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Muslim-Friendly 8D7N Itinerary Switzerland

The Only Muslim-Friendly 8D7N Itinerary You Need For Your Next Family Holiday In Switzerland

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Farah Fazanna •  Apr 29, 2024

Embark on an enchanting 8-day, 7-night journey through Switzerland this spring, where the pristine Alpine scenery comes alive with vibrant blossoms and the air is crisp with the promise of adventure. As the winter snow melts away, Switzerland's landscapes burst into a palette of emerald greens and floral hues, offering a perfect setting for both relaxation and exploration.

Whether you're gliding down serene lakes, sampling the world-renowned Swiss chocolate and cheese, or hiking through tranquil trails that offer panoramic views, this trip promises a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Get ready to lose yourself in the charm of Swiss spring!

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Swiss Travel Pass - Your travel best friend in Switzerland!

  • Transport often takes up a huge portion of travel expenses, especially in Switzerland, so if you're planning to see and do as much as you can here on your trip, getting the Swiss Travel Pass will save you a huge chunk of money on transport!
  • Depending on your travel style and itinerary, you can choose between the flexible pass or the consecutive pass.
  • The validity period for the consecutive pass is 3, 4, 8 and 15 days. Whereas the flexible pass has a validity of 3, 4, 8 and 15 days in a month.
  • For consecutive passes, you’re allowed to use it continuously for a certain number of days. Whereas the flexible pass gives you the freedom to use it for a certain number of days at any time within a one-month period.
  • The pass gives you unlimited rides on Switzerland's trains, buses and boats, as well as discounts on panoramic train rides and mountain excursions, AND free entry to 500 museums nationwide!
  • On other mountain railway tickets, such as the Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, you get up to 50% discount with the Swiss Travel Pass, up to 30% discount on SBB RailAway and up to 50% discount on bike and e-bike rentals at train stations.

How to start using your Swiss Travel Pass

Swiss Travel Pass

  • The Swiss Travel Pass is ready for travelling once you bought it. You will receive a PDF file in your email.
  • The PDF file has a code that train staff can scan from their smartphone. Be sure to set your screen brightness to the maximum!
  • The pass is ready to use if it includes all information like start date, passenger name and birth date. So be sure the details are correct when booking!
  • You can just board any train, bus or ferry on routes that allow free travelling without needing a ticket.
  • On routes that allow discounted travelling (such as mountain railway tickets to go to Jungfraujoch), you’ll need to arrange for a discounted ticket. You can do so at the ticket office of the cable car. Present your pass to make sure you'll get the discount!

Day 1: Arrival in Zurich

  • Arrive at Zurich Airport via SWISS International Air Lines from Singapore (the airline flies directly to Zurich every day!)
  • There is a multifaith-prayer room which is located in the public zone at Check-in 1 and it is accessible to all visitors in the airport. There is also another prayer room for passengers at Gates B and D.

#HHWTtip: Skip the baggage claim hassle! SBB's door-to-door luggage service whisks your bags from Zurich Airport straight to your hotel by 5pm, leaving you free to explore. Travelling between hotels in Switzerland? No problem! SBB delivers your luggage between hotels, letting families and everyone enjoy a stress-free trip. Simply book online, schedule your pick-up before 7.45am, and relax - SBB takes care of the rest!

Getting from Zurich Airport to Zurich city centre

Zurich Airport

  • Most travellers to Switzerland fly in via Zurich, so you'll be glad to know that Zurich Airport is only a short 10-15 minute train ride away from Zurich's city centre!
  • From Zurich HB, you can take the public trams to just about anywhere in the city: it's a short 5-minute tram ride to the city's Altstadt (Old Town).
  • It’s super convenient and plus, the train rides are free with the Swiss Travel Pass!
  • Did you know that you can add your 8D7N itinerary on the SBB app? Yes, that’s right! You’ll be able to receive train, bus and boat live notifications!

Psst… check out our Switzerland On A Budget: The Ultimate Muslim-Friendly First Timer's Guide to help plan your trip!

Lunch

  • Enjoy your first lunch in Zurich at 1001 Restaurant.
  • The restaurant serves Turkish and Middle-Eastern dishes, in a fast-food style.
  • We highly recommend the doner teller (chicken kebab) as it’s very filling!
  • Prices range from CHF15 to 25 (approx. SGD22 to SGD36 or MYR70.80 to MYR170)

Halal status: Halal, but serves alcohol. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Address: Niederdorfstrasse 4, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Opening hours: 10.30am - 4.00am (Daily)

Hungry for more? Check out Savour These 8 Yummy Muslim-Friendly Street Food In Switzerland!

Afternoon

Lindenhof Hill

  • After lunch, head over to Lindenhof Hill. This spot provides a glorious view of the Old Town, Grossmünster Church, City Hall, the Limmat River, ETH Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology.
  • Today, Lindenhof Hill is a haven of peace and tranquillity in the city's heart and a meeting point for passionate chess players.
  • There is a small playground with swings, ideal for those with families!
  • If you prefer something more adventurous, visit Uetilburg, Zurich's "Mountain" and enjoy a walk on the Planet Trail with your little astronauts, learning about our solar system with fun, interactive stations.

If this is your first time visiting Switzerland, check out our Muslim-Friendly First Timer’s Guide To Zurich - One Of The World’s Most Expensive Cities!

Lindt Home of Chocolates

  • Calling all chocolate fans! The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a world of fun waiting to be explored by you and your family!
  • See how yummy chocolate is made, design your own candy, and even visit the biggest Lindt shop on earth!
  • With giant chocolate fountains and delicious treats around every corner, it's a guaranteed smile-maker for all ages.

Address: Schokoladenplatz 1, 8802 Kilchberg, Switzerland

Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (Daily)

Website

Evening

Credit: Swiss Tourism

Old Town Zurich

  • What do Albert Einstein, James Joyce and Wagner have in common? All three were residents of Zurich!
  • Enjoy a self-guided walking tour in the Old Town Zurich where you discover the cobblestone streets and medieval storefronts that look like they’re out of the Beauty and the Beast movie!
  • You can also enjoy the city of Zurich from the water. Take a boat trip on the River Limmat that will take you on a leisurely tour past the most beautiful sights that Zurich’s Old Town has to offer until the view opens up over Lake Zurich.
  • Stroll around and enjoy window shopping in the local stores of Zurich such as Max Chocolatier (chocolate shop), Vestibule (clothing store) and Fizzen (clothing store).

Dinner

Beetnut

  • There are plenty of Muslim-friendly eateries in Zurich but they primarily serve Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • Why not try a vegan/plant-based restaurant like Beetnut, which serves really hearty bowls of rice and noodles. It sells alcoholic drinks but the food does not contain any alcohol or pork/lard.
  • You can also enjoy breakfast here since they open at 8am.
  • You can also try out Hilt, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant.

Halal status: Serve alcoholic beverages. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Address: Beetnut, Lagerstrasse 16b, 8004 Zürich, Switzerland

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (Daily)

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Day 2: Shop til you drop at the Landquart Fashion Outlet

Morning

  • Wake up early and get ready for a day of shopping!
  • Take the trail to the Graubunden region using your Swiss Travel Pass.
  • The journey usually takes about a 1.5-hour train ride. So, sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

Afternoon

  • Welcome to Landquart Fashion Outlet! Nestled in the picturesque Swiss landscape, it's your go-to shopping paradise!
  • Explore over 160 designer stores including Nike, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, and Tommy Hilfiger. Whether it's fashion, sportswear, or accessories, find your favourite labels at up to 70% off!

P/S: There are no prayer rooms or halal restaurants near the Landquart Fashion Outlet. We recommend you find a suitable place to perform your salah and bring a packed lunch. There is Coop Supermarkt Landquart (about a 13-minute walk from the shopping outlet) where you can buy vegetarian or seafood-ready meals.

Address: Tardisstrasse 20a, 7302 Landquart, Switzerland

Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (Daily)

Website

Day 3: Journey to the Jungfrau Region

Morning

  • After getting a good night’s sleep, it’s time to go to Interlaken!
  • Trains from Zurich HB to Interlaken OST take 1 hour and 52 minutes to arrive in Interlaken. The train ride is free with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Zurich HB to Interlaken OST

Credit: Swiss Tourism

  • You can check for the train schedule on the SBB website or download the app for easy access. You don’t need to book seat reservations for train rides in Switzerland but if you want to make sure you can be seated together with your group, you can make reservations directly at the ticket counter. It costs CHF5 (around RM23) per seat to make a reservation.
  • Enjoy a scenic journey on the train as every train journey in Switzerland is an experience in itself.
  • There are basic amenities such as toilet facilities and a USB slot where you can charge your electronic devices.

Afternoon

  • After checking into your hotel, take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Terminal to start your journey.
  • The journey takes about 40 minutes and you can enjoy breathtaking views of Interlaken as it takes you through the fields and farms.
  • Jungfraujoch is also known as “Top of Europe” because it's the highest train station in Europe at 3,454 meters above sea level.

  • The new Grindelwald Terminal is equipped with stores such as the Lindt Chocolate Shop and Coop Supermarket where you can stock up on snacks!
  • The train ride is free with the Swiss Travel Pass.
  • Change to the new aerial cableway Eiger Express from Grindelwald Terminal to go to Jungfraujoch.
  • It’s the quickest way to reach the top — only 15 minutes!
  • A one-way gondola ride costs CHF32 (SGD46 or MYR150) for an adult or CHF16 (SGD23 or MYR75) for a child. A return trip costs CHF88.80 (SGD128 or MYR415) for an adult or CHF20 (SGD29 or MYR93) for a child.
  • You’ll get a 20% discount on the gondola ride ticket with the Swiss Travel Pass!

Jungfraujoch (2 - 3 hours)

  • Apart from enjoying the insane view of snow-capped mountains, there are a few things you can do here such as:
  • Ice Palace: The snowy aisles and hallways of the Ice Palace were built by mountain guides in the 1930s. Be sure to take in the sculptures and artwork that decorate the palace rooms!
  • Sphinx viewing platform: Take the lift and enjoy views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks, all within a few kilometres.
  • The entrance to these two attractions is included in your Swiss Travel Pass!
  • The best part is, the tickets to the Eiger Express cable car and cogwheel train are also included in the package!

P/S: There is only one restaurant on top of Jungfraujoch — Restaurant Crystal. However, it is not halal and they serve pork and alcohol. You can opt for pasta with tomato sauce but we recommend you pack a sandwich or head to Restaurant Bollywood at Eigergletscher.

Evening

  • Embark on a scenic boat ride on Lake Brienz that offers more than just stunning views; it's a chance to walk in the footsteps of the beloved characters from the hit Korean drama Crash Landing on You!
  • Known for its deep turquoise waters and surrounded by dramatic mountains, Lake Brienz is quintessentially Swiss.
  • Create your romantic memories at the famous jetty in Iseltwald with your loved ones.

Dinner

  • There are many halal and Muslim-friendly eateries around Interlaken so you don’t have to worry about getting hungry here!
  • We recommend Assllanis Corner, a halal restaurant serving burgers, salad bowls and snacks like nachos.

Halal status: Uses halal ingredients but serves alcohol. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Address: Höheweg 94, 3800 Interlaken, Switzerland

Opening hours: 12pm - 9pm (Daily)

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Day 4: Adventure in Titlis

Morning

  • Take the train from Interlaken Ost station to Engelberg station (about 3 hours). From the Engelberg station, walk 10 minutes to Titlis Cableways.
  • Swiss Travel Pass holders: 50% discount for all cable car rides to Mount Titlis. The normal rate is CHF66 (RM284) per person!
  • Take the Titlis Express cable car to the Titlis Cableways Valley Station. Then, ride the Titlis Rotair; the world’s first revolving cable car to the Titlis Mountain Station.

#HHWT Tip: To get the best mountain view from Titlis Rotair, be the last to board the cable car so that you can stand close to the window

Mount Titlis

  • Mount Titlis is the highest peak in Central Switzerland.
  • In summer, the temperature is about 3°C and wearing a sweater and a pair of sneakers is enough for someone who enjoys the cold weather. It’ll be much colder during winter when temperatures can go as low as -16°C. Remember to wear a thick jacket and winter boots!
  • If you need extra layers, you can rent jackets and boots at the Titlis Cableways Valley Station or the photo studio on Titlis Main Building (Level 4)
  • The average rental costs are CHF8 (RM34.50) per jacket or pair of boots. A deposit of CHF50 (RM215) is required for these rentals.
  • Besides enjoying the view, try other activities such as the Ice Flyer Chairlift, Titlis Glacier Park, Titlis Cliff Walk and Glacier Cave!

Ice Flyer Chairlift & Titlis Glacier Park

  • In summer, take the Ice Flyer Chairlift from the Titlis Summit Station to Titlis Glacier Park. Don’t forget to catch the sweeping view of the virgin snowfields down below.
  • In winter, you can go skiing across the slopes, ride a toboggan through the snow and speed away on an electric snowmobile!

  • At Titlis Glacier Park, everyone’s favourite summer activity is snow tubing, and it’s free for visitors!
  • Pick up a rubber tyre and glide down the powder-soft snow for high-speed excitement!

Titlis Cliff Walk & Glacier Cave

  • After an hour of snow tubing, take the Ice Flyer Chairlift back to Titlis Summit Station for another adventure!
  • Walk over the Titlis Cliff Walk, the highest elevation suspension bridge in Europe that stands at 3,041 metres above sea level

#HHWT Tip: Take a snapshot in the middle of the Titlis Cliff Walk! Follow the instructions at the camera box and collect your picture from the Photo Studio at the Titlis Main Building (Level 4). The price is CHF18 (RM77.50) per photo. Otherwise, you’re free to snap photos on the bridge too!

  • The bridge will lead you to the Glacier Cave, which is a long icy walkway hidden below the glacier
  • The icy walkway is slippery, and we recommend wearing shoes with rubber soles and treads for better grip.

Lunch at Titlis Panorama Restaurant

  • Have lunch at Titlis Panorama Restaurant which is known for their delicious meals and a sweeping view of Mount Titlis.
  • While the restaurant has a non-halal buffet section, there are Special Halal Dishes on the menu. There are plenty of halal selections, ranging from penne arrabbiata to pizza tandoori.
  • The price range for Special Halal Dishes menu is between CHF10.80 (RM46) and CHF36 (RM153)

Halal status: While the restaurant uses meat from halal-certified suppliers for the Special Halal Dishes, we checked with the kitchen staff and were informed that non-halal and halal meats are cooked in the same kitchen. Do note that alcoholic beverages are also served on the premises. We recommend that you dine at your own discretion.

  • Alternatively, you can bring your own meal to the picnic room at Titlis Mountain Station (Level 4).

#HHWT Tip: There’s a multi-faith prayer room at the Titlis Mountain Station but do bring your own praying garment.

  • Take the Titlis Xpress cable car to Engelberg
  • Take the train from Engelberg station to Luzern station (45 mins)
  • Swiss Travel Pass holders: Enjoy a 50% discount on this cable car ride too!

Day 5: Explore Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Morning

  • Start your morning by catching a train from Engelberg to Zermatt. First, take a regional train to Lucerne (Luzern), then switch to an InterCity train to Visp, and finally hop on the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn to Zermatt.
  • The journey offers scenic views and will take about 3.5 to 4 hours, so grab some snacks and enjoy the ride!

Lunch

Take It Döner

  • Take It Döner in Zermatt, Switzerland, offers a mouth-watering menu featuring succulent döner kebabs, falafel, and Turkish pizzas.
  • A must-try is their signature beef döner, perfectly seasoned and wrapped in freshly baked bread. Ideal for a quick, delicious meal while exploring the scenic beauty of Zermatt.

Halal status: Muslim-owned.

Address: Oberdorfstrasse 24, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland

Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (Daily)

Afternoon

  • Embark on the Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt station for a stunning ascent to 3,089 meters.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, enjoy a cup of hot coffee at the summit restaurant, and explore walking trails in this scenic paradise.
  • It’s a must-do for panoramic vistas and unforgettable mountain experiences in Switzerland.

  • From June to September, you’ll also have the chance to get up close and personal with the famous black-nose sheep from Valais.
  • These fluffy fellas with their spiralled horns, black faces, and white woolly coats are a sight to behold.
  • During the summer months, around 125 Valais Blacknose will be grazing on the Gornergrat.
  • When you use the QR codes on the Meet the Sheep trail, you’ll find videos, facts and figures all about these typical, local sheep. Use the QR code to enable GPS localisation, where you can find the woolly sheep no matter where they are on the mountain.

Dinner

  • Restaurant Golden India in Zermatt, Switzerland, offers a rich tapestry of flavours from traditional Indian cuisine.
  • The menu features a variety of dishes including creamy Butter Chicken, spicy Lamb Vindaloo, and vegetarian delights like Palak Paneer.
  • Must-tries include their aromatic Biryani and freshly baked Garlic Naan, perfect for savouring the full, authentic taste of India in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Halal status: No pork is served on the menu but there is no halal certification. We recommend you to dine at your own discretion.

Address: Bahnhofpl. 2, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland

Opening hours: 12pm - 9.30pm (Daily)

Website

Evening

  • Cap off your day with a breathtaking sunset view of the Matterhorn from Kirchbrücke Bridge.
  • It’s a peaceful way to end your exciting day!

Day 6: Schilthorn Excursion

Morning

  • Take the morning train from Zermatt to Mürren then, catch the cable car to Schilthorn. This journey takes about 3 hours, so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Enjoy the ascending journey with panoramic views of the Alps waking up to the morning sun.

Lunch

  • Arrive at the revolving restaurant Piz Gloria. Indulge in a delicious meal while the restaurant slowly rotates, offering a mesmerising 360° view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, as well as the vast alpine landscape.
  • Piz Gloria was also featured in a James Bond film, and below the restaurant, you can explore Spy World—an interactive exhibition dedicated to the movie. Try out thrilling activities like a bobsleigh ride or a helicopter simulator flight, and immerse yourself in the world of 007.

P/S: Piz Gloria is Muslim-friendly with a wide array of halal, vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Hike Around Schilthorn

  • After lunch, gear up for a scenic hike around the Schilthorn area.
  • Follow well-marked trails that lead you through picturesque alpine meadows and let you discover the diverse flora and fauna.
  • Keep your camera ready for breathtaking vistas and possibly spotting wildlife like marmots and eagles.

Afternoon

Visit Spy World

Credit: Swiss Tourism

  • Head over to the interactive Spy World exhibition. This exciting attraction celebrates the filming of the James Bond movie "On Her Majesty’s Secret Service," which was shot right here at Schilthorn.
  • Dive into the world of 007 with exhibits that showcase behind-the-scenes insights, original props, and interactive installations.

More Hiking or Relax

  • Depending on your energy levels, you can either continue to explore the hiking trails or relax at one of the observation decks, soaking in the alpine panorama and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
  • Conclude your day by taking the cable car back down to Mürren, carrying with you the memories of a spectacular day spent high in the Swiss Alps.

Want to spend longer at Schilthorn? Check out these 5 Must-Do Experiences At Switzerland's Ultimate Mountain Playground Schilthorn!

Dinner

Food Point Kebap

  • Food Point Kebap offers a delightful taste of Turkish cuisine in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
  • This cosy eatery serves a variety of kebaps, from the classic Döner Kebap wrapped in soft, freshly baked bread to the succulent Shish Kebap grilled to perfection.
  • Must-try dishes include their savoury Lamb Kebap, richly flavoured with herbs and spices, and the Chicken Kebap, known for its tenderness and taste.
  • For a taste of something local, try their Rösti Kebap, a unique fusion that combines traditional Swiss rösti with kebap meat and toppings.

Halal status: Muslim-owned

Address: Greifenbach 456B, 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Opening hours: 11am - 8pm (closed every Thursday)

Day 7: Last Day in Zurich

Morning

  • As your unforgettable journey in Switzerland comes to a close, spend your last day in Zurich making the most of every moment.
  • Start your morning by using your Swiss Travel Pass to smoothly travel back to Zurich.

Cruise on Lake Zurich

scenic cruise on Lake Zurich

Credit: Swiss Tourism

  • Start your day at Bürkliplatz, where you can board a scenic cruise on Lake Zurich (and yes, you can use your Swiss Travel Pass!).
  • This relaxing boat ride offers stunning views of the city skyline against the backdrop of the snow-capped Alps.
  • The fresh morning air and serene waters create a perfect setting to enjoy Zurich’s natural beauty.
  • Opt for a round-trip that lasts about an hour or two, which will allow you enough time to soak in the sights without rushing.

Lunch

  • Try Zurich Fried Chicken which serves a delightful array of American-style comfort food with a Swiss twist.
  • This popular spot is renowned for its crispy, juicy fried chicken which has earned a loyal following among locals and tourists alike.
  • The menu offers an assortment of dishes that centre around its signature fried chicken, available in various forms including classic bone-in pieces, chicken tenders, and spicy wings.
  • Must-try items at Zurich Fried Chicken include Classic Fried Chicken Bucket, ZFC Burger and Spicy Wings.
  • In addition to the chicken, Zurich Fried Chicken also offers sides that complement the main dishes perfectly, such as coleslaw, French fries, and onion rings.

Halal status: Halal-certified

Address: Niederdorfstrasse 41, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Opening hours: 11am - 11.30pm (Daily)

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Visit Zurich West

  • Head to Zurich West, the trendiest district in Zurich, known for its vibrant cultural scene.
  • Once an industrial area, it has been transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation.
  • Explore contemporary art galleries, quirky shops, and modern architecture. The Freitag flagship is a must visit!
  • Make sure to check out the Viadukt, a stretch of arches under a former railway viaduct now housing boutiques and eateries.

Dinner

Filfl

  • After exploring Zurich West, enjoy dinner at the vegetarian-friendly restaurant Filfl, an Eritrean restaurant that’s also Muslim-friendly.
  • There’s a wide range of vegetarian dishes served in a traditional Eritrean way.
  • Do try the Ethiopian coffee too!

Halal status: Serves vegetarian-friendly dishes and alcoholic beverages so we recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Address: Zentralstrasse 136, 8003 Zürich, Switzerland

Opening hours: 8.30am - 11pm (Daily)

Website

Day 8: Departure from Zurich

  • Check out of your hotel and make your way to Zurich Airport.
  • Before boarding your flight, don’t forget to buy chocolates from COOP and Migros before heading to the transit area. You can do more shopping in the duty-free area too!
  • It's the perfect opportunity to grab some Swiss chocolates at favourable prices, ensuring you bring a piece of Switzerland home with you.

From the majestic peaks of the Alps to the charming streets of Zurich, each day in Switzerland promises an adventure that's as enchanting as the landscapes. Whether you're sipping hot chocolate by a roaring fire or hiking through lush green meadows, Switzerland will surely capture your heart. Until next time, keep wandering and wonder at the beauty this world has to offer! Safe travels!

P/S: Fly to Zurich from Singapore with SWISS. They fly directly between Singapore and Zurich daily!

This article is brought to you by Switzerland Tourism.