Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, known for its majestic Alps, pristine lakes, and efficient public transport. With just five days, you can still explore a mix of cities, mountains, and scenic routes—especially if you plan smart. This Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass gives you the flexibility to visit key destinations without worrying about ticket costs or schedules. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or culture seeker, Switzerland offers a perfectly compact adventure. This guide is ideal if you’re looking to maximize your time without sacrificing comfort or experience.
How to Get Around During Your 5-Day Switzerland Itinerary
Getting around Switzerland efficiently is key to making the most of your 5-day trip. The Swiss Travel Pass is one of the best options for tourists, providing unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats across the country. It also grants free or discounted entry to many museums and attractions.
For a 5-day itinerary, a 4-day Swiss Travel Pass often offers the best value. This pass costs CHF 295 (second class) and covers most of the key destinations and transport routes you’ll use. Since your first day in Geneva might involve less travel, and some days may be lighter, a 4-day pass balances convenience and cost effectively. It allows you to explore Montreux and other nearby areas without paying extra for transport each time.
If you prefer more flexibility or plan to do extensive travel every day, a 6-day pass is also available. However, the 4-day option is generally sufficient for most travelers following a well-planned 5-day Switzerland itinerary.
5-Day Switzerland Itinerary Overview (Geneva Start)
- Day 1 – Geneva
- Day 2 – Lausanne
- Day 3 – Gruyères & Broc
- Day 4 – Montreux & Chillon Castle
- Day 5 – Gstaad & GoldenPass panoramic train
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Geneva
Begin your Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass in Geneva, a city known for its international vibe and lakeside charm. Start at the iconic Jet d’Eau, the large water fountain on Lake Geneva, perfect for photos and a short lakeside walk.
Next, visit the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations. Guided tours are available and included with the Swiss Travel Pass, offering insights into global diplomacy.
Stop by Parc des Bastions, a peaceful green space featuring the Reformation Wall and outdoor chess boards. It’s a great place to relax and experience local life.
Use your Swiss Travel Pass to enter the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire, Geneva’s main art and history museum, offering extensive collections from archaeology to fine arts.
Take a break with a lakeside cruise on Lake Geneva, also covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. The boat ride offers scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Finish your day strolling through the Old Town, exploring landmarks like St. Pierre Cathedral and the Place du Bourg-de-Four, Geneva’s oldest square.
Public transport within Geneva is free for Swiss Travel Pass holders, making it easy and cost-effective to see all major attractions during your Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass.
Day 2: Day Trip to Lausanne
Start your day with a quick train ride from Geneva to Lausanne, which takes around 35 minutes. Lausanne is a vibrant city on Lake Geneva’s northern shore and offers several key attractions accessible with the Swiss Travel Pass.
Begin at the Olympic Museum, included in the pass, where you can explore exhibits on the history of the Olympic Games and view artifacts from past events. Next, visit the Collection de l’Art Brut, a unique museum showcasing outsider art.
Head to Ouchy, Lausanne’s lakeside district, to walk along the lake promenade and see the Château d’Ouchy, a medieval castle turned luxury hotel. From here, you can also take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva, included with the Swiss Travel Pass.
In the city center, explore Place de la Palud, home to the historic town hall and the animated clock. Nearby, the Lausanne Cathedral is an impressive Gothic building worth a visit.
End your day by watching the sunset over Lake Geneva from Ouchy or the Esplanade de Montbenon, a park offering panoramic lake views.
Public transport and many entry fees are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass, making this day trip from Geneva to Lausanne by train affordable and convenient for travelers following a Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass.
Day 3: Chocolate & Cheese in Gruyères & Broc
Start your day early with a scenic train ride from Geneva to Bulle, then continue to the medieval town of Gruyères, famous for its cheese and charming old streets. Begin by visiting the Gruyères Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress offering panoramic views and rich history — admission is included with the Swiss Travel Pass.
Next, explore the HR Giger Museum, dedicated to the surrealist artist known for designing the Alien movie creature. Art lovers will appreciate this unique experience in Gruyères.
Stroll through the cobbled streets and visit local shops selling traditional Gruyère cheese. Stop by the La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy nearby to see how this famous cheese is made, with guided tours and tastings available.
Afterward, head to the nearby village of Broc, home of Maison Cailler, the renowned Swiss chocolate factory. With your Swiss Travel Pass, you get a discount on the entrance fee. Take the interactive chocolate tour to learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and enjoy tastings of various products.
If time allows, explore the Broc Castle or take a short hike in the surrounding Pre-Alps landscapes, offering fresh air and scenic views.
On your return trip, consider stopping in the quaint village of Peiry for photos and to enjoy views of rolling hills and traditional Swiss farms.
This day is a perfect blend of Swiss culinary experiences, culture, and history, ideal for those following a Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass.
Day 4: Montreux & Chillon Castle Exploration
Start your day in Montreux, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Geneva. Begin with a visit to the famous Chillon Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland, included in your Swiss Travel Pass. Explore the castle’s grand halls, dungeons, and ramparts, all offering spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Afterwards, stroll along Montreux’s lakefront promenade, enjoying the beautifully maintained flowerbeds, sculptures, and charming cafes. Don’t miss the Montreux Christmas Market (seasonal) or the Jazz Festival if you visit in summer, both adding vibrant cultural flavor.
Next, head to the Queen Studio Experience Museum, dedicated to the legendary rock band Queen, located in Montreux’s Casino. Music fans will appreciate this unique insight.
For lunch, try a lakeside restaurant offering local specialties like perch fillets from Lake Geneva.
In the afternoon, take a short train or bus ride to Vevey. Here, visit the Charlie Chaplin Museum (Chaplin’s World), which showcases the life and works of the legendary comedian. The nearby Alimentarium Food Museum provides an interactive journey into food history and culture.
If time permits, explore Vevey’s old town with its picturesque squares and fountains, or visit the Nestlé headquarters for those interested in the company’s history.
This day offers a blend of historical sightseeing, lakefront relaxation, music heritage, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect highlight for your Switzerland itinerary 5 days with Swiss Travel Pass.
Day 5: Scenic Train to Gstaad and Return to Geneva
Begin your day by boarding the panoramic GoldenPass Line train from Montreux to Gstaad. This scenic journey offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming villages, making it one of the best Switzerland itinerary 5 days with scenic train rides options.
Once in Gstaad, explore the luxury alpine village known for its upscale boutiques, cozy chalets, and elegant atmosphere. Visit the Gstaad Promenade for shopping and local cafes. For nature lovers, there are several short hiking trails around Gstaad suitable for all levels, including the Rinderberg Panorama Trail which offers breathtaking views.
You can also visit the Gstaad Saanenland Museum to learn about the region’s cultural heritage. For a more relaxing experience, enjoy a drink at one of the mountain terraces such as Berghaus Ristis or Chalet Gstaad, soaking in panoramic views.
In the afternoon, consider a visit to the nearby Saanen village with its traditional wooden houses and quiet streets. Before heading back, try some local Swiss pastries at a bakery in town.
Return to Geneva in the evening via train, completing your 5-day Switzerland itinerary with Swiss Travel Pass with a perfect blend of alpine beauty, luxury, and relaxation.
Tips for Traveling with the Swiss Travel Pass
- Activate your pass from Day 1 and carry it every day. 🎫
- Reserve panoramic trains early (Day 5 for GoldenPass). ⏰
- Take advantage of museums or mountain excursions along the way. 🏔️🖼️
- Travel light for smooth transfers between cities. 🎒
- Plan early morning departures to avoid crowds, especially for scenic trains. 🌄
Alternative Routes or Extensions
Day 1 – Geneva
- Extension: Take a short train ride to Nyon to explore the lakeside castle and old town. 🏰
Day 2 – Lausanne
- Extension: Day trip to Montreux Vineyards (Lavaux region) for wine tasting and panoramic views of Lake Geneva. 🍇
Day 3 – Gruyères & Broc
- Extension: Stop at Charmey for thermal baths and hiking trails. 🛁
- Alternative: Visit Moléson-sur-Gruyères for mountain views and adventure sports. 🏔️
Day 4 – Montreux & Chillon Castle
- Extension: Take the Rochers-de-Naye cogwheel train for alpine marmots and stunning views. 🐾
- Alternative: Hike or cable car to Les Avants for scenic walks above Montreux. 🌄
Day 5 – Gstaad & GoldenPass Panoramic Train
- Extension: Continue to Zweisimmen and connect to Lauterbrunnen for iconic alpine scenery. 🏞️
- Alternative: Stop at Lenk village for a traditional Swiss mountain experience before reaching Gstaad. 🏡
Bonus Multi-Day Extension:
- Add Interlaken & Jungfraujoch after Gstaad for epic mountain adventures. ❄️🏔️
- Take the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano for one of Europe’s most scenic train rides. 🚞
Final Thoughts
Traveling Switzerland in 5 days with the Swiss Travel Pass is a perfect way to experience a mix of cities, castles, mountains, and scenic train rides without worrying about tickets. 🚄🏔️
From Geneva’s cosmopolitan charm to Lausanne’s lakeside beauty, the cheese and chocolate delights in Gruyères & Broc, the romantic Montreux & Chillon Castle, and the stunning mountain views on the GoldenPass Panoramic Train, each day offers unforgettable memories. 🏰🍫🌄