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14-Day France & Switzerland Itinerary: The French Alps & Swiss Lakes
14 Days
6 Stops
Private transfer
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Burgundy excursion from Lyon is the one I'd protect first on this itinerary, and it's the day I'd never let get compressed into a half-afternoon. Driving the Route des Grands Crus through Beaune and the Côte d'Or puts you in a France that neither Paris nor the Alps can offer, and keeping it separate from the Lyon food tour means neither gets rushed. Leave the D-Day Normandy excursion as a standalone day with nothing else scheduled: Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer need several hours to absorb properly, and adding anything else to that day is a mistake I've seen clients regret.
The Burgundy excursion from Lyon is the one I'd protect first on this itinerary, and it's the day I'd never let get compressed into a half-afternoon. Driving the Route des Grands Crus through Beaune and the Côte d'Or puts you in a France that neither Paris nor the Alps can offer, and keeping it separate from the Lyon food tour means neither gets rushed. Leave the D-Day Normandy excursion as a standalone day with nothing else scheduled: Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer need several hours to absorb properly, and adding anything else to that day is a mistake I've seen clients regret.
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Zurich
Day 1 - 2
Zurich, or 'Zuri' as it is fondly known by its multicultural inhabitants, lies in northern Switzerland at the meeting point of a beautiful lake and river, with the magnificent snow-capped Swiss Alps standing guard high above it. This fairy tale city is renowned for its beauty, cleanliness, efficiency, and heritage. Explore medieval alleyways peppered with quirky corner cafes, steepled churches, trendy taprooms, and world-class galleries and restaurants. A day in Zurich can include browsing the unrivalled selection of luxury stores on it’s famous shopping strip, the Bahnhofstrasse; riding the Polybahn, the 19th-century funicular up a steep hill to admire the spectacular view; or ‘renting’ a free bike or skateboard to meander along the banks of picturesque Lake Zurich. The venerable palace of art at the Kunsthaus is also a major drawcard, containing numerous world-famous masterpieces.
Your accommodation
Townhouse Boutique Hotel
Townhouse Boutique Hotel in Zürich offers stylish accommodation in the heart of the city. Guests can choose from 23 elegant rooms and three spacious Junior Suites equipped with modern amenities such as TVs, hairdryers, and private bathrooms. The hotel boasts facilities such as a restaurant, a bar, and Wi-Fi. Activities available include visiting nearby attractions like the Swiss National Museum, the WOW Museum, and the Centralhof Monument.
Your activity
Daytrip to the Queen of Mountains
Enjoy a full-day adventure through Central Switzerland, starting with a scenic coach ride along the shores of Lake Lucerne to the charming village of Weggis. From there, take the cable car to Rigi Kaltbad and ride Europe’s first mountain railway up to Rigi Kulm at 1,797 meters. At the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, sparkling lakes, and rolling countryside.
Spend time exploring gentle hiking trails or relaxing at a mountaintop restaurant while soaking in the scenery. Descend to Vitznau by cogwheel train and continue with a scenic one-hour boat cruise across Lake Lucerne.
Arrive in Lucerne for leisure time to explore the picturesque Old Town. Visit landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge, Jesuit Church, KKL Culture and Convention Centre, and the iconic Lion Monument. Stroll along the lakeside promenade before rejoining your guide for the return coach journey to Zurich.
- Group size / Maximum number of people: 45
Lausanne
Day 3
Resting on the shore of Lake Geneva, in the Vaud region, Lausanne is Switzerland's smallest city and dynamic commercial town with a wealth of culture, atmosphere, extraordinary Alpine scenery, education and sports. It is home to a lively, world-class university and is renowned as the world's Olympic capital. The city is lined by lovely undulating hills which afford residents and visitors spectacular glimpses over Lake Geneva and the Alps, with a medieval centre dominated by a grand Gothic cathedral. The rest of the city boasts museums devoted to diverse interests as Art Brut and the Olympics. A brief leisurely stroll is usually enough to discover immaculate parks and gardens, vibrant shopping districts and impressive architectural heritage.
Your accommodation
Alpha by Fassbind
Alpha by Fassbind is a lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Lausanne, offering partial views of Lake Geneva. The spacious rooms feature modern comforts such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy diverse dining options, including the Italian casual restaurant La Mamma and a renowned Thai fine dining garden restaurant, complemented by a stylish bar. The hotel also provides additional facilities such as a fitness centre, sauna, meeting and convention halls, and private parking, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers.
Geneva
Day 4 - 5
Fringed by the Alps and Jura Mountains, and set at the southern end of the magnificent Lake Geneva, Geneva is a French-speaking Swiss city with plenty to offer every type of traveller. The City’s postcard-perfect old town, lined with a maze of cobbled alleys and sprinkled with historical monuments, charming antique stores and quaint cafes, appeals to history buffs, eager shoppers and foodies alike. A slick, modern cosmopolitan city surrounds this old-world charm, housing a thriving community of international expatriates, world-class restaurants, famous luxury jewellers and enough chocolate shops to satisfy even the most avid chocoholics. Geneva specialises in the finer things in life. The selection is overwhelming and makes for some great window shopping, which is practically a national sport in Switzerland.
Your accommodation
Hotel Bristol
Hotel Bristol is in the heart of Geneva, within a 5-minute walk of Mont Blanc Bridge and Rue du Rhône. This luxury hotel is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Jet d'Eau Fountain and 1.2 mi (1.9 km) from University of Geneva.
Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a hot tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 110 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access is available. Bathrooms feature bathtubs or showers, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Chamonix - Mont Le Blanc
Just 90 minutes from Geneva, discover the charming alpine town of Chamonix Mont-Blanc on a comfortable panoramic bus ride. Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak, this world-famous destination has long attracted mountaineers, nature lovers, and adventurers from around the globe. Chamonix combines breathtaking scenery with a lively village atmosphere. Stroll through its inviting streets, browse local boutiques, and enjoy cozy cafés while surrounded by spectacular mountain views. Whether you are exploring, shopping, or simply relaxing, the presence of Mont Blanc is always impressive. Renowned for its skiing and outdoor activities, Chamonix offers exceptional experiences for visitors year-round. From dramatic peaks to peaceful valleys, it is a place where nature, adventure, and alpine tradition come together.
- Group size / Maximum number of people: 45
Annecy
Day 6
Idyllically located where the River Thiou meets Lac d’Annecy, the picturesque alpine town of Annecy is known for its old town with cobbled streets, winding canals and pastel-colored houses. Towering majestically over the town the medieval Château d’Annecy, once home to the counts of Geneva, is home a fascinating museum containing regional artifacts such as Alpine furniture and religious art, as well as a natural history exhibit. Spend your days sampling the sumptuous local cuisine at the numerous excellent local eateries or indulging in some decadent Italian ice cream sold in the slew of ice-cream parlours strewn along the pedestrian-only by-ways that weave the city and river together. Those looking to escape the crowds can enjoy a peaceful bike ride to the far side of the lake while exploring the numerous picturesque little villages that line the lakeshore. If you are seeking a charming culturally and historically rich holiday getaway with all the benefits of a modern resort town, look no further than the exquisite town of Annecy.
Your accommodation
Novotel Annecy Centre
Novotel Annecy Centre is located in a prime spot between the city and nature, just a 5-min walk from the lake and old town. Guest rooms are lovingly decorated and equipped with LED TVs, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, and courtesy trays with tea/coffee and bottles of water. General facilities and services available to guests staying at the hotel include a restaurant, a bar, parking, meeting rooms and room service.
Lyon
Day 7 - 9
Positioned at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers in France’s Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region, the city of Lyon boasts world-famous gastronomy, a picturesque riverside setting, rich history and a university buzz. No visit to Lyon would be complete without a visit to Les Halles de Lyon, the major food market, while the city’s restaurants, ranging from Michelin-starred to street-side chic, are the stuff of gourmet fantasy. Equally engaging pastimes are trawling the city’s great shops, or spending a few hours people-watching at the Place Bellecour, the city’s vibrant main square. For bird-eye views over the city, head up to the Fourviere hilltop by funicular or on foot. The summit is home to the beautiful Notre Dame de Fourviere, with its turreted facade of white stone carved with lacy detail.
Your accommodation
Le Phénix Hôtel
Le Phénix Hôtel is located along the banks of the Saône River in Lyon, France, close to attractions like the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon. The hotel features comfortably furnished guest rooms that are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, a TV, a hairdryer, and a private bathroom. During their stay, guests can enjoy French cuisine. Additional facilities include a bar and parking.
Your activity
Lyon Old Town Food Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the charming streets of Old Lyon, guided by a passionate local expert. This tour invites you to explore the historic district's hidden charms and culinary treasures, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with gourmet pleasures. Dive into the enchanting world of Lyon's famed "traboules"—secret passageways that have witnessed centuries of history—and indulge in delightful tasting breaks that showcase the region's gastronomic excellence.
Discover the Heart of Lyon Through Its Craftsmanship
As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll be introduced to local craftsmen who pour their heart into their creations. These artisans are eager to share their stories, passion, and the meticulous ways to savor their culinary masterpieces. With more than five carefully curated stops, this tour offers a walking exploration of Lyon, where every corner echoes with historical tales and every plate is a testament to the city's rich gastronomy.
A Gastronomic Journey Like No Other
This unique tour redefines the way you explore a city, by inviting you to experience Lyon through its culinary delights. Whether you call Lyon home or are visiting from afar, prepare to be enchanted by fascinating anecdotes and regional specialties that remain largely undiscovered.
Savor the Flavors: What's on the Menu
- Begin with a delectable selection of regional cheeses, perfectly paired with white wine, to awaken your palate.
- Experience the authenticity of a true bouchon Lyonnais, where traditional Lyonnaise specialties are served with a complementary wine.
- Enjoy a satisfying assortment of regional cold cuts, thoughtfully matched with a robust red wine.
- Delight in a sweet ending with an assortment of chocolates or artisanal ice creams (available from May to October) for a refreshing treat.
- Relish a traditional praline pie, lovingly homemade, accompanied by your choice of hot or cold beverages.
This culinary journey offers more than just tastings—it promises a full lunch-sized experience that will satisfy both heart and appetite.
Important Considerations
Please note that this tour is not suitable for individuals with allergies to milk, eggs, nuts, soy, sulfur dioxide, sulfites, or gluten, nor for those with dietary restrictions involving unpasteurized cheese, alcohol, or pork.
Join us for this extraordinary blend of history, culture, and cuisine—a truly immersive way to appreciate Lyon's timeless charm and culinary brilliance.
Paris
Day 10 - 14
With the River Seine gently meandering through this incredible city in northern central France, the captivating, romantic city of Paris has been described in just about every possible way and is a dream destination for people the world over, boasting many famous landmarks, a rich history and idyllic Parisian scenes at every turn. The city features monument-lined boulevards, fascinating museums, classical bistros, bohemian art nouveau cafes, creative wine bars, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. Must-see attractions include: the impressive Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, the world-renowned Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe standing guard over the glamourous Champs Elysees Avenue. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample infamous French cuisine at an array of enticing ‘boulangeries’, ‘patisseries’, and ‘fromageries’.
Your accommodation
Hôtel Artus
Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés on Paris’s Left Bank, Hôtel Artus is a stylish boutique hotel that channels the charm of the 1950s with a warm, sophisticated ambience. The rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed, offering comfortable furnishings, elegant décor, and upscale amenities. The hotel offers a breakfast bar and in-room dining via room service, with a wealth of nearby restaurants in Saint-Germain-des-Prés providing diverse culinary experiences. Additional facilities include a serene wellness area with a spa and massage services, ensuring a relaxing retreat amid the buzz of Parisian life.
Your activity
Eiffel Tower Dinner & Seine Cruise
Enjoy a pleasant dinner at the new restaurant on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, the "MADAME BRASSERIE" and a cruise on the Seine to contemplate Paris. Discover the city of light at sunset revealing all the charm of Paris.
Departure a few steps from the Eiffel Tower for an exceptional evening in the heart of Paris. This evening escapade includes a meal at the new Eiffel Tower restaurant "MADAME BRASSERIE", located on the first floor of the most famous monument in the capital. Then a magical cruise on the Seine. You will enjoy a typically French, local and responsible meal at "Madame Brasserie" where you will taste the cuisine of Chef Thierry Marx.
At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, embark next on a fully glassed-in boat for a marvelous one-hour ride on the Seine. Admire the beauty of the famous illuminated monuments of Paris: Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, the Conciergerie, the Louvre Museum or the Orsay Museum. Multilingual audio guides (French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, American, Portuguese, Russian, Dutch, Polish, Chinese, Japanese and Korean) will tell you the story of the City of Light and Parisian life. Have a magical time! The tour ends at the Eiffel Tower.
From$9,510
per personAccommodations
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24/7 support
Activities
Meals
Tourlane App
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Flights
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Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
42+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
18+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
9+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Zurich to Lausanne to Geneva, then across the French border through Annecy and Lyon before Paris closes the journey — fourteen days that move from the Swiss alpine interior toward the French capital in a sequence that follows the arc of the Rhône from source to culture. The transition from Geneva into France is one of the quieter pleasures of the itinerary: the landscape changes gradually, and Annecy, with its canal-threaded old town and mountain backdrop, provides a genuinely beautiful single night before Lyon takes over.
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My go-to recommendation for the D-Day Normandy excursion from Paris: the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer above Omaha Beach is one of the most carefully maintained memorial sites in Europe, and the context that the beach itself — stretching out below the bluffs where the landings happened — provides is something no museum exhibit can replicate. Allow the full day and plan the visit in the morning before the afternoon coaches from Paris arrive.
Day 1–2: Zurich
Hotel: Townhouse Boutique Hotel
Two nights with the "Queen of the Mountains" excursion on one day and the Old Town and lake promenade on the other. The "Queen of the Mountains" is the Rigi — the first mountain in the world to have a cogwheel railway — and the views from the summit across multiple Swiss lakes and the alpine chain make it a strong opening day for a journey built around mountain scenery.
Day 3: Lausanne
Hotel: Alpha by Fassbind
One night with lakeside walks and time in Lausanne's historic quarter. The city's position above the lake — the old town on the hill, the port at Ouchy below, and the Lavaux vineyards spreading east — makes it a strong single-night stop between Zurich and Geneva.
Day 4–5: Geneva
Hotel: Hôtel Bristol Genève
Two nights with the Chamonix and Mont Blanc excursion filling one full day and the Old Town exploration on the other. Chamonix gives the Swiss section its alpine high point: the Mer de Glace glacier by rack railway and the Aiguille du Midi cable car are each extraordinary on a clear day.
Day 6: Annecy
Hotel: Novotel Annecy Centre
One night in the "Venice of the Alps." The old town's canals, the Palais de l'Isle on its island in the Thiou, and the lake beyond it — with the Semnoz mountain rising above — make Annecy one of the most photogenic single nights of the whole journey. The lakeside market on Tuesday and Friday mornings is one of the better food markets in the French Alps.
Day 7–9: Lyon
Hotel: Le Phénix Hôtel
Three nights with the Old Town food tour, the Burgundy wine and castle excursion, and time in the traboules across the stay. The Burgundy excursion is a strong use of one of the three days: the Côte de Nuits wine road, the hilltop village of Vézelay, and the fortified town of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois together give it considerably more range than a standard cellar visit.
Day 10–14: Paris
Hotel: Hôtel Artus
Four nights in Saint-Germain-des-Prés with the Eiffel Tower dinner and Seine cruise, the Notre Dame neighborhood tour, the chocolate and pastry tasting, the Normandy excursion, and the Versailles day trip across the stay. The Hôtel Artus is on the Rue de Buci, which is arguably the best single street in Paris for a morning — the market, the bakeries, the café tables, and the bookshop on the corner toward the boulevard.
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