Planning a trip to Europe can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially when you aim to visit three of its most captivating countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. Each country offers a unique blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty, making them popular travel destinations.
This guide provides detailed France Italy and Switzerland itineraries for 7 days, 10 days, and 2 weeks, helping you make the most of your journey. We’ll cover the best routes, top attractions, and practical travel tips to ensure your trip is memorable and hassle-free.
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How Long Do You Need for France, Italy and Swiss?
Determining the ideal duration for your trip to France, Italy, and Switzerland depends on what you wish to experience. Here’s a breakdown of how many days you might need based on the depth of your exploration:
7-Day Trip
A 7-day itinerary is ideal for those wanting a quick yet fulfilling overview of the highlights in France, Italy, and Switzerland. This fast-paced trip will focus on major cities and must-see landmarks.
10-Day Trip
With 10 days, you can slow down a bit and enjoy a more immersive experience. This itinerary allows for a deeper exploration of each country, including more time in secondary cities and some off-the-beaten-path attractions.
2-Week Trip
A 2-week itinerary offers a thorough exploration, giving you the luxury of spending more time in each destination. You can explore multiple cities, enjoy scenic routes, and participate in a variety of activities without feeling rushed.
Next, I will provide you with example itineraries of different duration as some inspiration for your trip. Of course, you can also pick a hassle-free European tour package with curated itinerary to make the most of your vacation:
Itinerary:
Paris – Lucerne – Milan – Venice – Rome – Vatican – Florence -Pisa – Monaco – Nice – Paris
Highlights:
- Guaranteed departures throughout the year, single traveler’s free roommate matching.
- Crossing 3000km, classic tour of 6 countries including France, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican City, Monaco.
- Full itinerary featuring 3 or 4-star hotels with breakfast included.
- Optional airport transfers and extended stay services.
- Default 7-day cycle, option to connect with more itineraries.
Itinerary:
Rome – Florence – Venice – Innsbruck – Zurich – Grindelwald – Lucerne – Bern – Paris
Highlights:
- Discover Rome’s Imperial Forums, Venice’s Saint Mark’s Basilica, and Murano Glass Factory. Plus, ascend Eiffel Tower’s 2nd Floor in Paris.
- Include boat tour to Venice‘s island, and a serene Seine River cruise in Paris.
- Include cable car to Grindelwald First, and to Paris’s Montmartre district.
- Selected downtown hotels with breakfast included.
Itinerary:
Paris – Lucerne – Milan – Venice – Rome – Vatican City – Florence – Pisa – Monaco -Nice – Barcelona – Lourdes – Bordeaux – Paris
Highlights:
- The tour covers multiple cities in 4 countries, providing a comprehensive European experience.
- Include visits to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum in Rome, and La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
- Explore the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps; enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside & Italian coast.
- Professional guides provide in-depth knowledge and historical context at each location.
- Include accommodation, daily breakfast, and transportation in a comfortable coach.
Best France, Italy, Switzerland Itinerary
To help you plan your perfect trip, here are three detailed itineraries for 7 days, 10 days, and 2 weeks, ensuring a balance between iconic sights and unique experiences.
7-Day France Italy and Switzerland Itinerary
Day 1: Paris, France
- Arrive in Paris and visit the Eiffel Tower. Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
- Head to the Louvre Museum and stroll through the Tuileries Garden.
- Enjoy a Seine River cruise and dine in the Latin Quarter.
Day 2: Paris to Lucerne, Switzerland
- Travel by train from Paris to Lucerne. (approximately 4 hours). The train journey itself is scenic, passing through picturesque landscapes.
- Start exploring Lucerne, including the Chapel Bridge and Old Town.
Day 3: Lucerne to Interlaken
- Take a short train ride to Interlaken (approximately 2 hours).
- Engage in outdoor activities such as paragliding or take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Thun.
Day 4: Interlaken to Milan, Italy
- Board a train to Milan (approximately 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic journey through the Swiss Alps into Italy.
- Visit the Duomo di Milano, and don’t miss the rooftop for incredible city views.
- Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade.
Day 5: Milan to Venice
- Travel to Venice by train (approximately 2.5 hours).
- Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and the Doge’s Palace, which offers insights into Venice’s rich history.
- Take a romantic gondola ride through the winding canals of Venice.
Day 6: Venice to Rome
- Board a train to Rome (approximately 4 hours).
- Visit the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome. Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to get a sense of the city’s ancient grandeur.
Day 7: Rome
- Head to Vatican City to visit Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Stroll through Piazza Navona and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner in Rome, savoring Italian classics like pasta carbonara and gelato.
10-Day France Switzerland and Italy Itinerary
Days 1-2: Paris, France
Day 1: Arrive in Paris. Begin your journey with a visit to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Don’t forget to explore the charming streets of the Marais district.
Day 2: Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles. Wander through the opulent palace rooms and the stunning gardens. Return to Paris for an evening stroll along the Seine River.
Days 3-4: Lucerne, Switzerland
Day 3: Travel to Lucerne. Discover the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and take a leisurely walk around Lake Lucerne.
Day 4: Take a day trip to Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi. Both offer breathtaking views and can be accessed by a combination of boat, cogwheel train, and cable car.
Days 5-6: Interlaken and Jungfrau Region
Day 5: Travel to Interlaken. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or taking a scenic train ride.
Day 6: Embark on an excursion to Jungfraujoch – the Top of Europe. The journey includes a train ride through the mountains and ends at the highest railway station in Europe, offering spectacular glacier views.
Days 7-8: Milan and Lake Como, Italy
Day 7: Travel to Milan. Visit the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.
Day 8: Take a day trip to Lake Como. Explore the beautiful lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna, and take a boat ride on the lake.
Days 9-10: Venice, Italy
Day 9: Travel to Venice. Spend the day exploring St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Day 10: Enjoy a gondola ride and visit the islands of Murano, known for its glassmaking, and Burano, famous for its colorful houses and lace.
2-Week Paris Switzerland Italy Itinerary
Days 1-3: Paris, France
Day 1: Arrive in Paris. Visit the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and stroll through the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Versailles. Explore the palace and its extensive gardens.
Day 3: Discover Montmartre, visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy a Seine River cruise in the evening.
Days 4-5: Lucerne, Switzerland
Day 4: Travel to Lucerne. Visit the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and the Swiss Transport Museum.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Mount Titlis or Lake Lucerne. Both offer stunning views and exciting activities like cable car rides and boat cruises.
Days 6-7: Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen
Day 6: Travel to Interlaken. Explore the town and enjoy activities such as paragliding, hiking, or a boat trip.
Day 7: Take a day trip to Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque village in a valley with numerous waterfalls. Visit Trümmelbach Falls, a series of impressive glacier waterfalls inside the mountain.
Days 8-9: Zermatt and the Matterhorn
Day 8: Travel to Zermatt, a car-free village at the foot of the Matterhorn. Visit the Matterhorn Museum.
Day 9: Take an excursion to Gornergrat, offering breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Enjoy hiking or skiing depending on the season.
Days 10-11: Milan and Florence, Italy
Day 10: Travel to Milan. Visit the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.
Day 11: Travel to Florence. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and the Florence Cathedral.
Days 12-14: Rome, Italy
Day 12: Travel to Rome. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
Day 13: Explore Vatican City, including the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Day 14: Take a day trip to Pompeii to see the ancient ruins or relax in Rome, visiting more sites like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
Tips for a France Italy and Switzerland Trip
When planning your trip, consider the following tips:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit France, Italy, and Switzerland is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller, making for a more enjoyable experience.
Travel insurance
It’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance when traveling to multiple countries. This covers any unforeseen events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings.
Language tips
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in French, Italian, and German can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Transportation tips
- Trains: Europe has an extensive and efficient train network. High-speed trains like the TGV, EuroCity, and Trenitalia make traveling between countries quick and comfortable.
- Public transport: Use local buses, trams, and metros within cities for convenient and cost-effective travel.
- Passes: Consider purchasing a Eurail Pass for flexible train travel across multiple countries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Switzerland Close to Italy or France?
Switzerland shares borders with both Italy and France. The proximity makes it convenient to travel between these countries by train or car.
How Long is France to Switzerland by Train?
Traveling from Paris to Zurich by high-speed train takes approximately 4 hours. Other routes, such as Paris to Geneva, take about 3 hours.
Is There a High-Speed Train from Switzerland to Italy?
Yes, there are high-speed trains connecting Switzerland and Italy. For example, the train from Zurich to Milan takes about 3.5 hours, making it a convenient option for travelers.
This itinerary guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for planning your trip to France, Italy, and Switzerland. Whether you have a week, ten days, or two weeks, following these suggested routes will help you experience the best of these beautiful countries. For more details and to book a tour package, visit Tours4fun.
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