Two Weeks in France and Switzerland: Paris to Zermatt
Eiffel Tower · Bateaux-Mouches · Jardin des Plantes · Musee Unterlinden · Harder Kulm · Interlaken Ost (INT) station
14-day France trip — Paris to Colmar to Interlaken to Zermatt. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
Paris provides the necessary weight of art and history, while the transition to Colmar introduces the timber-framed intimacy of Alsace that a route like Paris and Amsterdam misses. By adding Interlaken and Zermatt, you anchor the trip in high-altitude geology rather than flatlands or city sprawl. This route suits travelers who want to move from grand museums to isolated mountain air.
Paris
Eiffel Tower
Day 1 · Iconic Landmarks
Bateaux-Mouches
Day 1 · Riverside Cruises
Atelier des Lumières
Day 3 · An Immersive Atelier Workshop
Louvre Museum
Day 4 · World-Class Museums
Colmar
Musee Unterlinden
Day 6 · Fine Art and History Museums
La Petite Venise
Day 6 · Charming Alsatian Quarters
Domaine Viticole de la Ville de Colmar
Day 6 · Alsace Wine Trail Experience
Maison Pfister
Day 7 · Medieval and Renaissance Architecture
Marché Couvert Colmar
Day 7 · A Seasonal Market and Food Hall Experience
Quartier des Tanneurs
Day 5 · Classic Parisian Neighborhood Strolls
Interlaken
Harder Kulm
Day 8 · Panoramic Mountain Peaks
Hohematte Park
Day 10 · Historic Town Exploration
St. Beatus Caves Park
Day 10 · A Serene Lakeside Garden Walk
Lake Brienz
Day 9 · Alpine Lakes and Waterfalls
Paragliding Interlaken
Day 10 · Adrenaline Adventure Sports
Zermatt
Gornergrat
Day 12 · Alpine Viewpoints
Matterhorn Museum - Zermatlantis
Day 12 · Local Heritage and Culture
Backstage Spa
Day 13 · A Luxury Alpine Spa Ritual
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Paris and Colmar enjoy mild, settled springs and autumns, while the mountain towns of Interlaken and Zermatt remain significantly cooler with frequent damp conditions. Even in midsummer, the higher altitudes require reliable windproof layers, whereas the cities benefit from warm, walkable afternoons. Plan for frequent rain in the mountains regardless of the month.
Best time to go: June and September
The whole year
Paris
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 47°F / 8°C (cold) | 38°F / 3°C (cold) | 11 | 8:39 AM – 5:21 PM |
| Feb | 50°F / 10°C | 38°F / 4°C (cold) | 10 | 7:59 AM – 6:10 PM |
| Mar | 56°F / 14°C | 41°F / 5°C (cold) | 9 | 7:04 AM – 6:55 PM |
| Apr | 64°F / 18°C | 44°F / 7°C (cold) | 8 | 7:00 AM – 8:41 PM |
| May | 69°F / 21°C | 50°F / 10°C | 10 | 6:09 AM – 9:25 PM |
| Jun | 77°F / 25°C | 58°F / 14°C | 9 | 5:46 AM – 9:55 PM |
| Jul | 82°F / 28°C | 61°F / 16°C | 6 | 6:03 AM – 9:49 PM |
| Aug | 80°F / 27°C | 60°F / 16°C | 7 | 6:43 AM – 9:05 PM |
| Sep | 73°F / 23°C | 55°F / 13°C | 7 | 7:27 AM – 8:03 PM |
| Oct | 64°F / 18°C | 50°F / 10°C | 9 | 8:11 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Nov | 54°F / 12°C | 44°F / 6°C (cold) | 9 | 7:59 AM – 5:10 PM |
| Dec | 49°F / 10°C | 40°F / 5°C (cold) | 10 | 8:37 AM – 4:53 PM |
Colmar
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 43°F / 6°C (cold) | 33°F / 1°C (cold) | 12 | 8:16 AM – 5:04 PM |
| Feb | 47°F / 8°C (cold) | 33°F / 1°C (cold) | 10 | 7:37 AM – 5:52 PM |
| Mar | 56°F / 13°C | 36°F / 2°C (cold) | 8 | 6:44 AM – 6:35 PM |
| Apr | 64°F / 18°C | 42°F / 5°C (cold) | 9 | 6:41 AM – 8:20 PM |
| May | 70°F / 21°C | 49°F / 9°C | 13 | 5:52 AM – 9:02 PM |
| Jun | 80°F / 27°C | 57°F / 14°C | 12 | 5:30 AM – 9:31 PM |
| Jul | 84°F / 29°C | 60°F / 16°C | 10 | 5:46 AM – 9:25 PM |
| Aug | 82°F / 28°C | 58°F / 15°C | 11 | 6:25 AM – 8:43 PM |
| Sep | 73°F / 23°C | 52°F / 11°C | 9 | 7:07 AM – 7:43 PM |
| Oct | 63°F / 17°C | 46°F / 8°C (cold) | 11 | 7:50 AM – 6:41 PM |
| Nov | 51°F / 10°C | 39°F / 4°C (cold) | 10 | 7:37 AM – 4:52 PM |
| Dec | 46°F / 8°C (cold) | 35°F / 2°C (cold) | 10 | 8:14 AM – 4:37 PM |
Interlaken
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 41°F / 5°C (cold) | 28°F / -2°C (cold) | 13 | 8:09 AM – 5:07 PM |
| Feb | 44°F / 7°C (cold) | 29°F / -2°C (cold) | 12 | 7:32 AM – 5:53 PM |
| Mar | 51°F / 11°C | 34°F / 1°C (cold) | 12 | 6:41 AM – 6:33 PM |
| Apr | 60°F / 15°C | 40°F / 4°C (cold) | 12 | 6:41 AM – 8:16 PM |
| May | 65°F / 18°C | 47°F / 8°C (cold) | 18 | 5:54 AM – 8:55 PM |
| Jun | 74°F / 23°C | 54°F / 12°C | 17 | 5:34 AM – 9:23 PM |
| Jul | 76°F / 24°C | 57°F / 14°C | 15 | 5:50 AM – 9:18 PM |
| Aug | 74°F / 23°C | 56°F / 13°C | 15 | 6:26 AM – 8:38 PM |
| Sep | 66°F / 19°C | 50°F / 10°C | 14 | 7:06 AM – 7:40 PM |
| Oct | 59°F / 15°C | 44°F / 7°C (cold) | 12 | 7:46 AM – 6:41 PM |
| Nov | 49°F / 9°C | 36°F / 2°C (cold) | 12 | 7:31 AM – 4:54 PM |
| Dec | 43°F / 6°C (cold) | 32°F / 0°C (cold) | 12 | 8:06 AM – 4:40 PM |
Zermatt
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F / -2°C (cold) | 15°F / -9°C (cold) | 11 | 8:07 AM – 5:09 PM |
| Feb | 30°F / -1°C (cold) | 17°F / -9°C (cold) | 11 | 7:32 AM – 5:54 PM |
| Mar | 32°F / 0°C (cold) | 20°F / -7°C (cold) | 11 | 6:42 AM – 6:34 PM |
| Apr | 39°F / 4°C (cold) | 26°F / -4°C (cold) | 12 | 6:43 AM – 8:15 PM |
| May | 45°F / 7°C (cold) | 31°F / 0°C (cold) | 16 | 5:57 AM – 8:54 PM |
| Jun | 55°F / 13°C | 41°F / 5°C (cold) | 19 | 5:37 AM – 9:21 PM |
| Jul | 59°F / 15°C | 44°F / 7°C (cold) | 18 | 5:53 AM – 9:16 PM |
| Aug | 58°F / 14°C | 45°F / 7°C (cold) | 17 | 6:28 AM – 8:37 PM |
| Sep | 52°F / 11°C | 40°F / 4°C (cold) | 15 | 7:07 AM – 7:40 PM |
| Oct | 46°F / 8°C (cold) | 35°F / 2°C (cold) | 11 | 7:45 AM – 6:42 PM |
| Nov | 37°F / 3°C (cold) | 27°F / -3°C (cold) | 13 | 7:29 AM – 4:57 PM |
| Dec | 33°F / 1°C (cold) | 21°F / -6°C (cold) | 10 | 8:04 AM – 4:43 PM |
- Morning
8:00 AM - Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)· 2 hrs
USD 60 (~CHF 50)
NASA (Public domain)Arrive in Paris. Take the RER B train to central Paris (~50 min, $12) or a taxi to your hotel (~60 min, $60).
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Quiche Lorraine in the 15th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 12 (~CHF 10)Iconic dish
Donna Alvita (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy a traditional savory bacon and cream egg tart at a local bakery.
Typical USD 6-10 (~CHF 5-8)
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Steak Frites in the 15th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dish
LuvsMG481 (CC BY-SA 4.0)Classic pan-seared bistro steak with crispy fries, an essential Parisian meal.
Typical USD 18-28 (~CHF 15-23)
Where to Stay Tonight
15th arrondissement
· This area is safe, family-friendly, and offers excellent views of the Eiffel Tower while being well-connected by metro.- Morning
- Afternoon
1:00 PM - Lunch: Pâté en Croûte in the 7th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 14 (~CHF 12)Try the dish
Benoît Prieur (CC0)Pâté en CroûteEnjoy a slice of traditional pâté en croûte from a local charcuterie, a perfect savory pastry snack.
- 2B
2:30 PM - Arc de Triomphe· 1 hr 30 min
USD 16 (~CHF 13)Doubles back across the city — check the order - Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Pot-au-feu in the 1st arrondissement· 1 hr 30 min
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dish
Muesse (CC BY-SA 4.0)Warm up with a traditional beef and vegetable broth slow-cooked in a classic Parisian bistro setting.
Typical USD 20-30 (~CHF 17-25)
Staying at 15th arrondissement since Day 1
- Morning
- Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Tarte Tatin in the 8th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 12 (~CHF 10)Iconic dish
Djenghisz (CC BY-SA 3.0)Enjoy a warm slice of caramelized apple tart at a local bakery in the upscale streets near the park.
Typical USD 7-12 (~CHF 6-10)
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Plateau de Fromages in the 11th arrondissement· 1 hr 30 min
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dish
CC BY-SA 3.0Savor a curated selection of regional French cheeses at a neighborhood bistro in the vibrant 11th district.
Typical USD 10-18 (~CHF 8-15)
Staying at 15th arrondissement since Day 1
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Quiche Lorraine in the 4th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 20 (~CHF 17)Iconic dishDonna Alvita (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor a warm, savory egg tart filled with bacon and cheese in a quiet corner of the city.
Typical USD 6-10 (~CHF 5-8)
Staying at 15th arrondissement since Day 1
- Morning
- Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Quiche Lorraine in the 12th arrondissement· 1 hr
USD 15 (~CHF 12)Iconic dishDonna Alvita (CC BY-SA 4.0)A classic savory tart with bacon and cream near Gare de Lyon before the high-speed rail departure.
Typical USD 6-10 (~CHF 5-8)
1:30 PM - Transit to Colmar (via TGV)· 5 hrs 30 min
USD 85 (~CHF 71)High-speed rail journey from Paris (Gare de l'Est) to Colmar.
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Flammekueche in Quartier des Tanneurs· 1 hr
USD 18 (~CHF 15)Iconic dish
Lulu Durand (CC BY 2.0)Casual dinner of Alsatian flatbread topped with creme fraiche and lardons in the historic district.
Often found around Quartier des TanneursTypical USD 9-15 (~CHF 7-12)
Where to Stay Tonight
Quartier des Tanneurs
· This is the most atmospheric part of Colmar, placing you in the heart of the half-timbered house district.- Morning
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Quiche Lorraine in Quartier des Tanneurs· 1 hr
USD 15 (~CHF 12)Iconic dishDonna Alvita (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor a warm, classic Alsatian quiche with bacon and cream in a quiet corner of the old tanner district.
Typical USD 6-10 (~CHF 5-8)
- 6C
4:30 PM - Domaine Viticole de la Ville de Colmar· 1 hr 30 min
USD 20 (~CHF 17)Closes 6 PM · 1.5h hereClosed on Monday, Sunday - Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Choucroute Garnie in Quartier des Tanneurs· 1 hr
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dish
Miguel Discart (CC BY-SA 2.0)Enjoy a traditional, hearty serving of fermented cabbage and salted meats, perfect for the cool Alsatian evening.
Typical USD 18-28 (~CHF 15-23)
Staying at Quartier des Tanneurs since Day 5
- Morning
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Quiche Lorraine in Quartier des Tanneurs· 1 hr
USD 15 (~CHF 12)Iconic dishDonna Alvita (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy a slice of warm, traditional custard-filled savory tart in a historic district.
Typical USD 6-10 (~CHF 5-8)
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Baeckeoffe in Quartier des Tanneurs· 1 hr 30 min
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Try the dish
CC BY-SA 3.0BaeckeoffeIndulge in this slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew prepared in a sealed earthenware terrine.
Staying at Quartier des Tanneurs since Day 5
- Morning
11:00 AM - Transit to Interlaken (INT)· 2 hrs 29 min
USD 110 (~CHF 91)Travel from Colmar to Interlaken by train. Enjoy the transition from the vineyards of Alsace to the dramatic Alpine peaks of the Bernese Highlands.
- Afternoon
1:30 PM - Lunch: Zwiebelkuchen in Interlaken· 1 hr
USD 15 (~CHF 12)Try the dish
Biezl (Public domain)ZwiebelkuchenSavor a warm, savory onion tart typical of the alpine region to mark your arrival.
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Gerstensuppe in Interlaken· 1 hr
USD 18 (~CHF 15)Iconic dish
jeffreyw (CC BY 2.0)Warm up with a hearty, traditional barley soup at a cozy local eatery.
Typical USD 10-18 (~CHF 8-15)
Where to Stay Tonight
Interlaken Ost
· Close to the main train station and boat docks, making it the most convenient base for exploring both Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.- Morning
10:00 AM - Lake Brienz· 2 hrs
USD 30 (~CHF 25)Board a boat for a leisurely cruise across the turquoise glacial waters of Lake Brienz, enjoying the dramatic mountain backdrops.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Swiss Sausage in Interlaken· 1 hr
USD 10 (~CHF 8)Try the dish
Andrew Bossi (CC BY-SA 2.5)Swiss SausageGrab a classic grilled bratwurst from a central market stall for an authentic local lunch.
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Zurcher Geschnetzeltes in Interlaken· 1 hr 30 min
USD 35 (~CHF 29)Iconic dish
Jpatokal (CC BY-SA 3.0)Enjoy a comforting, traditional Swiss dinner of sliced veal in a rich mushroom sauce at a classic local establishment.
Typical USD 28-42 (~CHF 23-35)
Staying at Interlaken Ost since Day 8
- Morning
9:00 AM - Paragliding Interlaken· 2 hrs 30 min
USD 170 (~CHF 141)Launch from Beatenberg to soar over the valley with views of Lake Thun and the surrounding peaks.
- Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Trockenfleisch in Interlaken· 1 hr
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Try the dish
Oliver s. (CC BY-SA 3.0)TrockenfleischEnjoy thin slices of air-dried alpine beef at a traditional bistro in the center of town.
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Walliser Käsefondue in Interlaken· 1 hr 30 min
USD 35 (~CHF 29)Try the dish
Photo by Matheus Bertelli on PexelsWalliser KäsefondueShare a pot of melted Valais cheeses with crusty bread in a cozy room overlooking the mountain views.
Staying at Interlaken Ost since Day 8
- Morning
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Cholera in Zermatt· 1 hr
USD 20 (~CHF 17)Iconic dish
Popo le Chien (CC0)Taste the traditional mountain pie made with potatoes, apples, and local mountain cheese.
Typical USD 15-22 (~CHF 12-18)
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Raclette in Zermatt village· 1 hr
USD 30 (~CHF 25)Iconic dish
Superbass (CC BY-SA 4.0)Experience melted Valais cheese served over steamed potatoes and tangy cornichons.
Typical USD 20-35 (~CHF 17-29)
Where to Stay Tonight
Zermatt village center
· Close to the main train station and the historic Hinterdorf, making it ideal for a car-free walking base.- Morning
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Viande Sechee du Valais in Zermatt village· 1 hr
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dish
Popo le Chien (CC BY-SA 3.0)Enjoy thin slices of air-dried mountain beef served with local rye bread, perfect for an authentic Alpine lunch.
Typical USD 18-28 (~CHF 15-23)
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Walliser Kasefondue in Zermatt village· 1 hr 30 min
USD 35 (~CHF 29)Try the dishPhoto by Matheus Bertelli on PexelsWalliser KäsefondueDine on melted Alpine cheese in a cozy, rustic setting after a long day in the mountains.
Staying at Zermatt village center since Day 11
- Morning
9:00 AM - Breakfast: Zopf in Zermatt Village· 1 hr
USD 8 (~CHF 7)ZopfStart the day slowly with thick slices of braided egg bread, a classic Swiss breakfast staple, at a local bakery in the car-free center.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Walliser Roggenbrot in Zermatt Village· 1 hr
USD 15 (~CHF 12)Try the dish
Evelyscher (CC BY-SA 4.0)Walliser RoggenbrotEnjoy a rustic lunch featuring dense, flavor-rich rye bread paired with local mountain cheeses.
- Evening
7:30 PM - Dinner: Meringues with Double Cream in Zermatt Village· 1 hr
USD 20 (~CHF 17)Meringues with Double CreamIndulge in a local specialty of sweet, airy meringues served with thick, luxurious cream sourced from Alpine cows.
Staying at Zermatt village center since Day 11
- Morning
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Raclette in Zermatt Village· 1 hr
USD 25 (~CHF 21)Iconic dishSuperbass (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy traditional melted cheese served with potatoes and pickled onions in a classic village setting.
Typical USD 20-35 (~CHF 17-29)
2:00 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min
FREEReturn to the hotel area to check out and collect luggage before heading to the station.
4:00 PM - Depart from Geneva Airport (GVA)· 5 hrs
USD 95 (~CHF 79)
Eduard Marmet (CC BY-SA 3.0)Travel from Zermatt to Geneva Airport for your flight home, including train transfers and check-in.
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Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
Top 14 dishes to try
Tap any photo for more photos, the story, and where to find it.
Colmar
Kougelhopf
Flammekueche
Day 5 · dinner
Choucroute Garnie
Day 6 · dinner
Paris
Quiche Lorraine
Days 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7
Tarte Tatin
Day 3 · lunch
Plateau de Fromages
Day 3 · dinner
Steak Frites
Day 1 · dinner
Pot-au-feu
Day 2 · dinner
Zermatt
Gerstensuppe
Day 8 · dinner
Cholera
Day 11 · lunch
Viande Séchée du Valais
Day 12 · lunch
Raclette
Days 11 and 14
Interlaken
Zurcher Geschnetzeltes
Day 9 · dinner
Swiss Cheese Tasting
Experience the sharp, nutty profile of local Emmentaler and Gruyere. Alpine milk production here is world-class; eating it where it is made is the only way to get the true, grassy depth of the product.
Where to eat · Bahnhofstrasse, Canal Saint-Martin, Hinterdorf, Hoheweg, Le Marais, Old Town, Petite Venise, Saint-Germain-des-Pres, Unterseen
- Bahnhofstrasse · Zermatt — The main artery of town, packed with high-end boutiques and the densest concentration of fondue restaurants.
- Canal Saint-Martin · Paris — Casual, younger dining spots and evening drinks by the water.
- Hinterdorf · Zermatt — The oldest part of Zermatt featuring traditional wooden barns and storehouses built on stone stilts.
- Hoheweg · Interlaken — Main thoroughfare for upscale dining, cafes, and easy access to hotel-based traditional swiss kitchens.
- Le Marais · Paris — Dense cluster of falafel stands on Rue des Rosiers and classic bistros.
- Old Town · Colmar — Historic patisseries and bakeries selling fresh Kougelhopf and local Munster cheese.
- Petite Venise · Colmar — Scenic canal-side dining and traditional Winstub taverns serving hearty Alsatian classics.
- Saint-Germain-des-Pres · Paris — Historic cafes where the menu remains rooted in traditional French classics.
- Unterseen · Interlaken — The older, quieter side of the Aare river with cozy, wood-paneled traditional restaurants serving local meat dishes.
Good to know · meal times, tipping, water, vegetarian, payment, etiquette
France
- Meal times
- Lunch is typically 12:00 to 14:00. Dinner service starts early by French standards, usually 19:00 to 21:00. Kitchens often close between services.
- Tipping
- Tipping is not mandatory. If service was good, round up or leave a few coins. A service charge is usually included in the bill.
- Water
- Tap water is safe and free. Ask for 'une carafe d'eau' to get a jug of tap water instead of paying for bottled water.
- Vegetarian
- Paris is increasingly friendly to vegetarians, but classic bistros rely heavily on meat stocks and lardons. Always clarify if a vegetable soup contains bacon or ham.
- Payment
- Cash is king in small bakeries and traditional Winstub taverns. Cards are widely accepted in larger restaurants and shops.
- Etiquette
- Greet staff with a polite 'Bonjour' when you enter any shop or restaurant. It is not optional. Always ask for 'l'addition' when you want the bill; they will not bring it until you ask.
Switzerland
- Meal times
- Lunch is strictly 12:00-14:00. Dinner service starts at 18:30 and most kitchens close by 21:00 or 21:30. Do not expect late-night kitchen service.
- Tipping
- Service is included in prices. Rounding up to the nearest few francs is the local norm; leave 5-10 percent for exceptional service in high-end establishments.
- Water
- Tap water is excellent and perfectly safe to drink. Carry a reusable bottle and fill up at the many public fountains; skip expensive bottled water at restaurants.
- Vegetarian
- Vegetarians will find many options in Swiss cuisine, especially cheese-based pasta and potato rosti. Vegans need to look specifically for labelled options as cream and butter are base ingredients in most alpine recipes.
- Payment
- Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including most kiosks. Carry a small amount of Swiss Francs in cash for small market stalls or mountain huts that may not accept cards.
- Etiquette
- Greet staff with 'Gruezi' when entering a shop or restaurant. Tipping is not mandatory as service is included, but rounding up the bill by 5-10 percent is polite for good service.
Top 14 souvenirs
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Colmar
Munster Cheese
Alsatian Riesling
Hand-carved Wooden Storks
Soufflenheim Pottery
Alsatian Gingerbread
Dense, spiced honey cakes that stay fresh longer than typical pastries.
Paris
Secondhand Books in French
Aged Comté Cheese
Vintage French Pharmacy Skincare
Products like La Roche-Posay and Embryolisse cost half as much here as they do abroad.
Interlaken
Swiss Milk Chocolate
Cave-Aged Gruyere AOP
Victorinox Swiss Army Knife
Brienz Wood Carvings
Zermatt
Engraved ceremonial cowbells
Fondue and raclette equipment
Where to shop · Petite Venise, Bahnhofstrasse, Canal Saint-Martin
- Petite Venise · Colmar — Local wine and pottery
- Bahnhofstrasse · Zermatt — High-end watches, knives, and luxury fashion.
- Canal Saint-Martin · Paris — Local designer homewares, craft goods, and sustainable fashion labels.
Good to know · customs, tax refund, payment, bargaining
France
- Customs
- You can bring most goods home duty-free, but check your home country's specific agricultural limits for cheese and meats. Antiques over 100 years old may require an export permit from the seller.
- Tax refund
- Non-EU residents can get a VAT refund of roughly 12 percent if you spend over 100 euro in a single shop. Ask for the tax-free form at checkout and present it to customs before you leave the EU.
- Payment
- Cards are accepted everywhere, even for small coffee purchases, so avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Bargaining
- Bargaining is not part of the culture here; prices in shops and markets are fixed. Do not attempt to negotiate prices.
Switzerland
- Customs
- Switzerland is not in the EU, so check your home country import rules for food and alcohol. Keep original receipts for expensive watches or jewelry to prove value at customs.
- Tax refund
- Non-residents can claim a tax refund for purchases over 300 CHF. Ask the shop for a Global Blue tax-free form and get it stamped at customs before leaving.
- Payment
- Credit cards are accepted everywhere, though keep small change for local market vendors.
- Bargaining
- Switzerland is a fixed-price culture. Bargaining is considered rude and is not practiced here.
The big events across the year
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Tour de France
Jul 4 – 26
Bastille Day
Jul 14
Nuit Blanche
Oct 3
Swiss Christmas Markets
Nov 20 – Dec 19
Alsace Christmas Markets
Nov 25 – Dec 29
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 14 days
USD 9,264Flights from your city not included.
Getting there and betweenUSD 241
- Paris → Colmar · trainUSD 150
- Colmar → Interlaken · trainUSD 62
- Interlaken → Zermatt · trainUSD 29
AccommodationUSD 3,360
- Paris · 4 nights1 roomUSD 720
- Colmar · 3 nights1 roomUSD 540
- Interlaken · 3 nights1 roomUSD 1,050
- Zermatt · 3 nights1 roomUSD 1,050
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
| Colmar | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
| Interlaken | USD 200 | USD 350 | USD 480 |
| Zermatt | USD 200 | USD 350 | USD 480 |
ActivitiesUSD 2,121
- Day 1 · Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)USD 120
- Day 1 · Eiffel TowerUSD 60
- Day 1 · Bateaux-MouchesUSD 39
- Day 2 · Musée d'OrsayUSD 52
- Day 2 · Arc de TriompheUSD 36
- Day 3 · Musée Jacquemart-AndréUSD 34
- Day 3 · Atelier des LumièresUSD 34
- Day 4 · Louvre MuseumUSD 50
- Day 5 · Transit to Colmar (via TGV)USD 170
- Day 6 · Musee UnterlindenUSD 30
- Day 6 · Domaine Viticole de la Ville de ColmarUSD 40
- Day 7 · Marché Couvert ColmarUSD 10
- Day 7 · Musée BartholdiUSD 11
- Day 8 · Transit to Interlaken (INT)USD 220
- Day 8 · Harder KulmUSD 70
- Day 9 · Lake BrienzUSD 60
- Day 9 · Seilpark InterlakenUSD 110
- Day 10 · Paragliding InterlakenUSD 340
- Day 10 · St. Beatus Caves ParkUSD 36
- Day 11 · Interlaken Ost (INT) stationUSD 170
- Day 12 · GornergratUSD 210
- Day 12 · Gorner GorgeUSD 10
- Day 12 · Matterhorn Museum - ZermatlantisUSD 29
- Day 13 · Backstage SpaUSD 130
- Day 14 · SunneggaUSD 50
FoodUSD 2,730
- Paris · 4 daysUSD 600
- Colmar · 3 daysUSD 450
- Interlaken · 3 daysUSD 720
- Zermatt · 4 daysUSD 960
Local transportUSD 812
- Paris · 4 daysUSD 144
- Colmar · 3 daysUSD 108
- Interlaken · 3 daysUSD 240
- Zermatt · 4 daysUSD 320
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Money tips
High variance -- Paris and Colmar are moderate with $20-30 casual lunches, but Switzerland is expensive; budget $35-45 per person for a simple lunch in Zermatt. Tap water is safe everywhere.
In France, stick to the 'menu du jour' at lunch, which typically offers two courses for EUR 15-20, while dinner prices often jump 50 percent for the same food.
Eating out in Interlaken or Zermatt every night will drain your budget; head to Coop or Migros supermarkets for pre-made salads and hot roasted chicken for about CHF 10-15 per meal.
Allocate funds for the Gornergrat train in Zermatt (CHF 120 round-trip) rather than multiple smaller cable cars; the view of the Matterhorn from the summit is the highlight of the region.
If you plan to visit multiple Swiss towns, purchase the Swiss Travel Pass starting at CHF 232; it covers all major inter-city trains and gives you a 50 percent discount on most mountain excursions.
Before you go
Travel and stays
Flight into Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG)
Day 1
Hotel in Paris
Nights 1–4 · 15th arrondissement · about USD 720 · Comfortable hotel range
Train from Paris to Colmar
Day 5 · Book 2 months ahead · about 2 hrs 30 min · about USD 150 · Book your tickets via the SNCF Connect website or app.
Hotel in Colmar
Nights 5–7 · Quartier des Tanneurs · about USD 540 · Comfortable hotel range
Train from Colmar to Interlaken
Day 8 · Book 2 months ahead · about 3 hrs · about USD 62 · Purchase tickets through the SBB website or mobile application.
Hotel in Interlaken
Nights 8–10 · Interlaken Ost · about USD 1,050 · Comfortable hotel range
Train from Interlaken to Zermatt
Day 11 · Book 2 months ahead · about 2 hrs · about USD 29 · Reserve seats on the SBB website to travel between stations.
Hotel in Zermatt
Nights 11–13 · Zermatt village center · about USD 1,050 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight out of Geneva International Airport (GVA)
Day 14
Book ahead · most urgent first
Eiffel Tower summit entry
Day 1 · Book 2 months ahead · Tickets release at midnight CET exactly 60 days before; elevator access to the summit sells out within minutes.
Musée d'Orsay timed entry
Day 2 · Book 4 weeks ahead · Skip the long ticket lines by purchasing a time-slot reservation online to ensure priority entry.
Louvre Museum timed entry
Day 4 · Book 4 weeks ahead · Mandatory timed entry slots often sell out; visitors without a pre-booked time slot are frequently turned away.
Backstage Spa access
Day 13 · Book 3 weeks ahead · Exclusive spa experiences in Zermatt require reservations for non-hotel guests; limited capacity daily.
Atelier des Lumieres entry
Day 3 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Popular digital art exhibitions require advance booking to guarantee entry for a specific time session.
Seilpark Interlaken adventure
Day 9 · Book 2 weeks ahead · High-ropes course spots are limited and weather-dependent; confirm your slot early for your preferred morning or afternoon window.
Travel tips
At the Eiffel Tower, keep your bags in front of you and be mindful of your belongings, as the area directly beneath the tower is a major hotspot for pickpockets.
When using the Paris Metro, use the Bonjour RATP app to check for real-time disruptions, and remember to keep your validated ticket until you exit the station.
On day 4, when visiting Notre-Dame, be aware that the area can be crowded; watch out for common street hustlers offering friendship bracelets or petitions.
In Colmar, the Petite Venise district is highly walkable, but be prepared for cobblestone streets; it is best to leave luggage at your accommodation before exploring.
The Harder Kulm funicular in Interlaken can have long queues; try to visit early in the morning to enjoy the views before the afternoon tour buses arrive.
In Zermatt, note that the village is car-free; use the electric taxis or local buses to reach your accommodation from the station.
When using the Gornergrat railway, sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the Matterhorn as you ascend the mountain.
The Swiss value quiet and order, especially in residential areas and late at night; keep your voices low in public spaces, particularly near the Mountaineers Cemetery.
In Switzerland, most shops and markets, including those in Interlaken and Zermatt, close on Sundays, so plan your shopping at the local markets for other days of the week.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get EUR cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for France
Get CHF cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for Switzerland
Purchase Navigo travel pass
Swiss Travel Pass
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Half-fare travel card
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Transit card: Navigo Easy · Paris
Pen for arrival forms
French-English dictionary
Paris takes the first four days because it carries the heavy museum and site-seeing load you want to handle while fresh. Colmar sits in the middle as a three-day buffer, allowing the pace to slow before the shift to the Bernese Highlands. Interlaken provides the active center, while the trip settles into Zermatt for four days to finish with Matterhorn views, keeping the most stationary portion for last.
This plan prioritizes the contrast between dense Parisian neighborhoods and the stark verticality of the Matterhorn. You skip Lyon, which would have offered a deeper dive into French regional gastronomy, and Lucerne, where you might have traded mountain isolation for more lake-front commerce. It is the right shape for a traveler who wants the definitive version of city and mountain, but wrong if you prioritize culinary research over peak elevation.
Add two days in Bern for a deeper look at its arcaded streets and the Aare River swimming culture. You could easily swap the Interlaken stay or extend the trip to capture the slower pace of the capital.
Interest coverage
3 of 4 coveredEntry and safety
| Topic | France | Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| Visa & entry | France and Switzerland are part of the Schengen Area. US, UK, EU, and Australian citizens can enter for 90 days visa-free within a 180-day period. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. | |
| US risk level | Exercise increased cautionUpdated May 27, 2025 | Exercise normal precautionsUpdated May 19, 2025 |
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18112 for European emergency number | Police 117 · Ambulance 144 · Fire 118112 for European emergency number |
Visa & entry: France and Switzerland are part of the Schengen Area. US, UK, EU, and Australian citizens can enter for 90 days visa-free within a 180-day period. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
France
| US risk level | Exercise increased cautionUpdated May 27, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18112 for European emergency number |
Switzerland
| US risk level | Exercise normal precautionsUpdated May 19, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 117 · Ambulance 144 · Fire 118112 for European emergency number |
Money and tipping
| Topic | France | Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| Tipping: restaurants | Service included (service compris); round up for good service | Service included; round up for good service |
| Tipping: taxis | Round up to nearest €1–2 | Round up |
| Tipping: hotels | €1–2 per bag | CHF 1–2 per bag |
| Cards | Widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard) | Widely accepted |
| Contactless | Very common | Very common — TWINT app popular locally |
| Cash | Cash useful at markets and small cafés | Cash (CHF) accepted everywhere; some places accept EUR |
| Payment tip | Chip and PIN is standard. American Express less widely accepted. | Switzerland uses CHF, not EUR. Cards widely accepted but carry some CHF. |
France
| Tipping: restaurants | Service included (service compris); round up for good service |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Round up to nearest €1–2 |
| Tipping: hotels | €1–2 per bag |
| Cards | Widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard) |
| Contactless | Very common |
| Cash | Cash useful at markets and small cafés |
| Payment tip | Chip and PIN is standard. American Express less widely accepted. |
Switzerland
| Tipping: restaurants | Service included; round up for good service |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Round up |
| Tipping: hotels | CHF 1–2 per bag |
| Cards | Widely accepted |
| Contactless | Very common — TWINT app popular locally |
| Cash | Cash (CHF) accepted everywhere; some places accept EUR |
| Payment tip | Switzerland uses CHF, not EUR. Cards widely accepted but carry some CHF. |
Plugs
| Topic | France | Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| Plugs | Type C, E230V · 50Hz | Type C, J230V · 50Hz |
France
| Plugs | Type C, E230V · 50Hz |
|---|
Switzerland
| Plugs | Type C, J230V · 50Hz |
|---|
Staying connected
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Airalo eSIM | $5 to $20 for 7 to 30 days | Online via Airalo app |
| Orange Holiday Europe SIM | $40 for 14 days | Any international airport arrivals hall or official carrier shop |
Always check if your plan covers both countries, as Switzerland is not in the European Union and may incur high roaming fees on standard French SIM cards.
About USD 9,264 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 14 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and India must check their specific visa requirements based on their passport and planned length of stay. Citizens of many countries can enter the Schengen Area for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa, though new electronic travel authorizations may be required soon. Always verify your status on the official government portals of France and Switzerland before booking your flight.
Switzerland is exceptionally safe, though you should keep an eye on belongings in crowded train stations. Paris is a major city with typical urban concerns; pickpockets are common near tourist hotspots like the Eiffel Tower. Remain aware of your surroundings, keep bags closed, and if you feel threatened in a public area, do not hesitate to make a scene to draw attention.
France uses the euro, while Switzerland uses the Swiss franc. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in both countries, so carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary. Keep a small amount of local currency for minor purchases, but you can rely on digital payments or ATMs for most of your needs.
In both France and Switzerland, a service charge is typically included in your bill by law. You are not obligated to tip, though leaving a few euros or francs for exceptional service is appreciated by staff. Do not feel pressured to match the tipping percentages common in North America.
Pack layers, as temperatures fluctuate significantly between a Parisian cafe and a high-altitude Zermatt trail. Bring sturdy walking shoes for city streets and waterproof gear if you plan to hike near Interlaken. Even in summer, mountain evenings turn cold, so carry a light jacket regardless of the season.
May, June, and September offer mild weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. If you prefer winter sports, visit Zermatt or Interlaken from December to March for skiing. Avoid mid-summer if you want to dodge the heat and the heaviest tourist density in Paris.
The city is divided into 20 numbered districts called arrondissements, which helps with navigation. The central districts provide easy access to major museums, while outer areas like the 11th or 15th offer a more local feel. Choose based on your proximity to the Metro lines you plan to use most frequently.
Switzerland has an incredibly dense rail network that connects Interlaken and Zermatt directly to major European hubs. In Paris, use a Navigo card for all public transit, remembering to validate it at the start of each trip. Purchase tickets for inter-city travel well in advance to secure the best rates and avoid sold-out trains.
These 12 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary
Mountain Hiking Trails
e.g., Five Lakes Walk, Matterhorn Glacier Trail
Alpine Culinary Experiences
e.g., Chez Vrony, Findlerhof
A Specialized Patisserie Tasting Tour
e.g., Cedric Grolet Opéra, Pierre Herme
A Hidden Urban Nature Escape
e.g., Coulée verte René-Dumont, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
An Underground History Exploration
e.g., Catacombes de Paris, Crypte Archéologique de l'île de la Cité
An Alsatian Cuisine Cooking Class
e.g., L'Atelier des Chefs, Cuisine Aptitude
A Scenic Vosges Mountain Hike
e.g., Le Hohneck, Lac Blanc
A Local Alsatian Craft Distillery Visit
e.g., Distillerie Miclo, Distillerie Massenez
A Regional Fortress Exploration
e.g., Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg, Chateau du Hohlandsbourg
A Traditional Woodcarving Workshop
e.g., Jobin Woodcarving, Brienz Woodcarving School
An Alpine Open-Air Culture Museum
e.g., Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum, Heimatmuseum
A Swiss Cheese Making Workshop
e.g., Glacier Cheese Factory, Horu Kase
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