Embarking on a culinary journey through Switzerland reveals a diverse tapestry of regional flavors enhanced by breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and iconic backdrops. Discover Zurich’s dynamic culinary scene set amidst picturesque scenery, sample Rösti in Lucerne, and relish hearty Berner Platte in Bern. This gastronomic journey continues through Neuchâtel’s watchmaking legacy and La Chaux-de-Fonds’ renowned Tarte à la crème. Savor international cuisine in Geneva and indulge in lakeside dining in Lausanne and Montreux. From alpine specialties to a blend of Swiss and Mediterranean flavors in Locarno, the cheese trail in Appenzell Canton will showcase them all. Lastly, charming Schaffhausen offers local specialties like Schaffhauser Zungenwurst and cherry cake, completing a culinary journey that fuses sophisticated flavors with Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures.
Popular itinerary for a culinary tour of Switzerland:
This 9-day trip covers approximately 745 miles. Please note that some routes are closed during the winter months.
Day 1: Zurich
The culinary journey begins in vibrant Zurich. Start your day on Bahnhofstrasse, a bustling and historic street renowned as one of the world’s leading shopping destinations. Treat yourself to a traditional Swiss breakfast at one of the cafes, enjoying the famous local Muesli: Bircher Muesli.
After breakfast, head to the Old Town to explore its charming maze of medieval streets, including the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches. Admire the unique architecture of the City Hall (Rathaus) before crossing the Limmat River back to Bahnhofstrasse, where you’ll find a lively mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and stalls.
On your way back to the train station, visit the Swiss National Museum (Das Schweizerische Landesmuseum), housed in a castle-like building, to discover Swiss history through exhibits showcasing clothing, furniture, artworks, and technological displays. In the evening, venture into the city center to indulge in the local delicacy: Zürcher Geschnetzeltes – a dish featuring thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, often served with Swiss Rösti potatoes.
Spend the night in Zurich.
Day 2: From Zurich to Lucerne and Bern
Depart from Zurich on Highways 14, 4, and 3, covering approximately 31 miles to reach the picturesque city of Lucerne, nestled along the beautiful shores of Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee). Named after the four cantons that border it, Lucerne is characterized by medieval architecture, with walls that have stood for centuries. Upon arrival at the lake’s edge, visit the famous Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), which was destroyed by fire and beautifully restored. Explore the Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal), carved into a natural rock to honor the Swiss Guard soldiers who fell during the French Revolution. Returning to the Old Town, stroll through its charming alleys. Against the backdrop of the stunning lake views, savor lunch featuring Rösti, a Swiss dish of crispy golden potatoes, served with various toppings like cheese, bacon, or egg.
After lunch, continue your journey on Highway 10, covering about 56 miles to the city of Bern. This city boasts well-preserved medieval architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town features charming streets, historic fountains, and the famous Zytglogge Clock Tower. While in Bern, admire the Neo-Renaissance Federal Palace and the stunning Gothic Minster Cathedral dominating the city skyline. Stop for dinner at one of the Old Town’s historic restaurants and indulge in Berner Platte, a traditional Bern dish featuring a variety of meats such as pork, beef, and sausages served with sauerkraut and potatoes.
Spend the night in Bern.
Day 3: From Bern to La Chaux-de-Fonds and Neuchâtel
This morning, travel on Highway 1 for approximately 18 miles to reach the city of Murten, located on the shores of a lake. Murten is a picturesque blend of well-preserved medieval architecture and serene lakeside beauty. The Old Town of Murten, enclosed within medieval walls, is a labyrinth of alleys, scenic squares, and centuries-old buildings. Its historic walls are adorned with towers and gates that invite visitors to explore sites related to Switzerland’s independence wars.
Next, continue on Highway 20 for approximately 28 miles to La Chaux-de-Fonds, to visit the remarkable International Watchmaking Museum. La Chaux-de-Fonds is close to the Le Doubs River, which forms a vast gorge between France and Switzerland. Before descending to the tourist dock, enjoy a scenic boat ride that showcases interesting points along the river. Take a lunch break and indulge in local pastries like Tarte à la crème, a delectable cream tart paired with a cup of hot Swiss chocolate.
In the evening, return via Highway 20 for about 12 miles to Neuchâtel, renowned for its watchmaking heritage. For dinner, relish Gâteau à la Neuchâteloise, a delightful creation of sponge cake, praline cream, and chocolate ganache. This delightful treat pairs perfectly with a Swiss coffee to round off your culinary adventure.
Spend the night in Neuchâtel.
Day 4: From Neuchâtel to Geneva
Embark on a scenic journey along Highways 10 and 20, covering approximately 78 miles to reach Geneva, a city that beckons visitors to explore its rich and diverse identity. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Alps, you’ll see one of its iconic landmarks: the Jet d’Eau fountain, spraying water to a height of about 460 feet. The Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets, unveils centuries of history through its architecture, including the majestic Saint Pierre Cathedral. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at Bains des Pâquis, where we can relax in saunas and baths and savor Swiss cuisine.
Explore the charming Mediterranean-style Carouge neighborhood, with its inviting squares, artist shops, and characteristic cafes—a vibrant local experience. The Carouge market offers a unique blend of local produce, art, and a fusion of Mediterranean and Swiss ambiance.
Admire the precision and beauty of the Flower Clock in the English Gardens – Jardin Anglais, a testament to Swiss artistry combining nature and Geneva’s renowned watchmaking craftsmanship, a heritage passed down through generations. Visit the Patek Philippe Museum, home to an impressive collection of watches narrating the history and uniqueness of Swiss watchmaking.
Geneva offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights. During your stay, be sure to taste Raclette, a semi-hard cheese melted and scraped over potatoes and pickles—a true culinary delight of the region.
Spend the night in Geneva.
Day 5: From Geneva to Lausanne and Montreux to Sion
Head out on Highway 62E for about 43 miles to the city of Lausanne, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, a city that combines history, culture, and beauty. Stroll through the charming cobbled streets of the old town, where the impressive architecture of Lausanne Cathedral stands with panoramic views from the tower. The city’s picturesque lakeside provides views of the city, the lake, and the Alps.
Continue your journey on Highway 62E and then Highway 9 for another 18 miles to Montreux. Here, enjoy a lunch featuring Swiss char fish fillets freshly sourced from the lake. Before departing Montreux, make a stop in the nearby town of Veytaux to visit the historic Château de Chillon castle.
Resume your drive on Highways 9 and 62E for approximately 43 miles to reach the charming town of Sion in the Valais canton. For dinner, savor a “Valaisanne plate,” showcasing local meats, cheeses, and rye bread, or indulge in “viande séchée,” air-dried beef, paired with the exceptional local Valais wine known for its quality attributed to the region’s unique climate and terroir.
Spend the night in Sion.
Day 6: From Sion to Locarno
Embark on an Alpine journey via Highways 9 and 62E, traversing the Simplon Pass towards your next destination, the city of Locarno, approximately 100 miles from the starting point. The scenic route climbs to a pass exceeding 6,562 feet in elevation, followed by a winding descent of about 31 miles through Italy before reentering Switzerland in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. Allow for additional travel time due to slower speeds. While the Simplon Pass can be crossed via tunnel, we recommend the open views of the mountain road.
Around midday, you’ll reach Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Explore Piazza Grande, a spacious and lively square known for hosting various events and festivals, including the renowned Locarno Festival. In the town, discover Visconti Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Locarno’s Old Town is a charming maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares, adorned with colorful buildings, boutiques, and cafes. Savor the Mediterranean influence on Swiss cuisine with dishes like Risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink) or Polenta e brasato (polenta with braised meat).
Spend the night in Locarno.
Day 7: From Locarno to Chur to Bad Ragaz
This morning, set out on Highway 13 towards the city of Chur. The approximately 87-mile route traverses the San Bernardino Pass, reaching heights of around 6,562 feet and offering breathtaking scenic views along the way. Arriving in Chur around lunchtime, take a leisurely stroll through its charming streets and indulge in the typical cuisine of the Graubünden canton. Don’t miss the chance to sample capuns, a delicious dish featuring chard leaves wrapped around a filling of dough, cheese, and meat.
After your meal, continue on Highway 43E for another 12 miles to reach the spa town of Bad Ragaz, renowned for its thermal baths discovered as far back as the Roman era. Spend the afternoon at the delightful Tamina Therme thermal baths, where the experience of relaxing in warm spring pools with views of the snow-capped Alps rejuvenates both body and soul. The facilities include saunas and towel rental available at the reception for those who may have forgotten to bring swimwear.
Spend the night in Bad Ragaz.
Day 8: From Bad Ragaz to Appenzell
Depart from Bad Ragaz and travel along Highway 43E. In the town of Altstatten, turn west onto Stossstrasse, a winding and picturesque road that leads to the city of Appenzell, approximately 40 miles away. Appenzell is a true architectural gem, with its bustling main street lined with charming wooden houses in a distinctive local style, and lively shops that are bustling year-round.
From Appenzell, journey to the nearby village of Stein to explore an ethnographic museum showcasing the finest Swiss traditional heritage in clothing, crafts, building types, and native art created by local artisans. Nearby, at the Appenzeller cheese dairy, observe the process of crafting local cheeses. The Canton of Appenzell is characterized by rolling hills ranging from 2,625 to 3,281 feet above sea level. The region is lush and green in spring and snow-covered in winter, dotted with villages and small settlements nestled at the foot of the Santis mountain range, which reaches a height of 8,202 feet.
Continuing your journey, visit the quaint villages of Urnäsch and Teufen, and then head to the town of Herisau to enjoy the local cheese specialties paired with excellent regional cider.
Spend the night in Appenzell.
Day 9: From Appenzell to Schaffhausen to Zurich
On the final morning of your journey, set out on Highway 1 and Weststrasse towards Stein am Rhein. The city is renowned for its exceptionally preserved medieval architecture featuring charming wooden buildings adorned with vibrant wall paintings, creating a stunning and unique visual atmosphere. Walking through its cobbled streets, you’ll feel as if you’re stepping back in time, with the picturesque Rhine River adding to the town’s allure. The wall paintings depict a rich mosaic of medieval art, and Saint George’s Monastery and its associated museum offer insight into the city’s cultural heritage.
After exploring Stein am Rhein, continue your drive on Highway 13 for about 12 miles to Schaffhausen, where you can enjoy a traditional local lunch featuring Schaffhauser Zungenwurst (a sausage made from calf’s tongue, pork, and spices). Pair this hearty dish with rösti and local wine or Rhine Falls Pilsner beer. From Schaffhausen, descend to the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. Here, the mighty Rhine River cascades over a rocky ledge, creating a breathtaking display of rushing water and spray spanning approximately 492 feet wide and 75 feet high. Take a boat ride to get up close to the falls, feel the refreshing spray, and climb a staircase carved into one of the rocks at the heart of the waterfall for an unforgettable experience.
Towards evening, take Highways 4 and 1 for about 31 miles to return to Zurich.
Spend the night in Zurich.
