Start your day by taking a scenic train ride from Zurich to Lucerne. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival at Lucerne train station, you can store your luggage in the luggage lockers for convenience. The lockers are located inside the station and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different baggage needs. The cost depends on the size of the locker and how long you use it. Typically, prices range from CHF 5 to CHF 12 for the first 6 hours.
From Lucerne train station, you can take a leisurely self-guided walking tour to explore the charming city, allowing approximately 2 hours for sightseeing. Begin with a stroll to the iconic
Chapel Bridge, one of Lucerne's most famous landmarks. This picturesque wooden bridge offers breathtaking views of the Reuss River and is adorned with beautiful flowers. Spend some time crossing the bridge and admiring its historic significance. Next, make your way to the
Lion Monument, located nearby. This impressive sculpture carved into a rock commemorates the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and symbolism of this monument.
Afterward, return to Lucerne train station and continue your train journey to Interlaken, which is the first section of the famous
Golden Pass Line. The train ride takes around 2 hours, offering stunning views of Switzerland's picturesque landscapes along the way. Upon arrival in Interlaken, walk less than 10 minutes to your hotel and take some time to relax. Here are some activities you can take for the late afternoon:
Boat Cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz: Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on either Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, surrounded by the beauty of the Swiss Alps. A nice round trip is to travel from Interlaken to Thun or Brienz by boat, and back to Interlaken by train.
Information about Lake Thun Boat Trip:
● Pier & Transportation: You can board the boat at Interlaken West Boat Station, just about a 10-minute walk from the city center of Interlaken. For your return train trip from Thun, it will take approximately 30 minutes.
● Cruise Duration: Typically taking 2 hours.
● Cruise Highlights: You will have the chance to admire charming lakeside villages, picturesque castles, and panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
Information about Lake Brienz Boat Trip:
● Pier & Transportation: The boat pier for Lake Brienz is Interlaken Ost Boat Station. It's about a 15-20 minute walk from the city center. And it will take about 20 minutes to take the train from Brienz back to Interlaken.
● Cruise Duration: Usually taking 75 minutes.
● Cruise Highlights: You'll have an opportunity to witness cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and charming Swiss villages along the shoreline.
Harder Kulm: Take a funicular ride to the top of Harder Kulm, offering panoramic views of Interlaken and the surrounding mountains & lakes.
Information about Harder Kulm Trip:
● Transportation: The Funicular Valley Station is a 5-minute walk away from the Interlaken Ost train station. From the city center, you can walk about 15-20 minutes or take a local bus to Interlaken Ost.
● Timings: The funicular service to Harder Kulm operates from early April until late November. Trains start around 9:10 AM, and the last descent varies between 9 PM and 10:30 PM depending on the season.
● Duration: The funicular ride to the top takes about 10 minutes. Once at the top, spend your time admiring the view, eating at the restaurant, or exploring walking trails. Most visitors stay at Harder Kulm for 1-3 hours.
Service Included: 1st class train from Zurich to Lucerne & Lucerne to Interlaken Ost; Boat ride on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz (included in Travel Pass); 50% reduction on the funicular ticket to Harder Kulm.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Krebs, Interlaken (4 stars) or similar
Lucerne Chapel Bridge
Lake Thun Boat Trip