Iconic Switzerland: 5 Days from the Matterhorn to Lucerne

Day 1 is all about a smooth start and a meaningful transition from city to Alps. Begin in Basel by picking up your rental car at Basel SBB, then enjoy an easy countryside drive to Vallorbe for a quick lunch before continuing toward Täsch. If you’re interested in history, I highly recommend the optional stop at Fort de Pré-Giroud—an underground WWII fortress carved into the mountainside that offers a fascinating glimpse into Switzerland’s neutrality and preparedness (it’s immersive, not just “museum-like”). Insider tip: Zermatt is car-free, so plan to park in Täsch and take the shuttle/train into Zermatt—arriving this way feels seamless and sets the tone for the alpine experience. The Rifflealp Resort will help to arrange this and will pick you up.

Day 2 is your “Matterhorn day,” and it’s the most iconic Switzerland experience in the itinerary. I recommend starting with Gornergrat in the morning because skies are usually clearest early, and the cogwheel train makes it an easy, scenic ascent with incredible panoramic views—this is where you’ll get that classic, postcard Matterhorn photo. After a light lunch back in Zermatt, head up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in the afternoon; it’s a longer lift journey, and the indoor highlights (like the Ice Palace) make it more forgiving if the weather shifts. Insider tip: Dress in layers even in summer—temperatures can drop dramatically at altitude—and book dinner for a quintessential finish: fondue with Matterhorn views, ideally timed for golden hour. If you’re staying at Riffelalp, take a quiet moment outside in the evening—the sound of grazing cows and their softly ringing bells is pure Switzerland.

Day 3 is a beautifully scenic transfer day that feels like an experience, not a commute. Start by returning to Täsch to pick up your car, then drive toward Lucerne via the Furka Pass, one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine roads—think dramatic switchbacks, sweeping mountain views, and photo stops that feel straight out of a movie (fun fact: this route is featured in Goldfinger). I recommend pausing for lunch in Andermatt to break up the drive and keep the pace relaxed before continuing on to Lucerne for an easy afternoon of Old Town strolling, lakeside promenades, and chocolate shopping. Insider tip: The Furka Pass is winding, so plan a few short scenic stops for comfort (and better photos), and keep layers handy—temperatures can change quickly at higher elevations.

Day 4 is your “storybook Switzerland” day—waterfalls, valley views, and a slower pace after the big mountain moments in Zermatt. I recommend an early start from Lucerne to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, where you’ll visit Staubbach Falls for an easy, beautiful walk and classic photos. If you want extra wow factor with minimal effort, add Trümmelbach Falls, a series of powerful waterfalls hidden inside the mountain—one of the most unique natural sights in the region. Insider tip: Have lunch in Wengen if you can; it’s a charming, car-free mountain village with gorgeous views and a true Swiss atmosphere, then return to Lucerne for a relaxed evening (or a spa reset if you’re staying at Bürgenstock).

Day 5 is designed to be effortless—an easy, stress-free departure day after a week of iconic scenery and memorable experiences. Leave Lucerne with plenty of time and drive to Zurich Airport to return your rental car, check in, and settle in comfortably before your flight. I recommend building in a little buffer time in case of traffic or a slower car return process, especially during peak travel periods. Insider tip: Keep a small day bag accessible with chargers, snacks, and any layers—Swiss mornings can be cool, and it makes the airport transition feel smooth and organized.