2 days Switzerland - 9 itineraries from Geneva

If you’re looking for an itinerary for two days in Switzerland, you might be overwhelmed by all your options. Even though it’s a small country, there’s still more than enough to see and do for several weeks. Of course, not everyone has this amount of time available to just travel around.

Since you only have two days, we’ve put together a collection of itineraries that will help you plan your trip and show you what’s realistic. They are all doable within two days and have their starting point in Geneva. This sets you up perfectly to explore the French part of Switzerland in all its glory. You’ve got plenty of highlights awaiting you here - like for instance the Cailler chocolate factory, Lake Geneva and the stunning Lavaux vineyards, which are a UNESCO world heritage site. However, if you’d like to start in a different place, you can easily adapt your trip accordingly. Geneva is very well connected and can be reached from every other city in Switzerland. Especially those in western Switzerland like Lausanne, Fribourg, Montreux or even Bern.

You will notice that we only talk about travelling by public transport and not by car. Most itineraries are also possible by car, in case you decide to get a rental during your stay in Switzerland. But with our very dense network of trains and buses, there’s no real need to travel by car.

Of course, the choice is all yours.

Also, if you have more than two days available and see an itinerary you like, you can easily stretch it out by spending an extra night in one place.

Whether or not an Interrail, Eurail or a Swiss Travel Pass is worth it for such a short amount of time is up to you. But since you only have two days in Switzerland, buying regular tickets might be the cheaper option for you. Once you’ve picked an itinerary, jump on the SBB website to do the maths yourself and decide what works out best for you.

Happy planning!

• Public Transport in Switzerland
• The 10 most important railway passes for your trip in Switzerland
• Everything you need to know about train tickets in Switzerland

1. Itinerary to the highlights of Lake Geneva with four city trips and lots of vineyards

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
• Briefly stop over in the picturesque town of Nyon with its vineyards
• Check out the Olympic Museum in Lausanne
• Take a stroll through the stunning Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
• Walk along the Promenade in Montreux
• Visit the beautiful Chillon Castle by Lake Geneva

Day 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Nyon.

This mediaeval town by the shore of Lake Geneva is surrounded by a couple of charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vineyards to Nyon Castle to take in the view. After your lunch break, catch the train to Lausanne. Check in to your accommodation and make the most of your free Lausanne Transport Card.

Lausanne’s picturesque old town is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro.

To hear something interesting, head to the Cathedral between 10 pm and 2 am and observe the tower. Night guards have been shouting out the current time in the middle of the night from up there since 1405.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Lausanne

Day 2: Lausanne - Montreux - Geneva

After breakfast, store your luggage at the train station or leave it at your accommodation in Lausanne. Catch the regional train along Lake Geneva towards Montreux and get ready for some world-class vineyards. A couple of stops in, you’ll pass the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Get off in Cully or Epesses for a quick stopover. To fully experience the gorgeous views, follow the signposted footpaths through the vineyards.

Once you’re ready to move on, catch the train to Montreux. In Montreux, head to the Promenade and check out the Freddie Mercury statue just outside the market hall. In case you’re interested in castles, don’t miss out on visiting the famous Chillon Castle. To get there, either follow the Promenade by foot, catch a bus or take one of the regularly departing passenger ships.

Even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, we still recommend heading out there and spending some time by the lake. It’s a great place to hang out and take a bunch of jealousy-inducing pictures.

Alternatively, head in the opposite direction toward Vevey, where you’ll find a stunning riviera and many interesting museums. Once you’ve seen enough, travel back to Lausanne to grab your bags and hop on the train to Geneva. Spend the rest of the evening in Switzerland’s second largest city.

• Best things to do in Montreux
• Chillon Castle

2. Itinerary off the beaten track to three mediaeval towns and two pristine lakes

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Climb the Cathedral in the mediaeval town of Fribourg
• Visit the three-lakes region around Neuchâtel and Morat
• Hang out in Neuchâtel and enjoy stunning lake views
• Explore the mediaeval town of Morat
• Visit Europe’s longest freshwater beach

Day 1: Geneva - Neuchâtel - Morat

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Neuchâtel.

Spend a few hours exploring this beautiful city with its lake views and steep alleyways. For some additional great views, head up to Chaumont, Neuchâtel’s backyard mountain.

The funicular leaves from Le Coudre and takes you to the summit. From the summit, you can hike down to Cressier via Trois Cheminées. From Cressier, the bus will take you back to Neuchâtel. Alternatively, go for a walk around Chaumont and catch the funicular back down. Once you’re ready to move on, catch the train to the picturesque little town of Morat.

This area is perfect for biking, hiking, swimming or just hanging out by the lake as well.

By the way, you’ll find Europe’s longest freshwater beach at Lake Morat in Salavaux. This might not impress anyone who grew up by the sea, but for a land-locked country like Switzerland, this is a big deal...

• Best things to do in Morat

Day 2: Morat - Fribourg - Geneva

If you’re feeling up to it, tackle the 7.5-hour walk (30 kilometres / 18.6 miles) around Lake Morat today. If not, leave your accommodation after breakfast and head to the impressive and ridiculously steep mediaeval town of Fribourg.

In Fribourg, follow the city-walk signs leading you through this mighty old town. The signs will lead you up and down some very steep alleyways, across ancient wooden bridges, down to the River Saane and past the city’s very own funicular.

For an even better view of your surroundings, tackle the 365 steps to the tower of the Cathedral. The River Saane at the bottom of the city is a great spot to stretch your legs and treat yourself to a snack.

On the way back to Geneva, and depending on how much time you have left, you could stop over in either Lausanne or Nyon. Spend some time exploring one of these cities or hang out by the lake. If you haven’t seen enough water yet, that is.

• Best things to do in Fribourg

3. Itinerary with three city trips and a hike in the Jura mountains

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
• Go for a walk in the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
• Explore the city of Lausanne
• Hike to the Dent de Vaulion to enjoy spectacular views
• Spend some time by Lac de Joux

Day 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Nyon.

This mediaeval town by the shore of Lake Geneva is surrounded by a couple of charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vineyards to Nyon Castle to take in the view. After your lunch break, catch the train to Lausanne. Check in to your accommodation and make the most of your free Lausanne Transport Card.

Lausanne’s picturesque old town is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro.

To hear something interesting, head to the Cathedral between 10 pm and 2 am and observe the tower. Night guards have been shouting out the current time in the middle of the night from up there since 1405.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Lausanne

Day 2: Lausanne - Lac de Joux - Geneva

After breakfast, buy enough food for the day and head straight to Le Pont, a village in the Valleé de Joux. The train ride from Lausanne to the valley takes roughly an hour. Vallée de Joux is part of the Jura mountains and offers countless hiking options. In the centre of the valley, you’ll find a peaceful lake called Lac de Joux.

By far the most popular spot in the area is the distinctive mountain of Dent de Vaulion. Hiking the circular path from Le Pont takes around three hours. The views from Dent de Vaulion across the Vallée de Joux, all the way to Lake Geneva and way into France, make this place extra special.

Since you’ve got all day up here, spend as much time in the area as you like. Hang out by Lac de Joux, walk the path around the lake or do whatever else your heart desires. Whenever you feel like it, catch the train back to Lausanne to grab your bags before moving on to Geneva.

4. Itinerary along Lake Geneva with Swiss cheese and chocolate

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Visit the Chillon Castle by Lake Geneva in Montreux
• Treat yourself to a glass of wine in the wine terraces of the Lavaux region (UNESCO)
• Travel parts of the famous Golden Pass Line
• Taste some delicious Swiss cheese in Gruyères
• Check out Maison Cailler and fill your belly with delicious Swiss chocolate

Day 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Montreux

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Lausanne.

This picturesque old town was built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro. Move on to Montreux whenever you’re ready, drop your bags at your accommodation and spend the rest of the day exploring Montreux.

In case you’re interested in castles, don’t miss out on visiting the famous Chillon Castle. To get there, either follow the Promenade by foot, catch a bus or take one of the regularly departing passenger ships.

Even if you’re not keen on going into the castle, we still recommend heading out there and spending some time by the lake. It’s a great place to hang out and take a bunch of jealousy-inducing pictures.

Alternatively, head over to Lavaux. Only a short train ride west of Montreux, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Montreux
• Chillon Castle Guide

Day 2: Montreux - Gruyères / Broc - Montreux

Today is all about cheese and chocolate. After all, that’s what Switzerland is famous for. So catch the train to Gruyères and get ready for some culinary and mediaeval action.

The Gruyère cheese factory is right behind the train station. For a small entrance fee, you can watch how the iconic Gruyère cheese is being made. Samples and tasting opportunities are included.

Once you’re done snacking, either catch the bus uphill or follow the path until you reach the village centre of Gruyères. This walk should take you around 20 minutes.

The main attraction in Gruyères is probably the castle, which is open to the public and costs 12 CHF to enter. But the hidden cobblestone alleys and the countless souvenir shops also tend to have people stick around longer than they expected.

After exploring Gruyères, and maybe grabbing a souvenir or two, you have the option to head to Broc and visit La Maison Cailler. Their visitor centre teaches you everything you need to know about Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand. At the end of the tour, you’ll get to taste a lot of free samples.

More than you thought you could handle.

Take the train back to Geneva and try to digest your cheese and chocolate overdose.

• Gruyères Cheese Factory
• Cailler Chocolate Factory

5. Itinerary with the famous Matterhorn in Zermatt

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
• Hike in front of the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt
• Ride the Glacier Express Line and the Golden Pass Line
• Check out the mighty Gorner Glacier at Gornergrat
• Walk one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges in Randa (if you dare)

Day 1: Geneva - Zermatt

In the morning, you can explore Geneva on your own, rent a free bike from Genève Roule or take a guided tour of the city. After the tour, grab a take-away lunch and take the train to Zermatt.

This popular mountain town sums up so much of what Switzerland stands for. Mountains, lakes, hiking trails, nature, lots of outdoor activities and Switzerland's most famous mountain. The Matterhorn.

Between Visp and Zermatt, you will cover the last leg of the Glacier Express panoramic train. This journey is particularly scenic, so always keep your camera within reach. Once in Zermatt, you can spend the rest of the day enjoying the sight of the mighty Matterhorn.

Provided it's not wrapped in clouds.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Zermatt

Day 2: Zermatt - Geneva

Zermatt is all about mountains and the outdoors. If you’ve come to Switzerland for our spectacular mountain views, you’re going to love it here.

Several hikes and walks of all difficulty levels take you places that will take your breath away. Like for instance the popular Zermatt five-lakes trail, which takes 2.5 hours to complete. It leads past five crystal clear mountain lakes with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

Another impressive, yet head spinning adventure, is walking across the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Randa. It stretches 494 metres (1620 feet) across the valley.

Hello vertigo!

The circular track starts and finishes in Randa, 15 minutes by train from Zermatt.

In case you’d rather skip the hiking altogether and see some mountains the easy way, we recommend heading up to Gornergrat. After a ridiculously steep train ride, you’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3089 metres (10.135 feet) above sea level. Right in front of the Gorner Glacier and the Matterhorn.

Don’t be surprised if climbing those steps to the viewpoint leaves you completely breathless. It’s not you, it’s the thin air.

Once you’ve taken enough photos of the Matterhorn and its surroundings, catch the next train back to Geneva.

• Best things to do in Zermatt

6. Itinerary to lesser known places with plenty of culture and nature

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Observe the flora and fauna at the natural reserve Champ-Pittet
• Explore the mediaeval town of Morat
• Visit Europe’s longest freshwater beach
• Learn everything about clocks and watches at the International Clock Museum
• Take a stroll through the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds (UNESCO)

Day 1: Geneva - Yverdon-les-Bains - Morat

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Yverdon-les-Bains.

The old town of Yverdon-les-Bains is well worth a short visit. But the perfect place in the area for flora and fauna lovers is the nearby natural reserve of Champ-Pittet. In here, you find several paths and walkways through forests, gardens and along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel. From the observation tower, you’ll get a stunning view over the area. There are several other observation spots, some of which are right by the lake.

Once you’re ready to move on, catch the train to the picturesque little town of Morat. This area is perfect for biking, hiking, swimming or just hanging out by the lake as well.

By the way, you’ll find Europe’s longest freshwater beach at Lake Morat in Salavaux. This might not impress anyone who grew up by the sea, but for a land-locked country like Switzerland, this is a big deal...

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Morat

Day 2: Morat - Neuchâtel - La Chaux-de-Fonds - Geneva

After breakfast, catch the train to Neuchâtel. Spend a few hours exploring this beautiful city with its lake views and steep alleyways. Once you’re ready to continue your journey, head to La Chaux-de-Fonds.

Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, was born here. And since this city was the centre of the Swiss watchmaking industry for over 100 years, it only makes sense for the International Clock Museum to be up here.

Another characteristic element to La Chaux-de-Fonds, apart from clocks and watches, is its chessboard-shaped outline. When the city was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century and they had to rebuild it from scratch, they introduced the unusual framework you’ll find today. And by “unusual”, we mean unusual for Switzerland. You don’t find this type of city structure anywhere else in the country.

Toward the end of the day, take the train back to Geneva and spend the rest of the evening exploring Switzerland’s second largest city.

7. Itinerary with a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
• Visit the wonderful Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
• Enjoy the view of Switzerland’s capital city at Rosengarten
• Check out the old town of Bern (UNESCO)
• Take an optional day trip from Bern to some stunning lakes

Day 1: Geneva - Lausanne - Bern

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a free walking tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Lausanne.

This picturesque old town was built on three hills and is surrounded by countless vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro.

Only a short train ride east of Lausanne, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards.

After your little excursion, go back to Lausanne to pick up your luggage. From there, a direct train takes you to Bern. Spend the rest of the evening strolling through Switzerland’s capital and walk up to Rosengarten for a stunning night view.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Lausanne

Day 2: Bern - Geneva

Today, you’ve got plenty of activities to choose from. In this beautiful UNESCO listed town, you’ve got plenty of activities to choose from. Join a guided city tour or explore Bern on your own. Take a stroll through the old town, head to the bear park, check out the Bundeshaus (House of Parliament) and walk back up to Rosengarten for more views.

You can also visit Gurten – Bern’s backyard mountain – see some animals at Dählhölzli wildlife park or visit the botanical garden. Alternatively, catch the elevator at the train station to hang out at Grosse Schanze or go for a swim either in the River Aare or at Weyermannshaus.

Bern is also conveniently located in close proximity to a variety of breathtaking destinations. So you can easily go on a daytrip from here. For one, there’s Thun and Interlaken, which are two wonderful places to visit for some spectacular lake and mountain views.

If you’re into mountain lakes, you’re in luck, too. Lake Oeschinensee and Blausee are both within reach from Bern and more than worth a trip. The crystal clear water in both lakes will leave you breathless.

Take in as much of this interesting region as you can before heading back to Geneva.

• Best things to do in Bern

8. Itinerary for nature and chocolate lovers to the Ragusa chocolate factory and Parc de Chasseral

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Visit the charming city of Neuchâtel
• Enjoy spectacular lake and city views from Chaumont
• Go for a hike in the Parc Chasseral
• Take a stroll through the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds (UNESCO)
• Eat lots of Ragusa and Torino chocolate at the chocolate factory in Courtelary

Day 1: Geneva - Neuchâtel

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Neuchâtel.

Spend a few hours exploring this beautiful city with its lake views and steep alleyways. For some additional great views, head up to Chaumont, Neuchâtel’s backyard mountain.

The funicular leaves from Le Coudre and takes you to the summit. From the summit, you can hike down to Cressier via Trois Cheminées. From Cressier, the bus will take you back to Neuchâtel. Alternatively, go for a walk around Chaumont and catch the funicular back down.

• Best things to do in Geneva

Day 2: Neuchâtel - Courtelary - Geneva

If the weather is bad, catch the train to La Chaux-de-Fonds and spend a few hours exploring the city. Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, was born here. And since this city was the centre of the Swiss watchmaking industry for over 100 years, it only makes sense for the International Clock Museum to be up here.

Another characteristic element to La Chaux-de-Fonds, apart from clocks and watches, is its chessboard-shaped outline. When the city was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century and they had to rebuild it from scratch, they introduced the unusual framework you’ll find today. And by “unusual”, we mean unusual for Switzerland. You don’t find this type of city structure anywhere else in the country.

Move on to Courtelary when you feel like you could eat a kilo or two of chocolate. We’ll get more into this in a second.

If the weather is good and you feel like hiking in the Parc Chasseral, catch the train to St-Imier and walk to Courtelary via Mont Crosin and Mont Soleil. This hike should take around four hours. Once you’re in Courtelary, head straight to the Camille Bloch visitor centre and enjoy lots of Ragusa and Torino chocolates.

Their visitors’ centre is a fantastic place to buy all different kinds of their delicious chocolate creations. And their exhibition doesn’t stop at telling you about the ups and downs of this family business since its early beginnings in 1926.

It also includes a mouth-watering demo station where two chocolatiers make Ragusa and Torino bars right in front of you. Needless to say you’ll be able to taste their mouth watering outcome only minutes after it’s cooled off.

Take your time enjoying some of the best chocolate before continuing your trip back to Geneva.

• Camille Bloch chocolate factory

9. Itinerary with Lake Geneva and a natural wonder at Creux du Van

Highlights on this itinerary:

• Discover the highlights of Geneva, Switzerland’s second largest city
• Go for a walk in the picturesque vineyards of Nyon
• Explore the city of Lausanne by Lake Geneva
• Take a stroll through the stunning Lavaux vineyard terraces (UNESCO)
• Ride with Switzerland’s only Metro
• Visit the impressive rock amphitheatre of Creux du Van

Day 1: Geneva - Nyon - Lausanne

In the morning, explore Geneva on your own, borrow a free bike with «Genève Roule» or join a guided city tour. After the tour, buy some take-away lunch and have it on the train to Nyon.

This mediaeval town by the shore of Lake Geneva is surrounded by a couple of charming vineyards. Follow the path through the vineyards to Nyon Castle to take in the view. After your lunch break, catch the train to Lausanne. Check in to your accommodation and make the most of your free Lausanne Transport Card.

Lausanne’s picturesque old town is built on three hills and surrounded by numerous vineyards. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, as well as Switzerland’s only metro.

Only a short train ride east of Lausanne, you’ll find the famous Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To fully experience the gorgeous views, get off in Cully or Epesses and follow the signposted footpath through the vineyards.

To hear something interesting, head to the Cathedral between 10 pm and 2 am and observe the tower. Night guards have been shouting out the current time in the middle of the night from up there since 1405.

• Best things to do in Geneva
• Best things to do in Lausanne

Day 2: Lausanne - Creux du Van - Geneva

After breakfast, grab enough food for the day and head straight to the village of Noiraigue, the starting point of the Creux du Van hike. This natural, one-kilometre wide amphitheatre got its shape from constant erosion by water and ice. Marmots, mountain goats, deer and various birds inhabit this area.

The starting point of the hike is in Noiraigue, a village that takes roughly an hour and a half to reach from Lausanne. Hiking to Creux du Van is pretty tough and will take up to five hours. Spend as much time as you like at the amphitheatre before heading back to Noiraigue and Lausanne.

Spend as much time as you like enjoying the view and taking photos before heading back to Noiraigue and Geneva.

Of course, Switzerland gets its fair share of bad weather and we don’t suggest you do this hike if it’s raining. The rocks can get slippery and dangerous when they’re wet and we don’t want you to get hurt!

And this concludes our collection of itineraries for two days in Switzerland. We hope you’ve been able to find the Switzerland itinerary to your taste. Have fun planning your trip.