Having made his Swiss Super League debut BSC Young Boys at the age of 16, he moved to PSV in 2003.

On 21 June 2004, Vonlanthen became the youngest goalscorer when he scored for the Switzerland national team against France in Coimbra, Portugal at the age of 18 years and 141 days old.

[3] On 13 June 2013, Vonlanthen came out of retirement to join Grasshoppers, signing a one-year deal with an option for a further two years.

[4] On 27 December 2013, Vonlanthen was loaned out to Swiss second division side Schaffhausen, due to a lack of playing time at Grasshoppers.

On 21 June 2004, Vonlanthen became the youngest scorer ever in the European Championships when he equalised against France, beating Wayne Rooney's record – which had only been set four days before – by three months.

[8] Since the European Championships in Portugal, Vonlanthen managed to maintain a regular position in the national team and as well as playing frequently in the under 21s side.

Vonlanthen was called up to the Swiss squad to play in 2006 FIFA World Cup, but was unable to participate due to a hamstring injury.