Zürich in 4 Days for Couples - Guided walks in Zürich & optional stroll in Lucerne
In Collaboration with Trekking Switzerland. Updated on February 3, 2026.
A private, romantic 4-day trekking escape from Zürich into the Swiss Alps — scenic hikes, a night in a hay hotel, mountain restaurants, alpine viewpoints (Hohsaas & Längfluh), and stargazing. Travel by public transport (trains, cable cars, buses) with a local guide; breakfasts included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Trekking Switzerland, inspired by the tour 4 Day Trekking Tour Swiss Magic Through the Alps. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided walks in Zürich & optional stroll in Lucerne
- Leistkamm hike and rustic hay‑hotel stay near Brunnen
- Sittlisalp mountain meadows & waterfalls
- Hohsaas panoramic platform and Längfluh descent to Saas‑Fee
- Sunset & stargazing moments each evening
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Zürich, short guided city walk (or optional Lucerne detour), lunch en route, transfer towards Walensee and check-in for a tranquil lakeside first night.
Pickup & welcome briefing — Zürich Hauptbahnhof (meet your guide)
Meet the guide at Zürich Hauptbahnhof for a quick kit check, itinerary run‑through and luggage arrangement. Start time follows the activity's 08:00 departure; guide will confirm pickup address in advance.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet at the main concourse near the clock tower (Zürich HB) — it's easy to find and sheltered in case of rain.
- Light luggage can be left on the train station luggage lockers if you want to travel lighter while walking the city (ideal for romantic photos).
- Ask your guide for a printed local SIM / hotspot pass if you want extra offline maps for later private strolls.
Stroll through old town — Lindenhof & Bahnhofstrasse (guided walk)
Gentle, romantic walk through Lindenhof (historic hilltop square) and along Bahnhofstrasse — time for photos, chocolate treats and a short coffee stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Lindenhof is a perfect golden‑hour spot for couple photos — the bench overlooking the Limmat is quieter in the morning.
- Try a small shared dessert at a local café (guide can recommend a quieter side‑street pâtisserie to avoid the crowds).
- Most of the route is stroller/wheelchair‑friendly cobbled streets; stick to the Limmat promenade for easier walking and benches.
Optional: Scenic detour to Lucerne — Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
If you'd like to add a short rail detour, take the direct train to Lucerne for a relaxed walk along Kapellbrücke and the lakeshore (adds ~2–3 hours).
Tips from local experts:
- If you choose Lucerne, time your arrival to enjoy a lakeside coffee on the Reuss — quiet terraces sit behind the bridge.
- Trains Zürich–Lucerne are frequent; ask the guide to reserve window seats so you get lakeside views on the way.
- Keep this optional to avoid rushing later — it's a perfect added romantic moment if you both enjoy historic towns.
Lunch — relaxed meal in Zürich or en route (guide suggestion)
Free time for lunch — guide will suggest a couple‑friendly restaurant (vegetarian, local Swiss or light picnic options) depending on whether you stayed in Zürich or detoured via Lucerne.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a window table with lake or old‑town views when available — it makes the meal feel special.
- If you prefer a picnic on the way, the guide can prepare local cheeses/bread and suggest a scenic stop overlooking the lake.
- Let the guide know dietary preferences in advance so they reserve a quieter table with a romantic atmosphere.
Transfer to Walensee / Walenstadt — check in & relax
Scenic train/coastal bus transfer toward Lake Walensee and Walenstadt. Check into your lakeside accommodation (3‑star hotel arranged by the guide) and enjoy fresh mountain air.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side of the train/bus for the best lake views as you approach Walensee.
- Ask reception for a quiet room facing the lake — sunrise over the Alps is beautiful and intimate for couples.
- Take a short lakeside stroll before dinner; there are benches and small beaches perfect for a private moment.
Sunset moment at Walensee — lakeshore photography & aperitif
Short lakeside walk to watch the late summer sunset over the mountains — guide offers a small aperitif option (or find a nearby terrace).
Tips from local experts:
- Golden hour on Walensee is usually later in August — bring a light wrap for the breeze and plan a slow walk to a quiet cove.
- Your guide can recommend a nearby terrace for a local wine or aperitif with views — reserve a bench if busy.
- This is a great night‑one special moment: take a couple photo from the lakeside jetty as the mountains silhouette.
Day 2
Hike to Leistkamm with alpine views, mountain lunch (hut or picnic), then a rustic hay‑hotel night near Brunnen with stargazing.
Morning transfer to Brunnen (start of the hike)
Public transport transfer by train and/or bus toward Brunnen; short orientation on the route and safety briefing from the guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy regional single‑day ticket for convenience; trains and buses in this area are punctual and comfortable.
- Sit on the lakeside side for views of Vierwaldstättersee as you approach the Brunnen area.
- Keep a lightweight daypack ready with sunscreen and water — guide will carry communal first aid and snacks.
Hike to Leistkamm (2,101 m) — 'In the footsteps of Heidi' day hike
Guided alpine hike to Leistkamm with expansive views; moderate, scenic terrain and photo stops. Lunch at a mountain hut or picnic on the ridge depending on conditions.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for varied weather — lightweight waterproofs, layers and sun protection keep the moment comfortable and romantic.
- Ask the guide for a secluded lunch spot with panoramic views — perfect for a private picnic and photo moment.
- For a romantic touch, bring a small, compact blanket for the picnic (guide can help source local cheeses and bread).
Relaxed late afternoon — transfer back to Brunnen & freshen up
Return to the Brunnen area; time to wash up and prepare for the rustic evening at a local hay‑hotel (arranged on a nearby farm).
Tips from local experts:
- Hay‑hotel stays are charmingly rustic — pack a small overnight bag with soft layers and earplugs if you prefer deeper sleep.
- Expect simple but authentic meals; request a table with a view or a quieter corner for an intimate dinner.
- If you both enjoy surprises, ask your guide to arrange a small local treat (cheese tasting or homemade jam) at the farm.
Evening: hay‑hotel dinner & stargazing meadow
Rustic farm dinner followed by a short guided walk to a nearby meadow for stargazing — the guide brings a small blanket and will point out constellations.
Tips from local experts:
- Warm layers are essential for late summer nights in the meadow — bring a cosy jumper for two and a thermos if you like hot drinks.
- Ask the host for a private table or a corner by a window — candlelight plus local fare creates a very romantic atmosphere.
- Stargazing is best away from lights — your guide will choose a nearby meadow for minimal light pollution and maximum privacy.
Day 3
Sittlisalp alpine meadows and waterfalls (gentle hiking & photography), then travel south toward Valais and Saas‑Fee for high‑alpine views and an evening together in the car‑free village.
Transfer to Engelberg / Sittlisalp area
Morning rail transfer to the Engelberg valley to reach the Sittlisalp area (short cogwheel or cable car segments possible).
Tips from local experts:
- Trains in this region offer luggage spaces — secure small bags and keep valuables with you for scenic stops.
- If you enjoy slow travel, ask to take the scenic local trains instead of express options for extra windowside views.
- Buy a one‑day regional pass if you plan short lifts/cogwheel trains — it often saves time at ticket kiosks.
Explore Sittlisalp & nearby waterfalls — relaxed alpine meadow walk
Gentle walking through Sittlisalp meadows, small waterfalls and mountain huts — perfect for leisurely photos and a mountain‑hut lunch or picnic.
Tips from local experts:
- Sittlisalp has charming wooden benches ideal for a private lunch — ask your guide to reserve a scenic spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes with grip — paths are mostly easy but can be damp near waterfalls.
- Bring a light picnic blanket and share local alpine cheese for an intimate mountain picnic moment.
Transfer to Saas‑Fee (Valais) — alpine rail and valley transfer
Longer scenic transfer toward Saas‑Fee (expect trains and a final mountain bus/cable combination). Use this time to rest and enjoy the Alps together.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a longer transfer day — schedule a quiet compartment if possible for naps and views together.
- Ask the guide to stop for a short scenic photo break en route if time allows (great alpine panoramas).
- Carry a reusable water bottle — mountain taps are often safe and refreshing for refills on the journey.
Check in at Saas‑Fee (3‑star hotel) & short village stroll
Arrive in the car‑free village of Saas‑Fee; check in to your hotel, then enjoy a slow evening walk to a viewpoint for a sunset moment over the glacier peaks.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a room with a balcony or mountain view — sunsets over the Alphine ridgelines are unforgettable.
- Saas‑Fee is car‑free — request help with luggage transfer from the guide or hotel porter for a stress‑free arrival.
- Try a shared fondue or raclette in the evening for a cozy alpine dining experience (reserve a quiet table).
Sunset viewpoint — early evening panorama in Saas‑Fee
Short walk to a nearby village viewpoint to watch the late summer glow on the 4,000‑m peaks — perfect photo and quiet moment for two.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan to reach the viewpoint 20–30 minutes before sunset for the best light and fewer people.
- Bring a light jacket even in August — high‑altitude evenings cool down quickly and add to the cozy mood.
- Ask your guide to recommend a nearby café for a post‑sunset hot drink or a quiet aperitif.
Day 4
High‑alpine finale: cable car to Hohsaas platform with unrivalled four‑thousander views, hike from Längfluh back to Saas‑Fee, lunch and late‑afternoon return transfers to Zürich.
Cable car to Hohsaas — early morning ascent
Short transfer to the Hohsaas cable car; ascend to the Hohsaas panoramic platform with views of 18 four‑thousand‑metre peaks.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the earliest cable car for the clearest air and fewer visitors — the light is magical for couples’ photos.
- Pocket a small snack for the ascent; high‑altitude platforms often have only limited offerings.
- Ask the guide about the sheltered viewing ledges for the best quiet spots away from the main crowd.
Hohsaas panoramic platform — views & photos
Enjoy the viewing platforms and short high‑alpine walks. The guide points out the major peaks and helps capture professional‑quality photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear windproof layers — platforms are exposed and the breeze makes for dramatic photos.
- Use the guide as a photographer if you want a nice couple shot with the 4,000‑m peaks in the background.
- If you both like a small thrill, ask about the short, safe alpine trails off the platform (only if weather permits).
Hike from Längfluh back to Saas‑Fee — glacier and alpine descent
Descend from Längfluh (2,869 m) toward Saas‑Fee on well‑marked trails or cable combinations — relaxed pace with photo stops.
Tips from local experts:
- The Längfluh area has a glacier view — bring sunglasses and sunscreen for the reflected light.
- Take a slower pace and stop at alpine streams for private moments — the guide will time stops for the best vistas.
- Wear shoes with good grip — descents can be stony; the guide will help with pace and footwork.
Lunch in Saas‑Fee — relaxed mountain town meal
Enjoy a calm lunch in Saas‑Fee (alpine specialities or light fare) before your return trip. Guide will pick a quieter spot with mountain outlooks.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a window table with a mountain view — it turns a simple lunch into a memorable last alpine moment.
- Try a local specialty to cap the trip (ask for sharing portions so you can taste more dishes together).
- Keep the hike light — choose a relaxed lunch pace to allow comfortable travel later in the day.
Return transfer to Zürich — scenic journey back
Late‑afternoon departure by train/bus toward Zürich Hauptbahnhof. Comfortable end to your private 4‑day trek; drop‑off at your chosen address in Zürich if prearranged.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a window seat on the valley side for the last alpine views — it's a peaceful way to reflect on the trip together.
- Keep a small memento in your daypack (a pressed flower or ticket) — a nice souvenir to remember the trip by.
- Confirm your drop‑off address with the guide the evening before to ensure a smooth return to your hotel or central location.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 4 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 8 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 12 |
| Total Places | 12 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Neighborhood, Attraction, Meal, Outdoor, Experience, Hotel |
