Embark on the ultimate Swiss Alps adventure with this campervan itinerary. Experience breathtaking mountain views, serene lakes, charming villages, and complete freedom on the road. Perfect for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts, this guide offers tips, routes, and camping spots for an unforgettable vanlife journey across Switzerland.
Essential Tips Before You Hit the Road
Before starting your Swiss Alps campervan adventure, keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth and unforgettable trip:
- Check Driving Requirements – Ensure your driver’s license is valid in Switzerland and check campervan-specific rules.
- Purchase a Vignette – Swiss motorways require a toll sticker (vignette) for driving on highways.
- Plan Your Route – Use apps like Google Maps or Campercontact for navigation and campsite info.
- Book Campsites in Advance – Popular spots fill quickly, especially in summer.
- Know the Weather – Swiss weather changes fast; pack layers and waterproof gear.
- Understand Local Rules – Be aware of parking regulations and quiet hours at campsites.
- Fuel Up Wisely – Gas prices vary; refuel before entering remote areas.
- Pack Smart – Include camping gear, kitchen essentials, warm clothing, hiking boots, and chargers.
- Prepare for Emergencies – Carry a first aid kit, maps, and emergency contact numbers.
- Respect Nature – Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve Switzerland’s beauty.
7-Day Swiss Alps Campervan Itinerary
Day 1: Zurich to Lucerne – The Journey Begins
Start your Swiss Alps campervan adventure by driving from Zurich to Lucerne, enjoying scenic landscapes and charming stops along the way. Here’s your Day 1 guide:
- Morning Departure from Zurich
- Pick up your campervan early to maximize the day.
- Check fuel, documents, and campervan equipment.
- First Stop – Zug
- Drive ~30 minutes from Zurich to Zug.
- Explore the picturesque old town and Zug Lake promenade.
- Optional: Have breakfast or coffee by the lake.
- Scenic Drive to Lucerne
- Continue through countryside and gentle hills.
- Suggested route: via A4 for efficiency or smaller roads for scenic charm.
- Lunch Stop – Rotkreuz or Cham
- Try local Swiss cuisine at a small café or restaurant.
- Sample Rösti, bratwurst, or cheese specialties.
- Arrival in Lucerne
- Park at Camping Lido or a nearby camper site.
- Explore Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) and Old Town.
- Evening Relaxation
- Enjoy a lakeside stroll at Lake Lucerne.
- Dinner at a local restaurant or cook in your campervan.
💡 Pro tip: Lucerne is a great base for Day 2’s journey toward Interlaken, offering beautiful views and a relaxing first night.
Day 2: Lucerne to Interlaken – Majestic Alpine Views
Day 2 of your Swiss Alps campervan itinerary takes you deeper into breathtaking landscapes, winding roads, and alpine charm.
- Morning in Lucerne
- Enjoy breakfast by Lake Lucerne.
- Visit the Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) or stroll the Old Town before departure.
- Scenic Drive Toward Interlaken
- Route suggestion: Take Route 11 or pass via Brünig Pass for spectacular views.
- Estimated driving time: ~1.5–2 hours without stops.
- Stop – Brünig Pass Viewpoints
- Park briefly for panoramic alpine photos.
- Enjoy fresh mountain air and light hiking opportunities.
- Lunch in Meiringen
- Sample local Swiss specialties like Älplermagronen (Swiss alpine macaroni).
- Explore the charming village atmosphere.
- Arrival in Interlaken
- Park at Camping Jungfrau or a recommended camper site.
- Relax and enjoy lake views before evening activities.
- Explore Interlaken
- Walk along Höheweg street for shops and cafés.
- Optional: Take a short boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz.
- Evening in the Alps
- Cook dinner in your campervan or try a local Swiss restaurant.
- Enjoy stargazing in clear alpine skies.
💡 Pro tip: Prepare for Day 3’s journey toward Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald — some of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine landscapes await.
Day 3: Jungfrau Region – Adventure Day
Explore the heart of the Swiss Alps on Day 3, immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery, alpine adventures, and unforgettable experiences.
- Morning in Grindelwald
- Enjoy breakfast at your campsite with mountain views.
- Pack essentials: hiking gear, camera, water, and snacks.
- First Stop – First Cliff Walk by Tissot
- Take the cable car to First.
- Experience thrilling cliffside walkways and panoramic views of the Bernese Alps.
- Adventure Activities at First
- Try the First Flyer zipline or First Glider for adrenaline rush.
- Hike to Bachalpsee Lake (about 1 hour round trip) for stunning reflections of the mountains.
- Lunch in Grindelwald or First
- Enjoy hearty Swiss mountain cuisine like fondue or rösti.
- Afternoon Exploration – Kleine Scheidegg & Jungfraujoch
- Take the train or cable car to Kleine Scheidegg for breathtaking alpine views.
- Optional: Visit Jungfraujoch – “Top of Europe” for glaciers and snow year-round.
- Evening Return to Grindelwald
- Relax at the campsite or explore the village’s local shops.
- Dinner at a cosy alpine restaurant or cook in your campervan.
💡 Pro tip: Reserve tickets for Jungfraujoch in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
Day 4: Interlaken to Zermatt – Into the Alps
Day 4 of your Swiss Alps campervan journey takes you deeper into the iconic alpine landscapes, with Zermatt and the Matterhorn as your ultimate destination.
- Morning Departure from Interlaken
- Have an early breakfast to make the most of the day.
- Check campervan essentials and fuel before departure.
- Scenic Drive Toward Zermatt (~2.5–3 hours)
- Suggested route: via Spiez and Visp for the most scenic journey.
- Drive along Lake Thun and enjoy views of alpine peaks.
- Optional stops: Spiez Castle for photos and a quick stroll.
- Lunch Stop in Visp or Täsch
- Sample local specialties at a traditional Swiss restaurant.
- Enjoy regional dishes such as capuns or rösti.
- Arrival in Täsch
- Park your campervan at a designated camper site (Zermatt is car-free).
- Take the shuttle train (about 12 minutes) or taxi to Zermatt.
- Explore Zermatt Village
- Wander cobblestone streets lined with chalets and boutique shops.
- Visit the Matterhorn Museum for alpine history.
- Evening at the Matterhorn
- Head to viewpoints like Gornergrat or Riffelalp for stunning Matterhorn panoramas.
- Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with mountain views or cook in your campervan site.
💡 Pro tip: Book train tickets to Zermatt in advance during peak season and arrive early to catch sunset views of the Matterhorn.
Day 5: Zermatt to Sion – Valais Wine Route
Day 5 takes you through the picturesque Valais region, combining alpine beauty with Switzerland’s finest vineyards.
- Morning in Zermatt
- Enjoy breakfast with views of the Matterhorn.
- Take a short walk to a viewpoint for last photos before departure.
- Train Ride Back to Täsch
- Park your campervan in Täsch.
- Take the shuttle train or taxi back.
- Drive from Täsch to Sion (~2 hours)
- Suggested route: Via Visp and along the Rhône Valley for scenic landscapes.
- Stop at Sierre, known as the gateway to the Valais wine region.
- Wine Tasting Stop – Sierre or Vetroz
- Visit a local vineyard for tasting Swiss wines, especially Fendant or Dôle.
- Learn about wine production in Valais at a vineyard cellar tour.
- Lunch in a Vineyard Restaurant
- Enjoy regional cuisine paired with local wines.
- Try specialties like raclette or dried meat.
- Arrival in Sion
- Explore Sion’s old town with cobblestone streets.
- Visit Valère Basilica and Tourbillon Castle for panoramic views.
- Evening Relaxation
- Dine in a local restaurant offering traditional Valais cuisine.
- Overnight stay at a camper site near Sion.
💡 Pro tip: Valais is known for its sunny climate; stop at a vineyard terrace for sunset and wine tasting for the perfect day ending.
Day 6: Sion to Montreux – Swiss Riviera
Day 6 offers a relaxing journey from the heart of Valais to the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva, exploring the famous Swiss Riviera.
- Morning in Sion
- Start your day with breakfast at a café in the old town.
- Take a short walk to visit Valère Basilica and Tourbillon Castle for panoramic views.
- Drive from Sion to Montreux (~1 hour)
- Suggested route: Along Route 9 with views of the Rhône Valley.
- Stop in Aigle for a quick visit to Château d’Aigle and its wine museum.
- Midday Arrival in Montreux
- Park your campervan at a nearby campsite with lake views.
- Take a stroll along Montreux’s beautiful lakeside promenade.
- Lunch in Montreux
- Try lakeside dining with fresh fish from Lake Geneva.
- Sample local specialties like perch fillets or cheese fondue.
- Explore Montreux
- Visit Chillon Castle, a historic lakeside fortress.
- Walk through Montreux’s flower-filled gardens and luxury shopping streets.
- Optional Afternoon Excursion
- Take a boat trip on Lake Geneva for stunning views of the Alps.
- Visit nearby Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a tasting session.
- Evening in Montreux
- Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
- Relax with a walk along the promenade under the sunset.
💡 Pro tip: Montreux is famous for its jazz festival in summer — check dates in advance to time your visit for this cultural highlight.
Day 7: Montreux to Bern or Zurich – Farewell Alps
The final day of your campervan journey takes you through charming towns and scenic routes, concluding your Swiss Alps adventure with memorable views and cultural stops.
- Morning in Montreux
- Enjoy breakfast at a lakeside café with views of Lake Geneva.
- Take a final stroll along the Montreux promenade.
- Departure toward Bern or Zurich
- Choose your route:
- To Bern (~1.5 hours) for a charming medieval city experience.
- To Zurich (~3 hours) to conclude your trip in Switzerland’s cosmopolitan heart.
- Choose your route:
- Option 1: Bern
- Arrive mid-morning and explore Bern’s Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage site).
- Visit the Zytglogge Clock Tower and Münster Cathedral.
- Lunch at a traditional Bernese restaurant.
- Option 2: Zurich
- Drive via scenic routes through the Swiss Plateau.
- Stop in Lucerne or Zug for a short break and sightseeing.
- Arrive in Zurich in the afternoon.
- Afternoon Activities
- In Bern: Walk along the Aare River, explore local shops, and relax at Rosengarten for panoramic city views.
- In Zurich: Visit Bahnhofstrasse for luxury shopping, stroll the old town (Altstadt), or relax by Lake Zurich.
- Evening Farewell Dinner
- Celebrate the trip with a final Swiss meal at a scenic restaurant.
- Try specialties like Zurich-style veal, raclette, or local chocolate desserts.
- End of the Journey
- Return campervan if rented.
- Reflect on your week-long alpine adventure.
💡 Pro tip: For a smoother departure, plan your route and fuel stops ahead of time and book any campsite or campervan drop-off spots in advance.
Best Campsites in the Swiss Alps
Exploring the Swiss Alps by campervan is unforgettable — and choosing the right campsite can make your trip even more special. Here are some of the best campsites for an alpine adventure:
- Camping Jungfrau, Lauterbrunnen
- Location: Lauterbrunnen Valley, surrounded by waterfalls and mountains.
- Highlights: Stunning views, modern facilities, easy access to hiking trails.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and hikers.
- Camping Arolla, Valais
- Location: Arolla village, near high alpine peaks.
- Highlights: Peaceful atmosphere, mountain air, glacier views.
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers and alpine photographers.
- Camping Klausenpass, Uri
- Location: High-altitude site on Klausen Pass.
- Highlights: Panoramic views, quiet environment, hiking right from the campsite.
- Perfect for: Road trippers and nature explorers.
- TCS Camping Bellinzona, Ticino
- Location: Close to Bellinzona’s castles.
- Highlights: Good facilities, blend of Swiss and Italian culture.
- Perfect for: History lovers and cultural travelers.
- Camping Vitznau, Lake Lucerne
- Location: Lakeside campsite with mountain backdrop.
- Highlights: Stunning lake views, direct access to water activities.
- Perfect for: Families and relaxation seekers.
- Camping Sion, Valais
- Location: Near vineyards and wine routes.
- Highlights: Wine tastings, sunny climate, historic town nearby.
- Perfect for: Wine lovers and gourmet travelers.
- Camping Montreux, Lake Geneva
- Location: On the Swiss Riviera.
- Highlights: Lake views, cultural events, proximity to Chillon Castle.
- Perfect for: Leisure travelers and festival-goers.
💡 Pro tip: Always book campsites in advance, especially in summer, as Swiss Alps spots fill quickly.
Packing List for a Campervan Trip in Switzerland
A successful campervan trip in Switzerland starts with smart packing. Here’s a complete list to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience during your alpine adventure:
Essentials
- Driver’s license and ID/passport
- Campervan rental documents
- Travel insurance information
- Maps or GPS device
- Swiss motorway vignette (if applicable)
- Credit cards and some Swiss Franc cash
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm layers (fleece, sweaters)
- Quick-dry clothing
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Comfortable casual clothes for evenings
- Hat, sunglasses, gloves
- Swimwear (for lakes and pools)
Camping Gear
- Sleeping bags or bedding
- Pillows
- Portable camping chairs
- Folding table (if not provided)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Power bank or portable charger
Kitchen & Food Supplies
- Cooking utensils (pots, pans, spatula)
- Plates, bowls, mugs, and cutlery
- Portable stove or grill (if not in campervan)
- Cooler or portable fridge
- Food containers and reusable bags
- Cleaning supplies (dish soap, sponge, towels)
Personal Care
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap)
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Travel towel
Extras
- Camera or smartphone with charger
- Travel guidebook or apps
- Notebook and pen
- Swiss SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device
- Hiking poles (optional)
💡 Pro tip: Pack efficiently — campervan storage space is limited. Use packing cubes and keep essentials easily accessible.
Estimated Costs & Budget Tips
A campervan trip in Switzerland is an incredible experience, but it requires careful budgeting. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs and useful tips to keep your trip affordable without sacrificing quality.
Estimated Costs
- Campervan Rental
- Price range: CHF 80–200 per day, depending on season, size, and amenities.
- Tip: Book early to secure better rates.
- Fuel
- Average cost: CHF 2.00–2.20 per liter.
- Budget: CHF 200–400 for a week, depending on distance.
- Campsites
- Price range: CHF 25–50 per night for two people.
- Tip: Use apps like Campercontact to find affordable spots.
- Food & Groceries
- Budget: CHF 50–80 per day for two, depending on eating habits.
- Tip: Shop at local supermarkets (Coop, Migros) to save money.
- Activities & Attractions
- Budget: CHF 20–100 per person for excursions, cable cars, or tours.
- Tip: Buy Swiss Travel Pass for discounted transport and attractions.
Budget Tips
- Travel Off-Season – Avoid peak summer and holidays to find better rates for campervan rentals and campsites.
- Self-Catering – Cooking in the campervan saves money compared to eating out.
- Swiss Travel Pass – For sightseeing and trains, it can offer big savings.
- Free Camping Spots – Use trusted apps to find free or low-cost camping locations.
- Plan Routes Efficiently – Reduce fuel costs by avoiding unnecessary detours.
💡 Pro tip: Keep a daily budget log. It will help you control expenses and ensure your trip stays within budget while still enjoying Switzerland’s beauty.
Final Thoughts: Freedom, Nature & Swiss Beauty
So, you’ve survived your campervan adventure through the Swiss Alps — congratulations! 🎉 You’ve driven, hiked, eaten cheese fondue (probably too much), and maybe even argued with your GPS. But guess what? That’s part of the magic.
Switzerland in a campervan isn’t just a trip — it’s a lifestyle. It’s waking up to mountains that look like they’ve been Photoshopped, drinking coffee while a cow stares at you like it owns the road, and realizing that your biggest decision is whether to drive to the next lake or nap instead. Spoiler: nap wins more often than not. 😄
Freedom is the best part. No schedules, no hotel check-ins — just you, your van, and endless Swiss beauty. Sure, campervan life means packing smart, budgeting wisely, and dealing with the occasional “where’s the nearest gas station?” panic. But it also means sunsets over alpine lakes, starry nights without city lights, and stories you’ll tell forever.
So grab your keys, your sense of humor, and maybe an extra warm sweater. The Swiss Alps are calling… and they promise you cheese, adventure, and maybe a little chaos. 🧀🚐