you need – like when to go, where to eat, how much to budget, to help you plan your trip.

Reliable Wifi is another must-have for the Central Vietnam itinerary. You’ll need it to navigate, access Google Maps, do last-minute research for attractions and food, and also use it for Grab. We collected our pre-booked 4G Wifi from Klook directly upon arrival at Da Nang International Airport.

We don’t always get travel insurance. It depends on where we’re going, what we’ll be doing, and how long we’ll be away. For central Vietnam, we’ll highly be recommended getting travel insurance for safety concerns.

Flights to Central Vietnam

Arrive Central Vietnam Da Nang Airport

The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), with a very well linked for both internal and international flights. You can search for a flight aggregator like Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Da Nang from where you are. Once you reach the Da Nang International Airport, you may head to your next destination as per the itinerary.

The traveling time from the airport to the nearby cities is as below:

  • From Da Nang Airport to Da Nang City Center with approximately 15 minutes.
  • From Da Nang Airport to Hoi An with approximately 45 minutes.
  • Danang Airport to Hue with approximately~2 hours.

You can pre-book a private transfer from Da Nang Airport to your hotel HERE.

Getting Around Between Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue

The Central region does not have a great public transport system, so it is always recommended to have an idea of how to get around within the cities. The best way to get around is to hire your own car with a driver, arrange the day-by-day activities by joining the local tours, and mix using e-hailing Grab.

We got an airport pickup which brought us to Hoi An and used the private city transfer within Hoi An and Da Nang. We used a private charter to cover the day trip to Hue Imperial City and My Son Sanctuary to ease transport arrangements. Besides, We also rented a scooter to explore Da Nang city and it was truly adventurous. For everything else, we use Grab (Uber in South East Asia) for the short-distance city transfer. It is super handy, fast, and reliable.

If you’d rather experience Central Vietnam on a guided tour, then there are a few you can choose from Klook.

How Many Days for Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam Travel Guide

If you are planning Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary and thinking about how long you need to spend in the area, I would suggest you by spending five days in Central Vietnam to truly get a good feel for the city, especially if you’re a first time visitor. As always, longer stays are better to know more details about the cities. But if you don’t have the time, then you should be able to see the top attractions in Central Vietnam within 3 to 5 days.

If you only have 3 days, then you should skip one of the places in the above three cities. Depending on your interest, we recommended focusing on Hoi An and Da Nang if you only are short of time. You can explore the Hoi An on your two days and then spend the last day at Da Nang.

If you have 5 days and more, then you can adapt this Central Vietnam itinerary. Described in this itinerary are the best places to visit along with a few recommended places to eat during your 5 days in Central Vietnam if you have more or less time to spend here.

Central Vietnam: Da Nang and Hoi An Itinerary

Where you start depends on your personal preference and where you are coming from. During my trip to Central Vietnam, I arrived via Da Nang International Airport and first traveled to Hoi An and spend three days there. Instead of keep changing accommodation, we prefer to stay in Hoi An and make a day trip to Hue.

Lastly, we traveled down back to Da Nang for another two days before taking the flight back to our home country. From the city center, it’s a 15-minute drive back to Da Nang International Airport.

Central Vietnam itinerary to Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang:

  • Day 1: Arrive at Da Nang Airport and headed to Hoi An. Explore Hoi An.
  • Day 2: Hue Imperial City.
  • Day 3: My Son Sanctuary.
  • Day 4: Ba Na Hill.
  • Day 5: Da Nang City.

DAY 1: Arrive in Central Vietnam. Explore Hoi An

Welcome to Central Vietnam. First thing first, we headed to Hoian Central Hotel, our stay for the next three days, with the pre-booked private airport transfer via Klook. Our accommodation in Hoi An has located nearby the ancient town. Once settled down, we walked to the old town and start exploring.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An in Central Vietnam itinerary
Hoi An

Hoi An is a charming old town filled with colorful lanterns all over the place. It is the busiest and most touristy part of Central Vietnam. However, it’s also the most beautiful.

Claiming a UNESCO World Heritage City title in 1999, walking through Hoi An feels as if you’re walking through an ancient fairy tale. The old wooden houses, the few or no cars on the streets. This charming town gives me the feeling of cozy.

Hoi An Street View
Hoi An Street View

Exploring and getting lost in Hoi An is a great adventure. Don’t rush, and walk yourself through small alleys in the 400-year-old town to discover the entire hidden gem.

This is where you’ll find many street vendors, cafés, street art, and picturesque moments. You can literally spend all day just walking around the streets, taking pictures, eating street food, and drinking fresh beer.

Japanese Bridge Hoi An
Japanese Bridge, Hoi An

Don’t miss the Japanese Bridge, a 300 years old wooden covered bridge, by the Japanese as a way to connect with the Chinese quarter. It is one of the iconic attractions in Hoi An and worth stopping by for a photo.

Evening View Hoi An Ancient Town

In the evening, thousands of lanterns are illuminated in the Hoai river and the streets fill up with people watching the sunset, chatting, and strolling. Seeing it for the very first time literally took my breath away. It is so indescribably beautiful and feels almost like a dream. A must-do in every Hoi An itinerary.

Related Read: Hoi An Travel Guide: A Complete Travel Guide

DAY 2: Hue

Hue Imperial City - Central Vietnam Itinerary
Hue Imperial City

Our Day 2 in Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary is all about the Hue Imperial City. The citadel is a great place to learn the history of Vietnam, especially the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue used to be the capital of Vietnam ages ago. Today, the main attraction is the ancient Imperial City. UNESCO included the Hue Imperial Citadel on its list of world heritage sites in 1993 and it is very deserving of that.

Sightseeing can include the ornate Imperial Citadel, colorful Thanh Toan Bridge, royal tombs, and the Forbidden Purple City. All the attractions are eye-openers on the lives of the Vietnamese royalty then and the influence of the Chinese and French on them. It is a great location to spend time in and wander back into the past.

Hue Imperial City

Hue can also be visited on a day trip from Hoi An, so if you are short on time and are not heading further North, consider booking a guided tour. With a guided day tour you will get to see all of the best attractions in Hue without having to worry about transportation or finding accommodation for the night.

We recommended booking a guided or private tour as it will save you a lot of time and energy. You can book a private city tour to Hue from Hoi An here.

DAY 3: My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary - Central Vietnam itinerary
My Son Sanctuary

There are a few decent day trips from Hoi An that can be planned on the Central Vietnam itinerary. Among them, My Son Sanctuary is a must-go if you like history and ancient architecture. Constructed by the kingdom of Champa, these ruins were declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1999. It is an ancient Hindu archeological complex featured with stone sculptures of Hindu deities and towers. There were originally over 70 temples; unfortunately, most of them were destroyed during the Vietnam War. But still, the remains evoke the civilization they represent. The 1,300-year-old ruin hidden in the jungle is located about an hour from Hoi An.

We took the My Son Sanctuary Day Tour from Hoi An from Klook. The tour bus picked us up from the hotel to explore one of Southeast Asia’s greatest archaeological sites. We spend about 2 hours touring the monuments. The scale of the monuments is not that impressive, but it is beautiful in its way. On our way back we had a relaxing boat cruise with a simple and light lunch which provides a nice view of Hoi An from the river. A decent half-day trip from Hoi An.

After the trip to My Son, we headed to Da Nang, the largest city in the area. From Hoi An, we checked out of our hotel and took a private transfer to Da Nang, where we would be staying for two nights. Again, we pre-booked our transport arrangement from Hoi An to our hotel at Da Nang via Klook.

DAY 4: Ba Na Hill

Ba Na Hill - Central Vietnam itinerary
Ba Na Hill

The Ba Na Hill, a beautiful hilltop resort perched atop a mountain in Central Vietnam, is a must-visit in Da Nang. Originally built by French colonists in 1919 as a leisure destination for French tourists, Ba Na Hill is now a popular hilltop resort for visitors all around the world. There are many things to do and see in Ba Na Hill for a leisure holiday.

Day Trip to Ba Na Hill

Take the Ba Na Cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the lush forests from the longest non-stop single-track cable car, stroll at cobblestoned streets and Parisian-style architecture at Frech Village, and get lost in Le Jardin d’Amour – The Paradise of Flowers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visitors can take a break and enjoy a glass of wine at the 100-year-old Debay Cellar. For a family traveler, the Fantasy Theme Park is an ideal entertainment destination to have fun together with kids and family.

Golden Bridge - Da Nang Must See
Golden Bridge

Don’t forget to take a stroll and take some excellent photos at the Golden Bridge. Recognized as “the world’s most impressive walking bridge”, the striking footbridge is resembled two, gigantic hands holding up a shiny piece of gold to the gods above the misty clouds of Vietnam. The 150-meter-long bridge gives visitors plenty of space to take in the scenic views. It is so crowded, so make sure to get here early before the crowds.

Central Vietnam Travel Tips: Buying the Ba Na Hill Admission Ticker via Klook was fast and cheaper. The admission ticket is easy to redeem without waiting in line to purchase the ticket. This will save you a ton of time and hassle. Besides, Klook also has some integrated programs like Ba Na Hill ticket and shuttle bus, Ba Na Hill ticket with the lunch buffet. Book a trip and make your way from Da Nang to Ba Na Hills, take the cable car, and discover a wine cellar.

Klook Exclusive: Roundtrip Shuttle Bus from Da Nang to Sun World Ba Na Hills

Getting to Ba Na Hill

The easiest and most common way to get to Ba Na Hills is to drive a rented car or take a taxi to the foot of the mountain (Ba Na Cable Car Service Parking Lot), then take the cable car up to the resort. Alternatively, you may also hire a private charter driver to drive you to and fro Ba Na Hills at your preferred time.

Ba Na Hill

  • Opening Hours: Daily from 07:30 to 21:30
  • Admission Ticket: 750,000₫ Per Person (inclusive of all cable car rides, entrance to Fantasy Park and everything else — except for entry into the Wax Museum)

DAY 5: Da Nang

Explore Da Nang with Scooter
Explore Da Nang with Scooter

We spend our last day on the Central Vietnam itinerary chilling around in the Da Nang city. In the morning, we rented a scooter as our transportation for the day.

Han Market Da Nang
Han Market

We first departed to Han Market with a shopping session. Don’t miss this one if you’re into markets. You can buy many local products as well as food and spices there. The market is open from 8:00 to 16:00. Once we finished, we also headed to their food court area and tried the traditional local Vietnamese noodles. That’s how locals live like!

Da Nang Cathedral Pink Church
Da Nang’s Cathedral; Pink Church

We then visited the Da Nang’s Cathedral; a pink church built by a French priest in 1923. Located in the middle of the city, it’s known as Rooster Church due to the imposing bell tower that’s topped with a rooster weathercock. Impressive pink facade, and lots of nativity grotto depictions all around it.

Visit Lady Buddha in Da Nang

We next drove all the way to the Son Tra Mountain. The views on the way up are spectacular. We also stopped by the lady Buddha to check out the impressive statue and immerse ourselves in a beautiful view. The bike journey is the most adventurous experience you need to get when you come to Da Nang city. A perfect spot to get away from the urban’s hustle and bustle.

Spend the remaining day at Phuoc My Beach, one of the most beautiful and historically significant beaches in Vietnam. There is a long stretch of warm sand with intermittent supervised swimming areas. The beach is popular among locals and lots of people enjoy the water activities here. We have a simple dinner nearby the beach.

Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge Da Nang
Dragon Bridge

Lastly, we went to the DHC Marina to admire the beautiful Dragon Bridge. The ironic 666m long Dragon Bridge is an interesting landmark in Danang. Every evening, the dragon bridge is lit on and illuminated with colorful LED lights. Besides, the dragon is also scheduled for breathing fire and water at 21:00 every Saturday and Sunday. You can see the performances from the local coffee shops with a rooftop bar, and waterfront, or onboard the cruise to admire the night scene of Han River.

Just a few steps away from the Dragon Bridge are the Love Bridge, on the romantic Han River. We enjoy the relaxing stroll along the waterfront with the hearts all lit up.

Related Read: Things to Do in Da Nang: A Travel Guide Blog

Where To Stay

Beautiful beach in Da Nang
Beautiful beach in Da Nang

Next, we would personally recommend basing yourself in Hoi An and Da Nang for a few days each.

Stay in Hoi An as there is simply much more to do in the town. We recommend choosing hotels in Hoi An within short walking distance to the old town. Staying nearby an ancient old town offers an old town charm and easy for getting around. My hotels pick in Hoi An are Little Riverside Hoi An Luxury Hotel & Spa (luxury) and Hoian Central Hotel (mid-range).

Stay in Da Nang for a nice beach experience. Da Nang is blessed with a nice shoreline facing the South China Sea and is well known as “the city of beaches” with a 60-kilometer coastal line. There are plenty of compelling resort options and you can find plenty of award-winning luxury resorts here.

Some good recommendations are Premier Village Danang Resort at Bac My An Beach and Four Points by Sheraton Danang at MyKhe Beach. Both are popular picks among travelers to Da Nang.

Overview: Travel Itinerary To Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue

All in all, there’s certainly a lot to see and do in Central Vietnam. You can easily spend a few days or weeks here and you’ll still have something new to do. Hopefully, this 5-day Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary helps you plan your holiday in Central Vietnam. You can see the best of the Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang in a short time, and make you want to come back for more.

Lastly, we are definitely not an expert on Vietnam but we do hope you find this Central Vietnam travel guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from our trips to Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. Thanks for reading our Danang and Hoi An itinerary. Plan your trip and head to Central Vietnam for a colorful getaway like no other!

Related Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue travel blog posts:

Traveling to Northern Vietnam:

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City? Feel free to read on our Saigon travel stories.

Lastly, traveling to Phu Quoc? Feel free to read on our Phu Quoc travel stories.

What To Eat in Switzerland Food Guide

What to Eat in Switzerland: Swiss Food & Budget Eats

posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

The food wasn’t necessarily why I visited Switzerland. But still, I tried some of the best food in Switzerland and it certainly exceeded my expectations. Sharing my recommendations on some of the must-try Swiss cuisine and budget cheap eats, including where and what to eat in Switzerland.

Swiss aren’t exactly known for their food in general but still is a great opportunity to indulge in local Swiss cuisine when visiting Switzerland. During our trip to Switzerland, we ate at cafes and restaurants for local Swiss cuisine. At the same time, we also enjoy budget cheap eats at food stalls and markets. Price tags are higher in Switzerland but you do get more for your money. Take the opportunity to treat your tastebuds to a Swiss delight!

Let’s start with the Switzerland food guide for the best food to eat in Switzerland and where to try them.

What To Eat in Switzerland

Here is my Switzerland Food Guide, listing some of the best food that you shouldn’t be miss when visiting the country.

  • Swiss Fondue (Cheese Fondue, Chocolate Fondue, Meat Fondue)
  • Raclette
  • Rösti
  • Zürcher Geschnetzeltesbh
  • Swiss Chocolate
  • Movenpick Ice Cream
  • Packed Food from COOPS and Migros

Pro Tips: If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, then be sure to check out our detailed Switzerland itinerary with detailed guide and budget tips.

7 Days Switzerland itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

It’ll have all the information you need – like which area to stay, what to do, how to get around, etc. – to help you plan your trip.

Swiss Fondue

The must-eat food in Switzerland food guide, for sure, is Swiss fondue. It’s the national dish of Switzerland and very popular in the Alps region. Usually fondue is eat by local in winter, but you should try fondue in Switzerland at least once when visiting Switzerland.

The typical fondue is cheese fondue and chocolate fondue, and there is also meat fondue if you wanted something slightly different.

Fondue at Swiss Chuchi - Zurich Must-Eat Food
Switzerland Must-Eat: Cheese Fondue

Don’t miss the signature Swiss dish ‘Cheese Fondue’ which is made with famous Swiss cheese. Traditionally a Swiss cheese fondue is made with two different kinds of cheese, depending on the region of Switzerland you’re in. It is served in a casserole, below which you put a candle to keep the cheese melted. Served with bread cubes and potatoes, which you dip in the hot cheese. Sounds like very cheesy and too greasy, but trust me, it is so tasty and delicious!

Normally served as dessert, Chocolate Fondue is also very famous in Switzerland. Dipped the dark chocolate with fruits, typically banana, apple and pear. It’s crazy how something so simple can taste so good!

Must Eat in Zurich
Meat Fondue

Meat Fondue may not so popular compare with cheese fondue or chocolate fondue. But it is still highly recommended if you want to try something different. The meat fondue is served with meat slides of your choices, and dipped it into the hot oil. It is similar with Chinese hot pot, but slightly different.

Where should you go for the best Swiss fondue in Switzerland? My pick is the Swiss Chuchi in Zurich. It is the the oldest fondue room in Zurich and served the delicious Swiss specialties, particularly fondue since 1953.

Related read: Switzerland food hunting at Swiss Chuchi.

Raclette

Switzerland Food Guide - Raclette
Raclette

Another equally well-known Swiss traditional dish. Like fondue, Raclette is a cheese dish where a piece of cheese is placed over a stove. As the cheese melts, you scrape it off onto a melted plate. The melted cheese is typically over top of boiled potatoes, pickled onions, gherkins (pickles), cured meats, and sometimes pickled fruit.

While you can enjoy Raclette everywhere, the best place to try it is where it was invented. Valais is the place where Raclette tastes absolutely incredible.

We tasted this local Swiss delicacy in Raclette Factory, Zurich. The restaurant serves the tasty raclette made to order, with multiple options as to how you want your raclette to be flavored and condiments available. For the most classic Raclette experience, we’d recommend going for the Raclette with Potatoes and pickles. It has a distinctive cheesy aroma, which can be addictive. Make sure to ask for wine recommendations to pair with what you’re eating.

Rösti

Traditional Swiss food, Rösti
Rösti

On your Switzerland trip, don’t forget to try the traditional Swiss food, Rösti. Mostly made with potatoes and sometimes added with eggs or meat. The thinly grated potatoes are baked in a pan with butter until crisp and golden. It tastes similar to harsh brown where crispy on the outside, with a softer mix inside. Many people enjoy eating rosti with fried eggs, pork, bacon, and spinach.

The iconic national dish is popular throughout the country and almost all restaurants will have their version of rosti available. Bern is the home of this hearty dish and it is the best place to try the Rosti in Switzerland. We tried the famous rösti at Restaurant Brasserie Anker, Bern. This traditional beer hall restaurant offers a variety of Swiss dishes and served the best Rosti in town.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Switzerland Food Guide - Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Regional Swiss Cuisine, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (or Züri Gschnätzlets in Swiss German) is a regional Swiss cuisine and is particularly popular in Zurich. Simply translates to “Zürich style sliced meat”, you can find it on many of Zurich’s restaurants on their menu.

The food is consists of thinly sliced veal and mushroom, topped with a creamy white wine sauce. Rösti, noodles, tagliatelle pasta, or rice are often served together with this hearty dish. Enjoying the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes is one of the best food to eat in Zurich. So don’t forget to give it a try when you are visiting Zurich.

Swiss Chocolate

Best Swiss Chocolate

The cheese is amazing and the chocolate’s even better in Switzerland. On your vacation in Switzerland, it is the best chance to indulge in the finest chocolate in the world. You can eat them, bring them home, and visit workshops if you have time.

For the chocolate lover, don’t miss Läderach, one of the best Swiss chocolate in Switzerland. It is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker, offering up about 20 different combinations of chocolate with flavorings and inclusions of all sorts. Their frischschoggi (slabs of fresh chocolates), either plain (white, milk, and dark chocolate) or mixed with various delights are extremely quality and simply delicious. It was expensive but nothing can describe the taste!

Other important and beloved Chocolate-producer from Switzerland are Suchard, Lindt, and Toblerone.

Movenpick Ice Cream

Switzerland Best Ice Cream Movenpick

If you have a sweet tooth, then you cannot leave Switzerland without having a Movenpick ice cream. Movenpick is the country’s homegrown brand and it is internationally recognized as one of the best ice cream brands. There are a great variety of flavors from these masters of ice cream and always something new to discover. Their ice cream is truly amazing!

We love Movenpick ice cream and it is one of the best Swiss ice creams I have ever had. It’s a wonderful moment to enjoy the icy sweet treat while taking a leisure stroll in Switzerland’s old town. Smooth, light, not too sweet, and sensational to the taste bud!

Packed Food in Supermarket

Best Cheap Eat in Interlaken

Budget travelers may think that traveling in Switzerland is challenging with a low budget. But there is a way to save on food when looking for what to eat in Switzerland on a budget. The packed food in the supermarket is a good alternative to the expensive Swiss cuisine.

Everything you need for fair food prices can be found in COOPS and Migros in Switzerland. There is a wide range of fresh tasty offerings and plenty of vegan food for breakfast, lunch, snack-to-go, or picnic shopping when traveling.

A great place for good and fresh quality at an affordable price.

Overview: Switzerland Food Guide

All in all, we hope you will have a wonderful food trip in Switzerland. This Switzerland food guide may not covered all the must-eat food in Switzerland, but we do hope it give you some tiny ideas on what to eat in Switzerland.

Lastly, feel free to continue to read on our Switzerland itinerary to some of the beautiful cities in the country.

7 Days Switzerland itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

Popular cities with detailed travel guide blog to visit in Switzerland:

Jungfrau Region:

Zurich Food Guide - Fondue from Swiss Chuchi

Zurich Food Guide: The Best Fondue at Swiss Chuchi

posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

Tasting Swiss cheese fondue is one of the must-do when in Switzerland. We visited Swiss Chuchi in Zurich to taste the famous cheese fondue and it did not disappoint. The best fondue and must-eat food in our Zurich Food Guide!

If you were seeking authentic Swiss fondue and raclette, then you came to the right place. Swiss Chuchi is an authentic Swiss restaurant and renowned for serving typical Swiss dishes prepared according to the old tradition. This restaurant is a popular place in Zurich for visitors to experience a real taste of Swiss fondue. Even locals love their authentic Swiss cuisine.

During our visit to Zurich, we wanted to try some traditional local food and we tried the cheese fondue from Swiss Chuchi. While this is my first time trying cheese fondue and I couldn’t expect a better experience. The food is tasty, with great portions and a good price.

Let’s read on our Zurich food guide and food recommendation when visiting Swiss Chuchi for their best cheese fondue in Zurich.

Swiss Chuchi

Zurich Food Guide - Swiss Chuchi
Swiss Chuchi

Located in the heart of Niederdorf in Zurich’s Old Town, the Swiss Chuchi is the oldest fondue room in Zurich’s old town. They have been passionate about delicious Swiss specialties, particularly fondue since 1953. The restaurant proudly serves typical Swiss dishes cooked according to the old tradition. They even carefully choose the products, favoring regional suppliers, to ensure the highest quality.

When looking for authentic Swiss cheese specialties such as fondue and raclette, Swiss Chuchi offers a big selection of fondue which up to ten different variations of this famous local dish. For sure you can find your liking!

Swiss Chuchi, Zurich

  • Address: Rosengasse 10, Zurich 8001 Switzerland.
  • Business hour: Daily from 11:30 to 23:00

The restaurant is popular with locals and visitors, so reservations are recommended. Alternatively, try to visit in the afternoon, as it is less hectic in the restaurant.

My Food Visit to Swiss Chuchi

Inside Swiss Chuchi Zurich

We had a very late lunch in Zurich and did not have a reservation. Luckily, we were still able to get seated at a nice table. Inside the restaurant, it has a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. All the servers were very busy, especially with many fondue orders and accompanying set-up.

Our server was super attentive and friendly and creates a great atmosphere. It was our first time eating fondue, and she was really helpful in explaining everything and giving us a good recommendation.

What To Order

What To Eat in Swiss Chuchi

Swiss Chuchi had an extensive fondue and raclette menu, and it can serve in different variations (with little or no alcohol, gluten-free). Most cheese fondue’s run about 30CHF in Zurich, as same as Swiss Chuchi. Generally, the price starts from CHF 28.50 per person with bread included. You can opt to choose the additional dipping with extra charges. The baby potatoes, steamed vegetables, fruits (for extra CHF 7.-), or roasted chicken breast (+ CHF 16.-).

Note: Price listed at the time when our visit.

What and Where to Eat in Zurich - Swiss Chuchi

Apart from the fondue and raclette, the restaurant offers a big selection of other typical local dishes. The Zurich-style veal fricassée with Rösti is also extremely popular. Meat, seafood dishes, and vegetables are also available to suit every taste. Besides, Swiss Chuchi also had a big choice of local wines to match the dish of your choice.

We were in the mood for fondue and ordered the Montié-Montié (half and half) made up of two kinds of cheeses. We also ordered the fondue chinois (meat fondue), a type of fondue in which thinly sliced beef is dipped in broth and boiled as per recommendation. A great combination 

Best Cheese Fondue

Cheese Fondue with Bread

The drinks and the food arrived fast.

The cheese fondue was served with the bread for dipping. Additionally, we also ordered baby potatoes as the side dish. Bread and potatoes can be refilled until you have scooped up all the cheese!

Zurich Must-Eat Food

Our first dipped to the melted cheese on the fondue! The bread was not too soft else it is hard for the cheese to get a proper grip. When we ran out of bread, they brought more!

For small eaters, it is enough to have the fondue with only the bread they serve, as the bread was very filling and more than enough to make u feel full and satisfy your senses. But we were not regretted by adding on the extra. The baby potato went so well with the cheese! Truly enjoy it.

Meat Fondue From Swiss Chuchi

The meat fondue is just like a hot pot. The meat was cooked in hot oil and tastes great. It is truly indulgent and highly recommended. All the dishes ordered are more than enough to fill us up!

In short, the fondue was delicious. The quality of the cheese was top-notch. Truly incredible!

Zurich Food Guide: Best Cheese Fondue

Must Eat in Zurich

For true Swiss dining in Zurich do not give this place a miss. We truly enjoyed your Swiss cheese fondue experience in Swiss Chuchi. The entire meal, service, and overall experience were excellent and we couldn’t recommend it more. The cheese fondue is a true classic and a must to try when visiting Switzerland!

All in all, Swiss Chuchi is highly rated in our Zurich food guide as the best restaurant to sample authentic Swiss fondue in Zurich. Looking forward to coming back for another excellent lunch or dinner!

Lastly, feel free to continue to read on our Switzerland itinerary to each of the beautiful cities in the country.

Popular cities with detailed travel guide blog to visit in Switzerland:

Jungfrau Region:

Switzerland itinerary Travel Guide Blog

Switzerland itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Switzerland | 0

Last updated on September 15th, 2024

Here are some of the best things to see and do in Switzerland in seven days. We hope our Switzerland itinerary in this travel guide blog can help you plan your memorable trip to Switzerland!

Home to the breathtaking Alps, numerous lakes, historical culture, and traditional Swiss villages, Switzerland is like a living fairy tale. It’s incredibly beautiful, with incredible mountain scenery and scenic train, that it almost doesn’t seem real. It is a country I have long wanted to visit, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Switzerland is not a very big country, but it has many interesting things to see and do. If you are visiting Switzerland for the first time, a bit of planning is necessary. It’s hard to experience everything that’s great about Switzerland in just a few days of a brief visit. To truly appreciate Switzerland’s charms, we recommended slowing down your pace and trying not to rush around.

In this section of the Switzerland Travel Guide, you will find the articles to help you plan the perfect trip to Switzerland. When to go, what to see, and how much it costs for your budget planning. I will show you how to explore Switzerland in just 7 Days with the Switzerland travel blog!

Quick Switzerland Travel Tips

Switzerland is one of the most expensive, and richest, countries in the world. The capital city is Bern, which has a well-preserved Old Town along the Aare River. Geneva is a global hub for banking and diplomacy, while Zurich is a global hub for banking and finance. 

Currency: The official currency in Switzerland is Swiss francs (CHF) but most Swiss shops accept payment in euros and some also dollars. I would still encourage you to change money and have some Swiss Francs as it gets more expensive if you pay in euros.

Language: The official languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Safety: Switzerland in general, is very safe and welcoming. You should still keep an eye on your valuables just in case, but no need to be paranoid.

Tipping in Switzerland: When eating out in Switzerland, service is usually included, so you are not expected to tip. But you are welcome to add 5% to 10% if the services are particularly outstanding.

This travel guide to Switzerland can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to the country.

Traveling to Switzerland

Hauptbahnhof - Zurich itinerary
Traveling to Switzerland – Zurich Hauptbahnhof

We took a night train to Zurich, Switzerland from Munich but there are several ways to get there depending on where you are.

By Flight
Many international and budget travelers choose to land in Zurich as flight connectivity to and from Zurich is amazing. Zürich is served by Flaugen airport and it connects you to over 196 destinations across the globe.

Use Skyscanner to find the Best Flight Deal

The Zurich International airport is 25 minutes away from the city center (by tram). You can make your way to the city center in one of the following ways.

  • Public Transport – Trains are very efficient in Switzerland and Zurich is no different. You have to pay for tickets at the station (credit cards accepted, cash accepted in some).
  • Private transport or taxi – A more convenient way if you book a chauffeur-driven transport to your hotel. It will drop you off right at your hotel or at designated points in the city center. A good option if you have tons of luggage and are traveling in a group.

By Train
If you’re already in Europe, then traveling by train may be the more convenient option. The train from Munich Hbf to Zurich Hbf took about 6 hrs 45 mins.

By Car
Traveling by car is one of the best ways to experience Europe. Unlike public transportation, driving in Switzerland will give you the freedom to follow your schedule and stop wherever and whenever you wanted. If you’re looking to rent a car and drive to Switzerland, then you can do so on Rentalcars.com.

Switzerland Travel Tips: If you are traveling to Switzerland using public transport, consider to get a Swiss Travel Pass. It is a valuable pass where you will be able to go on almost any public transportation in Switzerland for a consecutive 3, 4, 8, or 15 days. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you will get unlimited rides on trains, panorama trains, boats, and buses for up to 15 consecutive or flexible days in Switzerland!

Take a look on the Swiss Travel Pass (E-Ticket) from Klook for more money saving tips. Cheaper than buying in SBB web!

7 Days in Switzerland

Given the size of Switzerland, we thought our 7 days Switzerland itinerary was ideal for someone on their first trip to Switzerland. It included a lot of Switzerland’s main attractions and a few lovely day trips to the Swiss Alps, but it wasn’t so packed that we felt rushed or overwhelmed.

For this Switzerland itinerary, I strongly recommend using the Swiss Travel Pass and getting around via public transportation. Also, most boat cruises on most lakes are included. I will cover this in more detail in the sections below.

Planning on Switzerland itinerary

Here are the suggested 7 days in Switzerland itinerary:

DAY 1: Arrive in Switzerland. Explore Zurich
Start your Switzerland itinerary in Zurich, the first gateway to this dreamy country. On your first day in Zurich, head to the Bahnhofstrasse and slowly walk to Lake Zurich. Spend your afternoon in the old town to visit Grossmuster, Fraumunster, and Peterskirche, and wander around the Altstadt.

DAY 2: From Zurich to Lucerne. Explore Lucerne
Spend your second day exploring the historic town of Lucerne. The iconic landmark places of Lucerne include the Chapel Bridge or Kapellbrücke, the lion monument, and climbing up to the Museggmauer and the Nine Towers.

DAY 3: Take A Day Trip to Mt Titlis
Take an entire day to explore Mt Titlis from Lucerne and enjoy the spectacular view of the Swiss Alps. Take a ride on a cable car to reach the top of Mount Titlis, enjoy the ice flyer and the view on the Titlis Cliff Walk is extraordinary. A great day trip from Lucerne.

DAY 4: Interlaken
The town itself is a compact tourist town but it holds a few attractions to keep you busy. Spend your day in Interlaken with a scenic boat ride to Brienzersee or Thunersee, and stop at one of the lakefront picturesque villages along the journey.

DAY 5: Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen
Many beautiful Swiss towns and villages can be visited from Interlaken. The fairy tale charming Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen will win you over. Take time to appreciate the beautiful Swiss scenery and historical buildings when sightseeing in town.

DAY 6: Jungfraujoch
The world-famous, Jungfraujoch is Europe’s Highest Train Station and from here you can view the Jungfrau mountain. It is easy to reach Jungfraujoch by train from Interlaken. Enjoy the panoramic views as you reach the summit.

DAY 7: Day Trip To Bern
On your last day of Switzerland itinerary, explore the capital city of Bern on a day trip. Enjoy a stroll to Altstadt of Bern and wander the cobbled streets of Old Town, and visit Einstein’s House and Zytglogge – an Astronomical Clock from the 15th century.

For more information on all of the sights and activities in this Switzerland itinerary, make sure to read through the detailed itinerary at each city. We included our Switzerland travel blog in each section below.

My Trip to Switzerland

Here started the complete guide from my trip to Switzerland to help you plan for your first visit to Switzerland.

My 7 Days Switzerland itinerary started from Zurich and covered what to do and see, where to stay, and a budget breakdown on a day-by-day basis:

  • Day 1: Zurich
  • Day 2: Lucerne
  • Day 3: Day Trip to Mt Titlis 
  • Day 4: Interlaken
  • Day 5: Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen
  • Day 6: Jungfraujoch
  • Day 7: Bern

Above Switzerland itinerary for how to spend 7 days in Switzerland is just a suggestion and should be altered based on your interests. We were actually spending another day in Jungfrau as we were doing the Paragliding Adventure from Murren. You may consider slotting into your Switzerland trip if you want to sail over the Swiss Alps!

Day 1: Zurich

Planning on Zurich itinerary
Lake Zurich

Getting there: From Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Hb). Travel time is approximately 11 minutes.

Start this classic Switzerland itinerary in the iconic city, Zurich. This city is the main gateway to Switzerland and a great city to explore. Zurich is also the largest city in Switzerland and is known as the financial capital of the country.

Be sure to allow yourself at least 1 day in this city as there is much to see and do. Put on your comfy walking shoes and join in and explore the city. All the sightseeing attractions mentioned below can be explored on foot, once you are in the city.

Bahnhofstrasse - Zurich Travel Blog
World-famous street, Bahnhofstrasse

Zurich has more to offer than its beautiful views and upscale shopping scene. Make sure to take the time to visit all the top spots in Zurich. Starting from the world-famous street, Bahnhofstrasse, and walk to Lake Zurich. Stroll around Lake Zurich admiring its pristine waters and birdlife.

Next, spend the remaining time wandering around in the Altstadt (Old Town) of Zurich. The Altstadt is filled with cobblestoned lanes, cafes, and shopping areas that you shouldn’t miss. As you stroll through the Old Town, there’s no doubt you will visit the city’s iconic landmarks. The three notable churches: Grossmuster, Fraumunster, and Peterskirche are located in the old town.

You can also take a boat cruise across the lake, or explore the city by bicycle. If you’re looking for a sweeping and stunning view of the city, stop by Lindenhof Hill.

Related Read: Zurich Itinerary Travel Blog

What To Eat in Zurich

Fondue at Swiss Chuchi - Zurich Must-Eat Food

It’s also vital that you take the time to sample some traditional Swiss cuisine in Zurich. There are a lot of dining options near the riverside in Zurich’s old town. This area is touristy, but it is a lovely place to taste authentic Swiss cuisine. Alternatively, there are many local or international cuisine that can be found here.

We recommend trying the Swiss Fondue at Swiss Chuchi. No trip to Switzerland is complete without a fondue, so this is your chance to taste it! The fondue was made with high-quality cheese and was very strong in taste. Dipping the bread into the cheese fondue was so tasty!

Related Read: Zurich Food Guide: The Best Fondue at Swiss Chuchi

Stay: Motel One Zurich

Where To Stay in Zurich - Motel One Zurich

Stay near the city center or train station in Zurich so that you are located closer to sightseeing areas or the transportation hub. There are many great selections of hotels located nearby the train stations.

Motel One Zürich is our top pick to spend your night in Zurich, with a 2-minute walk from the tram station and good accessibility to the city center. A beautiful design hotel, spacious comfortable room with a clean bed.

More Zurich Accommodation Options: Where To Stay in Zurich: Best Areas and Hotels

Day 2: Lucerne

Chapel Bridge Lucerne
Chapel Bridge, Lucerne

Lucerne is located only 50 minutes from Zurich with a train departing from Zurich to Lucerne every hour. Once you are in Lucerne, this charming city is easy to get around and you can reach almost all the attractions within walking distance.

We recommend that you start your city tour with a walk through the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe to give you a glimpse of the past. From there, walked and climbed up to the Museggmauer and the Nine Towers to have an aerial view of the city. The descent down from the hillside to the lion monument to give respect to the Swiss soldiers who lost their lives defending King Louis in the 18th century during the French revolution.

Chapel Bridge Night View

The next thing you’ll want to do is head back to the Old Town, where all the city highlights are located. The historic center of Lucerne, Altstadt (Old Town) is filled with winding cobblestone of alleyways and passages with a few magnificent Squares that seem to take you pleasantly by surprise. Get lost wandering in the cobblestone of the old town and viewing the historical building. Many cafes, shops, and restaurants can easily spend your whole day here.

Besides, Lucerne is very absolutely dreamlike in the nighttime. Being on the Chapel bridge feels like a fairy tale when the light lit up.

Getting there: From Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Hb) to Lucerne train station. Travel time is approximately 50 minutes.

Stay: Altstadt Hotel Krone Luzern

Where To Stay in Lucerne - Altstadt Hotel Krone Luzern

Similar to most towns in Switzerland, everything is walkable in Lucerne, especially if you are staying in an old town near the river. The Hotel des Balances is perfectly located in a picturesque location on the Reuss river in the heart of Old Lucerne. Getting off from train in Zurich to the hotel was an easy 10-minutes walking journey across the gorgeous river.

Alternative, Altstadt Hotel Krone Luzern is our mid-range pick for the best hotel in Lucerne. Set in Altstadt, the hotel is exceptionally located with a beautiful view of historic buildings in the Weinmarkt. It is also within walking distance from the train station, and nearby to many restaurants and cafes

Read more if you need more selection for your best stay in Lucerne.

Day 3: Day Trip To Mt Titlis

Titlis 360 rotair cable car

Getting there: From Lucerne train station to Engelberg train station, with a travel time of approximately 40 minutes. From there, take the cable car to Mt Titlis.

Mt Titlis is a great day trip from Lucerne, Zurich, or other towns in Switzerland. Based on our Switzerland itinerary, we choose Lucerne as the base to Mt Titlis to make it easy for the next destination.

From Lucerne, you need to go to Engelberg (the last stoppage to Mt. Titlis) by train. Regular trains departed from Lucerne to Engelberg, with at least one train per hour. It takes about 40 minutes to reach Engelberg by train and the train route is included in the Swiss Travel Pass. From there, you can take a free shuttle bus service (free of cost) to reach the entry point of Mount Titlis. You can find the time of the bus service at the station. If you are interested to see the scenic beauty then a 10-12 min walk is there to reach the entry point. It is an easy and flat walk.

Next, the Mt Titlis can be reached by taking a gondola from Engelberg to Stand, followed by a fully rotating cable car from Stand to the top of Mt Titlis. The cable car journey is less than 10 minutes. The whole panoramic view is lovely and worth clicking.

Switzerland Travel Tips: The Swiss Travel Pass provides a 50% discount on the cable car ticket from Engelberg to Mt Titlis.

Mt Titlis Cliff Walk
Titlis Cliff Walk

We spend about 2 hours on top of Mt Titlis to enjoy the spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. The Titlis Cliff Walk is the most memorable journey experience and adds excitement to the trip. In short, we spend about 5 hours on a visit to Mt Titlis after including all the traveling journey and waiting time.

The total cost for the Mt Titlis ride is not cheap and it costs about CHF101 without any discount card. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel on Mt Titlis at a 50% discount. If you opt for a hassle-free arrangement, here are the best day tour to Mt Titlis with great customer ratings. Take a look if you are interested.

After enjoying two days in Lucerne, it’s time to head on to your next destination!

Day 4: Interlaken

Switerland itinerary - Interlaken

Getting there: From Lucerne train station to Interlaken OST. Travel time is approximately 110 minutes.

The next morning, catch a train and head to the Interlaken in the Bernese Oberland for the next Swiss Adventure. We took the Golden Pass Line, a beautiful scenic train ride from Lucerne via the Bernese Oberland lakes to Montreux. From Lucerne to Interlaken, it took us about 110 minutes with beautiful scenery along the train journey.

Once we reached Interlaken, we checked in to our hotel, Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel, and started our next adventure. There are many attractions so please allocate at least two to three days to explore the Bernese Oberland and the nearby region. We spend our remaining 4 days in this one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland.

We choose Interlaken as our based in the Bernese Oberland. It is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist towns and has easy access to nearby attractions with great transport accessibility. There are countless cable cars, funiculars, gondolas, and cogwheel trains ready to take you up to high alpine scenery.

Boat Trip Lake Brienz

Boat ride on Lake Brienz

Situated between the beautiful Lakes Thun and Brienz, a boat ride is a must-do in Interlaken. We recommended choosing one of the boats rides from two, either Brienzersee (about 2.5 hours for round trip) or Thunersee (4-5 hours for round trip), and combining it with the town touring for a perfect round trip journey.

We opted for lake Brienz during our trip to Interlaken. The boat ride departed from Interlaken OST, nearby the Interlaken railway station. It is a scenic boat ride with azure blue water and a picturesque view along the journey.

There is plenty of stop point along the way, but we choose to stop at Brienz town, a scenic lakefront village known for its wood craving. We spend time wandering in the Brienz town and taking a lot of photos. At the end of the town, we take the train instead of a boat ride back to Interlaken.

What To Eat in Interlaken

What to eat in Interlaken

Most of the restaurants are located on the main street and you can choose the best restaurant in Interlaken based on your liking. We choose to have a piping hot slice of deliciously cheesy pizza at one of the pizzerias in Interlaken. The food was not too bad with a good choice of toppings. Very reasonably priced for dining in Interlaken.

Best Cheap Eat in Interlaken

The food in Switzerland is expensive, especially in the tourist town of Interlaken. For the money-saving purpose, we get the cooked food from Coop supermarket in Interlaken. It has all the things you need during your stay in Switzerland. The food is not as pricey and had quite a good variety to choose from. Vegetarians could also get food from there. One gets cheap food that can heat in the microwave or also be eaten directly.

We had the seasoned well chicken, good salad, and cool beer for dinner during one of our days in Interlaken. The best cheap eats for a budget traveler when looking for what to eat in Interlaken.

Stay: Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel

Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel

Given its proximity to several other beautiful and exciting destinations, as well as its affordable accommodation, we recommend using Interlaken as your home base for your Switzerland itinerary. There are several great places to stay in Interlaken that will suit any travel style.

The Carlton-Europe Vintage Hotel is a great, centrally located hotel that is situated close to the Interlaken OST station. They have several clean and comfortable rooms and there is an option to include breakfast in the morning. Extremely popular in Interlaken and reserve your room early to secure your stay.

If you’re still looking for a great place to rest your head, check out our top suggestions. Click here to know more about where to stay in Interlaken or nearby areas.

Day 5: Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen

No visit to Switzerland would be complete without spending a least a little bit of time relaxing in a Swiss village that Switzerland is so well known for. There are countless amazing places to visit from Interlaken and it is sure to give you a great view of what life is like in Swiss. The popular places is to the lovely Swiss town of Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Grindelwald, Wengen, Isenfluh and more.

We visited the Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, Grindelwald, and Wengen during our four days visit to the Bernese Oberland. Among all the villages, we recommended spending one day exploring the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen. Of course, here is our recommendation after our actual visit. You can adjust your Switzerland itinerary based on your interest and the time when you are there. Take note that you need to include the traveling time from one place to the next destination.

From Interlaken OST to Grindelwald

Grindelwald - First Cliff Walk by Tissot
Grindelwald – First Cliff Walk by Tissot

Getting there: From Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Bahnhof. Travel time is approximately 28 minutes.

One of the most iconic Swiss villages in Bernese Oberland to have on any Switzerland itinerary has got to be Grindelwald. In the morning, hop on a train from Interlaken to the Grindelwald! The village of Grindelwald itself is gorgeous. You can enjoy the village view and witness the Eiger Mountain.

Next, take a 25-minute cable car ride and head to the famous First Cliff Walk by Tissot. There are a lot of fun activities on offer to spend your time at the summit.

From Grindelwald to Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen - Switzerland itinerary
Lauterbrunnen

Getting there: From Grindelwald Bahnhof to Lauterbrunnen. Travel time is approximately 37 minutes.

From the chilled-out vibes of the Swiss mountains, it’s time to head to another of the most iconic village in Bernese Oberland. Arguably one of the most beautiful villages in the world, Lauterbrunnen is full of breathtaking views that can not be described in words or photos.

There are 72 waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley with amazing views of the Alps mountain region. You can hike around the waterfall or just simply stroll in the village to enjoy the breathtaking view.

Day 6: Day Trip to Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch Travel

The Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is a true highlight of our 7 days Switzerland itinerary. This highest train station in Europe is located in a magnificent landscape of eternal snow and glaciers. It’s simply spectacular to visit the world of eternal snow.

There are two routes to get to the Jungfraujoch; via Lauterbrunnen and via Grindelwald, and both routes offer an amazing view of the Alpine Alps. We recommend going up via one route and going down via the other. That way you see the most of this stunning alpine area.

Getting there: From Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Bahnhof, then transit to Kleine Scheidegg, followed by transit to Jungfraujoch. Total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Hiking to the Mönchsjoch Hut

When you are at the top of Europe, there is so much to see and do at Jungfraujoch that you can spend for few hours exploring the Alps mountain top. A day trip to Jungfraujoch is not a cheap excursion, but the trip and the experience at the top are truly unique. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you should not miss.

We had documented our visit to Jungfraujoch if you are planning to include this amazing place in your Switzerland itinerary. Check out our comprehensive Jungfraujoch Travel Guide to know more detail.

Day 7: Bern

Switzerland itinerary - Bern
Day Trip to Bern

Getting there: From Interlaken OST to Bern train station. Travel time is approximately 60 minutes.

Because you have the time if you’re following this particular itinerary, it is also a great idea to go on a day trip from Interlaken to Bern. This historical UNESCO site is the capital city of Switzerland and a great place to visit on a day trip (or to spend more time if you want to extend your trip). It is only about an hour from Interlaken.

In Bern, you can take your time when it comes to visiting the top sites and wandering through the charming Old Town to enjoy the laid-back vibes of this unique and beautiful city. Visit the important monuments like the Parliament building and the Berne Münster, stare in awe at the beautiful detail of Zytglogge, or pay a visit to Albert Einstein’s house where he stayed in the city. Don’t forget to meet some bears in Barengraben, the symbol of Bern.

Related Read: Bern Itinerary: A Day Trip Travel Guide Blog

What To Eat in Bern

What To Eat in Bern
What to eat in Bern – Rösti from Anker Restaurant

When visiting the charming city of Bern, one could miss the opportunity to try the typical and delicious swiss homemade food. We stopped off at Restaurant Anker and were treated to the first Rosti in Switzerland.

Located in the main square of Bern, Restaurant Brasserie Anker is a traditional beer hall restaurant that offers a variety of Swiss dishes and served the best Rosti in town. We had the salad and the famous rösti with a choice of meats and egg on top, which are served in a small frying pan. The servings are very generous and taste so good. One of the best dishes I had during my Switzerland trip. We recommend it if you are looking for local food in Bern.

The prices are reasonable comparing other restaurants in the city and they have lunch specials. A bit tourist but a great place for local food when looking for what to eat in Bern. Take note that Anker charges the tap water for CHF5 and we choose to go for a beer when choosing for a drink.

Where To Stay in Bern

Our Switzerland itinerary to Bern is on a day trip basis so we didn’t spend our night there. But if you planning to stay in Bern, book your hotel in the old town. From there, you can get to all (or most) attractions in Bern within minutes.

The Kreuz Bern Modern City Hotel is a modern accommodation set in the medieval Old Town. Perfect location, reasonable price, and good-sized room. You get everything you need for 1 or 2 days.

If you’re after one of Bern’s most luxurious options, the Boutique Hotel Belle Epoque is the way to go. This central 4-star hotel occupies a 500-year-old building in the Old Town and boasts beautiful decor and great-sized rooms.

Swiss Travel Pass

Traveling in Switzerland by Train
Traveling in Switzerland by Public Transport

Nothing is cheap in Switzerland and transportation can cost you a lot when traveling in Switzerland. Fortunately, there are transportation passes available to save you some money when traveling by public transport in Switzerland. But it can be overwhelming when deciding to purchase a transportation pass.

My Switzerland itinerary is covered with the Swiss Travel Pass. It is an all-in-one pass that allows you to travel on trains, buses, and even boats across Switzerland as long as they fall under the Swiss Travel System. That means you won’t have to go through the hassle of buying single-trip tickets, saving you both time and money!

With the Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll be entitled to these :

  • Unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat (excluding seat reservations or surcharges)
  • Unlimited use of public transport across more than 90 towns and cities
  • Up to 50% discount on mountain excursions
  • Free admission to more than 500 museums and exhibits
  • Complimentary Swiss Family Card and free travel for all children aged 0-16 accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket

Without a Swiss Travel pass, you will end up spending up to $600+ on public transportation alone for your Switzerland itinerary. Be a smart traveler and calculate how much you save for your Switzerland trip!

Buy your Discounted Swiss Travel Pass here.

Switzerland Travel Budget Tips

As probably everyone knows, Switzerland is very expensive, so I put all my favorite saving money tips in this Switzerland travel budget tips in this section. Here is a quick and simple budget travel guide to Switzerland with tips.

Many of the attractions in Switzerland are free. So, you will not have to spend a lot of money on activities. But prepare to pay for the transportation if you are planning to see the mountains range in Switzerland.

Get yourself a Swiss Travel Pass. You can get it for 3, 4, 8, or 15 days and it allows you to travel on any train, bus, or ferry service in Switzerland and you also get discounted tickets to many attractions. Great discounts also for mountain rides. Must have when planning to visit Gornergrat (Zermatt) or the Jungfrauch.

When looking for what to eat in Switzerland, be prepared to pay more for local Swiss dishes and International foods like Indian, Turkish, and Asian are generally cheaper. Bring your water as a small bottle of water can cost CHF2 to CHF3. Tap water is generally safe to drink, however, if you are unsure, make sure to ask your hotel receptionist or host.

Weather is unpredictable, especially in the mountain Alps. Try to make your Switzerland itinerary flexible and only buy the train ticket to the mountain trip when the weather is good.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Most of the visits in this Switzerland itinerary required a lot of city exploration and all the old town is best explored on foot.

Overview: 7-Days in Switzerland itinerary

All in all, there are so many things to do and see in Switzerland. You could easily spend many days in the amazing country for its gorgeous Alpine mountain, crystal clear lake, and Swiss traditional village and culture. We covered most of the must-visit places in this Switzerland itinerary, but there are many more beautiful places awaiting you to discover in Switzerland. We believe 7 days is a great introduction for your first visit to this country. And I love my trip to Switzerland and looking forward to re-visit it again!

Lastly, feel free to continue to read on our Switzerland itinerary to each of the beautiful cities in the country.

Travel to Jungfrau Region: