Luxury Travel Itinerary for a Week in Switzerland
- Stefan
- Aug 3, 2024
- 9 min read
Updated: Sep 21
Switzerland is one of the best destinations in the world for a luxury holiday. From five-star hotels and gourmet restaurants to scenic train journeys and private yacht cruises, it’s a place where everything feels designed to impress. I’ve traveled these routes and stayed in these hotels myself, and this one-week itinerary brings together the best of a true luxury vacation in Switzerland.
Luxury Switzerland Itinerary at a Glance
Day | Destination | Hotel | Highlight Experience |
1 | Zurich | The Dolder Grand | Private Lake Zurich cruise & Michelin-star dinner |
2 | Lucerne | Hotel Villa Honegg | Infinity pool with lake views & private yacht tour |
3 | Interlaken | Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa | Helicopter flight over Jungfrau region |
4 | Zermatt | The Omnia | Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn views |
5 | Glacier Express | Excellence Class → St. Moritz | Scenic luxury train journey |
6 | St. Moritz | Badrutt’s Palace Hotel | Spa indulgence & helicopter flight over Engadine |
7 | Zurich | — | Farewell lunch at Hiltl & VIP airport service |
Day 1: Arrival in Zurich
Arrive at Zurich Airport and book a private chauffeur for a smooth transfer into the city. The Dolder Grand is the perfect first stop: perched above Zurich, it mixes contemporary art, a world-class spa, and panoramic views of lake and mountains.
Spend your afternoon on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s luxury shopping street, where you’ll find everything from Swiss watches to high-end fashion. Stop for lunch at Kronenhalle, famous for its collection of modern art and Swiss classics served in style.
End the day with a private sunset cruise on Lake Zurich, followed by dinner at Ecco Zürich, one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
Morning:
Arrival at Zurich Airport (ZRH): Arrange a private transfer through Blacklane (I have no affiliations with Blacklane, but I have used their services in the past and was always satisfied) for a seamless journey to your hotel.
Check-in at The Dolder Grand: Enjoy the elegance and comfort of this 5-star hotel offering breathtaking views of Zurich and the Alps.
The Dolder Grand: Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland.
Afternoon:
Explore Bahnhofstrasse: Stroll along one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, offering high-end boutiques and luxury brands.
Lunch at Kronenhalle: Relish gourmet Swiss cuisine at this iconic restaurant. Kronenhalle: Rämistrasse 4, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Shopping Recommendation: Visit Bucherer, renowned for its exquisite selection of luxury watches and jewelry. Bucherer Zurich: Bahnhofstrasse 50, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Evening:
Private Lake Zurich Cruise: Enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Zurich with Champagne and canapés.
Dinner at Ecco Zürich: Experience culinary excellence at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative dishes. Ecco Zürich: Dufourstrasse 20, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland.
Day 2: Zurich to Lucerne
Check out of Zurich and travel to Lucerne. Villa Honegg, with its infinity pool overlooking Lake Lucerne, is one of the most photographed luxury hotels in Switzerland — and for good reason. Enjoy lunch on the terrace before heading out for a private yacht tour of the lake.
For dinner, Restaurant Prisma remains closed, so consider Restaurant Focus, which offers Michelin-starred fine dining with a modern twist.
Morning:
Private Transfer to Lucerne: Book a ride with Blacklane.
Check-in at Hotel Villa Honegg: Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Lucerne at the Instagram-famous, 5-star Hotel
Hotel Villa Honegg: Honegg, 6373 Ennetbürgen, Switzerland.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Hotel Villa Honegg: Enjoy farm-to-table dishes on the terrace.
Lake Lucerne Private Yacht Tour: Cruise on a private yacht and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Evening:
Dinner at Restaurant Prisma (temporarily closed): Savor contemporary cuisine with a view at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Restaurant Prisma: Seestrasse 18, 6354 Vitznau, Switzerland.
Shopping Recommendation: Gübelin: Discover exquisite jewelry and luxury watches at this prestigious boutique.
Gübelin: Schwanenplatz 7, 6004 Lucerne, Switzerland.
Day 3: Lucerne to Interlaken
Travel to Interlaken on the GoldenPass Line, booking first or excellence class for panoramic views and extra comfort. Check in at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, known for its legendary service and elegant setting.
In the afternoon, take a helicopter tour over the Jungfrau region for unforgettable views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Return to Interlaken for dinner and a quiet evening.
Morning:
Scenic Train to Interlaken: For a scenic and relaxing journey, take the GoldenPass Line. Depart from Lucerne station on the Luzern-Interlaken Express. This scenic train ride offers picturesque views of lakes, mountains, and charming Swiss villages.
Departure Station: Lucerne Station
Arrival Station: Interlaken Ost
Afternoon:
Check-in at Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa: Nestled between two stunning lakes and surrounded by mountains.
Victoria-Jungfrau: Höheweg 41, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland.
Lunch at La Terrasse: A refined dining experience at the hotel.
Helicopter Tour over the Jungfrau Region: Witness the majestic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Evening:
Dinner at Restaurant Golden India: Enjoy a luxurious Indian meal with stunning views.
Restaurant Golden India: Höheweg 125, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland.
Shopping Recommendation: Kirchhofer: Explore Kirchhofer for luxury Swiss watches and jewelry.
Kirchhofer: Höheweg 125, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland.
Day 4: Interlaken to Zermatt
Take the train to car-free Zermatt and continue by electric taxi to The Omnia, a modern hotel set high above the village with incredible views of the Matterhorn.
Have lunch at Chez Vrony, a rustic-chic spot beloved for its mountain atmosphere and hearty dishes. Ride the Gornergrat Railway for sweeping views of glaciers and peaks, then enjoy dinner at After Seven, one of Zermatt’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
Morning:
Scenic Train to Zermatt: Enjoy the picturesque journey on the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) from Interlaken Ost to Zermatt. Take the train to Visp and transfer to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn to Zermatt. Remember, Zermatt is only reachable by train.
Electric Taxi to The Omnia: Since Zermatt is car-free, take an electric taxi from the Zermatt station to your hotel.
Electric Taxi Service: Taxi Christophe
Check-in at The Omnia: A modern mountain lodge offering unparalleled luxury and views of the Matterhorn.
The Omnia: Auf dem Fels, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Chez Vrony: A rustic yet chic mountain restaurant.
Chez Vrony: Findeln, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland.
Gornergrat Railway Trip: Experience breathtaking views from Gornergrat.
Evening:
Dinner at After Seven: A Michelin-starred dining experience offering innovative cuisine.
After Seven: Hofmattstrasse 4, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland.
Shopping Recommendation: Stoked Zermatt: For high-end outdoor and ski gear.
Stoked Zermatt: Bahnhofstrasse 72, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland.
Day 5: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Board the Glacier Express in Zermatt and travel to St. Moritz in Excellence Class. With panoramic windows, gourmet dining, and attentive service, it’s one of the most famous luxury train rides in the world.
Check in at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, the legendary icon of St. Moritz. Dinner at Le Restaurant completes the day with refined service and classic cuisine.
Morning:
Glacier Express to St. Moritz: Board the Glacier Express for an 8-hour luxurious train ride through stunning alpine scenery.
Book the Excellence Class for the ultimate experience.
Departure Station: Zermatt
Arrival Station: St. Moritz
Afternoon and Evening:
Check-in at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel: After arriving in the evening, experience opulence and history in this iconic hotel.
Badrutt’s Palace: Via Serlas 27, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Dinner at Le Restaurant: Indulge in a gourmet meal at the hotel.
Day 6: St. Moritz
Start your morning at the Badrutt’s Palace spa. For lunch, head up to Paradiso Mountain Club, combining high-altitude views with stylish dining.
In the afternoon, a helicopter flight over the Engadine valley reveals turquoise lakes and dramatic peaks. For your last dinner, try Chesa Veglia — a historic farmhouse turned into cozy dining rooms serving refined Swiss cuisine. Before leaving, browse Jet Set boutique for unique St. Moritz luxury fashion.
Morning:
Spa Day at Badrutt’s Palace: Unwind with luxurious treatments and enjoy the spa facilities.
Lunch at Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant: Dine with spectacular mountain views.
Paradiso: Via Engiadina, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Afternoon:
Helicopter Ride over the Engadine Alps: Discover the beauty of the region from above.
Afternoon Tea at Badrutt’s Palace: A classic experience with a Swiss twist.
Evening:
Dinner at Chesa Veglia: Experience traditional Swiss cuisine in a historic farmhouse.
Chesa Veglia: Via Veglia 2, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Shopping Recommendation: Jet Set: For stylish, high-end ski and casual wear.
Jet Set: Via Serlas 27, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Day 7: Departure
Return to Zurich by private transfer. If time allows, stop for a lighter farewell meal at Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, before catching your flight. For the perfect ending to your luxury vacation in Switzerland, book VIP airport services for lounge access and a seamless departure.
Morning:
Private Transfer to Zurich Airport: Book through Blacklane for a comfortable ride back to the airport.
Afternoon:
Farewell Lunch at Hiltl: Enjoy the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant in Zurich before your flight.
Hiltl: Sihlstrasse 28, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Evening:
Departure from Zurich Airport (ZRH): End your luxurious Swiss adventure with a VIP airport experience.
Top 3 Luxury Travel Agencies for Switzerland
Abercrombie & Kent: Known for their excellence in luxury travel, Abercrombie & Kent offers customized tours in Switzerland, focusing on high-end accommodations and unique experiences. Jacada Travel: Specializing in personalized luxury travel, Jacada Travel crafts unique Swiss adventures with a focus on high-end accommodations and exclusive experiences.
Luxury Gold: Specializing in luxurious, meticulously planned tours, Luxury Gold provides premium travel experiences in Switzerland with exclusive access and personalized service.
Tips for Luxury Travelers
Book Michelin restaurants and hotels at least 3–6 months ahead.
Summer (June–September) is best for lakes and hiking; December–March for skiing.
Always check seasonal closures of cable cars and alpine restaurants.
Concierges are key: in Switzerland, they can unlock exclusive access.
💰 Luxury Switzerland Budget Overview (per couple, 7 days)
Category | Estimated Cost (CHF) | Notes & Examples |
Hotels | 7,000 – 9,500 | 5-star hotels: The Dolder Grand, Villa Honegg, Victoria-Jungfrau, The Omnia, Badrutt’s Palace |
Fine Dining & Wine | 2,500 – 3,500 | Michelin-starred dinners (Ecco Zürich, Focus, After Seven), wine pairings, terrace lunches |
Transfers & Trains | 1,500 – 2,500 | Private transfers (Zurich → Lucerne, St. Moritz → Zurich), Excellence Class on Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line |
Private Tours & Activities | 4,000 – 6,000 | Yacht tour on Lake Lucerne, helicopter flights in Interlaken & Engadine, private cruises |
Extras & Shopping | 1,000 – 2,000 | Luxury shopping in Zurich, St. Moritz boutiques, souvenirs |
Total | 15,000 – 20,000+ | For a week-long luxury vacation in Switzerland |
Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Vacations in Switzerland
What is the best time to plan a luxury vacation in Switzerland? The peak season for luxury travel in Switzerland is summer (June to September) when the weather is warm, lakes are open for yachting, and all mountain railways are running. Winter (December to March) is also excellent if you’re focused on skiing and après-ski in resorts like St. Moritz and Zermatt.
How much does a luxury vacation in Switzerland cost? A one-week luxury itinerary including five-star hotels, private transfers, fine dining, and premium train tickets usually costs CHF 10,000–15,000 per couple. Costs vary depending on season, room type, and activities like helicopter flights or yacht rentals.
Which cities are best for luxury travel in Switzerland? Zurich is ideal for shopping and gourmet dining. Lucerne combines lake views with boutique hotels. Interlaken offers adventure and panoramas. Zermatt delivers classic alpine luxury with Matterhorn views, and St. Moritz remains the gold standard for glamour and style.
Do I need to book luxury hotels and restaurants in advance? Yes. Five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and scenic train Excellence Class tickets often sell out months in advance. Booking early ensures availability and the best rooms or tables.
What is the most luxurious train ride in Switzerland? The Glacier Express in Excellence Class is considered the ultimate luxury train experience, with panoramic windows, multi-course dining, and personalized service on the route between Zermatt and St. Moritz.
Can I arrange private tours and transfers easily? Absolutely. Most luxury hotels partner with trusted providers for private chauffeurs, yacht rentals, helicopter tours, and even personal shopping. The hotel concierge is your best contact for arranging these experiences.
Are luxury vacations in Switzerland family-friendly? Yes. Many luxury hotels, especially in Lucerne and St. Moritz, offer family suites, kids’ clubs, and tailored activities. Private transfers and flexible itineraries make it easier for families to enjoy Switzerland in comfort.
If you're looking for a simpler trip visiting some of Switzerland's best hidden gems, check out our 10-day trip recommendation for Switzerland.
🏔️ Your Ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide! 🇨🇭
Planning a trip to Switzerland? Get insider tips, must-visit destinations, and practical advice all in one place! From stunning alpine hikes to scenic train rides, our Switzerland Travel Guide has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.
