The Grand Bike Tour in Switzerland

Your grand bike tour in Switzerland begins on German soil in the beautiful city of Constance, the largest city on Lake Constance. Constance captivates visitors with its historically rich old town and a picturesque lakeside promenade that offers stunning views of the Alps. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Imperia, a striking nine-meter-high statue located at the harbor, serving as a reminder of the Council of Constance in the 15th century.

The first stage of your grand bike tour in Switzerland takes you along the Lake Constance Cycle Path, traversing the Swiss shores of the Lower Lake and the upper Rhine. A stop in Stein am Rhein is highly recommended; here, you can stroll through the charming old town, renowned for its vividly painted houses—truly a feast for the eyes.

Your day's destination is Schaffhausen, where the landmark Munot fortress rises majestically above the town. Notably, the Munotglöggli, the fortress's tower bell, rings every evening at 9 PM, a tradition that has been maintained for several centuries.

Just a short distance from the center of Schaffhausen lie the magnificent Rhine Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe. You can experience the power of the falls up close with a thrilling boat trip that brings you right to its thundering waters.

Afterward, you’ll cycle through the scenic Glatt Valley to Zurich, the cultural and economic heart of Switzerland. Here, take your time to stroll along both sides of the Limmat River, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. For a breathtaking view of the city, Lake Zurich, and the Alps, venture up to Uetliberg, the city's local mountain.

As you cycle along the Gold Coast, the northern shore of Lake Zurich, you'll make your way to Rapperswil. This charming rose town features an old town dominated by the impressive towers of Rapperswil Castle.

After exploring, cross the lake via a dam to reach Pfäffikon. From there, a short train ride will take you to Einsiedeln, home to one of Switzerland’s most significant baroque structures. The monastery here is a key stop on the Way of St. James and attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists from around the world, particularly drawn to the revered Black Madonna.

After breakfast, your grand bike tour in Switzerland continues to Lake Zug and on to Küssnacht. This charming town, located at the northwestern tip of Lake Lucerne, is renowned for its connection to the Swiss national hero, William Tell.

Once back on your bike, the cycle path leads you to Lucerne, a city enveloped by breathtaking mountain scenery. As you approach, you'll be greeted by the iconic Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, which gracefully enhances the cityscape.

Leaving Lucerne, you will pass by Lake Sarnen before arriving in Giswil. Here, you’ll board the Brünig Railway, which ascends over the Brünig Pass, reaching an elevation of about 1,000 meters, and takes you to Brienz. From Brienz, you’ll cycle along the stunning shores of Lake Brienz to Interlaken, a town nestled in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas.

While in Interlaken, consider a trip to Harder Kulm, the local mountain, which you can access via a funicular. From the viewing platform, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding peaks quite a memorable experience.

Your cycling day begins with a scenic boat trip across Lake Thun. Upon arriving in Thun, you'll be greeted by the impressive Thun Castle, featuring its grand residential tower. Take some time to explore the picturesque old town before leisurely cycling along the Aare River to Bern.

The Swiss capital captivates visitors with its enchanting old town, characterized by numerous fountains, historic towers, and charming alleyways. One of the standout attractions is the astronomical clock of the Zytgloggeturm, a medieval clock tower that adds to the city's unique charm.

As you continue your grand bike tour in Switzerland, you’ll cycle along the Aare and Lake Wohlen to reach Biel, the renowned watchmaking metropolis. This vibrant city offers an excellent opportunity to brush up on your French, as bilingual street signs reflect its location in French-speaking Switzerland.

Take a moment to relax in one of the French-inspired cafés or restaurants, where you can savor local delicacies. Don’t miss the chance to try the praline specialty Bieler Bsetzisteine and enjoy a glass of the sparkling white wines produced in the vineyards along Lake Biel.

The Aare Cycle Path will take you swiftly to Solothurn, renowned for its remarkable architecture, including the stunning St. Ursen Cathedral, which contributes to its reputation as the most beautiful baroque city in Switzerland. In Solothurn, the number 11 holds special significance, with origins that may date back to the Middle Ages.

The city features eleven churches and chapels, eleven towers, eleven museums, and a clock that uniquely only shows the hour of 11. Even the local Öufi beer pays tribute to the enchanting 11th hour, adding to the city's distinctive charm.

Continuing along the Aare, you'll cycle through charming, picturesque villages before arriving in Aarau. This city, characterized by its buildings from various eras, was once the capital of Switzerland. In the captivating old town, take a moment to admire the numerous painted roof linings that have earned Aarau the nickname "City of Beautiful Gables."

Be sure to look up! Among the town's landmarks is the Upper Tower, which dates back to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval towers in Switzerland.

From Aarau, you'll make your way to Switzerland's moated castle, where the Aare, Reuss, and Limmat rivers converge in a picturesque river landscape. Continuing through the spa town of Baden, renowned for its 19 sulfur springs, you'll cycle back to Zurich.

In Zurich, immerse yourself in the country’s history and culture at the Swiss National Museum, stroll along the elegant Bahnhofstrasse, and take in the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains at Lake Zurich.

After your time in Zurich, board a train to Lachen, a charming town located on the upper part of Lake Zurich, known for offering some of the most beautiful sunsets along the lake.

On today’s stage of your bike tour in Switzerland, you’ll leisurely follow the Linth Canal, which guides you to the charming town of Weesen on Lake Walen. Here, you’ll take a boat across the lake, which reaches a depth of 150 meters and is framed by the stunning Churfirsten peaks along its northern shore.

Once you arrive in Walenstadt, you’ll cycle through the picturesque valley of the Alpine Rhine, heading toward Liechtenstein. Your journey will culminate in Vaduz, the capital of this small principality, where you’ll spend the night.

Today’s bike tour in Switzerland takes you north along the Alpine Rhine into the picturesque Appenzell region. Leaving the river behind, you’ll reach Altstätten, where you’ll board a train that ascends into Appenzellerland, arriving in Gais. From there, enjoy a delightful downhill ride to St. Gallen.

St. Gallen is renowned for its historical canvas and embroidery trade. Be sure to visit the stunning collegiate church and the collegiate library, both notable for their baroque architecture and recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for many years. As your day comes to a close, take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town of St. Gallen, where you can admire the many oriel windows and medieval-style houses.

Today, enjoy a relaxing day at Lake Constance. In Arbon, take a break at the bathing area—jump into the refreshing waters or soak up the sun. As you cycle along the shores of Lake Constance, you’ll make your way to Romanshorn and then on to Constance.

Once in Constance, explore the charming old town filled with quaint cafés and shops. Be sure to visit the Imperia statue at the harbor and take in panoramic views of the city from the cathedral tower. To conclude your trip, stop by the Rosgarten Museum, where you can delve into the culture and history of both the city and the Lake Constance region.

Your grand bike tour in Switzerland concludes after breakfast. If you wish to extend your stay in Constance, we would be delighted to assist you in booking an additional night. Enjoy the opportunity to further explore this beautiful city!