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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

places to visit while in switzerland

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

places to visit while in switzerland

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

places to visit while in switzerland

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

places to visit while in switzerland

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

places to visit while in switzerland

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

places to visit while in switzerland

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

places to visit while in switzerland

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

places to visit while in switzerland

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

places to visit while in switzerland

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

places to visit while in switzerland

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

places to visit while in switzerland

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

places to visit while in switzerland

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

places to visit while in switzerland

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

places to visit while in switzerland

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

places to visit while in switzerland

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

places to visit while in switzerland

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

places to visit while in switzerland

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

places to visit while in switzerland

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places to visit while in switzerland

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written by Becca Blond and Joni Sweet Updated Mar 20, 2024

Switzerland's natural beauty is as addictive as its mouthwatering chocolates – one taste and you'll be left craving more. Whether you are on the hiking trails outside Zermatt, laying eyes on the iconic Matterhorn for the first time, or marveling at the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains schussing down a ski trail beginning atop the Jungfraujoch, Switzerland seduces quickly.

Matterhorn and mountain scenery in Switzerland

This landlocked central European country is home to two mountain ranges, the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. But Switzerland's natural attractions don't stop with peaks and glaciers. You'll also find glimmering turquoise lakes, emerald valleys where tingling bell-wearing cows and sheep graze, charming chalets, and flower box-filled villages that look ripped from the pages of a fairytale storybook.

Amid all this natural beauty are also some fantastic urban diversions and places to visit. With four official languages (French, German, Italian, and Romansch), Switzerland has a multicultural sophistication to its cities, which all offer something different when it comes to history and culture.

French speaking Geneva is home to four major offices of the United Nations and has a large international population. German speaking Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and financial center, known for its shopping, museums, and nightlife. The capital city of Bern boasts a medieval old town with a famous moving puppet clock tower and a stunning riverfront locale.

Switzerland is a four-season destination with countless things to do for outdoor adventurists. In winter you can partake in snow sports at world-class resorts, while summers are perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and paragliding.

Getting around Switzerland is easy. Although you can rent a car and drive, we recommend utilizing its excellent train system that goes almost everywhere in the country. Trains are fast, mostly on time, and allow you to just sit back and soak up the stunning scenery.

Explore in more depth by checking out our list of top attractions and places to visit in Switzerland

1. The Matterhorn

3. jungfraujoch: the top of europe, 4. interlaken, 6. lake geneva, 7. chateau de chillon, montreux, 8. st. moritz, 10. lake lugano and ticino, 12. the rhine falls, 13. swiss national park, 14. the albula/bernina railway line, 15. oberhofen castle, 16. swiss grand canyon, 17. gruyères, best time of the year to visit switzerland.

The Matterhorn

You'll never forget the first time you see Switzerland's most symbolic mountain, the Matterhorn. Maybe you arrive in the charming village of Zermatt, at its base , on a clear blue day and the 4,478-meter high , tooth-shaped mountain looms clearly in front of you. Or maybe it is spitting rain when you first set foot in the car-free town, and it isn't until the next morning that you witness the emblematic peak emerging from a sea of dissipating clouds. Whichever way you first see this legendary mountain, it will remain seared into your memory for years to come. It's that impressive.

One of the highest mountains in the Alps, the Matterhorn sits on the border with Italy. It has four steep faces rising to its craggy tip. Climbers have been intrigued by this mountain from the first successful summit in 1865 by British climber Edward Whymper and his team. The trip still ended tragically when four of the climbers fell to their deaths during the descent.

Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here in a summit bid each summer. There are several routes to the top of this mountain, which is not accessible by cable car. The easiest route is the Hörnligrat, which begins in Zermatt.

Things to Do at the Matterhorn

Gornegrat Bahn cog railway and the Matterhorn

If you don't have the skills to summit the Matterhorn, there are still plenty of ways to experience the mountain. One top excursion is to ride the Gornegrat Bahn cog railway to the summit of the 1,620-meter Gornergrat mountain for stunning Matterhorn views. Europe's highest open-air cog railway, and the first fully electric train of its kind, departs from Zermatt station multiple times per day.

The ride itself is also bound to leave you speechless. Taking 33 minutes and climbing 1,469 meters it crosses dramatic bridges, passes turquoise-hued mountain lakes, and at times clings to the side of the mountain with views down into rocky ravines.

Once you reach the mountaintop, you'll find an observation deck with views in all directions including a view of Switzerland's highest mountain and the second biggest glacier in the Alps. Keep an eye out for wild ibex near the viewing platform in summer.

Europe's highest-altitude hotel, the Kulmhotel Gornegrat is also here. Besides lodging, it has a restaurant and shops open to the public. There is excellent hiking in summer, while Switzerland's highest sledding hill provides winter fun.

Buildings in the village of Zermatt

At the foot of the Matterhorn, lies the charming village of Zermatt, a top international resort that is one of the most popular ski destinations in Switzerland , and a hiking, biking, and climbing paradise in summer.

Laid out along just a few main streets with a surreal-looking blue river running through it, motorized vehicles except for official electric taxis are banned to preserve the air quality and the town's peaceful ambiance.

Zermatt can also only be reached via helicopter (very pricy) or the Matterhorn Gotthard railway via the towns of Visp or Brig. If you drive to the region, you'll need to park your car down the valley in the town of Tasch, and then continue by train. As such, staying in Zermatt truly feels like you hiked into a remote mountain paradise.

View from the Top of the Rothorn

In the winter, skiers can play on more than 300 kilometers of slopes accessed via a funicular and the Blauherd and Rothorn gondolas. In the summer, these slopes turn into hiking and mountain biking trails.

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most popular hikes, beginning at the top of the Blauherd gondola and eventually taking you back to town via a series of five lakes, three of which you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn in on a clear, windless day. If you want to paraglide, this is also available.

Summer street scene in Zermatt

Back in town, you'll find dozens of shops, restaurants (order Raclette, a cheese and potato dish that is a regional specialty), and hotels. If you are interested in history, pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum , which tells the story of the mountain village turned international holiday resort. It also provides facts and photos from the Matterhorn's first ascent.

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Zermatt & Easy Day Trips

View from the Top of Europe

Since 1912, tourists have been making their way to the fairytale-like village of Grindelwald for an excursion to the Top of Europe (also known as Jungfraujoch). As its name suggests, it's the highest train station in Europe.

It offers panoramic views of the UNESCO-recognized Jungfrau region that will make your jaw drop. The Sphinx Observatory, an astronomical observatory that looks like a Bond villain lair perched 3,454 meters above sea level, is the best place to see the magnificent Aletsch Glacier and the 4,000-meter peaks that flank it. With snow 365 days per year, it's also a prime spot to get a break from Europe's heat in the summertime.

Sphinx Observatory

This famous attraction has come a long way in the last 100 years, giving tourists lots of things to do at the top. Step into the 360-degree cinematic experience room for a closer look at the glacier and the Swiss Alps (perfect for ensuring you still get a wonderful view on a foggy day). Walk through a 250-meter-long corridor with artifacts and exhibits on the history of the miners who built the railway to Jungfraujoch—the antique mining equipment hanging on the walls will give you a deeper respect for these early pioneers.

The Top of Europe

Peek inside a giant snow globe that depicts the region with charming moving figures, like yodelers and gondolas. Then, glide through the Ice Palace. Frozen from floor to ceiling, it features smooth, icy hallways filled with ice sculptures of animals, including several penguins around an igloo.

Jungfraujoach's highly sustainable cable car, the Eiger Express , shortened the journey between Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes when it opened in late 2020. That makes it possible to summit the Top of Europe on a day trip from Interlaken or even Zurich, but if you have time, it's worth sticking around Grindelwald to hike for a few days .

Panorama Trail

The trails here are among the most beautiful in the world and most trailheads are easily accessible through the town's network of cable cars and gondolas. The aptly named Panorama Trail takes you along paths lined by wildflowers with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, while the Grindelwald First cable car station puts you on the path to the world-famous Bachalpsee lake.

You can also break up your days of hiking with adventure activities. Grindelwald First is home to a zip line that soars at 80 kilometers per hour and a mountain cart attraction that lets you race down winding gravel paths, plus a trail you can tackle on a "trottibike"—a unique cross between a scooter and a bike that's surprisingly fast.

Jungfruajoch - Section map

Nestled on a strip of land between two glassy lakes, Interlaken looks like a postcard brought to life. The enchanting resort town has been a popular vacation destination for centuries, giving tourists a home base to explore the Bernese Oberland. Visit in the spring or summer to take in the striking sight of the town's lush gardens blooming with the snow-dusted Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch towering in the background.

Interlaken's proximity to Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, along with soaring alpine mountains, has helped it become the "Adventure Capital of Europe" —and it offers thrills for any taste.

Interlaken Harderbahn

Want to hike? Take a 10-minute ride on the Interlaken Harderbahn, a funicular railway that's more than 100 years old, to the Harder Kulm (Interlaken's closest mountain). A brick path lined with quirky Swiss statues takes you to the trailhead for the Harder Kulm Circular Path , a relatively easy, forested path that opens up to panoramic views of Interlaken.

From mountainside slopes, you can also take the sky on a paragliding adventure in the summer, or slip on a pair of skis and zip down fresh powder in one of five winter sports areas around Interlaken. It's also a lovely place to get out on the water. Rent kayaks, row boats, and pedal boats for a serene experience on the lakes. Or challenge yourself to wakeboarding, windsurfing, or water skiing.

Interlaken

The beautiful part about Interlaken, though, is that it's as much a place for excitement as it is for a laid-back retreat. Once you've gotten your share of adrenaline, wind down with a stroll on the Höheweg , Interlaken's main boulevard, or find a moment of peace at the Garden of Friendship, the country's first Japanese garden.

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken & Easy Day Trips

Lucerne

Imagine a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains, a car-free medieval old town, covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains. No wonder Lucerne (in German, Luzern) is a top spot for tourists.

Famed for its music concerts, this quintessential Swiss town lures renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to its annual International Music Festival . The Culture and Convention Center is home to one of the world's leading concert halls.

Lucerne

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Chapel Bridge , built in the 14th century. In a small park, lies the famous Lion Monument , a poignant sculpture of a dying lion, which honors the heroic death of Swiss Guards during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution. History buffs will enjoy the Swiss Transport Museum with extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.

For beautiful views of Lucerne, the Alps, and the lake, ride the funicular to the Dietschiberg on the north side of Lake Lucerne; cruise up Mt. Pilatus on the cableway; or head to the Rigi , a famous lookout point.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, Europe's largest Alpine lake , straddles the Swiss/French border, and laps at the shores of some of Switzerland's most popular cities. The city of Geneva (in French Genève; in German Genf) sits between pretty snowcapped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva.

This French-speaking "capital of peace" is the European seat of the United Nations and exudes a pleasing blend of French joie de vivre and Swiss structure. Promenades, parks, and gardens surround the lake, and the old town is a lovely spot to stroll among the historic buildings. The Jet d'Eau , a fountain in Lake Geneva shooting water 150 meters into the air, is a famous landmark. Cultural attractions include the Opera House and the Grand Théâtre , which stages international acts.

Also on the lake, about 62 kilometers from Geneva, Lausanne boasts lovely views over the surrounding region and the lake, with the Alps rising in the distance. Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its cute cafés and boutiques and stunning Gothic cathedral. At the foot of the Alps, on Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in June/July.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Geneva

Chateau de Chillon, Montreux

On the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux , the Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Lord Byron, Jean Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo are among the luminaries who have written about this architectural treasure.

Once the stronghold of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy from the 12th century, the complex encompasses about 25 buildings clustered around three courtyards. Highlights include the Great Halls, with magnificent views of Lake Geneva; the Gothic underground rooms; the Chapel , adorned with 14th-century paintings; and the Camera Domini , a bedroom occupied by the Duke of Savoy decorated with medieval murals.

View over St. Moritz

St. Moritz is a city of firsts. The world's first electric light clicked on here in December 1878. In 1889 it hosted the Alps' first golf tournament and in 1935 began operating one of Switzerland's first ski lifts. Additionally, the town is considered the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism after a hotelier convinced British summer guests to winter here in 1864. It went on to host the Winter Olympics twice (1928 and 1948).

In the Upper Engadin region in southeast Switzerland, in a valley surrounded by the Alps, today it is one of the world's most ritzy ski resorts , favored by billionaires and celebrities. It has 350 kilometers of ski and snowboard runs with some of Switzerland's steepest terrain.

Winter sports run the gamut, from skiing, snowboarding, skating, and bobsledding to tobogganing. One of the oldest natural ice runs for toboggans on the planet is found here, the famous 1.2-kilometer-long Cresta Run . There is also a snowboard fun park and 150 kilometers of winter walking and cross-country ski trails.

St. Moritz

In summer, St. Moritz attracts hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. If you prefer to golf, you can play four courses with fantastic mountain views. You can also enjoy the iron-rich natural mineral hot springs here year-round. They were discovered about 3,000 years ago.

Adding to all this spectacular mountain scenery, St. Moritz is a cultural crossroads. Romansch, German, Italian, French, and English are all spoken in the surrounding areas, not to mention the different languages of the many well-heeled international visitors and expats.

The town is divided into two parts: St. Moritz Dorf sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lake of St. Moritz. The other part of town, lakeside St. Moritz Bad on the valley floor, is a health resort with less expensive lodging.

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in St. Moritz & Easy Day Trips

Bern

In a stunning location, perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, the Swiss capital of Bern exudes old-world charm, and the city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can explore the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, with panoramic views from its tower; 16th-century fountains; the Zytglogge medieval clock tower with moving puppets; and six kilometers of shopping arcades, called " Lauben " by the locals. The Rose Garden (Rosengarten) offers beautiful views of the old town center.

Bern has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered, including excellent museums. Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, the world's largest collection of works by this famous artist, and the Bern Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum).

Don't miss the markets, held in the Bundesplatz (parliament square) with views of the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building (Bundeshaus). Families will also enjoy a visit to the Bear Park.

Lake Lugano and Ticino

Lake Lugano lies on the Swiss/Italian border in Ticino, Switzerland's only official Italian-speaking canton, and offers a tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean. Citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate here–even as snowcapped peaks beckon in the distance.

In the towns around Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore to the west, the feel of Italy is unmistakable in the architecture, the piazzas, and the passion for fine food, which spills over the Italian borders from the south, east, and west.

Visitors can explore the area by touring the lake on one of the white steamers or renting a boat. For a panoramic overview, Monte San Salvatore offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, lake, and snow-capped peaks.

Lugano , a financial center and the largest and most significant town in Ticino, is a popular summer resort. Northwest of Lugano, in sun-drenched Locarno on Lake Maggiore, Swiss lakeside living takes on a subtropical touch with warm days, blossoming gardens, and palm-studded estates. In Bellinzona , capital of the canton, three magnificent castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino Region

Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, a major transportation hub, and a top starting point for travelers. The city lies at the northwestern end of Lake Zurich astride the river Limmat. Beyond its buttoned-up façade, this affluent banking capital boasts a rich line-up of cultural treasures.

A great place to begin a walking tour is the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. Mile-long Bahnhofstrasse , one of Europe's finest shopping strands, beckons with designer stores selling fashion, watches, and jewelry.

Venturing away from the boutiques, visitors will find more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as many other tourist attractions . A top pick is the Kunsthaus Zürich , the museum of fine arts, with an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Another favorite is the Rietberg Museum , which focuses on non-European art with many works from China, India, and Africa.

A short stroll from Zürich's main station, the Swiss National Museum , in a Gothic chateau, spotlights Swiss cultural history. Families will love the Zurich Zoo with an elephant park, penguin parade, and Madagascar pavilion. From the city, take a train ride to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and countryside.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

The Rhine Falls

Spanning 150 meters, the Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) at Schaffhausen are the largest falls in Europe. The best time to visit is during June and July when the mountain snow melts, and the falls swell in volume to spill over a 21-meter-high ledge of Jurassic limestone.

Boat trips up the Rhine provide excellent views of the falls, as do the viewing platforms on both sides of the river.

Hiking trail in the Swiss National Park

Founded in 1914, Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley is the oldest reserve in the Alps. The park sits right on the border with Italy and encompasses more than 170 square kilometers of flower-dotted hollows, fast-flowing rivers, and limestone crags. The scenery is especially dramatic in winter when the forested mountains are covered in a blanket of snow, and the views from the cross-country ski trails are stunning.

Nature lovers can explore the region on the large network of trails, though veering off these paths is forbidden in an effort to preserve the natural ecosystems. More than 5,000 species of wildlife call the park home, including marmot, red deer, chamois, ibex, fox, and more than 100 species of birds.

Swiss National Park - Layout map

One of the very few railway lines in the world designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage listing, the Albula/Bernina line on the Rheatian Railways offers a majestic ride not to be missed. The route extends throughout the Albula and Bernina landscapes, covering 122 kilometers and winding through almost 200 bridges, the Graubünden mountains, and a number of tunnels and viaducts along the way.

A ride on this train means panoramic seats that overlook unspoiled mountain landscapes, including the Piz Bernina, the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps at just over 4,000 meters tall. The train operates all year long, and the views are just as magical in summer as they are in winter.

Oberhofen Castle

Right on the shore of Lake Thun and surrounded by a 2.5-hectare park, this 13th-century castle is one of the most breathtaking in Switzerland. Because Oberhofen Castle changed hands many times through the centuries, and new owners kept adding rooms to it, the result is a magical mix of many styles: Bernese Baroque-style buildings, Romantic-style facades, and Prussian-inspired exotic new areas (including a library and a smoking room).

The castle also houses a living museum showcasing the times and lives of feudal societies that called the castle (and its surroundings) home from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

View over the Ruinaulta (Swiss Grand Canyon)

The Ruinaulta (also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon") is a deep gorge surrounded by expansive meadows and forested cliffs. Located in Eastern Switzerland, it was created over 10,000 years ago–when the Ice Age Rhine Glacier retreated, it led to a chain of events that resulted in a massive rockslide in the Rhine Valley. As the Rhine River seeped through the rock walls, the gorge was filled with water.

Today, the Swiss Grand Canyon is not only one of the most beautiful areas in Switzerland, but also a preferred destination for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature lovers. It's possible to raft the rapids here between May and October, or rent a canoe or kayak for a gentler route with stunning views of the steep cliffs all around.

Aerial view of Gruyères Castle

Even if you don't know anything about this small medieval town, you've probably heard about the hard yellow cheese that made its name famous. Today, that's one of the town's main attractions. Visitors can tour a cheese factory, sample the local specialties, and wave to the cows that call the surrounding green hills home. If cheese isn't enough, the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory also operates in town.

Gruyères might be tiny – it covers an area of just 28.4 square kilometers and is home to around 2,000 permanent residents – but it makes up for it with plenty of things to do, including the 13 th -century Castle of Gruyères and its two small arts and regional museums, as well as Saint-Germain Castle, which was bought by Swiss surrealist painter and sculptor H. R. Giger, and it now houses a museum dedicated to his work. The Tibet Museum, housed in an old church in town, is also worth a visit.

Stunning landscapes surround Gruyères, including the Gorges de la Jogne (favorite with hikers) and the nearby Mont Moléson, popular with climbers in the warmer months and home to ski and snowshoe trails during winter.

Train crossing a bridge in Switzerland with the Matterhorn in the distance

The best time to visit Switzerland depends partly on why you're going there. If you're going for the skiing, then of course winter is the best time to visit. For mountain hiking, summer is best, as it's warm even high up in the mountains, and you won't encounter much rain to disrupt your outdoor plans.

If your visit to Switzerland will include a bit of everything, then the months between April and June are your best choice . You'll still find some snow if you arrive early in this period, and warm days if you arrive later on.

Temperatures vary between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, and you'll get a bit of rain, but you'll also see long days with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking and sightseeing . May is the most unpredictable month weather-wise – you might see rain and cold evenings or sunshine with temperatures in the low 20s.

Since the summer crowds don't arrive until July, and the winter crowds are long gone, you'll get more privacy and a chance to grab better deals on flights and accommodations .

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More on Switzerland

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One Week Itinerary

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Switzerland Airports

Getting Around

Places to Visit in Switzerland

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

places to visit while in switzerland

It's no secret that Switzerland has scenery in spades. The small European country is big on towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, storybook villages, and vibrant cities. For active vacationers, Switzerland offers virtually every winter sport, including, of course, some of the world's best skiing, plus hiking, biking, climbing, hang-gliding, and other temptations for adrenaline junkies. There's also plenty to fill a more leisurely vacation, with hearty cuisine, including what some say is the world's finest chocolate, high-end shopping, first-rate museums, and, at every turn, another gobsmacking panorama.

Switzerland is a year-round destination, and it would take many, many trips to see all that it has to offer. But assuming you don't have a lifetime to explore the country, here's our list of the top 17 places to see in Switzerland.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Switzerland's largest city is a stunner—at once historic and modern, cosmopolitan and bohemian. Divided by the Limmat River and wrapping around Lake Zurich's shores, Zurich offers some of Switzerland's best museums, Swiss and international dining , and Bahnhofstrasse—rightfully called the world's most expensive shopping street. Plan to spend much of your time in the Altstadt, or Old Town, and enjoy at least one traditional meal in a restaurant housed in a former medieval guildhall. Many a tour of Switzerland begins or ends here, as the city is seamlessly connected to the rest of the country and Europe, thanks to the ultra-efficient Swiss Rail System .

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Switzerland's second-largest city, French-speaking Geneva sits at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva and has a long lakefront promenade on two shores offering views of the famous Jet d'Eau fountain. Geneva is one of Europe's most expensive cities in which to live; that prosperity is felt in its elegant streets and parks, high-end shopping avenues, and five-star hotels with luxury sedans parked out front. But the city is also rich in history, as the center of the Swiss Reformation and, today, the home of the International Red Cross and the United Nations.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Swiss capital of Bern sits on a sharp bend in the River Aare in the western part of the country. Its Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to so many well-preserved medieval buildings. But the undisputed star of the show is the Zytglogge, the fascinating astronomical clock that Einstein is said to have studied when developing his Theory of Relativity. Bern Minster has the tallest church spire in Switzerland and a stunning main portal. Those with more modern tastes can head to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the country's most famous artist.

Like so many Swiss cities, pretty, walkable Lucerne occupies a magnificent setting—this time on Lake Lucerne with the Alps as a backdrop. The 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland, and Lucern's medieval Altstadt (Old Town) looks much the same as it did hundreds of years ago. The innovative Swiss Museum of Transport  is the most visited museum in Switzerland.

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

With one shore in Switzerland and one shore in France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is a sparkling, half-moon shaped international playground. On the Swiss side, it offers the elegant city of Geneva; relaxed Montreux , famous for its jazz festival; and Lausanne, home of the International Olympic Committee. The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux wine region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—some date back to the 11th-century. Last but definitely not least, 12th-century Chillon Castle is everything a castle should be—complete with a (partial) moat, dungeons, and a keep.

David Hanson/GettyImages 

The smallest Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden is set in the rolling hills south of Lake Constance. This is storybook Switzerland, complete with villages of brightly painted houses, folk traditions, and residents in traditional costume. In the fall, the cows literally come home, as herdsmen bring their cattle—decked out in bells and flower garlands—down from the mountains for the winter. Appenzell's car-free village is a center for folk-art, traditional festivals, baked goods, and yes—yodeling.

St. Moritz & the Engadine

Francesco Meroni / GettyImages

St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set, and its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and tony apres-ski scene are fun to dip into. Non-one-percenters might prefer some of the smaller, more down-to-earth towns and villages of the sunny Engadine Valley, known for its glaciers, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forest, and folk culture. Listen closely, and you may hear Romansch being spoken—the ancient Latin-based language is still taught in the Engadine schools. The area is also a summer paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and windsurfers.

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, the pleasant town of Interlaken is the most convenient base for exploring the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland—the region of glaciers, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes that offer postcard views at every turn. From Interlaken, a system of trains, cable cars, and cogwheel rails connect to the region's major ski areas and the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. For more than a century, it’s been the highest railway station in Europe. There, a high altitude playground awaits, with observatory platforms offering multi-peak views, the Eispalast (Ice Palace) walk inside a glacier, plus restaurants, and, of course, more skiing.

Lugano and Ticino

You'd be excused for thinking you've crossed over into Italy once you reach Ticino, the region wedged between the Alps and the Italian border. There's a distinctly Mediterranean vibe here, and Italian, not Swiss, is the first language. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore shares shores with Italy and offers a summertime playground for hiking, sailing, and swimming, with a touch of la dolce vita thrown in. Lugano's lakefront city is the bustling regional hub, but climb—or take a cable car—up any mountain to discover sleepy, rustic villages, clean air, and traditional country inns and restaurants.

raymondchan photo / GettyImages 

Something looms large over the car-free, stylish-yet-traditional mountain town of Zermatt—the Matterhorn. Europe's most famous mountain peak draws hordes of visitors to this otherwise sleepy town in the valley for skiing, ice-climbing, and arduous summer hikes and mountain biking. There's plenty of passive sightseeing to do here as well, and the views never disappoint. A mountaineering museum, traditional restaurants, luxe spas, and cozy—if not cheap—hotels can keep you pleasantly occupied here for a few days.

Stuart Dee/GettyImages

Near Lake Constance and the border with Liechtenstein, historic St. Gallen has a car-free center, a UNESCO-listed abbey and cathedral, and a textile-making tradition more than a thousand years old. The Rococo-style abbey library, stocked with 170,000 priceless volumes and documents, is a must-see here. There's a full cultural program in this important university town, as well as easy access to biking, hiking, boat rides on Lake Constance, and jaunts into Germany, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

Andrew Bain / GettyImages 

Pass the cheese, please. Though there's more to this charming medieval town than its namesake cheese, it would be a shame to leave Gruyères without sampling traditional raclette or fondue and visiting the Maison du Gruyère, where they make—you guessed it. In-between bites of cheese, visit the imposing 13th-century Gruyères Castle and take in the pastoral countryside. Oh, and did we mention there's a chocolate factory here, too?

Great St. Bernard Pass

irisphoto2 / GettyImages

Connecting Italy to Switzerland, the Great St. Bernard Pass has been a strategic gateway for the continent—long before the Romans first laid claim to it. The St. Bernard Hospice is still here, as are the iconic St. Bernard dogs—though they perform fewer mountain rescues than they once did. You can drive over the scenic pass or spend the day crossing it on foot, stopping at cozy village inns for hearty sustenance along the way.

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

It's all about the journey rather than the destination when you climb aboard one of the Rhaetian Railway trains, the network of scenic Alpine train rides that includes the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express . Panoramic train cars allow for sweeping views of passing glaciers, glacial lakes, mountain passes, and dense forests. The astonishing engineering feats of these high-altitude train tracks are reason enough to make the trip on at least one leg.

Trümmelbach Falls

Catalin Daniel Ciolca / GettyImages 

If you're visiting the Jungfrau, be sure to stop and see where all that spring snowmelt goes. Trümmelbach Falls are a series of falls that crash through a scenic gorge, carrying waters of the Jungfrau as they roar through underground caverns and pools. A series of elevators, bridges, and pathways puts visitors right in the spray of the mighty falls, which are closed in the wintertime.

Ayhan Altun / GettyImages

Palm and lemon trees give Locarno a nearly tropical feel. Switzerland's warmest city sits on Lake Maggiore and is the relaxed alternative to busy Lugano. Wandering the narrow streets of the town, strolling along the lake, and having a coffee or aperitivo on Piazza Grande—these are the simple pleasures of Locarno. A hike or funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage church rewards with breathtaking views of the lake, the town, and the surrounding mountains. From there, explore the villages and streams and waterfalls of the surrounding Valle Verzasca.

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

Literary Lausanne has inspired writers and artists through the ages, no doubt inspired by Lake Geneva's views, the city's pedestrian-only medieval center, and, perhaps, its mighty Gothic cathedral. Divided between upper and lower towns connected by a subway, Lausanne the smallest city in Europe with a metro system. It's the International Olympic Committee's home and a sporty vibe pervades—as evidenced by all the bikers, walkers, swimmers, and sailors.

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swiss flag in front of the snowy alps at mannlichen in jungfrau region, one of the most beautiful places to visit in switzerland

17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

Nestled in central Europe and dominated by the Alps, the best places to visit in Switzerland are downright sublime.

When it comes to jaw-dropping landscapes, quaint small towns, and enchanting cities that perfectly blend the past, present, and future, nowhere does it quite like Switzerland.

Many people (us included) put off planning trips to Switzerland’s beautiful corners for years because of its deserved reputation for high prices–but the best Swiss travel destinations are so incredible that, while expensive, you never doubt that you’re getting your money’s worth.

To help get you excited about planning your bucket list Switzerland vacation, we’ve worked with several other travel bloggers to round up the most magnificent places in Switzerland to visit!

Whether your dream Swiss trip involves Alpine hiking, lake swimming, skiing, or simply eating lots of fondue while overlooking the mountains, there’s an incredible getaway in Switzerland here for you.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland!

Table of Contents

Stunning Cities to Visit in Switzerland

Beautiful small villages + mountain towns in switzerland, more of the best places to visit in switzerland, map of the most beautiful places in switzerland to visit.

kate storm in a black dress with the alps in the background on the murren to gimmelwald hike

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From Rachel of Rachel’s Ruminations

Basel is a lovely little city with a historical core that is just perfect for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere.

The houses are simple and charming, some dating to the Middle Ages.

Art dots the streets: fountains, decorative sculpture, and painting on the centuries-old buildings as well as amusing modern art, like the dragon sculpture that breathes actual smoke!

“Reaction ferries” – no motor or sails – carry passengers across the Rhine between the two halves of the city.

If you like to see historical sights, the Romanesque and Gothic Basel Cathedral is one of the best sights in Basel , and climbing the spire to see the view is also worth the effort.

close up of red decor on basel town hall with clock in the center

Three of the original city gates still stand, restored to their medieval glory, and the bright red Rathaus (city hall) is quite a sight too.

The more modern Tinguely fountain is an amusing cross between a fountain and a kinetic sculpture.

The Foundation Beyeler, on the edge of town, houses a truly exceptional collection of modern masterpieces by major artists such as Rothko, Picasso, Monet, and Mondrian. It’s just outside of town but easy to reach.

Basel is a year-round destination, but summer is the best season for enjoying the outdoor attractions and architecture.

However, December brings a different charm: Basel is home to what is widely considered to be the best Christmas market in Switzerland!

view of old town basel, one of the best cities to visit in switzerland, with river in the foreground

From Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Snowcapped mountains, half-timbered houses, and a city that seemingly rolls down a hill right into the most pristine lake, upon which steamboats glide to and back from France: this is the storybook city of Lausanne, in the  Vaud-region .

Built atop three hills, the very first thing you will want to bring with you is a good pair of walking shoes. Start at the Lausanne Cathedral for some of the best views over the entire city, walk down the famous wooden staircase ( Escaliers du marché ) into the heart of the city at the  Place de la Palud , which contains a clutch of restaurants and bars as well as the oldest working fountain of the city.

skyline of lausanne switzerland with gothic cathedral prominent

Meander through the tiny streets until you hit  Palais de Rumine , a Renaissance palace well worth a visit.

The buzzing Flon district is great for a night on the town, or grab a drink at Brasserie Montbenon if you are looking for a more intimate setting.

Make your way to Lake Geneva at the foot of Lausanne, where you’ll find a variety of watersports on offer throughout the year.

Time permitting, hop of a steam peddler to Chillon Castle.

On the way make a brief stop at the UNESCO Lavaux vineyards, to try a glass of locally-produced wine.

view of chateau in lausanne with flowers and lake in the foreground, one of the best switzerland cities to visit

From Zoe of Together In Switzerland

For one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, consider booking your next Swiss getaway in Lugano!

Located in the heart of the Italian-speaking Ticino region, Lugano is beautiful to visit all year round.

However, the best time for  Lugano is in the summer , with long warm days and lots of local events in the city.

Since Lugano is well known also for its Lake Lugano, one of the best things to do after exploring and shopping in the city is to get out onto the lake!

You can rent cute red little paddle boats for a minimum of 30 minutes, or else book a larger boat trip that includes sightseeing at some local villages nearby. 

view of lugano city and lake from above

Lugano also is home to two funiculars that you can take up either Mount San Salvatore or Monte Bre.

Both nearby mountains are just above 900 in elevation and both have gorgeous views of the lake and the city of Lugano.

Summer is especially beautiful at each top mountain as they both have a restaurant serving drinks and food late into the night.

From there, you can see the sunset from above as well as watch the city light up in the darkness. 

If you’re visiting Switzerland in the summer, it’s also a must to bring your swimsuit to Lugano as you should not leave without swimming in the lake!

There are a few dedicated swimming areas to choose from, such as at Lido Riva Caccia right in the city center. 

paddleboats parked near the shore in lugano, one of the most beautiful places switzerland

From Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

When looking for the best travel destinations in Switzerland, you won’t want to miss the lakeside city of Geneva.

The city is in the French-speaking region of Switzerland and is located right next to the border of France, not far from Annecy.

In addition to being a beautiful city with lots of French-style architecture, Geneva’s location along Lake Geneva makes it an ideal Swiss city to visit.

The most iconic attraction in Geneva is the Jet d’eau Geneve, a 140m tall water jet in the middle of Lake Geneva.

Jet d'eau Geneve in geneva swizterland near sunset

After seeing the fountain, you can walk along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in the nearby Jardin Anglais.

The flower clock features over 6,500 flowers that create the watch’s face.

No trip to Geneva would be complete without paying a visit to Palais de Nations.

You’ll see the flag of each country that is part of the United Nations!

So if you’re looking for places to visit in Switzerland, consider Geneva, and make sure you visit during the summer months to minimize your chances of rainy weather!

view of lake geneva and the city from saint pierre cathedral in geneva, one of the best places in switzerland to visit

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

One of the best places to visit in Switzerland is the picturesque city of Lucerne.

Whether you are spending  one day in Lucerne  or enjoying a longer trip, this German-speaking city nestled along the River Reuss is a beautiful travel destination.

One of the best things to do in Lucerne is to visit the Kapellbrücke, a covered pedestrian wooden bridge that spans the river in the city that dates back to the 14th century.

The Kapellbrücke has unique architecture and there are historic interior paintings that are very interesting to see.

chapel bridge in lucerne, one of the most beautiful cities in switzerland to visit

If you like the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuer Bridge is another must-see!

Other top attractions in central Lucerne include climbing the towers along the Musegg Wall for incredible views of the city and Lake Lucerne and visiting the Swiss Museum of Transport .

Another one of the best things to do in Lucerne is to spend time on Lake Lucerne to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. You can ride the ferry or go swimming in the summer.

While visiting Lucerne, don’t miss the chance to head up to Mount Pilatus , either–not only are the views incredible but getting to the top includes riding the steepest cog railway in the world!

view of tower and lake lucerne from musegg walls, one of the best things to do in lucerne

From Sarah of CosmopoliClan

Nestled amidst rolling green hills and hugged by the crystal-clear Aare river, lies the city of Bern.

It’s the political epicenter of Switzerland with the Bundeshaus as the seat of the Swiss Parliament.

Bern’s picturesque Old Town may be compact, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site has a lot offer.

Visiting the Zytglogge, or Clock Tower, is one of the most popular of  things to do in Bern .

This landmark featuring a bear parade, golden rooster and time god Chronos as it strikes the hour, seems to come straight out of a story book.

As you stroll the elegant flag-lined streets of Bern, you’ll notice the many colorfully decorated water fountains.

historic center of bern switzerland street lined with flags and clock tower in the distance

Other architectural highlights are the stately arcades and the vaulted cellars that guarantee a pleasant shopping or dining experience regardless of the weather.

For a wonderful view over the city, climb the 312 steps to the viewing platform of the Bern Minster. This cathedral has the highest spire in all of Switzerland.

Behind it, you’ll find the Mattelift which will take you to the lower-level Matte district with its artistic flair and half-timbered houses.

From there, you can cross the Aare river to the Bärengraben where you can meet some of the city’s most famous residents: the bears.

The legend goes that the Duke who founded Bern would name the city after the first animal he encountered while hunting and that happened to be a bear.

End your visit at the Rosengarten park and take in the most spectacular panoramic view over the Altstadt and the white mountain peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

aerial view of bern surrounded by aare river, one of the most interesting switzerland cities to visit

From Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland , with no shortage of things to do.

It’s also a beautiful city, with the Limmat River flowing through the old town and Lake Zurich at one end, surrounded by mountain peaks.

Among the best things to do in Zurich is to spend some time in the historic old town.

This has picturesque cobbled streets and squares to wander through, with beautiful churches, wonderful cafes and restaurants, and a 17th-century renaissance town hall.

Boat trips run along the river and around the lake; the ferry stops at Zurichhorn for the chance to walk around the park and visit the small pretty Chinese Garden with its lake and colorful temples.

Zurich also has a number of fascinating museums to visit.

These include the Swiss National Museum, the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum , the Rietberg Art Museum, and the FIFA World Cup Museum dedicated to the history of football.

For visitors looking for some relaxation, there is the rooftop thermal pool at the Thermalbad and Spa that provides views out across the city.

view of zurich switzerland from above in the summer, one of the best places to go in switzerland

Zurich is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year.

The summer months are perfect for walking around the lake or dipping in the water in one of the city’s lidos.

In the winter, there is skiing in the nearby mountains and ice skating in the city.

The city’s streets are lit up, and there are cozy cafes to pop into to warm up with the local fondue. At Christmas, the city hosts several markets.

Though deservedly famous for being expensive, Zurich has a range of accommodations to suit most Switzerland-friendly budgets.

The Hotel Montana near the main train station is ideal for short city breaks.

For more luxury, The Dolder Grand , with its hilltop setting, complete with an ice rink in winter, is a great option. 

central zurich decorated for christmas at night with a tram running down the street

From Megan of Megan & Aram

Interlaken, also known as the “Adventure Capital of Switzerland”, is a gorgeous place that can be visited in any season!

There are so many things you can do regardless of whether  you visit in winter   or summer… you just need to dress appropriately for the weather.

Go kayaking on beautiful Lake Brienz in all seasons, and relax on the beach after a swim session in the summer.

Interlaken has many fantastic hiking trails to choose from, and some of the most popular ones are Oberburghorn or Hardergrat.

You can take the funicular up the mountain to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, where you can enjoy the stunning views and dine at the Panorama Restaurant.

people standing on observation deck overlooking interlaken, one of the top travel destinations switzerland

To see the countryside from another perspective, take a hot air balloon ride!

And for even more views, take Europe’s highest railway to Jungfraujoch, where you will get breathtaking views from an elevation of nearly 3,500 m (about 11,500 ft).

You will never get tired of the spectacular scenery no matter how many viewpoints you go to!

Travel back in time by visiting the following fairytale-like places: St. Beatus Caves, a cave system over a kilometer long where legend says St. Beatus ousted a dragon living there in the 6th century; the medieval Thun Castle; or the charming village of Grindelwald.

Interlaken is a must-visit location in Switzerland and should be added to every itinerary!

historic center of interlaken with river in the foreground

From Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina.com

Mürren  is a beautiful, small village in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland.

Situated at 5400 feet (ca. 1,646 m) above sea level, this car-free village can only be accessed by cable car or mountain train.

Visitors can get there within 10 minutes from Stechelberg with the Schilthornbahn or take the iconic mountain train via Grütschalp to travel to Mürren within 20 minutes.

The views from Mürren are beyond stunning and will enthrall every nature and mountain-loving traveler.

Mürren and the Schilthorn peak came to fame thanks to a James Bond movie. Take the cable car further up to Birg and Schilthorn to discover Bond World and enjoy brunch in the Piz Gloria rotating restaurant.

people walking through central murren switzerland in the summer

From there you can spot the Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger peaks.

Adventure lovers will enjoy the Brig Via Ferrata trail, a rock climbing, zip lining, and tight rope walking trail further down.

Every season is beautiful and has its perks in Mürren, but the warmer months are more suitable to go hiking and paragliding.

Skiing and snowshoe walking are popular winter activities in the area.

A winter wonderland awaits you from December to March with plenty of snow and snow-dusted Swiss mountains.

ranger storm sitting on a stump in murren switzerland with alps visible behind him

From Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

Home to the world-famous Matterhorn, Zermatt has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.

So, yes, it can get very busy. But the fabulous mountain scenery more than makes up for that.

While the iconic Matterhorn dominates the skyline, the town is completely surrounded by impressive mountains and fantastic viewpoints, many of which are accessible by cable car .

Truly a year-round destination, Zermatt is one of the top skiing destinations in Switzerland in the winter, while in summer it attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over to enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, white-water rafting, and, of course, hiking.

If you have your heart set on seeing the Matterhorn , try to give yourself a few days in Zermatt in order to increase your odds of clear weather.

hiking trail in zermatt switzerland with matterhorn in the background, one of the most beautiful places in switzerland to visit

Along with a wide variety of gorgeous day hikes, Zermatt serves as the start or end point of the incredible  Walker’s Haute Route , a phenomenal 2-week hut-to-hut trek through the Alps that is arguably the best long-distance hike in Europe.

Secluded at the top of a picturesque valley, Zermatt is closed to vehicles (except for electric hotel and work shuttles), making it a wonderful place to wander on foot.

While long-time visitors to Zermatt lament the ever-growing number of hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, they make it a very easy place to have fun and every new building still conforms to the town’s classic ski town vibe.

Those looking for a luxury stay with amazing Matterhorn views should check out the Europe Hotel & Spa , although there are practically endless Zermatt accommodation options to fit most budgets.

view of zermatt from above at dusk with matterhorn in the background, one of the best places to visit in switzerland

Baden, Switzerland

By Nina of Nina Out and About

Baden is the spa capital of Switzerland, yet most people have never heard of it.

Unlike Bath in the UK, Baden has remained off the beaten paths for tourists, and even most  expats who live in Switzerland .

Baden is a small town located in Aargau, about 20 minutes by train from Zurich.

It’s routinely confused with Baden-Baden in Germany (even when you try to buy a ticket to visit). But don’t be fooled: it does exist!

Baden’s claim to fame is the natural springs that have made it a popular spa destination for centuries.

The most well-known is the Friedensquelle (“Peace Spring”), but there are several others to explore as well.

baden switzerland with river in the foreground, one of the beautiful small towns in switzerland

In addition to its spas, Baden is also home to a beautiful old town with plenty of shops and restaurants. There’s also an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the town’s springs.

You can try out the hot springs for free along the riverside.

There’s a bench with a trough of natural hot water that you can put your feet in while you enjoy a hot chocolate or takeaway pastry.

The spa inside has evening and early morning discounted tickets, which will allow you to enjoy the spa when it’s nearly empty.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Zurich to one of the most underrated places to visit in Switzerland, Baden is the perfect place to head.

The best time to visit Baden is in the spring or summer when the weather is warm and you can enjoy all the town has to offer.

view of the center of baden switzerland from above in the summer

Lauterbrunnen

From Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

Lauterbrunnen is a village at the base of the stunningly beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland region, and it is indisputably one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland!

It is the epicentre of this bucolic area, which boasts of pretty waterfalls, steep snow-capped mountains and quaint wooden chalets, and there are plenty of  things to do in Lauterbrunnen  and the surrounding area.

In the village itself, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to scenery. On either side of the village, there are green hillsides dotted with chalets and sheer cliff faces.

The stunningly delicate and impossibly tall Staubbach Falls seem to be falling on the village – although they are actually just a short walk outside it.

village of lauterbrannen switzerland with waterfall visible on the right

And the best view of all is southward across the village towards Lauterbrunnen Church.

Looking in this direction, you see the pretty church steeple flanked on either side by the steep valley walls and the Staubach Falls, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps behind them.

It is so picture perfect, it almost doesn’t feel real!

To explore the countryside around Lauterbrunnen, there are hiking and cycling trails, and you can also take trains and/or cable cars to the neighbouring car-free alpine villages of Mürren and Wengen.

You can also take a series of trains from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch for an up-close look at one of Switzerland’s remarkable glaciers.

For a reasonably affordable stay, with good food and a chance of gorgeous views from your room, check out the Hotel Oberland .

lauterbrunnen valley from above as seen via switzerland train ride

From Marianne of Pasta, Pretzels & Passports

Located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Lucerne, in the heart of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, lies the picturesque town of Entlebuch.

Covering a 22-square-mile area, the town is home to only 3,300 people.

But don’t let its size fool you! Entlebuch is one of the prettiest towns you will ever see.

And if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, or canoeing, then this town is definitely one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Entlebuch offers more than 60 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails.

You can also choose one of the 13 loop trails that wind through gorgeous forests, along clear rivers, and through mountain meadows.

hiking path through tiny village in switzerland on sunny summer day

But if you are looking for something truly unique, head over to  Stillaub Lama  where you can go Lama-Trekking with a guided tour! Enjoy an incredible hike accompanied by llamas.

If canoeing is something that interests you, the Canoe Club in Entlebuch offers canoe rentals or even guided excursions.

Paddle along the scenic Emme (Emmenuferweg) river between Hasle and Entlebuch.

And although summer is an incredible time to visit Entlebuch, if you like winter activities, the town has plenty to offer at that time of the year as well.

From snowshoeing to winter hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, you won’t find a more scenic location.

And after an exhilarating day of exploring this incredible area, head back to town where you will find several excellent restaurants serving local cuisine.

church with steeple in the alps of entlebuch switzerland

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

On the banks of Lake Geneva stands the charming resort city of Montreux, which happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

The town looks out over the entrancing splendor of the surrounding countryside as it lies peacefully tucked away within the Swiss Alps.

The architecture of the historic cities and the ancient castles of Montreux has made it a place worth exploring.

The ideal months to visit Montreux are from April to October, but you’ll also find a charming Swiss Christmas market here in December!

The French-speaking Vaud region of Switzerland, which stretches from Lausanne to Montreux, is the heart of the Swiss Riviera and has a distinct Mediterranean character.

The lakeside resorts provide a surreal view of the lush green landscape, where you can unwind.

It’s one of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations due to its gorgeous lakeside location, expansive vineyards, and mountains, hills, and valleys.

woman leaning over a rail overlooking montreux and lake geneva, some of the best places to visit in switzerland bucket list

Take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Geneva to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the lakefront villages.

You can visit the Freddie Mercury statue, wander along the Old Town’s streets, and circle the Montreux Lake.

It is unusual to visit Switzerland without trying  Swiss chocolate , the country’s most well-known delicacy.

The chocolate train on the Montreux-Berner Oberland Railway is devoted to the world’s most delicate temptation.

The famous Château de Chillon, which is about a 30-minute walk from Montreux, is another reason to visit.

This 13th-century fortress comes from the Middle Ages and features a beautiful view of the lake.

Château de Chillon as seen from across lake geneva with a path and flowers in the foreground

From Michelle C. of Intentional Travelers

When it comes to beautiful places in Switzerland to add to your bucket list, nothing compares to the Alps.

Nendaz, a small ski resort town up in the mountains, is popular for both winter and summer activities.

Arrive via train to Sion, in the valley, and then take a Postbus up to town.

The drive up the winding mountain road is a beautiful initiation to the area with spectacular views.

In the summer and fall, there are great hikes leaving from town so be sure to pack  walking shoes !

nendaz switzerland with bernese alps looming behind the town

Several of the trails in the region follow along the “ bisses ,” or old waterways, in and out of small villages and farms, through the hills and forests.

The ski lift to Tracouet’s Black Lake provides another panoramic perspective and more hiking trails.

The vacation rental options in Nendaz are abundant, although many of the hotels close in the shoulder season (fall).

Staying in Haute (“high”) Nendaz not far from the Tourist Office is best for easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, bus stops, and the ski lift.

Nendaz can also be a good base for day trips to other excellent Switzerland travel destinations like Sion, Martigny, Zermatt, and even places a little further like Spiez, Interlaken, and Bern.

cable cars rising above nendaz, one of the best mountain towns in switzerland

Ascona, Switzerland

From Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

The small lakeside town of Ascona is located in Ticino, the sunny, warmest, and most charming place in Switzerland.

Indeed, it boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and its mild climate makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

There are always plenty of delightful things to do in Ascona, regardless of the time of year.

From hiking to discovering the holy Monte Verità, and from soaking in the Maggia or Verzasca Valley surrounded by magical waterfalls to visiting historical museums such as Castello san Materno, Galleria Borgo, and Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna.

ascona switzerland with lake in the foreground and town visible in the background

And, of course, the Ascona lido is always tempting in the summer.

Don’t forget to walk along the famous lungolago, where there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine.

From this promenade, you can take an electric train around Ascona to discover the local attractions.

Or, you can take a boat to Brissago Island in the middle of Lake Maggiore letting you live an exciting story of only Switzerland’s Botanical Garden on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, this little hidden gem is an incredible Switzerland travel destination to add to your bucket list!

black and red sign reading "i heart ascona" near lake shore

Bernina Express

It’s hard to say whether a train ride counts as a Switzerland travel destination–but then again, trains in Switzerland are a bit more exciting than just about anywhere else.

Famous for being one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, the Bernina Express runs from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, covering truly spectacular scenery along the way!

Featuring nearly 200 bridges and more than 50 tunnels along the way, this 4-hour scenic journey definitely belongs on your Switzerland bucket list.

Dramatic views of the Alps, glaciers, the soaring bridges, and more are waiting to be enjoyed through panoramic windows.

Be sure to book this Swiss travel experience in advance–the train is deservedly popular, and gets booked up quickly!

bernina express entering tunnel over landwasser viaduct, one of the most beautiful places in switzerland

Schynige Platte

From Amela of Stay Wild Travels

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland, then visiting the summit of  Schynige Platte  is a must.

In order to get there, you’ll need to hop on board the Schynige Platte-Bahn, an old-fashioned, historic railway that leaves from the small village of Wilderswill which is not too far from Interlaken.

It chugs slowly up the mountainside and offers fantastic views, which is an incredible experience in itself.

Once you’ve arrived at the summit, you’ll find a plethora of hiking trails, a restaurant and a botanical alpine garden, to name a few.

historic red cogwheel train approaching schynige platte with alps in the background, one of the most beautiful places in switzerland vacation

The most popular hiking trail is the Panorama Trail. As the name suggests, this offers unmatched views over the Jungfrau Region, including the three major peaks in the area: Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger.

You’ll be able to visit Schynige Platte from the end of May to the end of October.

Those looking for a traditional stay among the mountains are in luck, as the restaurant also offers doubles up as a popular hotel .

The rooms are quaint with Swiss décor and offer picture-perfect mountain views.

It’s worth noting that Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a discount on the trip, and Jungfrau Pass holders have a visit included with their card.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

2 photos of swiss travel destinations, black and red text reads "17 spectacular places switzerland"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)”

One place that should be a must to visit when in Switzerland is the Rheinfall (Rhinefall) near Schaffhausen which also is a beautiful town. It is less then 1 hour from Zurich. PS: A small typo, the river in Lucerne is called Reuss, not Neuss

Thanks, Thomas, I’ll get that fixed. 🙂

And yes, I hear the falls are supposed to be gorgeous!

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

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“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

Janoka82/Getty Images

Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

Leslie Robinson/Getty Images

Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

The 11 most incredible places to visit in Switzerland: be inspired

Kerry Walker

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

places to visit while in switzerland

Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

Jungfrau Peak reflected in the water of a hearth pond at Kleine Scheidegg

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

A city old town with a turquoise river running through it

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Man on a rock next to a lake with a reflection of Matterhorn at dawn in Switzerland

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

A sunny day at Piazza Collegiate in Bellinzona, Switzerland

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

Young man walking with swiss cow on mountain footpath. Mount Pilatus, Lucerne,

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Woman sitting on a bench next to the Rhine River in Basel, Switzerland

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated November 2023

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Switzerland

A Smithsonian magazine special report

20 Must-See Places in Switzerland

Here are the destinations you can’t miss

Engadine from Muottas Muragl

Switzerland is a land of abundant contrasts. Bordered by Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein,  Italy and France, the country is home to four national languages, and its landscape alternates between lush valleys, turquoise lakes and dramatic mountain peaks. One day you might be rafting down a river through Europe's 'Grand Canyon'; the next, on a train to the continent’s highest mountain station. In the remote alpine village of Appenzell, ties to traditional crafts are strong and the modern world feels far away. Yet in French-speaking Geneva, a center of international business marked by a 12th-century cathedral, old and new coexist. Ranging from remote villages to bustling cities, from snow-covered landscapes to tropical climates, here are 20 places you must see in Switzerland.

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Appenzell in northeastern Switzerland is very popular with the tourists, and for good reason – in no other Swiss town is folklore so firmly entrenched. This picturesque village feels like a world removed. Its streets are narrow, and buildings are painted with all manner of colorful motifs, ranging from landscapes to flowers, to people and animals. Compared to other regions in Switzerland, very little industry settled in Appenzell due to the fact that it was connected to few railroads or major roadways, so the focus here is on local crafts. In particular, the the town is known for its cheeses and embroidery. Residents often say that Appenzell is where “life is still true.”

places to visit while in switzerland

Located in the heart of the Bernese Mittelland on the Aare River in northern Switzerland, Bern is Switzerland's captial and home to some of the most impressive examples of medieval town architecture found anywhere in Europe. It was named a  World Heritage Site  by UNESCO in 1983 and is often referred to as the “City of Fountains" for the more than 100 fountains that grace its streets and squares. Eleven, dating back to the 16th century, are particularly impressive. They depict a range of historical figures and are routinely repainted to preserve their original appearance. Other landmarks include the city clock tower, whose whimsical figurines  dance on the hour , and a  bear park , which celebrates Bern's symbol, the bear.

Swiss Grand Canyon

places to visit while in switzerland

Nearly 10,000 years ago in what is today southeastern Switzerland, the Rhine Glacier retreated, causing a landslide. Thousands of tons of rocks, boulders and mud crashed to the floor of Rhine Valley, damming the river. Over time, the water seeped through the dam, resulting in the Vorderrhein Gorge, or Swiss Grand Canyon. Now a heavily forested area, the landscape has parted to allow the Rhine to meander and wind its way through the valleys, making it a hiker's and rafter's paradise. Raft tours take place from May through October, with the help of professional guides. The rapids are mild and suitable for almost anyone.

Swiss National Park

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The lower Engadine Valley is home Swiss National Park, a 67,000-acre wildlife sanctuary that epitomizes Alpine splendor. One-third of the park consists of Alpine forests, another third of Alpine meadows, and the rest mountains. Founded on Swiss Independence Day, August 1, 1914, the park was one of Europe’s first national parks and is the only national park in Switzerland. Here nature is left to its own with very little interference. Visitor impact is carefully monitored, and only one road, the Ofenpass, runs through the park. June and July are the best times to observe the Alpine flowers and birds, while September is the best month to see the ibex, chamois and deer. The visitor center and park headquarters are located near the village of Zernez, where the white houses of Engadina are visible. The walls of these houses are nearly three feet thick, in order to protect the inhabitants from the brutally cold winters (when temperatures get down to -20° F).

places to visit while in switzerland

Brienz, on the shores of Lake Brienz to the east of Interlaken, is home to picturesque  Giessbach Falls  and famous for its woodcarving. In fact, most of the carved wood you'll find in Switzerland hails from this region. Brienz is often overlooked by tourists in favor of activities on Lake Thun, which lies to the west of Interlaken and is the larger of the two lakes, but is favored by vacationing Swiss. For a breathtaking view of the Bernese Alps and Lake Brienz, ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn, an old steam locomotive. Its three-hour ascent peaks at the summit of Rothorn, which rises 7,700 feet.

places to visit while in switzerland

St. Moritz, located in the Engadine Valley, has been the winter resort playground of the rich and famous since the 19th century. It first gained notoriety in 1864 when St. Moritz Hotel owner Johannes Badrutt told British tourists that, if they enjoyed their stay in his region, he'd cover their travel expenses, and they could stay as long as they liked – at his expense. Needless to say, word spready quickly. The sun shines more than 300 days per year in St. Moritz, known today for its snow sports, summer hiking and upper-crust shopping. One of St. Moritz's top attractions is the horse racing event " White Turf ," which attracts equestrians throughout Europe and takes place in February over three consecutive afternoons. A highlight is the traditional Skikjöring race, in which entrants are pulled on skis behind a galloping horse.

The Glacier Express

places to visit while in switzerland

The Glacier Express is more of a must-do, rather than a must-see, although expect to see quite a lot on this 7-hour journey through some of the most treacherous and beautiful mountain passes Switzerland has to offer. The route, first opened in 1928, travels 170 miles from Zermatt to St. Moritz, crossing 291 bridges and moving through 91 tunnels. Highlights include the Oberalp Pass, when the train reaches the highest point in its journey, and the single-track, six-arched  Landwasser Viaduct , which rises more than 200 feet above the Landwasser River. The iconic red trains are equipped with modern dining cars and large windows to view the spectacular scenery.

places to visit while in switzerland

Located in the southern canton of Ticino, Lugano is a must-see for its heavy Italian influences. The streets of the Old Town are closed to cars, making this a great walking city.  You can get around the town of Lugano and the surrounding region by foot or by bike, or ride one of the many steamers crisscrossing Lake Lugano. Palm trees are a common sight, and the so-called “Floral Route" is a popular one-day outing. Beginning with a ride on the Monte San Salvatore funicular , the route contines to the summit of San Salvatore, on to Ciona and Carona, whose churches feature stunning frescos and stucco work. From Carona, you can venture to the botanical gardens of San Grato, or the Baroque sanctuary of the Madonna d'Ongero, before heading to the ancient fishing town of Morcote where you can catch a bus or ship back to Lugano.

Zurich's Bahnhoffstrasse

places to visit while in switzerland

Zurich's traffic-free Bahnhoffstrasse is one of the finest shopping areas anywhere in Europe. During Christmastime, the streets are lined with tiny lights, while people window-shop to their hearts' delight. Vendors line the streets offering toasted almonds and hot cider, and the lure of fresh-baked goods and Christmas cookies is everywhere. In the summer, linden trees provide respite from the sun. The Bahnhoffstrasse runs from Central Station to Lake Zurich, and two historic streets, Renweg and Augustinergasse, connect it to Zurich's Old Town.

places to visit while in switzerland

In Lucerne, visitors can stroll through the car-free Old Town, set against the backdrop of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, then spend an afternoon sailing on one of the many ships that depart regularly from the Vierwaldstättersee dock. The Chapel Bridge, built in 1333, is a landmark of Lucerne’s Old Town and oldest roofed wooden bridge in Europe. Though a tragic fire destroyed most of it in 1993, it was painstakingly restored to resemble its original structure and contains a series of paintings on each section of its ceiling beams. To experience the best of Lucerne, take the  Rigi-Kulm  excursion – a five-hour journey that combines a cogwheel railway train ride, cable car and boat trip.

places to visit while in switzerland

Engelberg in central Switzerland is a haven for sports enthusiasts. Meaning “Angel Mountain,” it is the main village in Canton Obwalden and lies at the foot of Mount Titlis. Originally a monastery village, it is now a world-class ski destination and home to numerous hotels and restaurants. From Engelberg, you can board a cable car to the middle station of Mount Titlis via Trübsee, then take  a revolving cable car known as the Rotair  to an area near the summit. The mountain station offers a below-ground glacier excursion, six-person scenic chair lift, snowtubing and connection to Europe's highest suspension bridge .

Harder Kulm

places to visit while in switzerland

Rising more than 4,000 feet between Lakes Thun and Brienz, Harder Kulm offers a sensational bird's-eye view of the Jungfrau region and can be reached from Interlaken in only 10 minutes. Visit the Art Noveau-style  restaurant at the summit or walk out onto Two Lakes Bridge for an on-top-of-this-world experience. A funicular leaves daily from near the Interlaken Ost station.

places to visit while in switzerland

Mürren is a friendly and car-free holiday resort situated on a sun-drenched terrace atop the Lauterbrunnen valley. Easily reached from both Interlaken train stations by cogwheel train, it is the main stop on the way to the Schilthorn and Piz Gloria. In the summer months, it serves as one of the best bases for hiking excursions in Alps—among them the Eiger North Face trail —and doubles as a ski resort in the winter. While no marked roads run through Mürren, directional signs abound.

The Schilthorn

places to visit while in switzerland

The Schilthorn , atop Piz Gloria, offers a stunning panoramic view of more than 200 mountain peaks, dominated by the Eiger, Mönch and the Jungfrau. You can either sit inside the world-famous revolving restaurant  or stand outside on the observation deck, where portions of the James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service were filmed. If you are an ice cream lover, be sure to order the “007" dessert –five scoops of various types of ice cream smothered with fresh fruits. To reach the Schilthorn, visitors must take a cable car (Switzerland's longest) from Mürren.

Jungfraujoch

places to visit while in switzerland

To get to the highest point in Europe, you need to ride a series of trains and trams to the Jungfraujoch , which sits just 300 feet below the summit of the 13,638-foot Jungfrau. Trains leave once a day from Interlaken West, stopping at Interlaken East, Wilderswil, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen and the Kleine Scheidegg. The last part of the journey takes nearly an hour – at one point passing through a four-mile tunnel. There are six restaurants at Jungraujoch along with a terrace, Ice Palace , scientific research station and observation center known as The Sphinx . An elevator whisks you another 364 feet up to the observatory. Skiing lessons and dog sledding are offered in good weather, and on clear days you can see as far as Germany and France.

places to visit while in switzerland

The auto-less Alpine village of Zermatt in the southern canton of Valais is home to some of the world's most spectacular mountains, including the world-famous Matterhorn. Rising like a shark tooth above surrounding peaks, the Matterhorn is the most photographed mountain in Switzerland. Ride the  Gornergratbahn , Europe’s highest open-air cog railway for stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers. Atop Gornergrat, enjoy a meal or stay overnight at Europe’s highest-altitude hotel and visit its planeterium. A ride on the Klein Matterhorn , Europe’s highest-altitude cable car, up to the mountain station is another spectacular experience. Zermatt offers skiing year-round, and you an even ski to Italy for lunch if you bring your passport. The Matterhorn Trail is a favorite among hikers and part of a network of more than 300 miles of trails in and around the Zermatt area. 

places to visit while in switzerland

Sitting atop a terrace amidst 12 mountains in Canton Valais, Saas-Fee  is closed to traffic .  It is where the Swiss go when they want to hike or ski, hoping to avoid the crowds that flock to nearby resorts of Zermatt or Verbier. Unlike St. Moritz or Verbier, Saas-Fee falls asleep each night around 10 pm. It has the charm of an old-time resort with its wooden chalets, outdoor sun terraces, sidewalk cafés and restaurants, yet boasts modern attractions including the world’s highest revolving restaurant and its  largest ice pavilion . Rightfully so, Saas-Fee is known as “the pearl of the Alps." In the summer, its hiking trails and foot paths are suitable for all levels of wanderers.

places to visit while in switzerland

A picture-perfect castle dating back to the 13th century overlooks the medieval village of Gruyères just south of Bern and north of Lake Geneva. Gruyères is most famous for producing the cheese of its same name.  La Maison de Gruyères is the local factory offering cheese, quiche and fondue for sale. It produces 48 wheels of cheese a day and can stock up to 7,000. If you visit Gruyères in the early summer, you'll be sure to catch the cow herders leading their droves of cattle to high Alpine pastures. The herders – known as armaillis – allow the cows to graze on the rich grasses found on the sunny mountain slopes until the fall months, when they make the annual pilgrimage back down to their winter quarters.

Chillon Castle

places to visit while in switzerland

Chillon Castle  is an ancient fortress on Lake Geneva at the foothills of the Valais Alps and one of the most impressive in Switzerland. Built by the Savoys in the 12 th century, it consists of 25 buildings joined together by three courtyards, complete with dungeons and torture chambers. Chillon’s architecture and history have inspired such writers as Lord Byron , Victor Hugo and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The castle, open daily, can be reached by car or by a two-mile walking path from Montreux, known as the Chein Fleirui, or flower path. 

places to visit while in switzerland

Home to the Office of the United Nations and the International Red Cross headquarters, Geneva is often referred to as the City of Peace. Unmistakable landmarks incude the Jet d’eau, which pumps water 460 feet above Lake Geneva; the flower clock, a testament to Geneva’s watch-making legacy; and St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Old Town. Dating back to the 12th century, the cathedral dominates the cityscape, and visitors can climb to the top of the north tower for an exceptional view of the city and the Alps. Due to the city's location on the border of France, Geneva's culture is heavily influenced by its western neighbors, and its vineyard-rich countryside ranks among Switzerland’s most romantic scenery.

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Europe , Switzerland , Travel

23 unforgettable things to do in switzerland.

Unforgettable Things to do in Switzerland

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime! This captivating country nestled in the heart of Europe is known for its snow-capped mountains, charming villages, food culture, and so much more. There truly are things to do in Switzerland for every kind of traveler.

places to visit while in switzerland

You might be visiting for the first time and heading to ski in the towering Alps. Or perhaps you’re returning to tour the best Christmas markets in the region . Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a food lover, or simply in search of the most awe-inspiring views, you’ll find it here.

We’ve been lucky enough to live in Switzerland for a little while and enjoy all of its beauty and culture. Recently, I returned to visit good friends and got to relive all the incredible things to do in Switzerland with my good friend.

What to Wear in Switzerland - Switzerland Packing list for Summer & Winter

Below, you can read about 23 experiences you’ll want to add to your Switzerland bucket list! You’ll look at essential stops, whether it’s your first time in central Europe or your 20th. After that, you’ll read about more outdoor-focus activities, then finish off with activities that center around a unique aspect of Swiss culture.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:

Wanderlust switzerland guide.

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

places to visit while in switzerland

Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland

  • Zurich : Baur Au Lac
  • Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
  • Zermatt: The Omnia
  • Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
  • Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
  • Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
  • Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Getting Around Switzerland

  • Unlimited Train Rides : Swiss Pass
  • Renting a Car : Cheap Rental Cars or Expedia Cars

Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland

  • Paragliding
  • Lindt Chocolate Tour
  • Lake Lucerne Cruise

Best Things to Do in Switzerland for First-Time Visitors

Starting off my list are must-see Switzerland attractions for first-time visitors. These are places and activities that will guarantee an unforgettable travel experience!

1. Explore the Swiss Alps

Visiting the Swiss Alps should be on every nature lover’s Switzerland bucket list. The winter is the busiest season when world-class slopes and resorts come alive! For a more tranquil experience go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the serene winter wonderland.

places to visit while in switzerland

A must-do in Switzerland is exploring the renowned Swiss National Park, the country’s only national park. Here you’ll be enchanted by the grandeur of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and lush green valleys. Hikers will find an extensive network of trails that lead to hidden gems and panoramic viewpoints.

In the warmer months, the mountains offer even more outdoor adventure, including paragliding, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. Or simply enjoy the serene alpine meadows, dotted with wildflowers and grazing sheep.

The Swiss Alps are also home to charming mountain towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald. These ski communities offer a variety of outdoor activities within reach. They also boast luxury hotels and cozy chalets, as well as quality restaurants, shopping, and tourist attractions of their own.

2. Visit the Matterhorn

The Matterhorn isn’t just a mountain. It represents the spirit of the Swiss Alps and holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Visiting the Matterhorn is undeniably one of the best things to do in Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

You can admire this iconic mountain from the village of Zermatt or venture closer to its base along one of the hiking trails. It’s an unforgettable experience, seeing the reflection of its towering form in the mirror-like waters of Lake Riffelsee!

For many, scaling the Matterhorn’s summit is the ultimate mountaineering challenge. But even if you’re not an experienced climber, there are plenty of other ways to see the mountain up close.

One way is by taking a cable car ride to Trockener Steg . This mountain ridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, with the Matterhorn at the forefront.

3. Take a Swiss Train Journey

Switzerland is famous for its efficient and extensive train network. But it’s also a great way to enjoy the country’s breathtaking and diverse landscape! Not only will you get from one destination to another, but a Swiss train journey is its own experience.

You can take the Glacier Express on a panoramic eight-hour journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Take in stunning views of snowy mountains, deep valleys, and historic Alpine villages.

Riding the Bernina Express Train in Switzerland and Italy

Another spectacular train journey, The Bernina Express, is a wonderful way to see the Swiss and Italian Alps. This UNESCO World Heritage route navigates the Bernina Pass, through dramatic landscapes, crossing dizzying viaducts and winding through tunnels!

Or go with the GoldenPass Line. This scenic route takes travelers from Lucerne to Lake Geneva. The route passes through the rolling hills of the Emmental region and the charming towns of Interlaken and Montreux.

4. Go Paragliding

If you are thinking about going paragliding at all and are planning a trip to Switzerland, NOW is the time to do it. Switzerland has some of the most incredible paragliding in the world due to the elevation of its mountains. You get a long ride down! I am terrified of heights and i still went paragliding. I was really proud of myself for overcoming my fear in order have this amazing experience. It was 100% worth it! It was much more peaceful than I thought it would be.

places to visit while in switzerland

There are several companies in Switzerland who offer paragliding. The most popular places to do it are Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Zermatt. I chose to go paragliding in Interlaken and it was absolutely breathtaking. Be sure to go with a licenced guide or tour company. We recommend this one.

5. Explore Lucerne

Located in central Switzerland, Lucerne is a charming town set on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It’s a place dripping with history, gorgeous views, many world-class restaurants, and cultural attractions.

A visit to the city’s medieval old town center is a must. Take a stroll along the 700-year-old Chapel Bridge for a bit of history and panoramic views of the Reuss River. And history lovers will want to explore the medieval walls of Museggmauer with its nine towers.

places to visit while in switzerland

To see works by artists such as Picasso and Klee, visit the Rosengart Collection. And Lucerne is home to the Richard Wagner Museum, a 15th-century residence of the renowned composer turned museum. Or shop boutiques and international brands in Lucerne’s old town.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by Lucerne’s surroundings. Why not take a cruise on Lake Lucerne to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from the water? Or take a day trip to nearby Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi for a day of hiking or mountain biking.

Additionally, Lucerne’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of Switzerland. From here, you can embark on scenic train journeys, such as the GoldenPass Line or the Wilhelm Tell Express.

6. Visit the Jungfraujoch

Take a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” At an elevation of over 11,000 feet, you’ll enjoy absolutely breathtaking views and a variety of landmarks and attractions. This isn’t just a fun train ride to the top of a mountain! I would plan 3-4 hours here for the full experience.

places to visit while in switzerland

From Kleine Scheidegg, the cogwheel train will start its 20-minute ascent through tunnels and across viaducts, gradually climbing to the highest railway station in Europe! Upon reaching Jungfraujoch, you’ll step out onto the observation deck to take in the moving beauty all around you.

Spread out before you will be the winding Aletsch Glacier. This is one of the best sites to see a sweeping view of the largest glacier in the Alps. Then go inside the complex, which is home to Sphinx Observatory and the fun Ice Palace.

Visitors to Jungfraujoch can also try snow tubing or take a guided tour of the glacier. And the complex features various restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Indulge in traditional Swiss fondue or authentic Indian food while gazing out over the peaks!

And if you’re coming from Zurich, this day trip to Jungfraujoch Zurich is an excellent choice. Or if you’re staying in Interlaken, this is a great day trip by train.

7. Discover the Old Towns

Exploring the historic old towns of Switzerland’s cities, such as Bern, Zurich, Geneva, and Bellinzona, is like stepping back in time! These cities offer a glimpse into Switzerland’s past while boasting charming architecture, bustling squares, and tourist-friendly things to do. And if you have a limited amount of time, focusing on one of these cities is a great way to get a taste of Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, features a well-preserved old town dating back to the 12th century. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can stroll along the cobbled streets and marvel at the famous medieval Clock Tower. Visit the Cathedral of Bern or explore the Bern Historical Museum.

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and presents a blend of old and new. Its old town offers classic charm with narrow alleys, busy markets, and pretty squares. You can visit 12th-century cathedrals and then hit up the vibrant Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, with its high-end brands, trendy cafes, and gift shops!

In Geneva, the heart of the city is the Old Town. Admire St. Peter’s Cathedral and see the giant Mur des Réformateurs outside the University of Geneva. There are also excellent museums all throughout Old Town. The Maison Tavel is the oldest house in Geneva, now a museum showcasing the city’s history. It’s a must for anyone visiting Geneva.

8. Enjoy Swiss Chocolate and Cheese

No visit to Switzerland is complete without indulging in two of its most renowned culinary delights: Swiss chocolate and cheese! Switzerland offers a variety of indulgent experiences for anyone who appreciates the country’s unique food culture.

places to visit while in switzerland

Swiss chocolate is renowned worldwide for its quality and craftsmanship. One of the most fun things to do in Switzerland is go on a chocolate tasting. This Geneva chocolate walking tour allows you to experience the city’s old town while sampling a variety of chocolate creations!

Cheese lovers are in for a treat! Switzerland boasts an impressive variety of artisanal cheeses. The Alpine regions are most famous for their flavorful cheeses, made from the milk of cows grazing on lush mountain pastures. If you have the chance, visit one of the traditional cheese dairies in the countryside. You’ll witness the cheese-making process firsthand and enjoy fresh samples.

places to visit while in switzerland

And for an authentic Swiss experience, trying fondue is a must. This melted cheese dish served with crusty bread is a long-standing Swiss tradition. Restaurants across the country, especially in the Alpine regions, offer fondue as a specialty. It’s served as a main dish and should only be paired with a dry, white wine! Try it after skiing or as a meal with loved ones.

Also, several chocolate and cheese festivals take place throughout the year in Switzerland! There’s the Salon du Chocolat held every March in Zurich and the Swiss Cheese Festival held in May in Gruyères.

9. Take a Boat Ride on Swiss Lakes

A lake cruise is a wonderful way to enjoy a day of sightseeing while experiencing the tranquility of Switzerland’s lakes. There are thousands of lakes scattered across Switzerland, each offering its unique charm.

places to visit while in switzerland

Lake Geneva, nestled between the Swiss and French Alps, is Europe’s largest alpine lake and a popular choice for a boat ride. You’ll cruise by picturesque villages, vineyards, lakeside towns, and historic landmarks like Chillon Castle. Lake Lucerne , surrounded by towering mountains, is a relaxing trip with unbeatable views!

There’s Lake Zurich, offering a look at bustling Zurich from a different perspective. And then there’s Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, both in the Bernese Oberland region. These lakes are known for their glass-top waters and mountain backdrops, making for a tranquil ride.

10. Visit Chillon Castle

One of the top places to visit in Switzerland is the historic Chillon Castle. It will be a highlight of your travels! Located on the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux, Chillon Castle is a fortress from the Middle Ages that offers a captivating look into Switzerland’s history.

places to visit while in switzerland

Inside the castle, you’ll explore the halls, courtyards, and towers at your own pace. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture and walk through haunting underground dungeons. During your visit, you can walk the lakeside promenade and garden, which offer sweeping views of Lake Geneva and the mountains beyond.

There’s an entrance fee for each guest. Chillon Castle is open year-round but with different hours in each season. You can take self-guided audio tours in a variety of languages or book a guided tour. Both offer excellent insight into the castle’s significance in Swiss history.

11. Discover Rhine Falls

Rhine Falls, located near Schaffhausen along the Switzerland/Germany border in the north, is one of Europe’s largest waterfalls. It’s a landmark you have to see in person and offers a range of activities for visitors close by. If you’re in Zurich and want to see the falls, consider booking a tour with transportation .

places to visit while in switzerland

The main attraction is, of course, the majestic waterfall itself. You can stand on the viewing platforms and witness the thundering cascades, reaching 23 meters high! It’s an experience to feel the mist on your face and feel the sheer force of nature.

For an even more memorable experience, during the summer months, you can take a boat ride that will take you close to the falls! Or explore nearby pathways that offer different perspectives of the falls. This way is definitely more serene and much less crowded.

When you visit Rhine Falls, you’ll arrive at Schloss Laufen. This 1000-year-old castle has been turned into a tourist hub for visitors to the falls. Inside, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy the view while you eat or shop for souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

12. Explore the Swiss Riviera

Between the lakeside towns of Lausanne to Montreux is a gorgeous region known as the Swiss Riviera. Cradling the northern shore of Lake Geneva, you’ll find hillside vineyards, sprawling historic villages, luxury experiences, and a variety of outdoor activities.

places to visit while in switzerland

A Switzerland must-see, Montreux is a highlight of the Swiss Riviera. Explore the Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the lake, or stroll through the charming Old Town with its quaint shops and cafes. It’s also famous for its annual Jazz Festival.

At the eastern end of the Swiss Riviera, Lausanne is home to a handful of top-notch museums, art galleries, and theaters. You can visit the Olympic Museum or wander through the beautiful sculpture gardens of Olympic Park.

The Swiss Riviera is also renowned for its vineyards and wine production. Take a tour of the Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Or enjoy panoramic views of the cobalt-blue lake while taking advantage of all the water sports available to you on Geneva Lake! You can even take a vintage paddle steamer across the Swiss Riviera.

13. Attend a Music Festival

Every year, Switzerland hosts a diverse range of international events and music concerts centered around every genre of music. You’ll have an unforgettable experience with other music lovers. Also, these events offer unique destinations and opportunities to see a different side of Swiss culture!

places to visit while in switzerland

Zurich Openair is a 5-day event in August with a star-studded lineup across 3 stages. Or you can try to get tickets to the exclusive Verbier Festival in July. Here, you’ll experience international classic music while relaxing in the mountain resort!

In the Swiss Riviera, there’s the Montreux Jazz Festival in June. Soak in the stunning setting while you attend all kinds of concerts and free stages set along Geneva Lake. You can also head the Lucerne Festival, a summer-long event featuring world-class classical performances.

Another event that draws visitors from around the world is OpenAir St. Gallen, at the end of June. This 3-day rock festival is one of the largest and oldest music festivals in Switzerland! Or enjoy the charming city of Bern while you attend Gurtenfestival, another massive annual international music festival.

14. Visit the Christmas Markets

During the holiday season, exploring Switzerland’s Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in Switzerland! You shop for unique gifts, traditional handcrafted items, and delicious treats. Some of the most popular Christmas markets are in Zurich, Basel, and Montreux. We lived in Basel during the holidays and can attest that the markets are so much fun! It’s more than just shopping. There are usually rides for kids and lots of great street food!

European Christmas Markets

The atmosphere of these markets is truly magical. Stalls are covered with twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating an inviting ambiance that instantly gets you into the holiday spirit! Pick up hand-painted ornaments, sip on mulled wine, or sample roasted chestnuts while you shop.

Christmas markets offer live entertainment, including carol singers and musicians, adding to the festive charm. Children can go on carousel rides and meet Santa Claus, making it fun for the whole family! And the sense of community at these markets is palpable as locals and visitors gather together to celebrate.

 More Must-Do Activities in Switzerland for Thrill Seekers

Once you’ve seen the best of Switzerland, there’s more! Below are just a few heart-pumping experiences every kind of outdoor lover will want to add to their Switzerland bucket list.

15. Go Hiking

Many travelers visit Switzerland just to spend weeks hiking! It’s a no-brainer, exploring a myriad of trails that showcase the country’s natural beauty. One of the top things to do in Switzerland in summer, hikes are a great way to see a variety of landscapes.

places to visit while in switzerland

And you don’t have to be a mountaineer to enjoy hiking in Switzerland. The Aare Gorge Trail is an easy hike with a clear path through a dramatic gorge near Meiringen. And inside the Swiss National Park, the Champlönch – Il Fuorn Trail is a wonderful nature walk that ends at a historic chateau-style hotel and restaurant.

Or enjoy the lush countryside along the moderate Lavaux Vineyards Trail . Overlooking Lake Geneva, this picturesque hike winds through terraced vineyards and charming villages. And a notable challenging hike is the Rhine Gorge River Hike, often referred to as the Swiss Grand Canyon. Take the route from the Rhine Gorge viewpoint down into the gorge and along the river for awe-inspiring views all around you!

During winter, some hiking trails transform into cross-country ski trails, offering a different way to experience Switzerland’s beauty. It’s an exhilarating experience, gliding through snowy landscapes, surrounded by pristine forests and mountains.

16. Try Skiing and Snowboarding

Of course, one of the most popular things to do in Switzerland is skiing in the Swiss Alps. You can visit a world-famous ski resort, like Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz. They provide a range of slopes suitable for all levels of expertise, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs. There’s something for everyone!

places to visit while in switzerland

Switzerland attracts winter sports enthusiasts from around the world, with its picturesque alpine scenery and well-developed infrastructure. Swiss resorts are known for their excellent ski facilities. This includes state-of-the-art lifts, well-maintained slopes, and professional ski schools offering lessons for all ages and abilities.

Equipment rental services are readily available, but that’s just the beginning of the amenities that Switzerland’s ski resorts offer. Experience stunning mountain views and charming alpine villages. You’ll find cozy mountain huts where you can indulge in Swiss fare and après-ski activities! Book services at the spa, enjoy drinks at a slope-side bar, or sample piping-hot cuisine at a restaurant after a day skiing.

17. Mountain Biking

Mountain biking enthusiasts can take advantage of miles of trails through a variety of landscapes throughout Switzerland. Enjoy stunning views inside the Swiss National Park or take in the rolling terrain of the Swiss Plateau. And the Swiss Alps serve as a dramatic backdrop for mountain biking.

places to visit while in switzerland

Switzerland’s mountain biking trails cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders seeking a challenge. Whether you prefer technical singletracks, scenic forest paths, or epic cross-country trails, you’ll find a trail to suit your style.

Some popular destinations for mountain biking include Verbier, Davos, Arosa, and the Engadin region. But throughout the country, you’ll find easily accessible bike parks and rental services. Many resorts also offer bike-friendly lifts and gondolas, making it convenient to access the higher elevations for thrilling descents!

18. Stand-up Paddleboarding, Kayaking, or Canoeing

Did you know that Switzerland offers fantastic opportunities for SUP boarding, kayaking, and canoeing? With 1500 lakes, you’re sure to find some that are ideal for these water sports, including Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich.

places to visit while in switzerland

It’s a memorable way to see the country’s many pristine lakes, rivers, and stunning alpine landscapes. Float across the calm waters, soak in the picturesque scenery, and enjoy a unique perspective of the mountains and lakeside towns.

You can also go kayaking along the Rhine River and the Aare. Navigate through the river’s twists and turns, encounter gentle rapids, and enjoy sightseeing along the way.

Rental services and guided tours are available all over. This is a great way for everyone to enjoy these water sports, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced paddler seeking a guide through the countryside.

19. Via Ferrata

A Via Ferrata is one of the top things to do in Switzerland for thrill seekers due to the unique experience it offers! The sport combines the elements of rock climbing and hiking. With the aid of fixed cables, ladders, and bridges, you’ll transverse vertical cliffs, scale mountains, and conquer challenging terrain!

places to visit while in switzerland

Switzerland has several Via Ferrata routes, one of the best being in Mürren, with its stunning views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Interestingly, Via Ferratas are a relatively modern addition to the long list of Swiss alpine sports. They actually originated in the Dolomites in Italy and have gained popularity in recent years.

Many outdoor enthusiasts add Via Ferrata trips to their Switzerland bucket list because they provide physical exertion, push boundaries, test endurance, and give the ultimate sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner looking for an adrenaline rush, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure on a Via Ferrata.

Wellness Culture Things to Do in Switzerland

While you explore Switzerland, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the country’s established wellness culture. Switzerland’s thermal springs and clean mountain air have long been recognized for their healing properties.

Today, the country is known for its spa resorts and wellness centers that offer a wide array of treatments and focus on holistic well-being. Below you can read about some of the best wellness tourism experiences in Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

20. Swiss Thermal Spas

Switzerland boasts some of the best thermal spas in the world. They originate from the country’s natural thermal springs, renowned for their healing properties and therapeutic benefits.

Switzerland is home to numerous thermal baths and spa retreats built around them. You can relax in natural hot springs, indulge in soothing spa treatments, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

One of the most popular thermal spas is Tamina Therme in Bad Ragaz, cradled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Its thermal waters have been flowing for over 700 years! There’s also the Leukerbad Therme, the largest thermal spa resort in the Alps.

Or for unique places to visit in Switzerland, there’s Hürlimannbad & Spa Zürich., located in a former brewery in the heart of Zurich. Soak in the rooftop pool while enjoying panoramic views of the city or book any number of wellness treatments and massages.

21. Alpine Wellness Hikes

Different than traditional hiking, alpine wellness hiking is a gentle way to move your body and enjoy the natural beauty of Switzerland. A huge part of wellness culture is mindfulness of your well-being and looking for opportunities to nourish your body.

places to visit while in switzerland

On an alpine wellness hike, you’ll trek through alpine trails. Purposefully breathe in the fresh alpine air and contemplate the peacefulness of the mountains.

Some wellness hikes may include yoga sessions or meditation stop so you can connect with yourself and nature on a deeper level. Enjoy the benefits of low-impact exercise and the healing power of nature.

You can join guided hikes that focus on mindfulness, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Or stay at a wellness resort that includes walking trails you can explore on your own.

22. Alpine Herbal Remedies

Discover the traditional Swiss knowledge of herbal remedies and natural healing. Learn about the beneficial properties of alpine herbs, visit herb gardens, and explore local herbal medicine traditions.

23. Wellness Hotels and Resorts

When you’re looking for wellness tourism experiences, consider booking a stay at one of Switzerland’s world-class wellness hotels. One of the best things to do in Switzerland, they offer luxurious accommodations and a long list of unique wellness experiences. Check out the best places to stay in Switzerland to find some of these great resorts.

These hotels are designed to provide a holistic retreat, combining luxurious amenities, soothing spa facilities, and healthy cuisine. You can enjoy serene surroundings while you attend activities like yoga, meditation, and wellness workshops.

Bad Zurzach is a renowned spa town in Switzerland, home to a variety of exceptional wellness resorts and hotels. For over 100 years, the thermal salt springs have made this a destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Stay at one of the town’s holistic-centered hotels, like Parkhotel Bad Zurach . Onsite you have access to a wellness center and spa, including an indoor thermal pool. But you’re also within walking distance of several wellness centers, including the sprawling SPA Medical Wellness Center.

Visiting Switzerland FAQ

What is switzerland known for.

Switzerland is that the country has several claims to fame, depending on your interest! There are the majestic Alps, with its stunning peaks, waterfalls, glacial lakes, and world-classing ski resorts. The country is known for its culinary scene, but especially for fondue and chocolate! Switzerland is also the world capital of watch production and boasts an influential spa industry.

How many days do you need in Switzerland?

If you can aim for a week or longer in Switzerland, do it. This will allow you to travel inside the country and really get a feel for everything in this amazing place! But you can also enjoy a quality 3- to 4-day trip if you focus on 1 region and stick to major landmarks. I highly recommend using our week-long Switzerland Itinerary to help you organize your trip and maximize your time.

What is the best month to go to Switzerland?

If you plan to visit Switzerland for winter sports, you’ll find the best conditions from December through February. For the cheapest rates and mild weather, aim for May or September. However, Switzerland offers an amazing experience all year round! Come June through August for the best summer weather and lush landscapes. Or if fall foliage makes your heart sing, early fall is the best time to plan a trip.

What are some of the top things to do in Switzerland?

No Switzerland visit is complete without exploring the Swiss Alps, whether you’re hiking the iconic Matterhorn or taking a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express. Experience Swiss culture by visiting charming cities like Zurich and Lucerne. Every visitor should delight in Swiss cuisine, indulging in traditional dishes like fondue. And soak in the beauty of nature with a cruise on Lake Geneva or to see Rhine Falls.

What Will You Add to Your Switzerland Bucket List?

Switzerland is unlike any other place you’ve been to! The country offers a wide range of activities and attractions that make it a top destination for travelers.

And you don’t have to pick, with so many experiences within your reach. You can explore the Swiss Alps or visit historic cities like Bern and Zurich. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and take scenic train rides in the mountains.

You’re sure to find things to do in Switzerland to create lasting memories. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be prepared for a one-of-a-kind adventure!

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12 Incredible Experiences You Need to Have While in Switzerland (Includes Switzerland’s Most Beautiful Village)

most beautiful place in the world switzerland

Deciding what to do in Switzerland can be completely overwhelming.  How do you decide exactly what to do and where to go in one of the most scenic destinations in the world? 

Switzerland is filled with some of the most unique experiences for all ages and we’ve curated 12 of the most incredible experiences you need to have while in Switzerland.

You can also check out our money-saving tips for Switzerland and 6 Free Things to do while there.

Hammetschwand Elevator

Known as the highest exterior elevator in Europe , the Hammetschwand lift shoots up more than 500 feet in under one minute! Great for thrill-seekers and adventurers alike, the ride up is exhilarating and one to be experienced at least once. 

places to visit while in switzerland

This is one of the best ways to get stunning views of Lake Lucerne if you dare.  The price for the Hammetschwand Elevator ticket is 18CHF or approximately 20USD depending on the currency exchange at the time of visiting. 

They are open from 9:30 am to 6 pm but check with them as hours may differ due to COVID-19.  This definitely makes our list of the 12 incredible experiences you need to have while in Switzerland. 

Accommodation : Where to Stay Near the Hammetschwand Elevator

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland : Tours, Sightseeing, and Cruises

Berggasthaus Aescher Wildkirchli

Chances are you likely haven’t set foot inside a 170-year-old Swiss guesthouse .  The Berggasthaus Aescher Wildkirchli is a guesthouse and a restaurant that is built into the side of a mountain.  That alone is reason enough for you to be curious about this place.  The views of and from the guesthouse are stunning and one of the most incredible experiences you will have while in Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

The guesthouse is no longer taking guests but only operates the restaurant with delicious food. Take note, they are only open from May to the end of October. Berggasthaus Aescher Wildkirchli is accessible by the Wasseraunen-Ebenalp cable car for 27CHF or a steep hike along the mountain path.  Both modes are equally enthralling. 

While you’re there, you can also visit the Wildkirchli caves close by which are said to have been inhabited by Neanderthals some 40,000 years ago. The caves are now a site of a hermitage for monks.

Accommodation : Where to Stay Near the Berggasthaus Aescher Wildkirchli

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland : Outdoor Activities

Trift Bridge (German: Triftbrücke)

We like the feeling of creating our own Indiana Jones moments so if you’re anything like us, you’ll love this pedestrian-only suspension bridge in the Swiss Alps. There is a pre-requisite though and that is to be brave.

places to visit while in switzerland

Great for adrenaline junkies, the bridge stretches over 557 feet and is 328 feet high poised over Lake Triftsee. It was originally built in 2004 for hikers to reach a hut which was blocked by a glacier and then reconstructed in 2009.

This bridge is to be experienced as soon as possible since the glacier is melting. You will need to take a cable car up for 10 minutes.

Pro Tip : The best time to visit is during the weekday as the gondola is small and there are usually long queues during the weekend.

Accommodation : Where to Stay Near the Trift Bridge Hiking Path

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland : Arts and Culture

Deinkick Langenbruck – Solarbob & Seilpark

One of the unique experiences to have while in Switzerland is the Solarbob . This is not only great for kids, but also to let your inner child out.

The Solarbob is the only sled run in Europe with a 540° circular loop operated only by solar energy. We really love the fact that they combine both fun and ecology.

places to visit while in switzerland

You can sit individually or hop in as a couple to zoom down the loop. There is one lever you use to control the speed of the sled and take our word for it, you’ll want to go full speed to enjoy the ride thoroughly. It is located in Langebruck and only 35 minutes from Basel.

Pro Tip: Mount a GoPro to your head or chest to capture the stunning views while being pulled up by the lift and then sliding down the loop.

Accommodation : Where to Stay Near Deinkick Langenbruck – Solarbob & Seilpark

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland : Food and Drink

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva has to be one of the most beautiful lakes we’ve laid eyes on. I mean, Holy Wow! It is the largest and deepest (1017 ft.) Alpine lake in Europe shared between Switzerland and France overlooking the Swiss Alps.

Filled with scenic views, luxurious hotels and historic mansions, a visit to Lake Geneva is one of the incredible experiences you need to have while in Switzerland.

places to visit while in switzerland

You will have free access to most public beaches at Lake Geneva but some may charge a small fee for extra facilities.

Accommodation : Where to Stay In and Near Lake Geneva

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland : Tickets and Passes

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is Switzerland’s most beautiful village tucked away in the lush green valley in the Swiss Alps. It is no wonder that a lot of Bollywood movies have chosen this pristine location for their musical scenes.

Lauterbrunnen is also known as the waterfalls village and has over 72 waterfalls some of which are over 1000-ft high.

lauterbrunnen 12 incredible experiences you need to have while in switzerland

Pro Tip: Walk through the Wasserweg trail to see most of the waterfalls.

It will take 3-4 hours or more if you’re a photographer, to walk along the Wasserweg trail which is a relatively flat route. Lauterbrunnen offers great nature therapy and we highly recommend visiting post the Coronavirus pandemic.

You’ll get to experience the enormous Spissbach Falls and Staubbach Falls and the glacial waters of Trümmelbach Falls which flow through the mountain crevices along with so many other beautiful scenery.

Accommodation : Where to Stay In Lauterbrunnen

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: Unique Experiences

Jungfrau is a breathtakingly gorgeous mountain summit that is a must-visit when you are in Switzerland. The Jungfrau is approximately 14,000 feet tall.

This mountain is part of the Bern Alps and consists mostly of granite. However, the “northern wall is exposed to limestone from the Mesozoic Jurassic. First-generation is estimated to be about 180 million years ago.”

places to visit while in switzerland

The trip is made via train and can be a bit pricey around 165USD but the striking views are worth it.

Pro Tip: Just below the Sphinx Observatory and above the Ice Palace is the Plateau where you can get an unobstructed view of the Jungfrau and the best views of the valley down below.

Accommodation : Where to Stay in the Jungfrau Region

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: Classes and Workshops

Interlaken is a resort town in central Switzerland built on a narrow valley between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Even though Interlaken is a relatively small town, tourists flock here for views of the emerald-colored waters of the lakes.

places to visit while in switzerland

The lakes are so calm and serene. Interlaken is also great for hikers and skiers as there are numerous trails to choose from.

A great tourist attraction is the tandem paragliding that they offer around the city center. This is a great way to get in the views of the lake from a birds-eye view.

Accommodation : Where to Stay in Interlaken

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: Family Friendly Activities

Rhaetian Railway: Albula/Bernina Railway Line

If you’re looking for one of the most stunning scenic routes between Switzerland and Italy via train, then the Rhaetian Railway showcasing the Albula / Bernina Landscapes will have you awe-struck.

What’s even more fascinating is that the Albula/ Bernina landscapes which you’ll be passing through was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2008.

places to visit while in switzerland

The train ride runs on a 4-hour, 90-mile journey between Switzerland and Italy. The train tours through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, with steep Alpine gradients.

The Rhaetian Railway is undoubtedly one of the most incredible experiences you need to have while in Switzerland. Find out how much it will cost for different routes on the RhB website.

Ruinaulta: Grand Swiss Canyon

The Ruinaulta (also known as the Grand Swiss Canyon) was formed 10,000 years ago in the Anterior Rhine Valley due to an enormous pre-historic rockslide known as the Flims Rockslide.

Stunning formations and emerald waters surrounded by Alpine trees will have you in awe. There are multiple ways you can reach the canyon. You can hike, take a boat ride, take the train or bike.

places to visit while in switzerland

We recommend taking a hike (difficulty level is easy) over to the stunning viewpoint overlooking the Rhine Gorge. On your walk through the forest, you’ll be met with beautiful flower fields that can make for some cool Instagram photos.

If you are traveling with little ones, there’s a playground at the entrance of the hike and you’ll find a restaurant with delicious food in the middle with lovely views. If it’s a hot day, combine this with a swim at the gorgeous  Caumasee.

Pro Tip : You can hike down to the river below to get a different perspective of the formations. You can also combine this with a dip in the stunning Caumasee lake. From there, you can walk along the river to get to the train station.

Let the thrill seeker in you out by taking a ride in one of Europe’s steepest funiculars in the Swiss Alps. The Gelmer Funicular (Gelmerbahn) is Switzerland’s mountain coaster that takes you through beautiful landscapes and rock formations in the Grimsel mountain at a 106 percent slope!

places to visit while in switzerland

This truly makes our list of the 12 incredible things to do while in Switzerland. It can be a little scary if you’re afraid of heights, but if you’ve made it that to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, then why not get out of your comfort zone for 10 minutes of the ride.

places to visit while in switzerland

After you’re done with the ride, you can spend some time walking and picnicking around the Lake Gelmersee. Gelmersee is more of a hydroelectric reservoir that looks like a beautiful lake and you can actually visit it for free by hiking up an hour from the parking lot.

Pro Tip: Be sure to purchase tickets for the Gelmerbahn in advance to avoid waiting up to 3-5 hours during high peak season.

Accommodation : Where to Stay in Grimselstrasse

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: History and Culture

The Matterhorn

If it’s one place you shouldn’t miss visiting, it’s the Matterhorn in Zermatt. The Matterhorn is one of Switzerland’s tallest mountains in the Alps. It sits between the Italian and Swiss border towering at 14,700 feet.

The Matterhorn is featured in many postcards and magazines but it is much more exciting to see it in real life.

You can reach this mighty peak from Zermatt, a charming village with exceptional hotels and restaurants. Zermatt is unique in that it has banned motorized vehicles to preserve the air quality and serene ambiance.

highest mountain in europe

If you’re looking for the overall experience, then spend your day at the Matterhorn with plenty of options for outdoor activities .

Pro Tip : If you’d like to capture some stunning views of the Matterhorn, then take the Gornergrat rack railway from Zermatt. The Gornergrat is the highest open-air railway in Europe as shown in the last photo.

cow at the matterhorn from the 12 incredible experiences you need to have while in switzerland

Accommodation : Where to Stay in Zermatt

Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: Honeymoon Activities

These are only some of the 12 Incredible Experiences You Need To Have While in Switzerland. We hope you enjoyed reading as this stunning destination has a lot to offer for everyone.

Please review the CDC Guidelines for Switzerland before booking your travel.

KEEP READING! The latest on WeWanderlustCo

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Serenity, Splendour And Surprises: Best Things To Do In Switzerland

From skiing in the swiss alps to indulging in delectable swiss cuisine, and much more, explore our list of best things to do in switzerland..

By: Punita Malhotra Published: Mar 25, 2024 02:00 PM UTC

Serenity, Splendour And Surprises: Best Things To Do In Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland – where dreams meet reality and memories are made to last a lifetime. Dubbed the “Playground of Europe”, this perennial favourite beckons visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating adventures, and rich cultural experiences. From the vibrant cities of Zurich and Geneva to the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, and from the serene beauty of Lucerne to the adventurous spirit of Interlaken, Switzerland offers a diverse tapestry of experiences for every type of traveller. This travel guide will help you discover the top attractions and things to do in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Switzerland 

Switzerland is a year-round destination, with every season offering its own distinct appeal. As spring graces the land with pleasant weather, wander around the delightful cities, attend local festivals, and unwind in sun-kissed cafes while savouring regional specialities.

In the summer, Switzerland transforms into a playground of deep valleys, alpine meadows, and tranquil lakes , inviting adventure enthusiasts to embark on active outdoor adventures like hiking or biking. Thrill-seekers can also indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities like paragliding, mountaineering and whitewater rafting. As winter blankets the country in snow, the Swiss Alps become a haven for skiers and snowboarders, boasting world-class slopes to test your skills. Picture-perfect evenings are spent in cosy mountain chalets, sipping mulled wine by a crackling fire.

Also read | A Taste Of Winter Luxury: Guide To The World’s Finest Ski Resorts

Best things to do in Switzerland 

Switzerland has a wide range of exciting activities that appeal to every type of traveller. Choose the one that best suits your taste:

  • Ascend the iconic Matterhorn, one of the most famous peaks in the Swiss Alps. Whether you hike around the base of the mountain or take a cable car to the peak, stunning vistas are guaranteed. Read our story on this Swiss castle hotel with the best views .
  • Embark on a relaxing boat cruise on the tranquil Lake Geneva to admire the shores dotted with vineyards, castles, and charming villages.
  • Explore the history of transportation at the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne through interactive exhibits on trains, planes, automobiles, and even space travel.
  • Hike through the Lauterbrunnen Valley to marvel at sheer cliffs, gurgling waterfalls and picturesque villages.
  • Visit Zurich’s renowned chocolate shops and take a tasting tour to sample some of Switzerland’s finest chocolates.
  • Soak up classic views of the Swiss countryside with little villages, lush meadows and majestic mountains aboard the GoldenPass Line, which runs from Montreux to Lucerne.
  • Lose yourself in the medieval streets of Bern’s Old Town. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes rare treasures like the Zytglogge clock tower and the Einstein Museum.
  • Experience world-class skiing in the car-free resort town of Zermatt, located at the base of the Matterhorn.
  • Explore the life and work of Charlie Chaplin’s former home at the Chaplin’s World Museum in the Swiss town of Vevey.
  • Unwind in the thermal baths of Leukerbad, one of Switzerland’s largest thermal spa resorts, set against a breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Exploring Switzerland with family and kids 

things to do in switzerland

Switzerland is a dream destination for families, with numerous activities for people of all ages. One of the best family-friendly things to do in Switzerland is visiting Jungfraujoch. On the “Top of Europe”, you can revel in uninterrupted views of the towering Alps, indulge in summer snow tubing and go for first walker-friendly hikes. Another popular activity that will please families is the toboggan runs on Mount Pilatus near Lucerne. Among the best things to do in Switzerland is to book a chocolate tour to learn about the history of chocolate and create your own chocolate bar. Connect with nature with a train ride through the Swiss countryside to soak up the incredible landscape views.

Exploring Switzerland at night 

Ski slope in Verbier

Night owls, rejoice! Whether you’re in search of vibrant nightlife, cultural experiences, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Switzerland has something for everyone after sundown. Take a deep dive into vibrant nightlife in Zurich’s bars, clubs, and live music venues. For a touch of glamour, test your luck at the Grand Casino’s game tables and slot machines in Geneva. Stoke your fascination for astronomy with a spectacular stargazing experience at a high-altitude location in the Swiss Alps. Active adventures include going night skiing or snowboarding in Verbier . And for those who prefer to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, Switzerland is a paradise of therapeutic thermal spas.

Book your stay at Badrutt's Palace Hotel St Moritz via Booking.com

Book your stay at Badrutt's Palace Hotel via Agoda.com

Free things to do in Switzerland 

Swiss National Museum

Switzerland may be famous for being expensive, but numerous free activities allow you to experience the best of the country without breaking the bank. A vast network of hiking trails across the country opens up the Alps and the Swiss countryside, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

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Cities around the country also offer complimentary walking tours, opening up pages of incredible stories about the history and architecture of the town. Some places like Zurich provide free bike rentals, allowing you to explore on two wheels, soaking in the city at your pace without spending a fortune. Additionally, Swiss museums and cultural attractions occasionally open their doors for free, offering visitors the chance to explore without any cost.

Things to do at Switzerland Airport 

things to do in switzerland

Switzerland’s airports are tailored to transform layovers or delays into pleasant experiences, offering various entertainment options. Zurich Airport boasts a shopping mall with over 80 shops and restaurants, providing travellers with ample opportunities to indulge in retail therapy and culinary delights. For those seeking relaxation, the airport boasts a wellness centre where visitors can enjoy rejuvenating massages or spa treatments. Similarly, Geneva Airport offers a range of shops and restaurants, along with amenities such as a children’s play area and a fitness centre, ensuring that travellers of all ages and interests can make the most of their time during layovers or delays.

Book your stay at The Dolder Grand via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Dolder Grand via Agoda.com

Things to do in Switzerland for couples

Chillon Castle

Prepare for a day of togetherness with a leisurely cruise on Lake Lucerne, enveloped by the majestic mountains in the backdrop. One of the recommended things for couples to do in Switzerland is to plan a visit to Montreux. Embrace the slow life by strolling along the flower-lined promenade of Lake Geneva with the gentle lapping of the water serenading your hearts. An evening at Chillon Castle is the stuff of dreams, with beautiful illumination creating a magical ambience. Take it up a notch with a hot air balloon ride over the Swiss Alps.

Exploring Switzerland on a budget 

things to do in switzerland

You can conveniently experience the country’s beauty and culture within a reasonable budget. Take advantage of the country’s efficient public transportation system to affordably navigate urban centres and natural landscapes. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats and free or discounted entry to numerous museums and attractions. Sample delicious fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other Swiss delicacies at the local food markets. Consider staying in affordable hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb rentals, which are available, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

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Travelling during the spring and fall shoulder seasons can further reduce accommodation costs and minimise crowds. Additionally, take advantage of city cards and discount passes to save on transportation, attractions, and dining expenses. With careful planning and resourcefulness, you can enjoy the best of Switzerland without exceeding your budget.

Best shopping places in Switzerland 

Bahnhofstrasse

Switzerland is renowned for its diverse shopping scene , catering to all tastes and preferences. In Zurich, immerse yourself in luxury shopping along the iconic Bahnhofstrasse, renowned for its exclusive boutiques, high-end fashion brands, and jewellers. Geneva boasts a reputation for its prestigious watch shops lining the Rue du Rhône. Explore the charming Kramgasse Street in Bern’s historic Old Town for authentic Swiss watches, chocolates, and souvenirs.

In St. Moritz, indulge in a shopping spree along Via Serlas, where designer boutiques and luxury stores abound. Meanwhile, Höheweg, Interlaken’s main thoroughfare, offers numerous shops catering to outdoor enthusiasts, featuring Swiss watches, chocolates, and outdoor gear.

During the holiday season, immerse yourself in the festive spirit at some of Europe’s best Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Montreux, where you can discover handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and tantalizing local delicacies. Whether you’re seeking luxury brands, traditional Swiss goods, or unique souvenirs, Switzerland promises a memorable shopping experience.

Book your stay at Beau-Rivage Palace via Booking.com

Book your stay at Beau-Rivage Palace via Agoda.com

shop the best travel experiences here

(Feature Image Credit: Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock)

Related: 15 Beautiful Places To Visit In Switzerland

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is the budget required for a trip to Switzerland? Switzerland ranks among the most expensive European countries. Expect average daily costs to range from USD 100-150, covering accommodation, meals, and transportation.

– What are the best cultural places to visit in Switzerland? Switzerland offers a rich cultural tapestry, from the historic landmarks of Lucerne to the charming wooden houses of Appenzell and the renowned watchmaking tradition of Neuchâtel.

– Are there any beaches in Switzerland? While Switzerland is landlocked, Badi Enge in Zurich and Lido di Lugano on Lake Lugano provide serene beachside retreats.

– Is there any dress code in Switzerland? How to dress in Switzerland? Switzerland doesn’t have a specific dress code but opt for casual and comfortable attire, ideally layered to adapt to changing weather. Consider adding a stylish coat or formal shoes for special occasions.

– What are the best things to buy in Switzerland? Indulge in Swiss chocolate, cheese, a versatile Swiss army knife, or exquisite handicrafts. For the ultimate luxury, nothing compares to an elegant Swiss timepiece.

– What are the best festivals to celebrate in Switzerland? Switzerland hosts a variety of vibrant festivals, including the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, the Zurich Street Parade, and the International Balloon Festival of Château-d’Oex in January, along with the festive Fête de l’Escalade in Geneva in December.

– What are the best adventures to take in Switzerland? Explore scenic hiking trails through mountain peaks, alpine meadows, or lush forests. Experience world-class skiing on the slopes of the Swiss Alps, or for a thrilling adventure, consider whitewater rafting in the Bernese Oberland region.

– What are the best hotels in Switzerland? Consider staying at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz, the Dolder Grand in Zurich, or the Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne for unparalleled luxury and impeccable service.

– What are the nearby cities in Switzerland that can be explored by road? Switzerland’s compact size makes it easy to explore nearby cities by road. Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Lucerne are all conveniently located within driving distance of each other.

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25+ Best Things To Do in Switzerland [in 2023]

At the heart of the soaring Alps, Switzerland glistens like a gem – pure beauty and dazzle to enchant both first-time visitors and long-time admirers. From foodies embarking on an epic quest to find the country’s best cheeses and chocolates to avid adrenaline junkies looking for the next thrill, every traveler has a reason to add Switzerland to their bucket list, time and time again.

Switzerland is increasingly an all-seasons hotspot, so there’s no time to visit like the present. Planning the ultimate trip to Switzerland? This guide to the best things to do in Switzerland includes all the best places to visit, must-see attractions, and cultural events you won’t want to miss for a memorable trip.

things to do in switzerland

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Best Things To Do in Switzerland

Switzerland is a surprisingly small country, and with its great public transportation system you can easily explore most of Switzerland in just one trip. However, there are many more memorable sights and things to do in Switzerland than you might expect, which really makes it a destination that has something for everything.

Looking for a few quick top recommendations from this list that you truly can’t miss? Here are our top choices among the best things to do in Switzerland:

  • Explore the Jungfrau Region
  • Visit Zurich
  • Ski in the Swiss Alps
  • Try Swiss Fondue

Of course, this is just the start of all the great activities in Switzerland and ways to enjoy this incredible country. Keep reading below for our full list of all the best places to visit in Switzerland and all the best attractions that make this such a memorable travel destination.

Plan a Trip to Switzerland

  • 24+ Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
  • 18 Fairytale Villages in the Swiss Alps
  • Best Cities and Towns in Switzerland for Travelers

swiss alps

25+ Things To Do in Switzerland

1. explore the jungfrau region.

If you only have time to explore just one area of Switzerland, let it be the Jungfrau Region. With some of the most dramatic snow-capped mountains in the Swiss Alps, tiny Alpine villages with timber-frame chalets, and all the adventurous things to do in Switzerland any traveler could ever ask for, Jungfrau is the most classically “Swiss” region of the country.

The Jungfrau Region sits nestled below the two glacier-fed lakes that embrace the city of Interlaken, consisting of the picturesque Grindelwald Valley and Lauterbrunnen Valley , which boast some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes. Jungfrau’s car-free town of Mürren and nearby Wengen are some of the most charming villages in Switzerland .

A great public transportation system makes the Jungfrau Region easily accessible and an even more tempting addition to any itinerary. The small town of Grindelwald is a great base for exploring the region’s highlights, which include destinations like the Jungfraujoch, world-class hiking, and all the adventurous activities at Grindelwald First.

Jungfrau Travel Pass

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland, you’ll need the Jungfrau Travel Pass . Purchase passes online for unlimited access to the region’s trains, cable cars, and funiculars – trust us, you’ll need it!

2. Go Paragliding

The experience of paragliding is an incredible one anywhere, but when coupled with the stunning mountain views of the Swiss Alps, there’s truly nothing like it. Spend any amount of time in the gorgeous mountainous regions of the country, and you’ll see the skies dotted with colorful sails; paragliding is one of the best things to do in Switzerland – and the most popular!

While paragliding is a popular activity across Switzerland, it’s perhaps the most closely associated with the Jungfrau Region, where mountain views are the best. Cities like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and the small mountain villages that dot the area all boast tour operators that specialize in paragliding. If you’ll be in the area on your Switzerland itinerary, this is the place to do it.

If your travels won’t take you to the Lauterbrunnen Valley to glide past sheer cliffs with alpine village views , fear not. Other popular places to visit in Switzerland like Zermatt, Lucerne, and Verbier are also well known for paragliding excursions.

Best Paragliding Experiences in Switzerland

  • Lauterbrunnen Valley Mountain Village Paragliding Experience
  • Interlaken Tandem Paragliding Experience
  • Lucerne Tandem Paragliding Experience

jungfraujoch switzerland

3. Visit the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Known as the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe – but it’s also so much more. Easily at the top of any list of must-visit destinations in Switzerland , Jungfraujoch sits perched above Europe’s largest glacier. With year-round snow and breathtaking mountain vistas, it gives visitors the feeling of having scaled the Alps without all the effort.

Take the Eiger Express cable car from Grindelwald to the rail line before emerging at the glass-enclosed Sphinx Observatory for breathtaking views. Visitors can also explore the Ice Palace with countless ice sculptures and ice-lined pathways, enjoy hot chocolate on the snow, or even zipline over the glacier. Jungfraujoch’s multiple restaurants mean you can spend the entire day enjoying this incredible peak at the top of Europe.

Jungfraujoch is a popular day trip spot, with travelers crossing the country every day just to reach it. While it’s best to visit Jungfraujoch with plenty of time to enjoy, either starting your day in Grindelwald for an early start or ending it there, it’s worth the visit no matter how you fit it into your itinerary.

These are the Jungfraujoch day trips we recommend:

  • Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich
  • Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Interlaken
  • Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Day Trip from Lucerne

4. Try Swiss Fondue

If eating as much fondue as possible isn’t at the top of your list of things to do in Switzerland, I don’t know what is! What started centuries ago as a way for farming families to use products like stale bread and leftover cheese to stretch meals is now the most iconically Swiss dish , a fixture on what seems like every menu in the country.

While there are numerous regional variations and differences in fondue recipes, most use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, Emmental, or Fribourg mixed with a dash of wine . This tends to yield the perfectly creamy, dippable mix to pair with pieces of bread, meats, potatoes, and more.

best things to do in grindelwald

5. Visit Grindelwald

One of the most idyllic mountain towns in Switzerland, Grindelwald packs a punch when it comes to charm, character, and mountain views. More than just another addition to your Switzerland travel itinerary, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Jungfrau Region and has endless activities to offer.

Among what feels like an unending list of things to do in Grindelwald is visiting the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, easily accessible via the Eiger Express cable car departing from Grindelwald Terminal. After a day on the glacier, exploring nearby mountain villages like Lauterbrunnen, Murren, and Wengen is a must. Nearby treks like the one from Schynige Platte to First or from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg are renowned for stunning mountain views.

Plenty of gorgeous accommodations in Grindelwald and a surprisingly diverse and delicious local food scene make this small town a great place to stay. Travelers can easily enjoy four or five days based in Grindelwald and still feel like there is more to see and do.

Where To Stay in Grindelwald

  • Hotel Pinte ($)
  • Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort ($$)
  • Boutique Hotel Glacier ($$ – $$$)
  • Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort ($$ – $$$)
  • 15 Most Impressive Mountains in Switzerland

grindelwald first

6. Fly High at Grindelwald First

Grindelwald First is so special that it deserves its own mention on our list of the best things to do in Switzerland. Even if you don’t spend much time in Grindelwald, the minor summit of the Schwarzhorn mountain known as First (pronounced “fear-st”) is a destination you won’t want to skip.

Take the cable car to the top of First, and you’ll immediately see why: this mountain spot above the Grindelwald Valley boasts some of the most stunning views in the Jungfrau Region, with a particularly dramatic view of the imposing north face of the Eiger , and the legendary Jungfrau mountain after which the region is named.

Start a visit by venturing onto the First Cliff Walk, suspended over the plunging mountainside, before embarking on the short but impressive walk to the crystalline Lake Bachalpsee. Then, fly up and down the mountain on the zipline, mountain flier, trotti bikes, and mountain carts at First, each offering more of a thrill than the last.

Enjoying First all takes an entire day, so plan on spending at least the following night in one of Grindelwald’s many family-owned boutique hotels.

Plan a Trip to Grindelwald

  • 20+ Best Things To Do in Grindelwald
  • Grindelwald, Switzerland: Ultimate Travel Guide

7. Cruise the Rhine

It’s the most stylish, hassle-free way to experience some of Europe’s most beautiful cities: cruising down the Rhine River cutting through Switzerland, France, and Germany before reaching the coast at Amsterdam. After enjoying all the most incredible things to do in Switzerland, a Rhine river cruise is the best way to extend your itinerary.

Rhine river cruises generally depart from northern Switzerland’s cultural capital of Basel, winding their way down the river before arriving in Amsterdam within around a week. However, you can find cruises that last all different durations, with options that take much longer to maximize excursions to riverfront cities and towns along the route.

harder kulm interlaken

8. Take in the View Over Interlaken at Harder Kulm

The lakeside city of Interlaken is a breathtakingly beautiful destination, but there’s no better way to experience it than from above. Take the 10-minute funicular ride straight up the mountain to reach the stunning panoramic point known as Harder Kulm. The funicular is included as part of the Jungfrau Travel Pass , yet another reason to grab this indispensable transportation pass if you’ll be spending any time in the Jungfrau Region during your trip.

At the top, incredible views and a restaurant await. Take in the panoramic vistas from the viewing platform or head out on one of a number of hikes that offer even more beautiful viewpoints along the way.

There’s plenty more to do in Interlaken than just enjoying its unmatched surroundings, making this one of the top cities in Switzerland for visitors . Spend at least one day exploring Interlaken’s historic center and strolling by the lakes before embarking on a cruise on the lake, a mountain hike, or one of Switzerland’s most famous paragliding experiences.

Where To Stay in Interlaken

  • Hotel Artos Interlaken  ($ – $$)
  • Hotel Interlaken  ($$ – $$$)
  • Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa  ($$$)

switzerland cities

9. Explore the Italian Side of Switzerland

The southernmost region of Switzerland is nestled snuggly along the northern border of Italy, offering far-off views of Switzerland’s iconic mountains but with the almost Mediterranean climate and rich culinary traditions of Italy. The Ticino Region feels totally unique to the quaint fairytale villages and green pastures that dot the high Alps – and that’s why it’s a must on your Switzerland itinerary.

Highlights of a trip to the Ticino Region include spending a day or two exploring Bellinzona, famous for its three unique fortified castles – it’s one of the best things to do in Switzerland for history lovers, though everyone will fall in love with Bellinzona’s charm.

From there, head south and make the journey up San Salvatore mountain via the funicular for spectacular views over Lake Lugano and its eponymous lakeside town. You’ll also want to visit the Verzasca Dam near Locarno, made famous in a James Bond movie and known for its crystal clear waters.

basel

10. Take in the Art and Culture of Basel

Known as the capital of art and culture in Switzerland, the city of Basel is a destination that will fill your itinerary whether you love museum-hopping or prefer a guided tour through historic streets instead. Parts of Basel’s impressive historic center date back to the 12th century, while destinations like the Kunstmuseum hold the works of some of Europe’s most revered artists. A walking tour of Basel is a must.

It’s not the only reason to add a visit to Basel to your Switzerland itinerary. Considered one of the most attractive cities in Switzerland for travelers, Basel also boasts everything from a renowned Christmas market to a famous carnival that has been designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .

Nearby northern Swiss highlights include the idyllic town of Stein am Rhein and the Rhine Falls. Or, see the rest of Europe in style by jumping on a Rhine river cruise; Basel is famously known as the point of departure for many such cruises through France, Germany, and the Netherlands .

Where To Stay in Basel

  • Nomad  ($)
  • ART HOUSE Basel  ($$)
  • Boutique & Design Hotel Volkshaus Basel  ($$ – $$$)
  • Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois  ($$$$)

Schwarzhorn

11. Go Hiking

Switzerland is crisscrossed with what seems like an infinite number of fantastic hiking trails, ranging from easy, family-friendly panoramic trails to multi-day treks that will test even the most experienced hiker. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner, hiking is one of the best things to do in Switzerland – there’s no denying it!

While the mountainous areas of the Swiss Alps like the Bernese Oberland and Valais tend to have the most renowned hiking trails with the biggest payoff in terms of views, there’s really no destination in Switzerland that doesn’t have at least a handful of great hikes to choose from.

Here are a few particularly impressive and memorable destinations in Switzerland for hiking, though this short is just scratching the surface:

The Eiger Trail

Climb in the shadow of the dramatic north face of one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountains on the Eiger Trail. Start the journey by taking the train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg and start the downhill 6-kilometer trek towards town for a memorable and relatively easy excursion offering unmatched views of the Grindelwald Valley.

Read More: 20+ Best Things To Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland

The Matterhorn Trek

For the best incredible views of the Matterhorn, there’s nothing like embarking on the 5-day, 46.5-kilometer Matterhorn Trek. Starting and ending in Zermatt, this legendary hike is challenging but well worth it. Beginners should instead opt for the Matterhorn Glacier Trail, which is considered relatively easy but still provides stunning views.

Schynige Platte to Grindelwald First

Take the bright-red vintage train to Schynige Platte for the panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Or, make it the start of one of the most memorable hikes in the Jungfrau Region. This 16-kilometer hike isn’t overly challenging, though it does include approximately 1000m of elevation gain over its course. Stunning views make this 6-hour adventure well worth it.

Travel Essential

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

12. Visit the Lindt Factory in Zurich

Would it be a trip to Switzerland without taste-testing some of the world’s finest Swiss chocolate? Even if you just grab a few bars of Swiss chocolate from the grocery store you’re in for a treat, but there’s no better way to experience the best of Swiss chocolate than on a tour at the famous Lindt Home of Chocolate in Zurich.

The Chocolate Tour at Lindt includes plenty of information and fun, interactive exhibits about the history and methodology behind producing one of Switzerland’s most famous products, as well as a factory tour . Explore with a guide or independently, and best of all, enjoy unlimited chocolate tasting along the way.

Lindt is located about ten minutes south of Zurich by train, making it quite accessible from Zurich whether by car or public transportation. Make sure to book the experience in advance – it often sells out!

zermatt

13. Spot the Matterhorn

The Matterhorn sits near the Switzerland-Italy border and is easily visible above the town of Zermatt, a charming small town considered one of the best ski resort towns in the country. With its iconic pyramidal peak dramatically cutting through blue skies, the Matterhorn is one of the most recognizable symbols in the country, and spotting it is one of the best things to do in Switzerland.

From Zermatt, there are a number of stunning viewpoints that offer particularly impressive views of the Matterhorn, though it’s visible from almost everywhere. Take the  Gornergrat Bahn railway  to the summit of the nearby Gornergrat peak for particularly memorable mountain views and a train experience among the best things to do in Switzerland.

Hikers will have plenty of ways to enjoy views as well. The easy Matterhorn Trail and Matterhorn Glacier Trail are easier options that take less than two and a half hours each and provide incredible vistas. Or, embark on the multi-day Matterhorn Trek, which takes trekkers on a loop through the region from mountain hut to mountain hut for a five-day adventure sure to be a highlight of a trip to Switzerland.

Where To Stay in Zermatt

  • Hotel Carina  ($ – $$)
  • Swiss Alpine Hotel Allalin  ($$ – $$$)
  • The Omnia  ($$$)

grand hotel bad ragaz

14. Hit the Spa

Switzerland has a rich spa tradition, with locals and visitors alike long flocking to natural hot springs and baths found nestled among mountains around the country. Nowadays the tradition prevails, meaning that a proper experience at a Swiss spa is among the things to do in Switzerland that any traveler can enjoy.

The fairytale mountain village of Leukerbad has for centuries been one of the favorite destinations for wellness-minded travelers in Switzerland, though there are many to choose from. Another small spa-centric town in Switzerland is Bad Ragaz near the border of Liechtenstein. It’s home to one of the country’s most well-known wellness hotels: Grand Resort Bad Ragaz .

For a spa experience without leaving the city, The Dolder Grand  in Zurich is a must . Views over the city from this historic hotel and spa are just the start of an experience here. The expansive spa offers everything from steam baths and relaxation rooms to Japanese-inspired treatments.

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

glacier express switzerland

15. Ride the Glacier Express

Whether it be traveling by cable car, funicular, or train, taking public transportation is one of the best things to do in Switzerland. Switzerland’s Glacier Express, however, stands out among countless other train journeys, having snatched numerous awards as among the most beautiful train rides in the world.

Cutting through the Swiss Alps on a seven-and-a-half hour journey between the ski resort towns of Zermatt and St. Moritz, the Glacier Express provides a train ride that is all about the experience, though the destination isn’t half bad either! While the ride is a long one, the constantly changing views and delicious cuisine provided along the way makes the journey unforgettable.

The train runs from December through October each year , with trains departing at least once a day throughout the season. An additional journey is added in the spring and summer to account for higher demand during the warm-weather seasons.

Engelberg

16. Ski the Swiss Alps

It’s a winter destination worthy of a spot at the top of any adventurous traveler’s bucket list. The dramatic Swiss Alps, with miles-long glaciers and fresh, powdery slopes are a wintery paradise for skiers, snowboarders, and even the après-ski crowd happy to enjoy a hot chocolate in front of a roaring fire.

You’ll have no trouble finding a great place to ski in Switzerland; the trouble may be more in narrowing down your options from the endless list. Family-friendly yet thrilling resort towns like Engelberg and Grimentz are popular even with beginner skiers, while there’s nothing like sailing down the slopes in the shadow of the Matterhorn in Zermatt.

For those looking to experience the posh winter wonderlands of Europe’s elite, head to St. Moritz or Gstaad, where you’re bound to bump into a celebrity on the streets or the slopes. These two memorable resort towns are perfect for enjoying some of the country’s best shopping and most luxurious spa resorts after a day of soaring over fresh powder.

zurich switzerland

17. Explore Zurich

Your first stop in Switzerland might be the international airport in Zurich but don’t make this your last stop in Switzerland’s largest city. The historic streets and cosmopolitan corners of Zurich have plenty that travelers won’t want to miss before embarking on the rest of their Switzerland itinerary.

Start a visit to Zurich by taking in the city’s oldest monuments, nestled along either side of the Limmet River. Riverfront views from Täufergedenkplatte can be a perfect way to get your bearings in the city before exploring the rest of the historic Lindenhof and equally charming Niederhof neighborhoods. The historic Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches are unmissable; the latter even boasts stained glass panels by Marc Chagall.

Zurich is much more than its historic center, so make sure to spend time exploring more modern areas of the city. Window shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse is a must; it’s considered one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world. For a further taste of Swiss luxury, there’s nowhere better to stay in Zurich than at the iconic Dolder Grand , with its spa and grand rooms overlooking the city.

Where To Stay in Zurich

  • Boutique Hotel Helvetia  ($ – $$)
  • Hotel St. Josef  ($$)
  • Baur au Lac  ($$$)
  • The Dolder Grand  ($$$$)
  • 18 Best Mountain Villages and Towns in Switzerland
  • 17 Best Cities to Visit in Switzerland

18. Explore Switzerland’s Largest Historic Center

Home to the United Nations and countless other international organizations, Geneva boasts a reputation as one of Europe’s most important modern capitals, though history has proven it has long been one of the most important cities in Switzerland – and it shows.

Geneva is home to Switzerland’s largest historical city center, packed with charming streets and age-old buildings and churches that will impress. Among countless ways to enjoy an afternoon in Geneva, make sure to climb the tower at St. Pierre’s Cathedral for an unforgettable view of the lake and the Jet d’Eau in the distance.

As the home church of John Calvin, St. Pierre’s Cathedral has played an indelible role in religious history. From there, head to the oldest square in Geneva, Place Bourg-de-Four, before heading down into the network of passages that cuts under the historic city (Passage de Monetier is the most well-known). It’s a spooky but informative look at the city’s fascinating past.

Read More: 15+ Best Things To Do in Geneva, Switzerland

pilatus

19. Travel By Train and Cable Car to Rigi and Pilatus

High above the waters of Lake Lucerne and just beyond the bounds of the city, two of Switzerland’s most famous mountains – Rigi and Pilatus – stand tall and offer stunning Alpine and lake views that will take your breath away. For travelers looking for some of the best viewpoints in the country, there are no better things to do in Switzerland than heading to these idyllic summits.

Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi towers over the eastern side of Lucerne, accessible from charming mountain villages like Weggis and easily accessible via a number of ways to reach its summit. Most visitors choose to take one of two different cogwheel railways to Rigi Kulm or opt for one of a number of cable cars that reach Mt. Rigi.

The Pilatus Railway that chugs from Alpnachstad to the Esel summit of Pilatus is known as the steepest rack railway in the world – at one point it has a gradient of 48%!  This journey is an integral part of the experience of enjoying a visit to Pilatus, open to visitors from May through November. Or, take the cable car from Kriens year-round for stunning panorama walks at the summit or more challenging hiking options beyond.

20. Take a Day Trip to Liechtenstein

The small independent principality of Liechtenstein is nestled along the eastern border of Switzerland. Now one of the world’s smallest countries, this tiny nation is the vestige of the days of city-states and feudal lords that once ruled Central Europe. It’s an attractive addition to your itinerary whether you’re excited about adding more stamps to your passport or taking in Liechtenstein’s age-old castles and cathedrals.

Liechtenstein is an easy day trip from most of central and eastern Switzerland, with organized day trips from larger cities like Zurich making for an easy way to visit. Travelers will want to couple their visit with a trip to the nearby town of Appenzell, where colorful gabled buildings will live up to the fairytale Swiss mountain villages you’ve long dreamed of visiting.

Best Liechtenstein Day Trips

  • Small-Group Organized Liechtenstein Day Trip from Zurich
  • Appenzell and Liechtenstein Day Trip from Zurich

chateau de chillon

21. Visit the Château de Chillon

Suspended over the waves of the spring-fed Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon is considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval castles – and it shows. Château de Chillon is easily one of the most popular places to visit in the country , making a visit to this waterfront beauty one of the best things to do in Switzerland – hands down.

Enjoy a guided tour through Château de Chillon’s numerous chambers, suites, and gardens as part of a day trip to the castle from Geneva . Alternatively, spend at least a night in Montreux, the small town surrounding the Château. It’s a refreshing break from Geneva and a beautiful spot, as evidenced by its nickname: the Swiss Riviera.

22. Spot the Rhine Falls

Europe’s largest-volume waterfall is located near the northern border of Switzerland, cutting dramatically across the continent’s most famous river.

The Rhine Falls aren’t the plunging falls you might be expecting, like Niagara Falls or Iguazu Falls, but that doesn’t make them less impressive; they’re among the best places to visit in Switzerland . Taking in the power and spray of the falls from nearby viewing platforms is a must, while boat trips that approach the churning waters are an even more memorable addition to a visit.

Experience the Rhine Falls on a day trip from Zurich , or spend an overnight in the area to enjoy both the falls and the charming and historic village of Stein am Rhein , another must-visit spot just half an hour upriver.

Reviews and Bookings: Rhine Falls and Stein Am Rhein Day Trip from Zurich

lucerne

23. Walk Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge

A unique covered footbridge cutting diagonally across the river Reuss in the heart of historic Lucerne is one of the most iconic pictures of a Swiss city renowned for its quaint charm. Draped with colorful flowers in the summertime and beautifully illuminated for evening strolls, the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke ) is among the best things to do in Switzerland.

The Chapel Bridge is really just the start of one of a number of impressive and historic attractions in Lucerne that make it one of the best cities in Switzerland for travelers . Spend at least a day enjoying the most beautiful parts of the city before embarking on day trips to either Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus – or both! – for panoramic views over Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps.

Stein-Am-Rhein

24. Visit the Medieval Town of Stein Am Rhein

There’s no lack of stunning mountain villages and timber-frame towns hidden among the green pastures and snow-capped peaks of Switzerland – but Stein am Rhein is something special.

This historic town on the banks of the Rhine is known for its well-preserved half-timbered homes, ornately painted with dramatic frescos. A Benedictine monastery and a medieval castle , both boasting incredible views, complete what is among the most beautiful villages in Switzerland .

Stein Am Rhein is a popular day trip destination from Zurich, and when combined with the nearby Rhine Falls, it makes for an incredible and easy excursion to the north of Switzerland. Plan on visiting on a hassle-free small-group excursion from Zurich, or even better, enjoy an overnight nearby to see the area when the day trippers leave.

Reviews and Bookings: Stein Am Rhein and the Rhine Falls Day Trip from Zurich

25. Enjoy Switzerland’s Christmas Markets

While neighboring France and Germany might steal some of Switzerland’s shine when it comes to enjoying the festive season at Christmas markets , Switzerland boasts an array of Christmas markets you won’t want to miss.

The most impressive markets in Switzerland tend to be in larger cities like Zurich, though smaller Basel and Bern boast two of the country’s favorite market experiences. The lakeside market in the smaller town of Montreux – home to Château de Chillon – is another underrated favorite. One-day and weekend-only markets in Jungfrau mountain villages are also a favorite even locals like to keep quiet.

Even better? Christmas markets in Switzerland don’t tend to be as crowded with throngs of tourists as those in neighboring countries can be. Switzerland might just be the next biggest destination for travelers looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

carley rojas avila

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Switzerland

Think of Switzerland, and what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Chocolate? Fondue? Yodeling? While the country does have a great reputation for being home to all three, there’s much more to Switzerland than first meets the eye. There’s a reason this place is called the Playground of Europe! 

Switzerland’s scenery will leave you totally speechless. From dominating mountains that reach for the sky to sparkling lakes that shine brighter than a diamond, it’s almost as if this country was designed by an artist. The spectacular landscape makes Switzerland an excellent place for outdoor sports. 

Winter is packed full of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. If that’s not your style, you can get plenty of exercise shopping at Christmas markets and cafe-hopping for rich and creamy hot chocolate.

Summer invites you to get outside and explore, with countless chances for walking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, and road-tripping. If you’re not the outdoorsy type, you’ll have plenty of fun exploring the country’s castles, galleries, museums, and festivals. Whatever you’re into, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Switzerland!

With such a great choice of things to see and do, you may not know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Switzerland. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Switzerland bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time exploring the Playground of Europe. 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Switzerland

1. have fun on lake zurich.

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Lake Zurich

One of the top Switzerland attractions is Lake Zurich, which you’ve got to check out while you’re in the capital. This shimmering body of water is lined with a vast choice of lush, green parks and bustling cafe-lined promenades. This place always has a lively atmosphere and is teeming with people enjoying the sunshine, jogging, having picnics, and swimming.

Lake Zurich is absolutely huge, and one of the best ways to fully appreciate its beauty is to take a cruise across it. When you get out on the water, you’ll have incredible views of the dominating Glarus Alps. 

Unique Things to do in Switzerland: Lake Zurich

If you’d rather stay on dry land, walk around the lake until you come upon Zurichorn Park. A gorgeous green space built for the National Exhibition in 1939, this spot is home to a great restaurant, a gorgeous Chinese garden, and a jetty with a boat that runs between the National Museum and the park. 

Book a City Sightseeing Tour with Lake Cruise

2. Walk Along a 700-Year-Old Bridge

Must do things in Switzerland: Chapel Bridge

If you’re looking for must-do things in Switzerland, the biggest attraction in the charming city of Lucerne is definitely worth checking out. Kapellbrücke, also known as Chapel Bridge, is a spectacular covered wooden bridge that stretches diagonally across the Reuss River. It was constructed in 1333 and, while it may be just a bridge, it’s a fascinating thing to see!

Not only is Kapellbrücke a piece of art itself, but it’s also home to a number of original paintings. As you walk along it, take a look at the wooden rafters, and you’ll see over 100 remarkable pictures of scenes inspired by the city. 

Switzerland Bucket List: Chapel Bridge

There are some paintings depicting important historical events that happened in Lucerne, while others show saints performing miracles. It’s like walking through a fancy art gallery – and it’s free!

A devastating fire damaged most of the bridge in 1993. But it’s such a popular and important part of the city that huge efforts were made to restore it back to its former glory.

3. Wander Through One of Europe’s Best Art Galleries at Kunsthaus Zurich

Zurich Things to do: Kunsthaus Zurich

For some of the best sights in Switzerland, spend the day at Kunsthaus Zurich . This spectacular art museum guards one of the most important art collections in Switzerland and is guaranteed to captivate your imagination.

Wander through the exhibitions, and you’ll come across works of art from the 13th century all the way up to today. The permanent displays feature the greatest classical modernist art collection in Zurich, as well as the largest Munch collection outside of Norway. 

What to do in Switzerland: Kunsthaus Zurich

Whether or not you consider yourself an art lover, you’re sure to recognize some of the most iconic pieces by Picasso and Monet. In total, Kunsthaus Zurich is home to around 4,000 sculptures and paintings, plus 95,000 drawings and prints that cover almost a millennium.

To encourage everyone to take an interest, the art gallery hosts temporary exhibits designed to attract people who aren’t really into art. These enigmatic displays change all the time, but they’re guaranteed to leave you with plenty to think about! 

4. Discover the Secrets of Science at CERN

Best Things to do in Switzerland: CERN

Switzerland is home to the biggest particle physics lab in the world – CERN . Located in Geneva , the headquarters for the European Organization of Nuclear Research is one of the coolest things to do in Switzerland, whether or not you’re a fan of physics.

The best way to see everything CERN has to offer is to sign up for one of the guided tours. Suitable for adults and kids, the organized visits take you on a journey through the giant lab and help you understand the mind-bending experiments and projects being carried out in a way that’s easy to follow. 

Switzerland Things to do: CERN

CERN’s museum exhibitions are just as fascinating. Universe of Particles teaches you all about the major physics questions CERN is currently attempting to find the answers to and what that means for the future. Microcosm invites you to take a look behind the curtain and see exactly what CERN is up to. 

The best part is that both museums are free!

5. See Hundreds Of Hot Air Balloons At The International Balloon Festival

Unique Things to do in Switzerland: International Balloon Festival

The International Balloon Festival should be at the top of your list of things to do in Switzerland. Held each year at the Château-d’Oex in January, this amazing event sees pilots from all over the world travel to Switzerland for the chance to show off their spectacular hot air balloons.

Over the course of nine days, the sky is filled with every type of hot air balloon you could imagine, from standard hot air balloons to quirky hot air balloons designed to look like animals, cartoon characters, and popular figures. The colorful balloons look incredible against the snowy white ground and the clear blue sky. You could easily fill your phone’s memory with pictures!

Switzerland Bucket List: International Balloon Festival

As well as the hot air balloon displays, there’s loads of other cool stuff going on throughout the festival. Check out the program, and you’ll discover air shows, mini hot air balloon demonstrations, flying competitions, helicopter rides, family-friendly workshops, and hot air balloon flights.

6. Climb to the Top of the Grossmunster

What to do in Switzerland: Grossmunster

One of Zurich’s most iconic landmarks, the Grossmunster is an ancient church that is said to have been built on the graves of Felix and Regula, the city’s patron saints. Originally a monastic church, work on the Grossmunster first began in the 12th century, and it wasn’t until the 13th century that it was finally complete.

With its vibrant red spire and two prominent towers that reach into the sky, the Romanesque church looks impressive from the outside. But for the very best views, step inside the church and climb the steps to the top of one of the towers. From up here, you can see for miles all across the city.

places to visit while in switzerland

If you’d like to see more of the church, visit the crypt. The oldest part of the building, the crypt is an original piece of the structure and features faded frescoes created by Hands Leu the Elder in the 1400s.

7. Fall In Love With Creamy Swiss Fondue

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Swiss Fondue

When you need a break from all the Switzerland sightseeing, find a local restaurant and order a piping hot cauldron of cheese fondue. Because this dish is so popular throughout the country, you’ll find all kinds of variations of this cheesy classic available. 

In winter, you’ll discover inviting pop-up fondue restaurants all over the country. But that’s not the only place you can indulge in this comfort food. You’ll also find this dish served in casual and formal restaurants, on boat trips, and even as part of eTukTuk fondue tours !

Unique Things to do in Switzerland: Swiss Fondue

Classic Swiss fondue is made from melted cheese. Sometimes two different kinds of cheeses are combined (usually Emmental and Gruyere) to make fondue. Some chefs go the extra mile and use a blend of multiple varieties of cheese for a unique flavor. 

However many different types of cheese go into your fondue, you always get the chance to enjoy it plain or spiced up with chili peppers and peppercorns!

8. See Million-Year-Old Fossils at Gletschergarten

Best Things to do in Lucerne: Gletschergarten

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Switzerland, stop by Gletschergarten in Lucerne for the chance to see some of the oldest relics you’ll ever see in your life. Known as the Glacier Garden in English, this one-of-a-kind attraction is home to a number of stunning natural wonders that date back to the Ice Age.

Take a look around, and you’ll discover glacier-polished rocks and kettle basins that are more than 20,000 years old. But the stars of the show are the fossils, some of which are over 20 million years old! 

Unique Things to do in Lucerne: Gletschergarten

The climate change exhibits are also worth checking out. You can see how badly it’s affecting the planet and what our world will look like in the future if things stay the same. One of the other interesting displays features a replica of an early climbers’ hut. There’s also a lookout tour that you can climb up and check out, just like if you were an explorer. 

Although it doesn’t really follow the museum’s theme, there’s also a mirror maze which is loads of fun!

9. Check Out Fantastic Marionettes at the Bellerive Museum

Stop by the Bellerive Museum , and you’ll discover one of the most unique things to do in Switzerland. This incredible gallery is brimming with all kinds of exhibits dedicated to applied arts. A great place to visit if you think you’re not a fan of art, this museum explores a number of thought-provoking topics and themes while moving harmoniously between design and art throughout the centuries.

One of the many highlights of the Bellerive Museum is the vast collection of string puppets. The art gallery is home to every single one of the marionettes from the Swiss Puppet Theater between 1918 and 1935, as well as the Zurich Puppet Theater between 1942 and 1963. Look closely, and you’ll discover just how intricate the hand-painted details are.

You’ll find many pieces from the Art Nouveau era throughout the rest of the gallery, with a great emphasis on beautiful ceramics. Other displays are dedicated to textiles, modern ceramics, and historical musical instruments, with more than 200 well-preserved examples. 

10. Check Out 100+ Concerts at Paléo Festival Nyon

Must do things in Switzerland: Paleo Festival Nyon

No matter how many music festivals you’ve been to, you’ve never been to a festival quite like Paléo Festival Nyon . Held each year in July, this high-octane festival boasts literally hundreds of concerts that take place across a single week.

What started out as a modest folk festival in 1976 has since grown into one of the biggest, best, and most popular events in all of Switzerland. During this week-long extravaganza, people travel from all over the world to listen to captivating music, see mesmerizing lights, and dance in a sea of music lovers. 

Switzerland Bucket List: Paleo Festival Nyon

Like all music festivals, the lineup changes every year. But to give you an idea of what you can expect, some of the biggest names to have taken to the stage include KISS, Sting, DJ Snake, Stromae, and PNL. There’s a fantastic mix of famous international artists and local Swiss artists, giving you the chance to hear your favorite songs as well as discover new groups.

11. Gaze at the Most Powerful Waterfall in Europe

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Rhine Falls

Think of countries with waterfalls, and Switzerland is unlikely to pop into your mind. But the Playground of Europe is actually home to a spectacular waterfall – the most powerful in Europe, in fact.

Hidden away in Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) is a staggering 500-feet-wide and is so powerful that fish aren’t able to swim up it. The only creatures that can swim through the current are eels. Bring some binoculars with you and see if you can spot one!

What to do in Switzerland: Rhine Falls

For the best experience, plan to visit Rhine Falls in June or July. At this time of year, the snow on the top of the surrounding mountains has almost completely melted, making the falls incredibly powerful and thunderous. Watching the water swell and crash down 75 feet over a Jurassic limestone cliff is phenomenal.

You’ll find viewing platforms on either side of the waterfalls. If you want to get a closer look, you can sign up for a boat trip and feel the cool spray of the water on your face.

Book a Rhine Falls Boat Tour

12. Treat Your Taste Buds at the Lindt Home of Chocolate

Fun Things to do in Zurich: Lindt Home of Chocolate

Switzerland is known for having magnificent chocolate, and you’ll find some of the very best inside the Lindt Home of Chocolate . This drool-worthy interactive museum boasts delicious exhibits you won’t find anywhere else, such as a gigantic 30-feet-high chocolate fountain. It’s also home to the largest Lindt chocolate store on the planet.

One of the best parts of this dream-come-true museum is the Lindt Chocolateria, where you can get involved and make your own chocolate. Here you can get creative and make gourmet chocolate bars before topping them with yummy extras and taking them home to enjoy. If you want to take things further, you can also make elegant chocolate figurines and fancy chocolate lollipops. 

Cool Things to do in Zurich: Lindt Home of Chocolate

If you’re not into the workshops, there are still loads of things to do. There are displays that tell the story of where chocolate came from and how beans are transformed into chocolate bars. Make sure you seek out the tasting section – you’re free to have as much as you like!

Get Your Lindt Museum Entry Ticket

13. Step Back In Time at the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Schweizerisches Landesmuseum

Also known as the Swiss National Museum, the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum definitely deserves a place on your list of Switzerland activities. This magnificent neo-Gothic castle-like complex is home to a vast museum that showcases the fascinating cultural history of Switzerland. 

Home to the most important collection of Swiss cultural and historic artifacts, the museum boasts more than 820,000 individual items, some of which go as far back as prehistoric times. 

Fun Things to do in Switzerland: Schweizerisches Landesmuseum

One of the most fascinating displays is the archeological exhibit. Here you can admire remarkable pieces that were discovered in Switzerland sometime between 100,000 BCE and 800 CE. Among the finest and best-preserved in Europe, the collection includes crafts, carriages, scientific tools, clocks, watches, costumes, jewelry, and musical instruments, among many other intriguing items.

Another section definitely worth checking out is the medieval wall paintings, as is the complication of dazzling stained glass windows. 

14. See All Kinds of Native Wildlife In the Swiss National Park

Switzerland Things to do: Swiss National Park

The oldest reserve in the Alps, the Swiss National Park is a great place to go when you need a break from Switzerland’s bustling cities. Founded in 1914, the national park is right on the Swiss-Italian border and covers more than a whopping 65 square miles of outdoor space.

There’s a fantastic network of trails that you can walk, hike, or cycle along. Make sure you stick to the path. Huge efforts are being made to protect the natural ecosystem of the area, and it’s forbidden to explore beyond the paths.

Must do things in Switzerland: Swiss National Park

During summer, the park boasts verdant grass, colorful flowers, and bubbling rivers. In the winter months, the scenery becomes even more dramatic as the whole place is covered in a thick layer of glistening snow. While you may not be able to go hiking during winter, the walking trails are transformed into cross-country skiing trails, so you can still have a great time.

More than 5,000 species of animals call the park home. Keep an eye out, and you may spot a fox, ibex, chamois, red deer, or marmot.

15. Explore the Enchanting Streets of Zurich’s Altstadt

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Switzerland Altstadt

Visiting Zurich is one of the must-do things in Switzerland. While you’re there, you’ve got to take a walk around Altstadt. The name of Zurich’s Old Town, Altstadt is overflowing with dramatic medieval houses, monumental town halls constructed during the Renaissance, and a never-ending number of winding lines that invite you on an adventure. 

This part of the city is home to a number of popular landmarks, such as the Grossmunster double towers and Peterskirche (Peter’s Church), which is well-known for having the biggest clock face in Europe. Whether you make an itinerary of things to see or you just wander around and see where you end up, this is one of the top things to do in Switzerland.

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Switzerland Altstadt

Because Altstadt is so popular, it is full of superb places to eat and drink. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in the mood for some healthy bircher muesli for breakfast, traditional fondue for lunch, indulgent Älplermagronen for dinner, or a glass of wine to relax after a long day – you’ll find just what you’re craving right here.

16. Party at the Biggest Carnival In Switzerland at Basler Fasnacht

Fun Things to do in Switzerland: Basler Fasnacht

If you’re planning on traveling around Switzerland at the end of February or the beginning of March, you’ve got to check out Basler Fasnacht. Basel’s annual Carnival takes place at the end of spring each year, and this lively event is like a huge street party that no one wants to end. 

Basler Fasnacht gives you an amazing opportunity to see Switzerland’s traditions and culture in full swing. As well as the street parades and people dressed in all kinds of whacky costumes that you’d expect from any Carnival event, the celebration in Basel is special because it introduces local heritage into the program.

Switzerland Bucket List: Basler Fasnacht

Check out the lineup of the event, and you’ll discover a great mix of activities and entertainment suitable for everyone. From 4 am music concerts in the dark and satirical songs that focus on major current events to captivating lantern displays and children’s parades that the littlest ones can join in with, there’s absolutely loads going on. 

17. Discover Your Inner Love of Soccer at the FIFA Museum

What to do in Switzerland: FIFA Museum

Spending a few hours at the FIFA Museum is undoubtedly one of the coolest things to do in Switzerland. Soccer (known as football throughout Europe) is the most popular sport in the world and is played in practically every country on the planet. 

Even if you’re not a big fan of soccer or sports at all, it’s almost impossible not to be wowed by this huge museum that tells the story of FIFA (the world governing body of soccer) and the World Cup. Your immersive and interactive adventure begins with a huge video screen showing clips of people from around the world playing soccer.

Switzerland Things to do: FIFA Museum

One of the most interesting parts of the museum is the 42-foot-long chronological timeline that explains how the sport has grown and progressed over time. It also shows you which year each country joined FIFA and took part in the World Cup.

The biggest display is dedicated to the FIFA World Cup Gallery. Bursting with memorabilia and mementos of the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup, there’s a huge amount to see. The highlight is the glistening World Cup Trophy which you can see up close, as well as a movie that plays the most memorable moments from World Cup Finals. 

Get Your FIFA Museum Entry Ticket

18. Find Comfort In Papet Vaudois

Papet Vaudois is a super simple yet incredibly delicious type of comfort food you’ll find throughout Switzerland – especially during the chilly winter months. Often served as a side dish, papet Vaudois is a combination of buttery leeks and fluffy potatoes that have been left to stew together for hours.

When all the ingredients are soft and tender, they’re roughly mashed together to become the best potatoes you’ve ever had in your life. The wonderful creaminess of the mashed potatoes and the subtle flavor of the leeks works so well together.

You’ll often find this veggie side dish as the bed for a thick and chunky Vaudoise sausage. This yummy type of sausage comes from the Vaudois region of Switzerland and is made from a combination of smoked pork and beef.

Make a reservation for Pinte Besson in Lausanne for some of the best papet Vaudois in Switzerland. This charming restaurant dishes up a huge plate of the Swiss classic that can easily feed two people.

19. Admire 360+ Animals From All Over the World at Zurich Zoo

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Zurich Zoo

For one of the most fun things to do in Switzerland, plan to spend the day at the Zurich Zoo . More than 360 different animals from all corners of the globe call this popular attraction home, and you can see them all in a single day.

One of the best things about the Zurich Zoo is that the animals live in specially-designed habitats that are as close to their natural environments as possible. Take a look around, and you’ll spot penguins swimming in icy Antarctic waters and snow leopards dozing on Himalayan rocks.

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Zurich Zoo

Even if you’re not keen on heights, you’ve got to do the canopy walk. This challenging walk takes you high above 3.2 acres of tropical rainforest. Keep an eye out, and you’ll spot all kinds of enchanting animals, such as flying foxes!

The Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park is one of our favorite parts of the zoo. Here you can witness an Asian elephant family play together and bond. They’ve got a fantastic multi-level outdoor complex to enjoy, complete with a swimming hole like they’d have in the wild in Thailand. 

20. Cruise Across Lake Geneva

Fun Things to do in Switzerland: Lake Geneva

Switzerland is home to a number of dazzling lakes, and Lake Geneva has got to be one of the best. Check out the highlights of the city from a whole new perspective and take a boat trip across the lake! 

If you haven’t got much time to spare, a standard one-hour Lake Geneva cruise is a great pick. This budget-friendly tour starts at Pierres du Niton and sails past a number of major landmarks, such as the United Nations and Jet d’Eau. You also get stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Mont Blanc.

Switzerland Bucket List: Lake Geneva

For something a bit longer, pick an adventure that incorporates a river cruise into a full-day excursion. Tours will whisk you to the charming town of Annecy, fondly known as the Venice of the Alps, before returning to Geneva for a chance to explore the city and sail across the lake. 

Experience a Lake Geneva Cruise

21. See One of the Highest Mountains In the Alps

Switzerland Things to do: Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is one of the top Switzerland attractions, and it’s definitely a must-visit during your trip. One of the highest peaks in the Alps, the legendary mountain rises a staggering 14,692 feet into the sky and is known for its four faces, each of which lies in the direction of a compass point.

The first attempts at climbing the Matterhorn were tragically unsuccessful. In 1865, the first four climbers fell to their deaths during their descent. Today, thousands of experienced climbers tackle the challenge of successfully scaling the mountain. While climbing to the top of the mountain is best left to the experts, you can still enjoy its beauty from the ground.

What to do in Switzerland: Matterhorn

The picturesque village of Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn. A fantastic place to spend a day, here you’ll find horse-drawn carriages, world-class restaurants, and quaint family-run lodges. Motorized vehicles are totally banned, making the village really peaceful.

22. Walk Through the Pages of a Fairytale In Niederdorf

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Niederdorf

Switzerland is brimming with beautiful places, and Niederdorf definitely deserves a place on your Switzerland bucket list. Surrounded by modern financial powerhouses, this neighborhood is overflowing with historic charm. 

Boasting medieval squares, narrow streets, a flowing river, charming cafes, artistic boutiques, and independent restaurants, Niederdorf is a fantastic place to wander and simply soak up the atmosphere.

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Niederdorf

If you prefer to follow a plan, start your adventure by walking up Munstergasse street until you come to the Brunnenturm. This was once the headquarters of the Lombard moneychangers, way back in the 14th and 15th centuries. With stunning rooms decorated in a Renaissance style, Haus zum Napt (the house at number 6) is also definitely worth visiting. 

Visit Spiegelgasse and take a look at number 17 to see the house that Lenin lived in over 100 years ago. Carry on walking along this street, and you’ll come upon Cabaret Voltaire, where Tristan Tzara and Hans Arp launched the Dada art movement in 1916.

23. Spend a Day Relaxing at Bains des Pâquis

Fun Things to do in Switzerland: Bains des Paquis

Whichever time of year you’re visiting, one of the top things to do in Switzerland is to unwind at Bains des Pâquis.

These public baths are tucked away on the western shore of Lake Geneva and are hugely popular with the locals. Not only are they a fantastic place to get some exercise, but they’re also a hotspot for spending time with family, hanging out with friends, and enjoying the vibrancy of the city. 

Switzerland Bucket List: Bains des Paquis

In summer, the paths provide you with a superb place to sunbathe on the pier, take a refreshing dip in the lake, and dig into a light lunch al fresco. During the hottest months, the baths even host classical music concerts and poetry recitals in the early morning.

Bains des Pâquis stays open in winter and offers a totally different experience. During the coldest months, the baths transform into a spa with a steam bath, sauna, and massage service. 

24. Warm Up With Tartiflette

Must do things in Switzerland: Tartiflette

Switzerland can get incredibly cold in the winter. One of the best ways to warm up is to pop into a Swiss restaurant and order yourself some tartiflette. A delicious dish that was created close to the French-Swiss border in the same place that Reblochon cheese originated, Tartiflette is pure comfort food.  

Tartiflette dates back to the 1980s when it was originally launched to push the sales of Reblochon cheese. Today it’s a super rich and satisfying dish that gives you all the energy you need to get back out onto the slopes. It tastes so good that there’s no need to promote it!

Switzerland Things to do: Tartiflette

Made with thinly sliced potatoes, smoky bacon lardons, and sweet caramelized onions, all smothered with nutty, creamy Reblochon cheese, this dish is every bit as indulgent as it sounds. 

Restaurant Le Flore in Geneva is one of the best places for tartiflette. Here the dish is topped with a fried egg, making it even richer and more satisfying!

25. Be Enchanted by Zurich’s Christmas Markets

Best Things to do in Switzerland: Zurich Christmas Market

If you’re planning to visit the country in the run-up to the holidays, you can’t miss the chance to explore Zurich’s magical Christmas markets. One of the very best things to do in Switzerland in December, the capital’s Christmas markets are so captivating, enchanting, and whimsical that they’re guaranteed to win over even the grumpiest Grinch!

At this time of year, the streets, the squares, and even the train station of the capital are covered in decorations and filled with Christmas market stalls. Wander through them, and you’ll discover all kinds of holiday treats to indulge in, from decorations and gifts to food and drinks. 

Cool Things to do in Switzerland: Zurich Christmas Market

For something you’ve never seen before, stop by the Christmas market at Werdmuhleplatz. Here you’ll see an amazing singing Christmas tree! But don’t let yourself be fooled. It’s actually a tree-shaped platform decorated with evergreen branches where rows of red-clad children sing festival carols. 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Switzerland. What’s your favorite thing to do in Switzerland? 

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Switzerland Travel Guide by Rick Steves

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Best Things to do in Switzerland

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Nicola Quinn

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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places to visit while in switzerland

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Happy to Wander

32 Unique Things to do in Switzerland (That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else)

Last Updated: October 31, 2023

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I’ve made it no secret that Switzerland is one of my favourite countries, so I figured it’s about time to reveal why!

Well, let me ask: where else can you find a place that has some of the most scenic train rides in the world, landscapes that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien, real-life Disney castles, and the birthplace of groundbreaking innovations like the world wide web?

My friends, only Switzerland can offer that!

So, in the spirit of showcasing some of the best things to do in Switzerland, here are some epic must-dos that are unique to this country.

From stunning train rides to sheep beauty pagents, read on for a list of things you can do in Switzerland that you can’t do anywhere else in the world.

places to visit while in switzerland

Save this list of Things to Do in Switzerland for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Hike through the landscapes that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien

Though he was just 19 when he visited Switzerland, it is said that iconic author J.R.R. Tolkien’s hike through the Lauterbrunnen Valley served as a key inspiration for the mystical land of Rivendell.

In 1911, Tolkien and some friends hiked from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, a trip that he has written about in surviving letters which show how the epic landscapes inspired his own works. Bilbo’s journey is similar to his own, while the idyllic valley of Lauterbrunnen is very similar to Elrond’s home of Rivendell.

The construction of the Jungfrau Railway is also thought to have influenced Tolkien when writing about the Fellowship’s trip through the mines of Moria, and the terrifying Balrog they encounter! If you want to experience stepping inside Middle-Earth while in Switzerland, make sure to do so in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

places to visit while in switzerland

2. Marvel at the most photographed mountain in the world

Known best perhaps for gracing the boxes of triangular chocolate, the epic Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland is one of the most instantly recognizable mountains in the world… and trust me, seeing it in real life inspires an irrational sense of glee (and an instant craving for Toblerone).

The Matterhorn stands at a whopping 14,692 feet (4,478 meters) tall, making it one of the most iconic peaks in the world. It’s also one of the most challenging mountains to climb. Only experienced mountaineers should even think about attempting it, and even they need to be in top-notch shape.

Now, if you’re not up for risking life and limb to conquer the Matterhorn, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to enjoy this bad boy without becoming a mountaineer.

From Zermatt, you can take a cable car or a cogwheel train up to Gornergrat or Klein Matterhorn. These spots offer breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain, and you can snap all the Instagram-worthy pics you want without breaking a sweat.

places to visit while in switzerland

3. Walk across the world’s only peak-to-peak suspension bridge

A suspension bridge linking two mountaintops? Why not?

Conquering the Tissot Peak Walk is another unique thing to do in Switzerland, with 107m of thrilling (swinging) bridge to meander.

Opened in 2014, this fun attraction links to the futuristically named Glacier 3000 with Scex Rouge, and is the only bridge of its kind in the world. So, let’s shove those fears of heights away for the sake of a memorable Swiss must-do.

places to visit while in switzerland

4. Or walk across the world’s longest suspension foot bridge

My sincere apologies to those with a fear of swinging bridges – Switzerland has yet another unique suspension bridge attraction worth noting, and this one happens to be the longest one for pedestrians in the world!

Connecting Zermatt and Grächen, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge goes on for a staggering 494 metres, which gives you plenty of time to contemplate your mortality.

places to visit while in switzerland

5. Visit Prince Eric’s Little Mermaid Castle

As a child who religiously watched The Little Mermaid on repeat (sometimes multiple times daily, as per my parents), I was beside myself when I discovered that the inspiration for Prince Eric’s castle is REAL and looks fairly close to the actual, animated deal.

… So now I pass that knowledge on to you.

The beautiful Château de Chillon (or Chillon Castle) has been around for over a thousand years, with its roots dating back to Roman times. It’s perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, near the town of Montreux, which is known for its famous jazz festival.

Getting there is a breeze, whether you’re staying in Montreux or even in Geneva, which is just a scenic train ride away. Once you arrive, you can explore the castle’s nooks and crannies, wander through its medieval halls, and even check out the dungeons where they used to lock up unlucky prisoners.

places to visit while in switzerland

6. Get lost in the world’s largest natural maze

Keen to get lost in a 3km maze? Then the Evionnaz Adventure Labyrinth may be worth a visit!

Known as the largest natural maze in the world, this beast of a labyrinth is made of over 18,000 Thuja conifers, artfully arranged in a messy tangle of confusion and whimsical Swiss-themed touches.

Of course, it’d be a waste to not turn this thing into an actual nightmare for Halloween, so you can stop by around that time to find it full of goblins and monsters. Otherwise, maybe come during a tamer time of year.

From above, it doesn’t look too threatening at least!

places to visit while in switzerland

7. Bungee jump where James Bond did in Golden Eye

If the image of (Pierce Brosnan’s) James Bond leaping from that giant dam in the opening scene of GoldenEye isn’t seared into your memory, then congrats – you’re probably a young person, which is nice.

But also not nice, because you don’t quite understand the gravity of this next unique Switzerland must-do.

… Because yes, my James Bond nerds, you CAN in fact jump off the Verzasca Dam yourself, all 220m (721 ft) of it.

Appropriately, it is known as the GoldenEye Bungee Jump. For reasons incomprehensible to my scaredy cat brain, you can also pay extra to do it at night.

places to visit while in switzerland

8. Stroll across the world’s oldest covered wooden bridge

There are many wonderful things to do in Lucerne , so when I say that walking across an old bridge is one of them, you might wonder if I’m sober.

I’m probably not. But ALSO, this isn’t just any ordinary bridge. The Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) in Lucerne is a unique and historic marvel that happens to photograph wonderfully.

This charming covered wooden bridge, originally constructed in the 14th century, stretches gracefully across the Reuss River. What makes it extra special is its 17th-century tower, the Wasserturm, rising proudly in the middle of the bridge.

The bridge itself is also adorned with a series of triangular paintings that depict Lucerne’s history, making it a fascinating stroll through time as well.

places to visit while in switzerland

9. Ride the slowest express train in the world

One thing about me is I love a good train ride. I’ve previously written about Switzerland’s most scenic trains , and among them is another unique ‘only in Switzerland’ experience: the Glacier Express, also known as the slowest express train in the world!

I know a title like that makes it sound awfully boring, but in reality it just gives you more time to soak up the aggressively magical landscapes that dot the route between mega ski resorts, Zermatt and St Moritz.

Along the way, you encounter everything from snow-dusted mountains and terraced vineyards to rocky gorges and ruined castles. It’s definitely one of those ‘journey is the experience’ type things, but well worth it for any train nerds among you.

If you’re on the fence though, you can read my full Glacier Express review for more details.

places to visit while in switzerland

10. Ride the world’s first open top aerial cable car to the peak of Mt. Stanserhorn

Ooh yes, more train related Swiss activities! Bring it on.

Another fun one you can only do in Switzerland is a ride on the world’s first open top aerial cable car (say that ten times fast). Yep, you can actually ride on top of this cable car up the mountain and while it looks very modern it’s actually been operating since 1893!

The ride begins in the charming town of Stans and takes approximately 30 minutes to ascend to the summit of Mt Stanserhorn. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, lush green meadows, and Lake Lucerne glistening in the distance.

Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy even more awe-inspiring vistas from the restaurant, sun terrace and observation deck.

places to visit while in switzerland

11. Chug through the world’s longest and deepest tunnel

Not a fan of the great outdoors? No worries, Switzerland also has you covered if you prefer unending darkness.

That’s because this overachieving country is also home to the world’s longest and deepest rail tunnel!

Spanning 57km (35 miles), the Gotthard Base Tunnel now plays a crucial role in rail connections, with a depth of 2.3km under the mountain at its deepest point.

It’s cool, but also slightly terrifying, so try not to dwell on it too much.

places to visit while in switzerland

13. Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train

With a maximum gradient of 48 degrees (which if your brain can’t compute, is absurdly steep), the Pilatusbahn near Lake Lucerne is an engineering marvel known as the steepest cogwheel train in the world.

In operation since 1889, the ride itself provides a thrilling ascent, taking you from the shores of Lake Lucerne to the summit of Mount Pilatus.

The cool factor here is not just the incredible engineering but also the unforgettable vistas you’ll encounter along the way. As you ride the train up you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, the surrounding Alps, and even glimpses of the city of Lucerne below.

Once you reach the summit, you can explore the mountaintop attractions, including hiking trails and restaurants with even more spectacular views.

To visit Pilatus Railway, you can take a boat to Alpnachstad and then hop on the railway, or you can reach the base station by train from Lucerne.

places to visit while in switzerland

14. Visit a living museum dedicated to Saint Bernards

If you’re like me and one of your biggest goals in Switzerland is seeing as many Saint Bernards as possible, I have news.

There’s a place called Barryland, and… it’s a museum dedicated to all things Saint Bernard.

Barryland is named after the legendary St. Bernard dog, Barry , who was famous for his heroic mountain rescue missions in the Alps during the 19th century. The museum showcases the history of the St. Bernard breed, their role in mountain rescue, and the story of Barry himself.

Not only that! You can book fun excursions where you hike with St Bernards in the mountains. You can also learn about the breeding and training of these beautiful dogs and get a glimpse into their daily lives. It’s definitely a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants!

places to visit while in switzerland

15. Visit the world’s tiniest museum, dedicated to things that can fit in a pants’ pocket

Of all the great things to do in Basel , one of my personal favourites is simply a visit to the world’s smallest museum – the Hoosesagg Museum (Pants Pocket Museum) located on Imbergässlein 31.

Measuring only 2×2 ft, this tiny museum is housed in a window that showcases new collections (from wooden spoons to mini London buses) every month… and the kicker is, anybody can apply to have their collection displayed there, so long as there are more than 30 items and they are no larger than the size of one’s palm.

So yes, make sure you stop by. It’s adorable.

places to visit while in switzerland

16. Drink at a bar devoted to aliens

The Giger Bar is one of the most unique things to do in Chur , Switzerland’s oldest city.

Designed by the renowned Swiss artist H.R. Giger, who is best known for his work on the film “Alien,” the bar is a masterpiece of biomechanical and dark fantasy aesthetics. The interior is like stepping into another world, with walls, ceilings, and furniture that seem to meld organic and mechanical elements seamlessly. It’s a bit eerie, a bit futuristic, and undeniably captivating.

What sets the Giger Bar apart is not just its striking visual design but also the ambiance it creates. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or enjoying a meal, you’re surrounded by the artist’s imaginative and otherworldly creations.

They also have a location in Gruyères if you happen to be there and want to visit.

places to visit while in switzerland

17. Stand where three countries meet

Hoping to stand in three countries at once? Well, in Basel, you can!

The Dreiländereck  (Three Countries’ Corner) in Basel marks the meeting point of Switzerland with its neighbours France and Germany. You’d think such a point may be easy to miss, but luckily they’ve marked it with a futuristic metallic rocket-looking like thing.

So, go secure your bragging rights as the person who managed to visit three countries at the same time (even if it’s just your foot that’s doing it).

places to visit while in switzerland

18. Go wild for fountains and hydration

Okay, this is a random one, but during my research I found a funny recurring theme that I had to share: Switzerland seems to be VERY into water.

Bern is known as the city of fountains. Zurich has more water fountains than any other city in the world. And the Jet d’Eau fountain in Geneva, which reaches an epic height of 140 metres (460 ft), is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

So, while in Switzerland, be sure to keep an eye out for these many water-based bragging rights.

places to visit while in switzerland

19. Attend a sheep beauty contest

The “sheep beauty contest” (also known as the Shepherd Festival ) held in Zermatt is a delightful and whimsical event that celebrates the charm of these fluffy mountain dwellers.

Zermatt is famous for its stunning Alpine landscapes, and the sheep that graze on its slopes play a significant role in maintaining the region’s natural beauty. This unique contest brings together local shepherds and their flocks to showcase the finest and most picturesque sheep. Qualities such as wool quality, posture, and overall appearance are judged.

The competition is fierce too, with shepherds washing, blow-drying, primping and combing their sheep for days leading up to the festival. The “Miss Zermatt” winner receives a special sheep bell to hang around her neck, and the entire thing is basically adorable.

Along with seeing the prettiest sheep, visitors to the festival can enjoy raclette and other delicious treats, while being entertained by local yodellers!

places to visit while in switzerland

20. Party where there’s the most pubs/clubs per capita in Europe

Zürich might have a reputation that’s more “suits and banks” rather than “clubs and shots” but apparently this Swiss city has more pubs and clubs per capita than anywhere else in Europe.

Trust me, I’m as shocked as you are. Berlin is probably punching the air right now.

But anyways, if you find yourself looking for weird nightlife bragging rights, then be sure to party the night away sometime in Zürich!

places to visit while in switzerland

21. Visit towns called Misery and Moron

Visiting the towns of Misery and Moron in Switzerland is an experience that’s sure to bring a smile to your face, not just because of their quirky names!

Misery-Courtion is a small village nestled in the heart of the Jura Mountains. Despite its name, it’s anything but miserable. The area is known for its stunning hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss countryside. You can explore the pristine forests and wander along serene lakeshores, then enjoy some local delicacies in the cozy village cafes.

Moron is another enchanting spot in the Jura region. It’s a village perched on a hilltop of the same name, providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

Beyond the humorous name, Moron offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding. The town itself is charming, with traditional Swiss architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. You can explore the historic streets, visit local farms, and savor more delicious Swiss cuisine here.

22. Visit Einstein House, Where the Physicist Developed his Theory of Relativity

The Einstein House, also known as the Einsteinhaus, is located in Bern, the Swiss capital. It’s the place where Albert Einstein lived with his wife, Mileva Marić, and their family from 1903 to 1905, during a crucial period in his career.

The house itself is a modest apartment on the second floor of Kramgasse 49, a typical Swiss building in the heart of Bern’s old town. It’s been preserved to reflect the period when Einstein lived there, offering visitors a glimpse into the everyday life of the budding physicist.

You can explore the rooms where Einstein and his family lived, including his study, which is where he developed his groundbreaking theory of relativity. The furnishings, books, and personal artifacts provide valuable insights into his life and work.

places to visit while in switzerland

23. Visit the birthplace of the world wide web

There’s no doubt that the world wide web completely changed everything. After all, you’re here right now because of it. SO, if you’re looking for a nerdy but epic thing you can only do in Switzerland, then why not go see its birthplace?

As a bonus, it’s at CERN, which is also home to the world’s largest physics lab. CERN, short for the European Organization for Nuclear Research (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire in French), is one of the world’s most renowned scientific research facilities.

Established in 1954, CERN’s primary mission is to study the fundamental structure of the universe. It’s most famous for its particle accelerators, including the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which is the largest and most powerful particle accelerator in the world.

Scientists at CERN use these accelerators to collide particles at incredibly high energies, replicating conditions similar to those moments after the Big Bang. This research has led to groundbreaking discoveries, such as the observation of the Higgs boson, which helps explain the origin of mass.

CERN offers guided tours to the public, providing a unique opportunity to learn about cutting-edge particle physics research. During a tour, visitors can explore some of the facilities, including the LHC and various experimental sites.

You’ll get to see the control rooms where scientists monitor and conduct experiments, as well as exhibitions that explain the organization’s history and its impact on our understanding of the universe.

places to visit while in switzerland

24. Tour the European HQ of the United Nations

Located in Geneva, this iconic institution plays a pivotal role in international diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and global cooperation.

The Palais des Nations, which houses the European headquarters of the UN, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens along the shores of Lake Geneva.

The UN offers guided tours that take you through various parts of the Palais des Nations. Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the UN’s mission, history, and current activities. You’ll visit assembly halls, committee rooms, and chambers where crucial discussions and negotiations take place.

The Palais des Nations is surrounded by a Peace Garden, which is a serene and contemplative space to wander after your tour. It features various sculptures and artworks donated by countries in honor of the UN’s mission for peace.

places to visit while in switzerland

25. Visit a museum dedicated to the Olympics

The Olympic Museum in Lausanne is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the Olympic Games.

Established in 1993 (like me!!), this museum is the largest of its kind in the world and serves as the official repository of Olympic history and heritage. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a vast collection of Olympic memorabilia, including medals, torches, and equipment used by legendary athletes.

One of the museum’s standout features is its cutting-edge technology. Visitors can engage in interactive sports simulations, test their athletic skills, and even experience the thrill of being an Olympian. There are also multimedia displays, films, and historic photographs that provide a comprehensive overview of the Games’ history and impact on global culture.

… along with a moving compilation of Opening Ceremony moments that legitimately made me cry. I used to be obsessed with the Olympics as a kid, so that’s my excuse.

places to visit while in switzerland

26. Eat milk chocolate in the country where it was invented

That’s right, if breaking every train record and inventing the world wide web wasn’t enough, Switzerland ALSO happens to be the country that gifted the world with milk chocolate.

In the 19th century, chocolate was primarily consumed in the form of dark chocolate. While it had a devoted following, it was an acquired taste due to its intense, sometimes bitter flavor. Daniel Peter, who hailed from the Swiss town of Vevey, decided to experiment with adding milk to chocolate to make it smoother and more palatable.

The breakthrough came when Peter teamed up with Henri Nestlé, a Swiss inventor who had developed a method for producing condensed milk. In 1875, they combined Nestlé’s condensed milk with cocoa to create a milk chocolate mixture. This innovation resulted in a sweeter, creamier, and more accessible chocolate that was a hit with consumers.

Milk chocolate’s popularity quickly spread beyond Switzerland, and it became a sensation worldwide. In 1904, another Swiss company, Tobler, introduced Toblerone, further solidifying Switzerland’s reputation as a hub for chocolate innovation.

So yes, eating your weight in milk chocolate sounds like a pretty important Switzerland must-do to me.

PS: According to some sources, Swiss people eat the most chocolate per capita in the world. 8.8kg per person. So you know it’s good.

places to visit while in switzerland

27. Visit the world’s smallest whisky bar

Looking for something a little stronger than milk chocolate?

How about dark chocolate? No – just kidding. How about WHISKY?

The Swiss town of Santa Maria Val Müstair is home to the world’s smallest whisky bar, with over 260 types of whisky served in a tiny bar of just 8.53 metres squared.

Talk about cozy.

28. Rent a cow and get discounts on cheese

While this is more for people living in Switzerland, you could still do this unique and wholesome thing if you were going to be visiting for a month or more – and that is adopting/sponsoring your own cow (or goat!) in the Swiss countryside!

A number of farms have started setting up this kind of program for city folks so that they can get a bit more involved with where their produce is coming from, and also benefit from savings on said produce. If you sponsor one of these animals then you’ll be able to visit them on the farm and even help out, perfect if you need a break from city life.

Some places allow you to rent a cow for just a month, so you could even fulfil your dream of learning to milk a cow while visiting the country for a short time!

29. Run up the world’s longest staircase

With 11,674 steps stretching over 3.4km, the world’s longest staircase is another Swiss marvel you an find in the Bernese Alps.

Want to climb it? Sadly (or maybe not, if you were hesitant to begin with), the staircase only opens to the public once a year for the Niesen Treppen Lauf, during which many fearless participants compete to see who climbs it fastest.

places to visit while in switzerland

30. Participate in the world’s longest rowing race

… or maybe just watch it? That sounds more reasonable.

In any case, the Tour du Léman à l’Aviron is the longest rowing race in the world, which takes place on Lake Geneva usually in September.

Rowing teams, both male and female, compete in various categories, including singles, doubles, fours, and eights. It’s a grueling endurance race that showcases the rowers’ physical and mental strength.

The racecourse offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque towns and villages that dot the shores of Lake Geneva. Rowers navigate the entire circumference of the lake, making it a visually spectacular event.

If you want to watch the Tour du Léman, you can do so from various vantage points along the lake’s shoreline. Many of the lakeside towns and cities, such as Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux, provide excellent viewing spots. You can also follow the race’s progress online through live tracking and updates.

places to visit while in switzerland

31. Attend the world’s largest yodelling festival

The Swiss Federal Yodeling Festival takes place once every three years and is the largest one of its kind in the world!

The first official festival took place in 1862 in Basel. It was organized to promote and preserve Switzerland’s traditional yodeling and alpine music heritage. Since then, the festival has been held approximately every three years in different Swiss cities, with each edition showcasing the vibrant diversity of yodeling traditions from various regions of Switzerland.

If you are able to attend one of these festivals (the next one is set to be held in Basel in June 2026) then you will get to experience lots of different yodeling performances and see the traditional costumes worn by the performers.

The festival often includes parades and exhibitions that showcase these aspects of Swiss heritage as well. Swiss cuisine is another big part of the festival. You can savor delicious Swiss dishes, such as raclette, fondue, and other alpine specialties, along with local beverages like Swiss wine and beer.

32. Rig a snowman effigy with explosives and wait for it to explode…?

Finally, we shall conclude this list of unique things to do in Switzerland with a pretty chaotic and dramatic entry: the Sechseläuten Spring Festival.

During this festival (which takes place on the third Monday of April), local guilds parade through the city in their traditional garb (while throwing dead fish, apparently, if you’re the fishermen’s guild).

This whimsical procession is then followed by setting fire to a GIANT SNOWMAN effigy known as Böögg.

Why so violent? Apparently burning Böögg will end winter faster. I’m not sure about that though… and neither is Böögg.

places to visit while in switzerland

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Switzerland?

Let me know in the comments!

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places to visit while in switzerland

These are the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland

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Recently updated on July 31st, 2023 at 04:47 pm

Girl jumping into the water from a pontoon

These are the most irresistible places to visit in Switzerland , rated by Trafalgar’s travel experts. In winter you can hit the slopes and marvel at snow-covered mountains. Summer promises jazz festivals, scenic train trips and cooling dips in turquoise lakes. 

Best places to visit in Switzerland:

Overview of interlaken

Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the heart of the Bernese Alps, Interlaken is one of the most impressive places to visit in Switzerland. It offers visitors captivating views, traditional Swiss chalets and a picture-perfect setting. And when it comes to unforgettable things to do in Switzerland, Interlaken delivers in spades. 

  • Enjoy a boat cruise on the emerald waters of Lake Thun, soaking up the scenery with a coffee in hand. If that’s too sedate, consider a kayaking excursion on Lake Brienz, or create some waves on a Jetboat ride to the Giessbach Falls.  
  • Get your adrenaline pumping on a Swiss sled run, zipping through forests and across meadows as you race down the mountain on a fantastic night sled adventure. 
  • Strap on some snowshoes or jump into a funicular. Whatever vehicle you choose, the views around Interlaken are spectacular.     
  • Summer adventurers can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime canyoning adventure in nearby Grimsel. While, a trip to Jungfraujoch (The Top of Europe) and the Aletsch Glacier is an absolute must year-round. 

Man Standing on a summit in Zermatt

Sitting in the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn, Zermatt’s unbeatable location, cobbled streets, winding alleyways and snow-topped chalets make it one of the most beautiful (and yes, exclusive) villages in Switzerland.  Zermatt is a car-free zone, so that makes exploring its nooks and crannies an absolute pleasure. And, with an extended snow season, there is also plenty to do. 

  • Hit the slopes! The area is world-renowned for skiing and snowboarding. Summer visitors can also enjoy a wide range of hiking and mountain bike trails.    
  • A culinary hotspot, this city is famous for its oysters (flown in fresh from France), traditional Swiss fare, Swiss cheeses and chocolatiers.  So, find a café, bakery or chalet-style restaurant and enjoy lunch with a view.  
  • Marvel at the Matterhorn. Switzerland’s most-famous peak and surrounding mountain range will dominate your time in Zermatt. Consider a trip up Klein Matterhorn, ascending over snow-capped mountains to Europe’s highest cable car station. Or, opt for a ride on the  Gornergrat train , the world’s first fully-electric cog railway, up to the observation platform at Gornergrat, 3,000 metres above sea level. 
  • One of the most delightful things to do in Switzerland in the summer is to catch Zermatt’s daily goat parade.  From the beginning of July until around the middle of August, young children drive a herd of shaggy, beloved Valais Blackneck goats (also called glacier goats) through the centre of the village every morning and evening. A tradition loved by young and old alike! 

RE LATED CONTENT : 8 Swiss foods you have to try on your next trip

Rhine River, Basel

The city’s  Aldstadt , eclectic mix of architecture and stunning position on the Rhine River make it one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.  

  • Visit three countries in one day. This city lies at the meeting point of France, Germany and Switzerland, and a visit to  Dreiländereck  (Three Countries Corner) gives tourists a unique opportunity to stand under the three different flags at the token meeting point (the actual border lies under the Rhine River). 
  • Cruise along Europe’s longest river. No visit here is complete without a boat trip on the Rhine. So, opt for a sundowner cruise or a romantic dinner cruise – you won’t be disappointed.  
  • Check out the Christmas Market in December. Sip on mulled wine and nibble on traditional  Zimtsternen  (cinnamon star cookies). Then, shop for beautiful Christmas decorations and stocking fillers.

view of gruyere

Although most well-known for its famous cheese, 800-year-old Gruyères is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland. Its pretty flower-lined streets, cobbled square, rustic chalets and spectacular castle transport visitors back to medieval times. And high on any  “What to do in Switzerland”  list is a visit to a local cheese factory – Gruyères does not disappoint. Cheese lovers can learn about Swiss cheese production and watch true artisans at work, before relaxing in the village around an indulgent fondue. And for non-cheese lovers? 

  • Wander around Gruyères Castle, admiring its ancient turrets and walls before exploring its medieval treasures.  
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the Cailler chocolate factory, one of Switzerland’s most celebrated chocolatiers. Or, discover a secret speciality – delectably light meringues. Best enjoyed with a cup of coffee and a side order of double cream.    
  • Head to the nearby village of Moléson, where a scenic funicular and a cable car trip delivers you to the summit of Le Moléson – and stunning views of the town in the distance.

GET INSPIRED : CONTRASTS OF SWITZERLAND

Evening view in Zurich

Although Bern, Lausanne and Geneva are all worthy of a place on this list, Zurich is a spectacular springboard and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. Its pastel-coloured buildings, narrow streets and charming shop fronts delight visitors. But, don’t resist a dip in the inviting waters of Lake Zurich.

  • Go hiking or biking on the slopes of Uetliberg and admire the sweeping views of the city below. 
  • Soak up some art, history and culture by visiting the cities many galleries and museums. 
  • Wander through the old town, enjoying the cobbled streets, small cafes and peaceful atmosphere of yesteryear.   

Where are your favourite places to visit in Switzerland? Are you fond of mountains or lakes, cities or outdoors activities? We’d love to hear more, so share your views in the comments below.

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10 Natural Wonders in Switzerland (Sceneries To Die For)

nature switzerland

The nature available in Switzerland is nothing short of mind-blowing! Between the Swiss Alps, the glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, and blue lakes, there are more natural wonders in Switzerland than you can shake a stick at!

Despite being a small country with amazing public transport, it would take you years to see all the natural wonders this country has to offer, so what not start with the best and most impressive of them?

Join me as I run through all the awesome slices of nature Switzerland has to offer so you can incorporate a few or all of them the next time you visit.

Table of Contents

Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne

Sitting in Central Switzerland, Lake Lucerne is possibly the most impressive lake in the country and one of the natural wonders of Switzerland everyone should experience. It is not the largest lake in Switzerland, which would be Lake Geneva, but is the most beautiful.

Lake Lucerne is best visited during the summer when you can enjoy the lake to its maximum. You can sunbathe on the beaches of Lake Lucerne, go paddle boarding, boating, water skiing, fishing, and even take a boat ride across it.

Known as the “Lake of the Four Forested Elements” the shape of Lake Lucerne is unique with its four arms that stretch into different directions. The surrounding mountains are very impressive and the never-ending views into the Alps are hard to beat.

The city of Lucerne is also very charming with a very well-preserved medieval old town and the famous Chapel bridge across the Reuss River. The surrounding area is also filled with wonderful biking and hiking trails that give you different perspectives on the beauty of the area.

Lake Lucerne is, without a doubt, one of the natural wonders of Switzerland you have to visit!

Related Reading

Chapel bridge in lucerne: all you need to know, swiss national park.

Swiss National Park

One of the natural wonders you simply have to visit while in Switzerland is the Swiss National Park. Located in eastern Switzerland close to the Italian border, this is the only national park in the entire country!

The Swiss National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and may be the best destination in the world if you want to see preserved dinosaur footprints. This speaks volumes to just how well-preserved and old this part of the Alps is.

The park is home to a range of different ecosystems from alpine peaks to meadows and forests which support a diverse array of flora and fauna.

While hiking around this magical part of the world you might encounter marmots, chamois, golden eagles, bearded vultures, ibexes, and if you are lucky a brown bear or two.

The Swiss National Park is the most pristine and best-looked-after part of the country, and that is saying something, so it is one of the “must” places to visit in Switzerland.

Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen Valley

The Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland was where J. R. R. Tolkien got the idea for Rivendell in his books “The Hobbit” and “The Lord Of The Rings”. To create that kind of inspiration, this must be one of the best natural wonders in Switzerland.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known as the valley of waterfalls and it is just that. It was carved millions of years ago by a glacier that created a valley with 3000-foot walls on each side, down which 72 waterfalls fall.

Hiking down the valley from waterfall to waterfall is pretty incredible. You will have the alps as a backdrop as you wander through the snow-covered or wildflower-filled meadows and forests.

Be sure to see the Staubbach waterfall while you are there as it is mighty impressive as it drops with such power and force.

Visiting Staubbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen: A Detailed Guide

Rhine falls.

Rhine Falls

Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls is another of the natural wonders that you have to see while visiting Switzerland.

By Europe’s largest waterfall, I mean largest in terms of volume, not height. Rhine Falls is created by the Rhine River and during the summer months of peak snow and glacier melt, it pumps out 600,000 liters of water per second.

Sitting in northern Switzerland, close to the German border, and not far from Zurich, the Rhine Falls is mightily impressive to see. The sheer force of the water pouring out of Rhine Falls is incredible and there are a number of ways of seeing it.

The most spectacular is on a boat ride which takes you right up close to the falls. You can feel the power of the Rhine River as it pounds down the 23-meter drop.

Oeschinensee

Oeschinensee

Oeschinensee is an incredible alpine lake and without a doubt another of the Swiss natural wonders, you have to see while visiting.

It sits in the heart of the Bernese Alps and its waters are about as crystal clear and blue as an Alpine lake could be.

You can enjoy this Swiss lake all year round. It is an awesome place for hiking, fishing, and swimming. One can rent boats to explore the lake and hop on a paddle board, and in winter it is great for ice fishing too.

This is a very popular spot, so is not one of those secluded alpine lakes you can enjoy on your own. Expect to share it with locals and visitors. The mountain views and surrounding landscapes are spectacular.

Oeschinen Lake: How to Visit, Best Things To Do & More

The matterhorn.

Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is one of the natural wonders of Europe and it just so happens to be in Switzerland. Sitting just outside of the resort town of Zermatt, the Matterhorn is an iconic part of Swiss nature and probably the most iconic peak in the entire Alps Range.

Known for its amazing shape, the Matterhorn has everyone’s jaw-dropping when they catch a glimpse of it for the first time. The jagged, shark-tooth look of this mountain peak is mesmerizing and it is for this reason that it is the most photographed mountain in the world.

The peak is 4,478 meters above sea level and is one of the tallest mountains in the Alps. You can visit the Matterhorn via a train and tram that will take you to the glacier at its base to see one of the best views in all of Switzerland.

Most Popular Glaciers In Switzerland (Visit Them Soon)

Trümmelbach falls.

Trümmelbach Falls

One of the more unique natural wonders of Switzerland is the Trümmelbach Falls . Trümmelbach Falls is a subterranean waterfall, meaning it is an underground waterfall that cascades through the heart of a mountain, how amazing is that!

This is the largest underground waterfall in Europe with a drop of 140 meters over 10 different cascades which 20,000 liters of water per second falls down. That is a lot of natural power, to the point that the mountain constantly rumbles as the waterfall crashes within it.

You will find this waterfall in the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley and you can use the exceptional infrastructure to view it. There are galleries, lifts, viewing platforms, and paths to see it up close in all its glory.

Visiting The Trummelbach Falls: A Masterpiece Of Nature

Jungfraujoch.

Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is often described as the top of Europe. It is there where you will find a mountaintop observatory that you can access via a railway. The view from the viewing platform is hard to describe and almost impossible to beat.

You are literally at the top of the alps looking across some of the most incredible landscapes you will ever see. From mountain peaks to valleys and more, staring out from the observatory is a must.

There is more to Jungfraujoch though if you can believe it. You can stroll through an Ice Palace filled with sculptures, go on incredible glacier hikes with a guide, and there is even a Snow Park where you can zipline over the longer glaciers in Europe.

Eiger

The north wall of the Eiger is a sight to behold. It is simply a shear wall created by some of the tallest mountains in Europe and is quite a force of nature.

The wall of Eiger was considered unclimbable and more than 60 climbers have died trying to attempt to scale it. It wasn’t until 1938 that a climber actually managed to get up it.

You can visit Eiger via the historic Jungfrau railway which tunnels through it and provides you with amazing views of the mountain on each side. You will then arrive at the saddle, some 10,332 feet above sea level for unparalleled views.

Aletsch Glacier

Aletsch Glacier

Another Swiss wonder found in the Valais region is the Aletsch Glacier . Again, this natural wonder is hard to comprehend as the Aletsch Glacier creates the largest frozen area in all of Europe.

The Aletsch Glacier covers 81. 7 km squared, 23 km long, and has a volume of 15.4 km cubed. That is a lot of ice and just seeing this alive mountain being is nothing short of incredible.

The glacier has actually retreated in the last 100 or so years and is now 3.2 km shorter than it used to be and 300 meters thinner too.

Hiking to the glacier is the best way to see it and you can ski all around it with amazing views of it too!

Aletsch Glacier: Everything You Need to Know

Map of swiss natural wonders.

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places to visit while in switzerland

places to visit while in switzerland

The Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland

From soaring mountain peaks to unreal turquoise lakes, discover the most beautiful places in Switzerland.

Switzerland being one of the most beautiful places in the world is the worst-kept secret. What Switzerland lacks in coastlines and skyscrapers it makes up for with snow-capped mountains, lush forests, beautiful lakes, and unique cultural attractions.

Narrowing down the most beautiful places in Switzerland is a challenge when the entire country is absolutely stunning. For starters, there’s the beautiful scenery of the Swiss Alps which is a nature lovers’ paradise.

These mountain peaks are packed with hiking trails, world-famous winter sports resorts, and epic vistas over beautiful landscapes. Switzerland’s natural beauty cannot be mentioned without including the majestic Rhine Falls, the Swiss National Park, and Lake Geneva in the same breath.

Some of the most beautiful places in Switzerland are man-made, like the stunning architecture of Chateau de Chillon or the postcard-perfect Swiss Chalets. You’re absolutely spoiled for choice!

I’ve had the opportunity to visit this incredible country several times and each time I go, I discover more and more beautiful places in Switzerland. Honestly, after visiting, you may be comparing every other place you go to Switzerland, and it’s probably not going to measure up, sorry!

This is a detailed list of all the most beautiful places in Switzerland to help you plan your trip to one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:

Wanderlust switzerland guide.

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland

  • Zurich : Baur Au Lac
  • Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
  • Zermatt: The Omnia
  • Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
  • Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
  • Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
  • Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Must Have: Swiss Pass

Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland

  • Paragliding
  • Lindt Chocolate Tour
  • Lake Lucerne Cruise

Geneva is one of the most popular cities to visit in Switzerland because it really does have it all. It sits on the banks of the impressive Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Central Europe which straddles the border of Switzerland and France. Take a boat ride and sail along the calm waters with the surrounding mountains of the Swiss Alps creating the perfect backdrop.

Heading into the city’s historic Old Town, walk along the cobbled streets and peak inside chocolate shops and art galleries. St Pierre Cathedral’s towers offer panoramic views of this wonderful city.

Geneva is also where you’ll find the headquarters of the United Nations and the impressive peace gate made up of 194 flags. The city is also home to one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland for performances, the Grand Theatre de Genève.

2. Chateau de Chillon

Chateau de Chillon, or Chillon Castle, is a must-visit in Switzerland if you’re building an itinerary featuring all the most beautiful places. It’s an island castle that rests on the eastern side of Lake Geneva next to the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Park (similar to a national park).

Dating back to the 11th century, it’s one of the most well-preserved medieval castles in Europe. If you’re visiting Switzerland in the summer, you can’t miss exploring the turrets and underground of Chateau de Chillon. Afterward, you can follow the hiking trails around Lake Geneva and the surrounding landscape.

3. The Matterhorn

It’s not just a drawing on the front of a Toblerone bar, the Matterhorn actually exists! This pyramid-shaped peak is one of the most famous places to visit in Switzerland and an icon of the Swiss Alps.

It rests on the border between Switzerland and Italy in the resort town of Zermatt in southern Switzerland. There are tons of snowcapped mountains in this region where you can go glacier skiing, snowshoeing, and much more.

Cross your fingers for a clear day so you can see one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Take lots of photographs of the Matterhorn that you’re sure to treasure always.

4. St. Moritz

Are you ready to experience the high life? Not just one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland, this alpine village way up in the Swiss Alps is one of the most expensive and luxurious.

St Moritz is the oldest winter vacation resort in the world. It hosted two winter Olympics, in 1928 and 1948, and hosts horse racing and polo games on a frozen lake.

You can take horse-drawn carriage rides past all the designer stores. Or, sip glühwein while strolling around the town and marveling at the diverse architecture.

5. The Rhine Falls

Close to the German border along the Rhine River just so happens to be Europe’s largest plains waterfall. The Rhine Falls are 150m wide and 23m high and they are surrounded by the Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park.

Book a boat ride to get close to these powerful cascading waterfalls and don’t forget to visit the Rhine Gorge. It’s further downstream from the Rhine Falls between Reichenau and Ilanz.

It has the most stunning scenery with turquoise glacial water from the Rhine Falls and impossible horseshoe bends. They don’t call it the ‘Swiss Grand Canyon’ for nothing!

6. Interlaken

Located between two emerald-colored lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, is the traditional winter resort town of Interlaken in the Jungfrau region. When you visit Switzerland, you’ll realize that this beautiful country has an endless supply of gorgeous ski resort towns but Interlaken is one of the most beautiful places.

There are old traditional houses made of timber and luxurious resorts dotted around the town. In the distance, the mountains that make this breathtaking country famous stand majestic in the background.

Try skydiving or paragliding to witness one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland from above. Or, hop on the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch which is the highest-altitude railway in Europe.

7. Lauterbrunnen

Not too far away from Interlaken is Lauterbrunnen, the most charming quintessential Swiss town that exists today. Set in a valley surrounded by lush forests, it’s one of the best places to visit in Switzerland during the warmer months.

Hike to the glacial waterfalls Trümmelbach Falls and Staubbach Falls. Take cable cars up Schilthorn mountain for impressive vistas of the surrounding mountains in this unspeakably beautiful country.

Though many people think it’s Zurich, Bern is actually Switzerland’s capital city. It also happens to be an incredibly beautiful city and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland!

Built across the Aare River, Bern’s medieval Old Town is so historic that it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Old Town, you’ll find Switzerland’s tallest cathedral and several cobbled streets with covered arches and fountains.

9. Abbey of Saint Gall

Speaking of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there are 13 you can check out when you visit Switzerland. But if you want to know which is the most beautiful site to visit in Switzerland, it has to be the Abbey of Saint Gall.

This baroque monastery was built between 1755 and 1768 in the town of Saint Gallen. It has possibly the most important medieval libraries and links to two Catholic saints.

The ornate craftsmanship of the abbey’s interior is complete with frescoes on the ceiling and dark wooden bookcases. Beautiful places and buildings like this abbey need to be seen in real life to be fully appreciated!

10. Lucerne

Around halfway between Zurich and Bern is the compact city of Lucerne. It’s one of the most historic places in Switzerland with almost every street lined with medieval architecture.

Lucerne is a great place to visit in Switzerland for the Christmas market season. The whole city is transformed into a fairytale winter wonderland.

Crossing the Reiss River as it flows into Lake Lucerne is Chapel Bridge, a medieval wooden bridge. This covered walkway (known as kapellbrücke in German) dates back to the 1300s and is adorned with 17th-century artwork on the roof.

You won’t be able to look where you’re going as you cross this bridge. You’ll either be looking up at the skilled artwork on the ceiling or out across Lucerne’s skyline as it’s just such a beautiful place to visit in Switzerland.

11. Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano isn’t just another stunning Swiss lake, it’s also a glacial lake and a pretty resort area. It’s not too far west of Lake Como across the Italian border and is very underrated.

Surrounded by rugged mountains, it’s one of the most perfect places in Switzerland to enjoy a lake cruise and a picnic of local Swiss cheese and chocolate in the summer. The town of Lugano itself has lots of beautiful pastel-colored villas, upmarket stores, and water features.

Take a stroll along the harbor and watch all the fancy yachts dock for the evening as the sun sets on this defacto Italian lakeside city. Even the ornate metal railing around the water’s edge is covered with cute flower boxes this city is that beautiful!

Switzerland’s largest city is more widely known for its banks and cultural centers like the Swiss National Museum than its beauty. On the contrary, Zurich is one of the most picturesque places in Switzerland, particularly in the north of the country.

Sitting on the eastern banks of Lake Zurich, this sprawling city has a charming Old Town called Altstadt with labyrinthine lanes. The Zurich Opera House is a sight to behold, as is the Rathaus (Town Hall) which dates back to the 17th century.

If you love varied and historic architecture surrounded by lots of city parks pretty then you won’t be disappointed by Zurich.

13. Bernina Express

The Bernina Express isn’t just one place but a train journey that encompasses several of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland. Starting at the small border village of Tirano in Italy, this red train climbs to an elevation of 2,253m over 196 bridges to Chur in Switzerland.

Chur just so happens to be the oldest city in the country so it’s an interesting place to visit. You can also hop off at St Moritz or one of the other winter resorts and glaciers on the way.

Its history, beauty, and feat of engineering are just some of the reasons why this train ride is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will want to keep your camera handy throughout a journey like this. Luckily, the windows open so can take photographs of these stunning landscapes without any glare.

14. Lausanne

Geneva isn’t the only beautiful city residing on the banks of Lake Geneva that you can visit in Switzerland. Lausanne is smaller but it’s just as appealing to the eye.

Home to the International Olympic Committee, Lausanne has lots of stadiums, sports fields, and museums dedicated to this multi-sport event dotted around the city. Somehow, the city pairs its thriving sports centers with its medieval buildings, 12th-century Gothic cathedral, and lakeside green spaces so well.

One of the best places to witness the beauty of Lausanne is by climbing to the top of the Sauvabelin Tower. This 35m viewing platform is one of the highest points in the city.

15. Aletsch Glacier

Europe’s highest railway, tallest waterfall, and now Europe’s longest glacier. There really is so much outstanding natural and manmade beauty to visit in Switzerland! The Aletsch Glacier in the Swiss canton Valais is one of them.

It’s not unique as there are around 1400 glaciers in Switzerland, most of them in this canton. This is by far one of the most beautiful and impressive glaciers covering 31.5 sq. miles of pure ice.

Hiking to the Aletsch Glacier is the best way to see it up close.

16. Naturpark Beverin

The Rhaetian Alps are often overlooked in favor of the Bernese Alps but there are lots of beautiful mountain peaks worth visiting here too. Naturpark Beverin in the Western Rhaetian Alps is just one of those places that you should visit in Switzerland!

This area isn’t one of the top winter resorts but it’s perfect in the warmer months. You can hire a car and enjoy stopping by the charming villages hidden in the valleys.

Whether you’re a keen hiker or a complete beginner, there are lots of alpine hikes in Naturpark Beverin for you to explore. Waterfalls, mountain goats, gorges, and thick green forests will reward your hard work.

Basel is Switzerland’s third largest city and one of the most multicultural cities to visit in Switzerland. Situated close to both the French and German borders, the influence of the three countries makes Basel a fascinating and incredibly pretty city.

Walk along the banks of the Rhine River past the Mittlere Brücke, a historic stone bridge. Wander inside the Basel Minster church and admire its geometric-patterned roof.

There’s also the medieval Basel City Wall, city gates, museums, and other beautiful pieces of architecture in Basel that will stop you in your tracks.

18. Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

Have you already added Lausanne and Chateau de Chillon to your list of places to visit in Switzerland on your next trip? Then you should also add the vineyard terraces of Lavaux to your list. This petite wine region sits in the center of both of these places.

Some of the top wineries here include Domaine De La Crausaz, Terres De Lavaux, and Domaine Croix Duplex. All the wineries and vineyards in this region grow on sloped hills surrounding Lake Geneva so you can enjoy beautiful vistas whilst sipping delicious wine.

It won’t surprise you to learn that this region is also on UNESCO’s list. Winemaking is such a longstanding tradition in this part of Switzerland and an essential part of the culture.

There are many places you can visit in Switzerland that have their fair share of medieval structures. None are so beautiful and prolific as Sion, a city in the south of the country.

Sion is known for two medieval castles in particular, the 13th-century Tourbillon Castle and the 12th-century Romanesque Valère Castle. They both sit on hilltops overlooking the city with the Swiss Alps visible in the distance.

In the city below, the 15th-century Notre-Dame-du-Glarier Cathedral and several other medieval sandstone buildings help make Sion so beautiful.

20. Swiss National Park

It sounds crazy with all the natural beauty in this country, but Switzerland only has one national park! It’s simply the Swiss National Park on the far eastern side of the country.

This unspoiled area in the Western Rhaetian Alps boasts 21 hiking routes and is part of a UNESCO Biosphere. You might find red deer, lynx, vultures, and even golden eagles in this part of Switzerland

Traditional Swiss mountain lodges are available to book all over the national park so you can enjoy a relaxing, secluded escape.

21. Stein am Rhein

This very small town next to the German border might not seem like anything special. You only have to walk 10 seconds down the main street in Stein am Rhein to discover that’s far from the case and it’s actually one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland!

The cobbled lanes of Understadt and Oberstadt are lined with half-timbered buildings with intricate paintings on their exteriors. They are truly something out of a fairytale and you could easily live out your Beauty and the Beast fantasies here.

If that weren’t enough, Hohenklingen Castle overlooks the town from a nearby hill and it dates all the way back to the Middle Ages. St. George’s Abbey is a former Benedictine monastery that you won’t regret visiting either.

Switzerland isn’t short of magical hilltop villages. Drive for an hour around Switzerland and you’ll pass at least 30. But if you want to visit the most beautiful Swiss hilltop village, Soglio might just snag the top spot.

It shares a border with Italy but it is undeniably a Swiss town. The centuries-old wooden chalets look like they belong in a museum and you could quite happily get lost wandering down the narrow lanes.

San Lorenzo church stands proud against the surrounding mountains. If you stick around for sunset, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful landscape.

23. Creux du Van

Not a city, town, or village but a natural landmark, Creaux du Van is an interesting rock formation in the northwest of Switzerland near Lake Neuchâtel. It sweeps around the hillside like a crater and it’s such an impressive, awe-inspiring sight.

Creaux du Van is a great rest stop on a road trip around Switzerland. You can stretch your legs on a hike and, if you’re lucky, spot some wildlife here too.

Don’t worry about missing the most beautiful places in Switzerland – they’re everywhere!

Whether you prefer mountain destinations, historical places like Chateau de Chillon, or natural wonders like the Swiss National Park and Rhine Falls, this beautiful country will deliver.

The post The Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

From soaring mountain peaks to unreal turquoise lakes, discover the most beautiful places in Switzerland.

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NATURE’S WONDERS | Surprising discoveries while hiking in Switzerland

  • Joshua Berida
  • March 23, 2024
  • 4 minute read

switzerland (5)

Ever since my first hike to Mt. Pinatubo’s crater lake some years back, I’ve been enamored with the mountains. I did some more hikes around the Philippines and a few places in Asia. When I got the opportunity to visit Switzerland, I carefully planned the day hikes I wanted to do in one of the country’s most popular destination, the Jungfrau region. 

switzerland (8)

Schynige Platte

The hike to this scenic destination starts at Wilderswil Station, which is a few minutes away from Interlaken. I and other tourists waited for the train that would take us to the Schynige Platte. The railway dates to the 1890s when it used to be steam-powered. The approximately 50-minute ride isn’t just scenic, but allows passengers to experience a bit of history. The train climbed the mountain and passed through stunning views of the landscape. I found myself looking out the window almost throughout the entire trip.

switzerland (12)

I decided to follow the famous and popular panorama trail. Experienced and fit hikers (or those who have more time), can take the traverse trail all the way to First. I didn’t have the luxury of time, so I remained on the panorama trail. 

The trail was a series of serpentine, rocky paths with sweeping vistas. The views of the mountains, rock formations, and the lake made me stop and stare to marvel at nature’s wonders. The inclines were manageable even for children and fit seniors. It was a beautiful day to go hiking, the skies were clear, and the autumn breeze kept me cool throughout. The climax of the hike was the top of a rock formation reaching out to the sky. The panoramic views, simply put, were stunning. 

Eiger Trail

Another day hike on my list was the Eiger trail. This starts from Eigergletscher Station to Alipglen Station. I took the cable car from Grindelwald to Eigergletscher. The views from the start of the ride to my stop were spectacular (a recurring theme in Switzerland). I saw the mountain peaks wrapped in clouds and the town below. Most of the people taking this route were on their way to the Top of Europe. My agenda was different as I made my way to the hiking trail. 

switzerland (1)

It was cloudy at the start of my hike so I decided to let the clouds recede so I could see the trail in front of me. As soon as the conditions were ideal, I was on my way. The rocky path zig-zagged its way along the side of the mountain. One of the highlights of this adventure is seeing the Eiger North Face. The latter is a challenge that some climbers take on, but I neither have the expertise nor experience to scale it. I settled for viewing it from below and thinking how miniscule we all are in the face of nature. After soaking in the views, I was on my way again. I didn’t run out of picturesque vistas as every turn provided a different angle. 

As I approached Alpiglen, the trail increased in difficulty. The inclines were steeper, and the precipitous cliffs made me think twice about rushing through some parts of the trail. The last leg of the hike was the hardest. It was a steep descent that tested (and strained) my leg muscles. I was elated and relieved to have reached the station. I took the cable car back to Grindelwald after a tiring but satisfying day.

Grütschalp, Mürren, and Gimmelwald

The jump-off point for this hike is Lauterbrunnen. Much like the previous hikes on this list, it’s convenient to get to the trail because all I had to do was take the cable car up to Grütschalp. The first leg of the trip was the trail from Grütschalp to Mürren. At this point, I was already used to the stunning mountainous landscapes of Switzerland, but despite this I was still enthralled with the views of the snow-capped mountains and the golden colors of autumn that served as the backdrop of my walk/hike. As hiking season was about to come to an end, few people were on the trail. This was a bonus for me as I could avoid the crowds and soak in the views in peace and quiet. 

switzerland (6)

I arrived in Mürren without noticing it. It was a bustling town with plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and cafes. I followed a group of people that were making their way down to Gimmelwald. The paved trail descended gradually, making it an easy walk for visitors. I’ve noticed that in Switzerland, whether you’re challenging yourself or not, you’ll still get the reward of spectacular mountain views. Before I knew it (after hundreds of photos), I was already at the cable car station. 

Hiking in Switzerland is accessible because of the many cable cars and trains that can take you directly to viewpoints or the start of trails. Trails are clearly marked which makes unguided adventures possible.

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COMMENTS

  1. 17 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

    St. Moritz. #13 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland. Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après ...

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    Hotel St. Josef ($$) Baur au Lac ($$$) The Dolder Grand ($$$$) Eva Bocek / Shutterstock. 4. Lucerne. On the edge of the Alps and in the shadow of some of the country's most impressive mountains, Lucerne is one of the preferred cities for travelers in Switzerland, with plenty of charm and beauty to spare.

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    Grindelwald is the perfect getaway at any time of the year and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. Everything becomes covered in white during the Grindelwald winter months, trees shiver off their last leaves, and the stars shine brighter than ever. Winter in Grindelwald means that the slopes become a playground for snowboarders and skiers with a relatively good selection of runs ...

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    23. Gruyères. Gruyères is a municipality in the district of Gruyère in the canton of Fribourg in Switzerland. The small town is best known for its castle, which dates back to the 13th century, and the Gruyère cheese produced in the area. The town of Gruyères is located on a hill above the valley of the Sarine River.

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    Best Things to Do in Switzerland for First-Time Visitors. Starting off my list are must-see Switzerland attractions for first-time visitors. These are places and activities that will guarantee an unforgettable travel experience! 1. Explore the Swiss Alps. Visiting the Swiss Alps should be on every nature lover's Switzerland bucket list.

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    Alternative Things To Do In Switzerland: Arts and Culture. Deinkick Langenbruck - Solarbob & Seilpark. One of the unique experiences to have while in Switzerland is the Solarbob. This is not only great for kids, but also to let your inner child out. The Solarbob is the only sled run in Europe with a 540° circular loop operated only by solar ...

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    Best time to visit Switzerland Switzerland is a year-round destination, with every season offering its own distinct appeal. As spring graces the land with pleasant weather, wander around the delightful cities, attend local festivals, and unwind in sun-kissed cafes while savouring regional specialities.

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    Here are our top choices among the best things to do in Switzerland: Explore the Jungfrau Region. Visit Zurich. Go Hiking. Ski in the Swiss Alps. Try Swiss Fondue. Of course, this is just the start of all the great activities in Switzerland and ways to enjoy this incredible country.

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    Zermatt is located right at the base of some of the highest mountains in the Alps, the crown jewel being Matterhorn which looms over Switzerland and captivates both visitors and locals alike. What stands out about Matterhorn is the "tooth" that sits jagged on top of the mountain, almost touching the sky.

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    7. Fall In Love With Creamy Swiss Fondue. When you need a break from all the Switzerland sightseeing, find a local restaurant and order a piping hot cauldron of cheese fondue. Because this dish is so popular throughout the country, you'll find all kinds of variations of this cheesy classic available.

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    Check out the top 10 must visit places in Switzerland, including the best tourist attractions, things to do and stunning sceneries. Blog; Go to app ... Imagine paragliding through the skies while taking in views of the Alps! Discover fun activities & experiences to try out in Interlaken! 5. The Matterhorn. Photo Credit: @chanwon92. Photo Credit ...

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    16. Drink at a bar devoted to aliens. The Giger Bar is one of the most unique things to do in Chur, Switzerland's oldest city. Designed by the renowned Swiss artist H.R. Giger, who is best known for his work on the film "Alien," the bar is a masterpiece of biomechanical and dark fantasy aesthetics.

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    Lavaux Vineyard Terraces. Set behind Lutry, a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Geneva is one of the more stunning hidden gems in Switzerland - the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces. The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces is not your typical tourist attraction as they date back to the 11th century and were made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

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