Embarking on a Memorable 14-Day Journey Through Italy and Switzerland
Recently, I embarked on a two-week exploration of Italy, sprinkled with a dash of Swiss magic. Our initial destination was Zurich, Switzerland, thanks to some remarkably affordable flight deals. Starting our journey in Switzerland turned out to be one of the best decisions, making it a memorable highlight.
Both Italy and Switzerland captivated us with their beauty and charm. Without further ado, here’s the concise travel plan we followed:
Travel Route: Italy and Switzerland
This journey initiates in Zurich but offers flexibility depending on where you secure the best flight deals – be it Zurich, Venice, Florence, Rome, or Milan.
14-Day Itinerary through Italy & Switzerland:
- Departure day.
- Land in Zurich.
- Explore Lauterbrunnen.
- Visit Furka Ice Caves & Gimsel Pass.
- Head back to Zurich, then take a night train to Rome.
- Explore major sights in Rome.
- Day at Vatican City.
- More Rome sightseeing.
- Day trip to Pompeii & Naples.
- Journey to Florence & Pisa.
- Discover Cinque Terre.
- Revel in Venice.
- Island hopping around Venice.
- Stopover in Milan; head back to Zurich for departure.
Lodging Details:
- 3 cozy nights in a quaint Swiss town (I chose Hasilberg).
- 1 night on the train from Zurich to Rome.
- 3 nights soaking up Rome.
- 2 nights in Pisa.
- 3 nights amidst Venice’s canals.
- A night in Zurich, conveniently near the airport.
The Swiss Advantage:
Switzerland’s serene environment, with fewer crowds than Italy, offers a relaxing start, especially for those dealing with jet lag. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling vibe of Rome. Moreover, Switzerland’s scenic beauty is unparalleled – every vista is postcard-worthy.
A Glimpse of the Journey:
- Switzerland: From day 1 to 4, we soaked in Switzerland’s wonders. Highlights included the tranquil city of Lauterbrunnen, the mesmerizing Murren, and the Aare Gorge.
- Rome: Two days aren’t enough for Rome. Its history is best absorbed with a local guide, covering the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum.
- Vatican City: Reserve most of a day for Vatican City. The Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Square are a must-visit.
- Pompeii & Naples: Our day trip here introduced us to Naples’ delightful pizza and the hauntingly fascinating ruins of Pompeii.
- Florence & Pisa: Florence is a treasure trove of art and architecture, while Pisa offers more than just its famous leaning tower.
- Cinque Terre: The five picturesque coastal towns stole our hearts.
- Venice: Two days of winding through Venice’s enchanting streets and visiting its surrounding islands was a treat.
- Milan: Before concluding the journey, a brief stop in Milan is recommended for its iconic Duomo and Sforzesco Castle.
Our two-week expedition through Italy and Switzerland was packed with adventure, beauty, and lifelong memories.
