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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 to help us determine next year's ranking.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

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 or biking 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.

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 an array of activities at the top.

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.

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. Those with expensive taste can join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to splurge on the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

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.

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.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an Old City (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and the tallest cathedral 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.

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 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.

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. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and the Appenzell Chapel Trail, 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.

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.

Mürren, a small alpine town in the Jungfrau Region, is an ideal getaway for movie buffs and adventure seekers. A little more difficult to reach than other destinations on this list, Mürren's car-free status means travelers must arrive on foot, by bike or via public transportation. Once here, travelers can take a cable car to the summit of Mount Schilthorn, whose iconic revolving 360-degree restaurant was featured in the 1969 James Bond film, "On Her Majesty's Secret Service." In winter, Mürren is a hot spot for cold-weather sports like skiing and snowshoeing, while summer beckons hikers and rock climbers.

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 to lower altitudes, prioritize a hike on a valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

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.

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.

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 mount Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Sitting just south of Lake Constance near the Germany and Austria borders, St. Gallen dazzles travelers with its fairy-tale old town and rich history. The first item on your itinerary will likely be the outstanding Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the Baroque-style Cathedral of St. Gallen and the Abbey Library. When you're done wandering through one of the world's oldest libraries, check out one of St. Gallen's fascinating museums, which include the Textilmuseum and the Naturmuseum. Just remember to save time for visiting the gorgeous Drei Weieren (Three Ponds), a popular swimming destination.

Head to Switzerland's third-largest city if you appreciate art. The legendary Art Basel event started here and has since migrated to other cities around the world. What's more, Basel's top attraction, Kunstmuseum Basel, houses the country's largest public collection of art, with works from legends like Paul Cézanne and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. You can find additional museums (roughly 40 in total) and galleries throughout the city. When you need a break from admiring art, Basel's picturesque old town is a beautiful place for a leisurely walk, or you can hop on a ferry for a scenic ride on the Rhine.

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15 Best Swiss Cities To Visit (Not Just The Popular Ones)

Switzerland is a land of impeccable beauty. Once you have been there, you can’t get going back off your mind. Believe me, it’s true, I always long for the mountain views, swims in lakes, and the stunning scenery you discover while hiking and skiing. 

But, there is more to Switzerland than amazing landscapes to immerse yourself in, it is also full of beautiful cities that are worth spending some time in too. 

Whether you are looking for culture, a cosmopolitan vibe, or a fun place to base yourself while you explore the mountains, there is a picturesque city that will give you just that.

Join me as I run through the best cities in Switzerland in detail so you can learn all about them and choose the best cities to visit while you are there.  

Table of Contents

Geneva is a very international city and one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Sitting on the shores of Lake Geneva, the views across beautiful Lake Geneva are stunning, and you can see the alps in the background too. 

Being home to the United Nations Headquarters, the World Bank, and countless other international organizations, a large part of Geneva’s population are ex-pats. It is also the second largest city in Switzerland so there is a lot to do. 

From museums to great restaurants, bars, art galleries, fun water activities, and exploring the surrounding mountains, you will never be bored in Geneva. 

Some of the top sights in Geneva include the CERN collider , the observatory, and the Patek Philippe Museum which teaches you all about luxury Swiss watches.

Be sure to explore the Old Town of this charming city with its narrow passageways, and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum are a must too. 

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is nestled in the heart of the country, between Geneva and Zurich . Bern’s location is great for exploring the rest of the country as it is a short train ride to the mountain resorts of the Swiss Alps and all the great cities in Switzerland too. 

It is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland with its charming Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), many beautiful fountains, and the crystal clear waters of the Aare River running through it. 

There is a lot to do in Bern. You can swim in the River Aare in the warmer months, explore the Old Town, visit the Einstein Museum , art galleries and lots more. Einstein actually lived in Bern when he formed his theory of relativity. 

A view not to be missed is at the top of the St. Vincent Cathedral, a Gothic-style masterpiece with two towers. At the top of one of the towers, you can see across the city and into the snow-capped mountains.   

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with a population of 1.42 million people. It is also the economic hub of Switzerland and as the other capital city, and is thus the richest city in Switzerland too. 

Located on the northern side of Switzerland, Zurich is also a beautiful city. Sitting on the shores of Lake Zurich with the Limmat River running through it and surrounded by small mountains, it is very picturesque. 

Being such an affluent and large city, it is great for fine dining and luxurious shopping along the high-end retail stores and small boutiques of Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich is also a bit of a cultural hub in Switzerland and is home to hundreds of art galleries and world-class museums . 

Do not miss a visit to the Swiss National Museum, a stroll around the beautiful Old Town, and be sure to see the Grossmunster Cathedral too. 

In the summer, there are lots of great hiking trails in the surrounding hills and the lake is a buzz with outdoor bars. Swimming and sunbathing in the lake and river are a must in the warmer months. 

Interlaken is more of a big town than a city, but it might just be the most beautiful city in Switzerland in my eyes. Nestled in the middle of Switzerland, not far from Bern, it sits between two alpine lakes on the banks of the river that connects them, with the Alps just down the road. 

You couldn’t ask for more incredible scenery and the beautiful lakes are different colors too, one turquoise and one deep blue. 

You will find a lively music scene in Interlaken as well as great restaurants and a few cultural sights. But, this place is more about having fun in the mountains and lakes. Take a boat cruise around the lakes, swim, fish, paddleboard, and swim in the warmer months. 

In winter, mountain resorts are just down the road and you can access the stunning Jungfrau region from here in just 30 minutes. The likes of Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch are just a stone’s throw away. 

Basel is the third largest city in Switzerland and is located on the banks of the Rhine River, right on the border with Germany and France in north Switzerland. It is known for being very artsy and is home to a lot of galleries and museums you can spend your time exploring. 

The museums not to miss include the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you are traveling with kids, the toy museum Welten is a lot of fun. 

In the summer, life revolves around the River Rhine and with 300 days of sun a year, it is no surprise why. The bars and restaurants lining the banks of the river are a great place to spend an evening. 

You can spend your days swimming in the river, sunbathing on the beaches, canoeing, paddle boarding, or on a river cruise. 

Lugano is in the southern part of Switzerland in the Italian-speaking part of the country and is just across from the Italian border. It is very different from the major Swiss cities to the north as it has a big Italian influence both architecturally and in its food. 

The beautiful architecture is only beaten by the beautiful scenery. Sitting on Lake Lugano, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it is hard to beat. It is, without a doubt, one of the best cities in Switzerland and is very popular with tourists. 

There is a lot to do in and outside of the city. Take to the pre-alps for hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter. Swim in the lakes, explore the valleys, go on boat tours, or just chill on the beaches of Lake Lugano. 

While in town, sample the amazing Italian cuisine, see the architectural sites of the San Lorenzo Cathedral, the amazing library (Biblioteca), explore the Hermann Hesse Museum, Museo Cantonale di Storia Naturale di Lugano, and more. 

Lausanne is also on Lake Geneva, another international city home to the International Olympic Committee. It is filled with people from across the globe who love to be active in nature and it couldn’t be better located for it.

In the winter months, winter activities are available just down the road in the mountains. The lake offers great swimming, rowing, sailing, fishing, canoeing, and more. 

I spend every evening in Lausanne on the beach in the summer and there is nothing quite like swimming in clear waters with the alps as your view. 

There are also a lot of cultural sites in Lausanne as well as great chocolate, cheese, and Swiss wine. The famous Lavaux Vineyards are just down the lake in Lutry so tasting some of the local wine is a must. 

Other things not to miss are the Olympic Museum, the Old Town , the City Hall, and all the great restaurants too. 

Lucerne is another of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Between its location on Lake Lucerne and the banks of the Reuss river and being surrounded by mountains, its natural beauty is mind-blowing, 

Throw in the well-preserved medieval Old Town, and architectural sites like Chapel Bridge , and you have one of the best cities in Switzerland. 

In the summer, the lake shores are dotted with beach bars, there is a great music scene, you can be on the top of Mt Rigi and Mt Pilatus within an hour, and anything from hiking, boat tours, swimming, canoeing, paddle boarding, skiing, paragliding, and more are all on offer.

Things not to be missed are Chapel Bridge, Sammlung Rosengart Picasso Museum, Swiss Museum Of Transport, the Lion Monument, Glacier Garden, and the Jesuit Church, plus a stroll around the Old Town is magical. 

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Chur sits in eastern Switzerland amongst the Alps and is the oldest city in Switzerland at over 5,000 years old. It is a small city surrounded by meadows and mountains on the upper Rhine River. 

Being so old, it is draped in history and is home to a car-free Old Town that you have to explore when you visit. 

Other great things to see are the Bishop’s Palace and the Saint Mary Cathedral of Assumption and there are a few museums too which are all about the history of the city and the area. 

Access to the mountains is excellent from Chur. You can ride the cable car from town to go skiing in winter or for great hikes and views in summer. 

Fribourg lies between Bern and Lausanne on the banks of the Sarine River and is more of a small town than a city, but is a city nonetheless. 

Like most of the cities in Switzerland, it has a medieval Old Town packed full of history featuring great architecture in the form of the Baroque Loreto Chapel, Hauterive Abbey, and the St. Nicholas Cathedral. 

In the summer, life is all about being near the river and its numerous beaches. You might even find musical performances on the beach while you are there, and being a university town, they are packed full of energy. Open-air cinemas are also a lot of fun to attend in the summer. 

In winter, you can explore the numerous museums and even catch a festival or two. The St. Nicholas Parade before Christmas is very festive and in February, the Fribourg Carnival takes over the streets.  

Montreux sits on the eastern end of Lake Geneva, down from Lausanne. Famous for the Montreux Jazz Festival, Chillon Castle, and Charlie Chaplin Museum, and being where Queen recorded a lot of records, it is an awesome city. 

The Alps are right behind Montreux creating an amazing view from everywhere in the city, especially along the lake. Between spending time on the water in summer or hiking, and being in the mountains in winter, it is hard to beat. 

Be sure to hike along the lake to nearby villages, see the Chillon Castle , and if you are there before Christmas, experience one of the coolest Christmas markets in Switzerland. 

Neuchâtel is another stunning city to visit in Switzerland. Sitting on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel in northern Switzerland with the Jura mountains to the west, it offers a lot of activities from hiking to swimming and exploring the Old Town Center and Swiss Heritage Sites. 

The delightful medieval quarter is lovely to stroll around. You’ll see the 12th Century Château de Neuchâtel and Collégiale and a visit to the Natural History Museum is also recommended. 

If you love to hike, the Jura mountains aren’t far away, and nearby is the amphitheater canyon of Creux du Van. In the winter, you can be on the slopes in less than an hour enjoying the local ski resorts. 

Sitting close to the shores of Lake Constance in northern Switzerland is the little city of St Gallen. Known for its beautiful Old Town with cobblestone streets, small alleyways, and beautiful architecture. 

The Abbey of St. Gall is something not to miss with its huge baroque library full of books, some of which are hundreds of years old. There is also a beautiful cathedral with two towers which is part of the Abbey that is a must-see also. 

Just north of Zurich is the little city of Winterthur it is packed full of history and is a great place to visit in Switzerland if you are looking for art, architecture, and museums. 

There are many things to do in the city of Winterthur . Strolling around the Old Town you will see houses from hundreds of years ago in various architectural styles. 

The Fotomuseum Winterthur is an awesome exhibition of some of the best photographers in the world and the two art museums of the Oskar Reinhart Collection have works by the likes of Cezanne and Monet. 

A tour around the old ​​Kyburg Castle is a must too as you explore every part of this well-preserved castle from the dungeons to the kitchen.  

La Chaux-de-Fonds

La Chaux-de-Fonds is a little city on the French border north of Neuchâtel in the Jura Mountains at 1,000 meters above sea level. It is the highest city you can visit in Switzerland and it is beautiful. 

The city combines architecture with nature seamlessly thanks to the famous architect Le Corbusier who was born there. There are 23 Swiss Heritage sites in the city to visit along with valleys, mountains, and meadows with hundreds of hiking trails.  

It is also the home of Swiss watches and a visit to the International Museum of Watchmaking is very much worth it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best swiss city to visit during winter.

This is a hard question to answer as it comes down to your personal preference. I would say Lucerne is one of the best cities in Switzerland to visit in winter. 

Not only is it packed full of cultural sights, but it is also beautiful, and you can access great skiing on the many mountains close by. If you happen to be there before and/or over Christmas, the city will be decorated with lights, and trees, and be filled with markets and a ton of festive cheer. 

Lucerne is also more affordable to visit in winter as accommodation costs go down, and the crowds will be to a minimum too! 

What is the best Swiss city for young adults?

One of the best cities in Switzerland for young adults is Lausanne in my eyes, but Geneva, which is just down the lake, is also a great bet. 

What I love about Lausanne is that it is not too big, but there is a fun young international crowd who love to be active in nature. This has a lot to do with the International Olympic Committee being based there as they employ sporty people from all over the world.

Lausanne’s location on Lake Geneva is also great. In the summer you are a short walk away from beaches, a swim, and lots of water sports. In winter, the ski slopes aren’t far away either. 

Geneva is similar to Lausanne but a lot bigger. If you prefer big cities, then Geneva might suit you a little better. 

Interlaken is also a great city in Switzerland for young adults, particularly if you love adventure sports. The compact city is built around young people having fun. Accommodation is more affordable, and you can access the Alps, lakes, rivers, and more within just a few minutes on a train.    

Which Swiss City is the best to live in?

The best Swiss city in Switzerland to live in would either be Geneva or Zurich. 

Geneva is full of ex-pats and therefore has a very international crowd which makes finding friends very easy. It also has excellent schools, it is easy to find work there as tons of international organizations are based there, and its lakeside location is stunning.  

Access to rivers, lakes, and mountains is very easy, you can be in France in minutes, and the international airport connects you to anywhere in the world. 

Zurich is a little different from Geneva, still quite similar but it is a much bigger city than Geneva, so if you are used to London or New York, it might suit you better. There are lots of International Organizations there as it is the economic hub and the largest city in Switzerland.

Zurich is well placed to explore Switzerland from, it is also lakeside and riverside for summer fun, and its airport is the main international hub too. 

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The Best 17 Places to Visit 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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here's where to go on your next Swiss vacation.

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Switzerland's natural beauty and breadth are astounding — snow-capped mountains with some of the world's best skiing, verdant valleys speckled with wildflowers, and quaint cities filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants.

"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," says Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes . "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."

• Best tourist destination: Interlaken
• Best for wine tasting: Lavaux Vineyard
• Best for families: Stoos
• Best for hikers and skiers: Zermatt
• Best for solo travelers: Geneva

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

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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.

Lavaux Vineyard

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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, and it 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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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn — arguably the #1 tourist attraction in Switzerland — is another 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.

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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.

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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 she 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; you can reach the top 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; hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. Whether you're an outdoorsy type or would rather sit lakeside with a cup of tea, Lake Lucerne is where you should go for the first time in Switzerland.

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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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If you love to tick off UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit Ticino, the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland and home to 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. 

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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 among the top tourist attractions in Switzerland and worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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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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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 wander its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape, one of the most beautiful parts of Switzerland.

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.

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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.

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.

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 unbeatable art scene . 

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.

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18 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written by Becca Blond , Joni Sweet and Lana Law Updated Jul 12, 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.

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, 5. skiing in switzerland, 7. lake geneva, 8. chateau de chillon, montreux, 9. st. moritz, 11. lake lugano and ticino, 13. the rhine falls, 14. swiss national park, 15. the albula/bernina railway line, 16. oberhofen castle, 17. swiss grand canyon, 18. gruyères, best time of the year to visit switzerland.

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

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.

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 the Matterhorn Gotthard railway through the towns of Visp or Brig, or helicopter (very pricy). 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.

In the winter, skiers can play on more than 300 kilometers of slopes accessed via the Sunnegga funicular, the Blauherd, Rothorn, Furi, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and Riffleberg gondolas along with the Gornergrat Railway.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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

The soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps have been drawing legions of skiers for decades. The largest ski resorts are located in the south near the Italian and French borders and include world-famous destinations like Zermatt, St. Moritz, Verbier, and Davos-Klosters.

Renowned for their skiing and luxurious offerings, these Alpine villages, some of which are wonderfully car-free, ooze authenticity and are delightful places on and off the mountain.

Switzerland's fairytale-like alpine scenery adds a touch of magic to almost every ski run. Add to this fantastic on-hill dining that includes Michelin-star-level cuisine served in cozy mountain restaurants and Après ski that is second to none in many cases, and it's easy to see why skiing in Switzerland is so popular.

The hallmark Swiss efficiency is on display at all resorts with most boasting of incredible lift infrastructure that ensures you get back to the top quickly and comfortably. The equipment is modern and safe.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland

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.

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, 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

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.

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.

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

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 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 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. After the Old Town, soak up a bit of Zurich's natural beauty with a stroll along the river Limmat towards Lake Zurich. A wide paved walkway follows the shoreline, where small terraces serving snacks and drinks attract the locals on sunny days. For incredible mountain views and a view down the entire lake, continue onwards to the point at Zurichhorn Park.

Those with a penchant for fashion will not want to miss the 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

More on 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.

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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.

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!

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 !

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

About 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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18 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 17, 2024

You are probably thinking about Swiss chocolate, Swiss cheese, and clocks, too. These are some of the things that you know about Switzerland already. But this landlocked country is a haven for anybody who might be looking for some truly picturesque and sweepingly dramatic landscapes. It’s in the middle of the Alps, so how couldn’t it boast the picture perfect look that it does?

You might find yourself getting a cogwheel railway up a mountain one moment and visiting slices of medieval heritage nestled on lakes the next. You’d better prepare yourself for some breathtaking views of craggy peaks from Swiss mountain towns, exploring historic districts on a crisp backdrop of glittering water, and marveling at majestic alpine meadows ringed by snowy mountains. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Switzerland:

With over 300 days of sunshine every year, there’s never a bad time to be in Basel. Set along the Rhine River, Basel is the third-largest city in Switzerland. But tradition, quirkiness, and a splash of rebellious spirit make Basel different to the rest.

Baslers, as they are known, are a fascinating community. You’ll find them floating along the Rhine in summer, going with the current until something else calls them forth. That thing could be a family swim in one of the city’s historic fountains.

The joie de vivre goes through all parts of life. You can find it in their excellent galleries (plus 40 museums) and atmospheric markets. The latter includes Marktplatz in the Old Town. Also, in the way they celebrate Christmas.

Along the old streets, you’ll find elaborate architecture, from the town hall to the cathedral. Not to mention some of Switzerland’s best theaters.

17. Appenzell

Enveloped in beautiful countryside, Appenzell is equal with its surroundings. The lovely village is complete with vibrant gabled architecture, a great selection of museums, some mouthwatering bakeries and cultural events.

Speaking of events, Appenzell maintains tradition. For several weeks from mid-May, alpine herdsmen don their customary wear and guide their cows in an enormous procession up into the high hills. The cattle drive occurs again towards the end of summer. In between is the Appenzell Folk Music Festival, where the town’s artistic heritage is on full display.

Other traditions still take place year-round, including the creation of Appenzeller cheese, known for its bold taste. Complement this with some Rösti, and you’ll receive the proper local culinary experience.

From there, it’s time to hike. You’ll have endless options, from hiking hut to hut across the Appenzell Alps to trekking up to the romantic Berggasthaus Äscher, a guesthouse built into the side of a mountain.

16. Swiss National Park

In Engadine, the Swiss National Park is renowned for its wildlife, a sanctuary set in an utterly Swiss landscape. With room to roam and well-maintained trails, it’s exciting and easy to explore the country’s only national park.

You can be assured of the spectacular here. Lace-up your boots and discover dense forests that quickly dissolve into vast meadows beset with wildflowers. The valleys drive you towards tumbling falls and azure lakes. It’s once you’re here that you will appreciate the towering moors and summits.

Some of the park’s best hikes include the 21km Lakes of Macun Trail through high alpine plateaus and Alps views. The easier 13km Munt la Schera takes you through steppe-landscapes.

While the family-friendly Alp Trupchun remains steady, providing a great overview of the park and wildlife. This includes stag rutting in autumn, marmots, chamoix, ibex and deer.

15. St. Moritz

A beloved winter destination since the mid-19th century, St. Moritz remains at the height of Swiss glitz and glamour. The snow forecast beckons high-end ski bums from across Europe, hoping to explore the slopes that have hosted two Winter Olympics. But there’s much more to St. Moritz for those who prefer to leave the skis at home.

Luxury palatial hotels bring warmth to the heart of winter. Day spas, retreats, romantic ice skating, even horse racing on ice. When the skiers and snowboarders return, swap stories in front of the cozy alpine fireplace.

Summer is a great time to visit St. Moritz and not just for the discounted 4 and 5 star hotels. One can sail on Lake St. Moritz, windsurf on Lake Maloja or float along the surging Inn River. To stretch your legs, plan a hike up to the Hedi Hut or wander the Segantini Museum.

14. Gruyères

In the flowing hills of French-speaking Switzerland, Gruyères’ cobbled streets lead you to a colorful mix of culinary and cultural delights. In classic Swiss fashion, the picturesque medieval town is also a proverbial trailhead for adventures beyond.

The Gruyères Castle dates back to the 13th century, from which the town surrounded it and spread out. It remains in great condition, atop the hill, offering splendid views of the diminutive Old Town.

From there, wander down to the historic main street, which at 300m long is packed with historic sights, charming buildings and cafe patios. Soon you’ll connect with the Les Grands Chemins, Gruyères’ walking path that circles the town.

As you explore, aromas will capture your attention. When in Gruyères, you’ll have an excellent opportunity to learn about the town’s famous cheese at the La Maison du Gruyère. Not to mention try the famous fondue at Restaurant des Remparts.

To work it off, hike the ionic Gastlosen or take the funicular to Moléson-sur-Gruyères.

13. Verzasca Valley

Lost in the midst of Switzerland’s many amazing destinations, the Verzasca Valley is home to azure waters, deep valleys and imposing summits. In southern Switzerland, the valley too has more than a splash of Italian influence.

The valley is a place to be in nature and admire the diversity of landscape that Switzerland has to offer. You’ll feel a long way from Jungfrau, with the Mediterranean atmosphere providing an entirely different environment.

It all starts at the valley’s 220m dam wall, made iconic by James Bong. Verzasca expands to be a haven for hikers. The Sentierone goes end to end, while mountain bikers will also get their fix.

But perhaps the most famous part of the entire valley is the Ponte dei Salti. This 400-year-old medieval footbridge features two arches that run over the emerald waters, leading you to the small town of Lavertezzo.

12. Montreux

On the eastern shores of Lake Geneva, Montreaux is an elaborate collection of 19th century noble excellence amidst 13th century medieval architecture. Its beautiful surroundings, in partnership with a cooler climate has made it a popular summer escape.

This can be traced back to the 1800s, when the community slowly became the stuff of legend. It’s a magical mix of Swiss Alps scenery, the snow-fed lake and the rows of celebrated vineyards. This has created a renowned arts culture, of which the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, held in July, is the centerpiece.

But you can’t get to know Montreux’s contemporary history without understanding what came before, and what still stands today. This includes the Chateau de Chillon, a Middle Ages masterpiece on the lake’s edge.

Cap that off by wandering the parts of the 10km promenade. All before walking up the cobbled streets, encased in Belle époque elegance and wrought-iron balustrades.

11. Rhine Falls

In Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall. The stupendous beauty of the falls is a natural spectacle, one worthy of a spot on your packed Switzerland itinerary.

In the country’s north, the falls can be found on the High Rhine. They were created as the tectonic plates shifted during the Ice Age some 15,000 years ago. From the observation platform, you can see upwards of 600,000 liters of water surge off the edge every second. For reference, that’s the equivalent of 20,000 basketballs!

The best time to visit the Rhine Falls is in the middle of the year. Come June and July, the snowmelt floods the region where this waterfall surges and drops over 21-meter ledge of pure Jurassic rock.

Surrounding the Rhine Falls, you can uncover the amazing Schloss Laufen, a 9th century castle. Its glass elevator offers some of the area’s best views with the castle’s thousand-plus year history dancing on your fingertips.

10. Interlaken

Interlaken used to be known as a watch making center, but today it’s more popular as a tourist resort. Tourists started coming to Interlaken in the early 1800s to breathe in the mountain air and partake of spa treatments. Its popularity only grew from there. The Swiss city is located directly between two major Alpine lakes: Thun and Brienz. As a result, you’ll never be too far from the chance to go swimming, boating or biking around the lakes.

Offering spectacular views of three famous Swiss mountains, the Eiger, the Jungfrau and the Monch, the city is also a popular base camp for outdoor acitivites in the surrounding Bernese Oberland Alps. Travelers looking for something different to do might want to sign up for a class or two at a woodcarving school. Hungry tourists may want to try raclette, a classic Swiss dish made from cheese.

9. Lausanne

Right on the shores of Lake Geneva, and with views of both the Swiss Alps and the French Alps, is the city of Lausanne. Serving as a gateway to a major ski area and the home to two major universities, it is easy to see the universal appeal of Lausanne.

The city is divided into districts, and the Cité district is by far the most important for travelers. In Cité, you can explore what was once known as the Old Town, and you can explore some of the architecture, which includes everything from cathedrals to castles. If you only have time to explore one attraction in Lausanne, make it the Palais de Rumine. This Italian Renaissance-style building is home to five different museums, making it the perfect place to spend an entire day learning more about local art, culture and history.

A part of the Swiss Riviera, Lausanne has been popular with writers over the centuries, include Lord Byron, the Shelleys and Ernest Hemingway. Located in the French-speaking sector of Switzerland, Lausanne boasts an impressive cathedral and wonderful outdoor markets.

Geneva is a city where international influences reign supreme. It is home to the International Red Cross Committee and the European headquarters of the United Nations, as well as 20 other international organizations. Environmental travelers will enjoy the fact that Geneva is a “green” city, with 20 percent of its land devoted to parks, earning it the nickname of “city of parks.”

A highlight of a visit to Geneva is a chance to see the iconic Jet d’Eau, an enormous fountain seen from the Lac Léman waterfront that spews water high into the air. In the Old Town, the towers of Cathédrale St-Pierre are the tallest things you can see, and you will definitely want to stop for some photographs of the exterior and a tour of the interior. Geneva also is a good city explore by bike or rest weary feet by taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva.

The city of Zurich is the largest in Switzerland, and it is known for being a major financial hub in Europe. Even if you’re not a part of the business world, Zurich has plenty to offer to visitors. To start, Zurich is located right on the edge of Lake Zurich. You can hike or cycle around the perimeter of the lake for some exercise, you could rent a boat and head out onto the water or you could check out some of the man made beaches and jump into the refreshing water for a lake swim.

Zurich is also home to a number of historic churches, world-class museums and renowned architecture. Not to be missed is the Swiss National Museum, located in a fairytale castle, it is dedicated to Switzerland’s cultural history. To see as much of Zurich as possible at once, hop aboard the Polybahn, a funicular dating back to the 19th century, for amazing views and a chance to dine at the charming cafe terrace at the top.

Zermatt is a small town that is famous for skiing and mountaineering due to its proximity to the Matterhorn, one of Switzerland’s highest mountains. Cable cars whisk skiers up surrounding mountains in the winter and hikers in the summer.

Zermatt is a good town for walking to various sites, since gasoline-driven vehicles are not permitted; any vehicles within the city limits must be battery-operated. As you wander, sun-soaked patios beckon you in. The same ones whose aromatic espresso and hot chocolates promise a warm escape once the snow has arrived. But keep your eyes peeled, as a striking view of the impregnable Matterhorn lies in wait.

Under the summer sun, the mountain blooms green, creating a mix of nature, rock and glaciers that create a climbing and biking mecca. Treks like the 5 Lakes Trail, peel back the curtain of the area’s beauty showcasing, yes, five lakes, many with Matterhorn reflections.

However, it’s the winter fun that brings most visitors. Funiculars and gondolas run up multiple sections to create a skiing and snowboarding paradise. With a touch of après-ski added in.

5. Jungfrau Region

The Top of Europe, the Jungfrau Region, brings together all that is great about Switzerland. Offering a bounty of outdoor adventures, it’s the centerpiece of the Bernese Oberland with endless snowy peaks that descend via glaciers into the lush valley.

Home to Grindelwald, Mürren, Wengen and the fairytale waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen, it’s easy to access the all-encompassing bonny beauty of Jungfrau. That’s all before you truly get to know how Switzerland makes some of its best scenery accessible to you, without overpowering nature.

Gondolas sweep you up from the deep valleys and place you alongside classic mountain chalets surrounded by alpine farms. One of Switerland’s most scenic rail trip, the Jungfraubahn takes visitors from the Kleine Scheidegg mountain through the Eiger and Mönch up to the Jungfraujoch.

Hiking trails snake through blooming meadows to remote villages and the views just, don’t, stop.

The four Jungfrau towns noted above are great places to visit in Switzerland and a good pick to base yourself. This isn’t an area you want to rush through. Take your time to discover the towns themselves, and the peaks that rise from their doorsteps.

Lugano has been nicknamed the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland,” because of its growing popularity with celebrities. The city is located on Lake Lugano, in the Italian speaking section of this alpine country. Lugano, which is blessed with warm summers, dates back to the 9th century.

A major draw to Lugano is outdoor recreation, and there are plenty of ways to stay active in and around the area. You might spend the day hiking along the clearly signposted Olive Tree Trail, or you could go for a swim at the easily accessible Lido di Lugano right by the city center. After strolling through the Old Town to enjoy the architecture, view it all from a unique perspective at the charming and fascinating Swiss Miniature Village.

3. Lake Geneva

A joyous blend of Swiss and French soak Lake Geneva in opulent elegance as captivating as the scenery itself. And with the Rhône flowing into Europe’s largest alpine lake, encompassing high altitude peaks and rolling green meadows, there are few better.

Crescent-shaped Lake Geneva is speckled with fascinating towns and cities alike. The kind that doesn’t overwhelm the surroundings, but merely blend in.

Here, you can explore world-class museums, discover Renaissance and contemporary arts, laze in gorgeous botanical gardens, admire the Jet d’Eau and take your pick of the waterfront cafes. As you do, you’ll see the mouettes, a boat taking locals from A to B across the glass surface of Lake Geneva.

Another beautiful example of Lake Geneva’s life is Lausanne. The medieval old town, backed by towering peaks, boasts a stunning cathedral and access to the lake and mountains.

There is something effortlessly romantic about Lucerne . Whether it’s the glacial-fed lake that reflects the world like a mirror, or the utterly walkable Old Town. Magic abounds here. Medieval buildings have become the home of modern luxuries and comfort. While the ancient streets eventually lead you to the iconic Kapellbrücke Bridge.

Before you notice the 14th century bridge, however, you’ll sense the peace that comes from a car-less Old Town. A haven for pedestrians, and a dream to wander, you can bounce between plazas, by frescoed buildings and along the edge of the Reuss River. Another famous monument is the Dying Lion, which was carved out of rock to honor Swiss mercenaries who died in France in 1792.

Along the way, you’ll discover that not much has changed since the likes of Queen Victoria, Goethe and Wagner were entranced by Lucerne two centuries ago. You’ll be glad it hasn’t.

After wandering across the Kapellbrücke Bridge and visiting the KKL and Rosengart galleries, head to the town’s namesake lake. Here you’ll find some of Switzerland’s best sunsets surrounded by epic peaks.

Bern is a picturesque medieval city with a history that dates back to the 12th century, though it did not become a part of the Swiss Confederacy until the 16th century. While not the largest city in Switzerland, Bern is the capital. Its most famous attraction is the Zytglogge, an ancient clock tower with moving puppets. Other popular sites in Bern include the Munster, a Gothic cathedral that rises from the old town, and its town hall.

The bear is the symbol of Bern, with several being kept in an open-air pit. Shoppers will appreciate the old town that boasts four miles of arcades, making it one of the longest covered shopping areas in Europe.

Map of Switzerland

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Reader interactions.

December 14, 2020 at 10:57 am

I really loved Montreux. I love walking the path right next to Lake Geneva and all the beautiful artwork.

November 4, 2019 at 4:44 pm

I agree with all of the above comment! one thing in particular that I enjoyed is the punctuality of the trains. Did you know that the Bern StAtion is completely underground. .AMaZING!!! FYI, The Matterhorn, most of the time, it is surrounded by clouds (you cannot see the top).

December 27, 2018 at 2:52 pm

Most beautiful city in the Switzerland for me is Fribourg with biggest, best-preserved and best-maintained old city with large number of true medieval buildings. Beautiful Fribourg is unfortunately in shadow of only 30 km away politicaly more important capital city Bern, also very beautiful but more modern predominantly baroque.

January 1, 2018 at 3:21 pm

I am making my 11th trip to Switzerland next week. I always use rail passes and have travelled extensively on Swiss trains. I would highly recommend all the routes from Interlaken up to the Jungfrau and also Zermatt and the Gornergrat. Then the Glacier Express to St Moritz followed by the Bernini Express to Tirano. Also the Goldenpass train and a visit to Titlis and Pilatus. If time permits do Lugano in the South and Arosa in the East. Luzern is great along with the lake trips. Any of the above are very good see them all and you’ve cracked it. Oh and Martigny to Chamonix and the cable cars there and you’ll be amazed at what the Alps has to offer. Just do it. Enjoy.

October 27, 2017 at 2:22 am

I have been to Switzerland thrice and I think it is the most beautiful country in the world. I can go there again and again and again.

May 18, 2017 at 10:51 pm

St. Gallen is also worth visiting. Not only it has a UNESCO world heritage site, the Abbey of Saint Gallen, but the landscapes also are quite beautiful. The Appenzell Alps and the Lake Constance create some really pleasing views.

April 19, 2017 at 7:37 am

My favorite area is the Berner-Oberland region which comprises Interlaken, Beatenberg (stunning views), Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Wenger. I have seen every corner of this country and if you are looking for stunning natural wonders that seem like you are in a cartoon you can’t beat the areas I just mentioned.

May 10, 2016 at 6:46 am

I visit Switzerland last year. For me the best place was the Jungfrau region.

March 14, 2016 at 2:35 am

been to switzerland but i haven’t visited Lugano. Got to visit in my next trip.

November 15, 2015 at 7:09 pm

Switzerland is indeed the most beautiful and sensational country in every way. The scenery, culture and traditions are just a visual and aesthetic delight!!! My most favourite alpine village is Zermatt and of course the Mattterhorn, what a incredible presence that mountain exudes over the whole village. Every time the mountain seems to call me and the trip up the Gornergrat railway blows me away!!! Love the country, the people, culture, food, wines and traditions.

October 3, 2015 at 1:21 pm

I have visited Switzerland more than 5 times. I have visited several places of this beautiful country like Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Luserne, Laussane, Jungfrau, Interlaken Aust & West, Zermatt, Vevey, Lugano, Swiss Alps, Grindelwald, any several more. It is one of my favourite country in the World.

June 2, 2015 at 3:01 am

I visited Switzerland in May including Lucern, Interlaken, Luzane and Bern. The best one was Interlaken which is beautiful and very interesting.

May 22, 2015 at 11:35 pm

Rhine falls – Great experience, every time you visit. Next is Chapel Bridge and Water Tower Others are definitely worth visting

May 19, 2015 at 7:20 am

To me, Switzerland is the most beautiful country on earth…. the nature is Switzerland is such a great sight to watch…… I would place Zermatt and Zurich a little higher than where you placed…

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12 of the best things to do in Switzerland 

Dec 5, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Switzerland with these top things to do © nycshooter / Getty Images

No country has it all, but the Swiss are justified in feeling pretty smug about their lot.

In Switzerland almost every drive , train journey , boat trip or cable car ride has an element of the epic, taking you to thundering falls, gorges, valleys hidden deep in the mountains or World Heritage vineyards. Cities with medieval old towns, big-hitter galleries and extraordinary cultural collections are often just a whisper away from vivid turquoise lakes and the glacier-capped Alps. The stride between urban and outdoors is effortless.

Whether it’s floating down the Rhine in Basel, admiring Paul Klee’s punchy art in Bern, hiking below the mighty Matterhorn, feeling the thrill of ice at the Aletsch Glacier, or sipping Chasselas wines in the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux as the last sun touches Lake Geneva, these are some of the best things to do in Switzerland .

1. Float down the Rhine in Basel

At the point where Switzerland, Germany and France converge, Basel dives into creative waters when it comes to avant-garde art and architecture, with a raft of galleries right up there with Europe’s best. But this city also likes to let its mind drift. 

Cue the Rhine, where office workers ditch their suits to take a dip, and families gather for a city swim on weekends. A novel way to see Basel is to grab a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag to keep your stuff dry), make for the river banks in Kleinbasel, then strip to your bathers and float past city landmarks as the current carries you gently downstream. If you prefer to keep your head above water, rent a stand-up paddleboard or join a tour with Birs73 . Locals like to end their dip socially, with drinks and a sunbathe at a buvette (riverside bar), especially on hot summer days.

Planning tip: Hop in just below Museum Tinguely to float 3km (1.8 miles) down the Rhine, or plot your own route by taking a look at the map . You can buy a Wickelfisch at the tourist office in central Barfüsserplatz.

2. Stargaze from your bed

It’s a night silent enough to hear your own heartbeat. Up in the Alps, darkness falls and the only sound is the gentle chime of cowbells. Constellations and distant planets sprinkle the sky like handfuls of glitter. Sound beautiful? It is. Harnessing the wild, Million Stars Hotel is a huge collection of open-air, one-of-a-kind sleeps across the country, where you can slip back to nature and enjoy a little pre-bedtime stargazing.

But we’re not just talking canvas here. These imaginative overnighters are ones that you’ll be raving about for years to come – from beautifully made-up beds plonked on top of remote mountains to a stylishly converted gondola on the edge of a crag, a bed under an apple tree and a “beehive” pod with views of Eiger’s mile-high North Face. And with this being Switzerland, they are not just clever but comfortable, too.

Planning tip: As each place only sleeps two, advance booking is highly advisable. Most are open from July to October.

3. Ride the Glacier Express

No country nails rail travel like Switzerland, where little red trains (polished and perfectly on time) chug from valley to peak with ease, leaving you to swoon over the Alpine scenery from the comfort of your panoramic carriage. Evoking a golden age of travel, Switzerland’s train journeys are hands down some of the world’s finest.

The big one everyone is eager to do at least once (and with good reason) is the Glacier Express , which crosses over the Furka, Oberalp and Bernina passes on the eight-hour ride between Zermatt and St Moritz in Graubünden ’s Upper Engadin. Riveting views of meadows, forests, fast-flowing turquoise rivers, canyons, castles, big-shouldered mountains and glaciers keep you glued to the window. The entire journey is a remarkable feat of 1930s engineering, but special mention goes to the Landwasser viaduct – the gravity-defying six-arched bridge that leaps between Tiefencastel and Filisur, and the Oberalp Pass (2,033m/6,670ft), harnessing the true wilderness of the Swiss Alps.

Planning tip: If you want to save a few francs, regularly scheduled services plying the same route can be just as enjoyable and significantly less expensive. Break up the journey by using cheaper SBB trains and overnighting along the way.

4. Hike in the Swiss National Park

For a taste of the Alps before tourists rocked up, head southeast to the Swiss National Park in Graubünden’s Lower Engadin valley, where the mountains nudge their way over into Italy. Easily accessed from the quaint villages of Scuol, Zernez and S-chanf, Switzerland’s only national park is a 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile) visual feast of rushing streams, high moors, pastures, glaciers, larch, pine woods and lakes. Here, nature has been left totally to its own devices: no trees are felled, no meadows are cut, and no animals have been hunted since the park was founded in 1914.

The only way to properly see the park is by chucking on boots and heading for its trail-laced heart. If you only have time for one walk, make it Lakes of Macun, a 21km (13-mile) day hike from Zernez, leading to a high Alpine plateau splashed with 23 lakes that shimmer topaz and sapphire. If you prefer, you can join a guided walk with one of the park rangers (you can book these at the visitor center in Zernez). With an expert in tow, you stand better chances of spotting rarities like wild edelweiss, ibex, chamois, golden eagles and bearded vultures.

Planning tip: Camping is off-limits, but you can stay the night at the gloriously remote Chamanna Cluozza . At 1,882m (6,174ft) above sea level, this is quite possibly the off-grid log cabin of your wildest Alpine dreams. The hut is reached on a moderately challenging 3½-hour uphill hike from Zernez. Bring your own sleeping bag.

5. Boat across Lake Lucerne

There are higher mountains in Switzerland than those lining the fjord-like shores of Lake Lucerne , but none are more enshrined in flag-waving Swiss myth. Boat across the emerald waters of Lake Uri and you’ll glimpse Rütli Meadow , the hallowed birthplace of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. You can also experience the Tellskapelle , a tiny, frescoed chapel that is said to be where the apple-shooting hero and beloved Swiss rebel William Tell escaped from the boat of his Hapsburg captor, Gessler.

Legends swirl like storm clouds over the mountains on the doorstep of Lucerne . Since 1889, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway has been rattling up to 2,128m (6,981ft) Mt Pilatus, where the restless ghost of Roman prefect Pontius Pilate is said to still roam. Never mind the spook stories – you’ll be captivated by the views reaching as far as Germany’s Black Forest on cloudless days. Its beauty rival is 1,797m Mt Rigi (5,895ft), famous for its painterly sunrises and sunsets and once a source of fascination to JMW Turner, who painted it in three different moods.

Planning tip: Lucerne makes an appealing base for exploring the lake, with its Old Town, medieval wooden bridge and promenade strung along the lakeshore.

6. Take the Eiger Express to Jungfraujoch

You’ve got to hand it to the Swiss – they are always ahead of the game. Since 1912, a little red train, fueled by hydro-power from the outset, has wound its way up to Jungfraujoch , Europe’s highest train station at 3,454m (11,332ft), blasting through the icy heart of Eiger. Just recently, the journey has become even more eco-friendly with Grindelwald’s Eiger Express , a super-speedy tri-cable gondola that covers the first leg of the journey using its wheels to generate green power. The ride will make you gasp out loud as you float above the landscape, with spruce forests and log chalets giving way to a realm of rock and ice. You’ll get so close to Eiger’s beastly, mile-high North Face that you’ll feel as though you’ll slam right into it.

At the top of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, temperatures drop and the world is always white. You’ll be wowed by the view from the Sphinx observation deck, reaching across a sea of snow-capped, 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks and the 23km (14.2-mile) swirl of the Aletsch Glacier while Germany and France hover in the distance. The frosty Ice Palace is a wonderland of ice tunnels and sculptures – they are impressive today but must have been even more so back when mountaineers first hacked them out by pickaxe in the 1930s.

Planning tip: Bring warm layers and boots, particularly if you fancy the 45-minute stomp to Mönchsjochhütte , Switzerland’s highest serviced mountain hut.

7. Drive the Furka Pass

You won’t be able to tell if it’s the stomach-flipping hairpin bends or the gob-smacking views that make your heart beat so wildly on this high, twisty, up-and-over-the-Alps drive from the isolated valley of the Goms in Valais to mountain-encrusted Andermatt in Uri – the gateway to southeast Switzerland. 

Drive the 31km (19-mile) Furka Pass from west to east to maximize the drama as dark, craggy peaks and glaciers fill your rear-view mirror. If you have a bit of a Bond moment behind the wheel, it’s no coincidence – this road starred in the car chase scene in the 1964 movie Goldfinger. As you swing dizzily around switchbacks, the road tops out at the 2,429m (7,969ft) Furka Pass, where you can peer across the lunar rockscape of a wind-battered plateau to the deeply crevassed Rhône Glacier and its ice grotto before the long, sweeping descent to Andermatt.

Planning tip: The road is open roughly from June to October (depending on snow) but check conditions before heading out.

8. Get active in Ticino’s valleys

In the sultry, parle Italiano canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland, it’s the lakes that get all the love. But dip into Ticino ’s hidden valleys and you’ll lose the crowds and find the region’s true pulse. Here glassy, jewel-colored rivers float past chestnut woods and incredibly pretty granite hamlets cresting hilltops (including Switzerland’s smallest, Corippo , with a population of just 15). And after a day’s hike or bike ride, you can kick back on the vine-swathed terrace of a rustic grotti (tavern) for polenta and brasato (beef braised in red wine) with a glass of the beefy local Merlot.

The wild, woody Valle Maggia is a magnet to mountain bikers and hikers, laced with 700km (435 miles) of trails, including the challenging 52km (32-mile), six-day Via Alta that spotlights the region’s best. For more adventure, head over to the rugged Val Verzasca, bisected by its namesake emerald river and crisscrossed by the Sentiero Verzasca trail. Every Alpine activity imaginable is offered in this valley, from hiking and cycling to rafting, bouldering, paragliding and bungee jumping from the 220m (656ft) Verzasca Dam, which starred in the opening scene of GoldenEye . Swissraft makes it happen.

9. Have a culture fix in Bern

You might have an I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital moment roaming the streets of Bern , with its refreshingly easygoing vibe, parks and alfresco cafes, resident bears and lush backdrop of hills. The city is certainly a looker, situated on a sharp bend in the startlingly turquoise Aare River, encircled by gentle hills and with views of the snow-frosted Alps on crisp, clear days. And you can get your cultural kicks here, too. 

Begin with a romp around the Altstadt , Bern’s medieval, cobbled, arcaded, flag-bedecked heart. Here you’ll spy the ornate Zytglogge clock (come at four minutes before the hour for the glockenspiel parade), the 15th-century Gothic Münster (hike up its lofty spire, Switzerland’s tallest, for far-reaching views over the rooftops) and many folkloric fountains, including the Kindlifresserbrunnen , depicting a giant snacking on children.

Museum-wise, Bern is a treat. Tour the apartment where Einstein lived and the magnificent Kunstmuseum , home to Renaissance masterpieces, Monets and Picassos. Make the short hop out to Renzo Piano’s bold, wave-like Zentrum Paul Klee to see the color-charged works of Swiss-born German artist Paul Klee.

Detour : Break up sightseeing with a wild swim in the Aare River. When the weather warms, join the Berner for a cooling downstream float. 

10. Ski or hike below the Matterhorn

Nothing sums up Switzerland’s outdoor-loving spirit better than the Matterhorn, the peak that has broken many a rock climber’s rope (and soul) and has a chocolate bar (Toblerone) shaped in its honor. Arrive in Zermatt on the train that chugs from Täsch. Like those who have come before you, you won’t be able to stop yourself from obsessively gawping at that mountain. 

And who could blame you? Razoring up above the Italian border in southern Valais, this 4,478m (14,691ft) fang of rock and ice is utterly mesmerizing, especially when seen from above. You can ski, hike or climb in its pyramid-shaped shadow by riding the world's highest-altitude 3S cable car to 3,883m (12,739ft) Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , on the Klein Matterhorn, with views reaching deep into the Swiss, French and Italian Alps. 

For close-ups of the melting ice, hook onto the two-hour, 6.5km (4-mile), moderately challenging Matterhorn Glacier Trail. When the flakes fall in winter, you can pound the powder on 360km (223 miles) of ski runs, some of which dip over the border into Italy and nearly all of which offer distractingly lovely views of the Matterhorn.

Planning tip: If you have some climbing experience under your belt, you can climb your way to the top with an Alpine guide .

11. Admire the Aletsch Glacier  

As you journey into the remote Goms valley in Valais , the Alps take a turn for the wild and the hamlets are pure Heidi stuff with sun-blackened chalets and flower-freckled meadows sweeping up to whopping mountains. The Matterhorn gets all the fuss, but just as arresting is the Aletsch Glacier , the jewel in the crown of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region. Powering past wispy waterfalls, rock spires and the dagger-shaped summit of Aletschhorn (4,193m/13,756ft) like a six-lane glacial superhighway, this 23km (14 mile) swirl of deeply crevassed ice is the longest and most voluminous glacier in the Alps.

Observe the glacier from the viewpoint, or – for close-ups – hit the trail on the 17km (10.5-mile), five- to six-hour hike from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp where every bend in the ice reveals phenomenal views and the odd Valais Blacknose sheep. If you prefer instant thrills, wobble across the Aletschji–Grünsee Suspension Bridge, which straddles the 80m-deep Massa Gorge.

Planning tip: Reaching the glacier is part of the fun. From Fiesch, take the cable car up to Fiescheralp, then beyond to Eggishorn for your first glimpse of the mighty Aletsch.

12. Walk among vines in Lavaux

In the country’s western crook, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lavaux vineyards are heaven on earth to oenophiles. The world’s steepest vineyards stagger up the terraced hills above Lake Geneva . If you’ve never heard of them, it’s because the hand-picked wines are so select and small-batch that the Swiss keep most of them to themselves – few bottles ever reach export.

Before hitting the caveaux (wine cellars) for a petite dégustation (tasting), brush up your wine knowledge. It’s said that these grapes are blessed by three suns: the one in the sky, the one on the lake and the one radiating heat from the dry-stone walls. The main grape is Chasselas, a very old variety producing crisp, flinty white wines with a fresh, citrusy nose. The fruity reds (Gamay, Pinot noir and Salvagnin) make up just 20% of production.

You can drive the meandering roads that loop around 40km (25 miles) of shore or take the Lavaux Panoramic Train , but you’ll get a better feel for the Lavaux by heading out on foot. Little trails dip into the vines everywhere, but top billing goes to the 11km (6.8-mile) trail from St-Saphorin to Lutry, where you’ll take in stirring views, pretty villages and welcoming cellars.

Planning tip: For a great primer on Lavaux wines, stop off at Vinorama in Rivaz. Housed in a strikingly revamped bunker, the lakefront center speeds you through the wine-growing process, and you can sample dozens of different wines in the Espace Dégustation.

This article was first published Sep 20, 2022 and updated Dec 5, 2023.

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A world of endless discovery

Top 15 Must-Visit Cities in Switzerland

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Introduction

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Switzerland , a landlocked gem in the heart of Europe, is often associated with pristine alpine landscapes, luxurious watches, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolates. But beyond these iconic symbols lies a country rich in history, culture , and unparalleled beauty. Each city and town tells a unique story, offering travelers a mosaic of experiences that linger long after the journey ends. In this article, join me, Asel, a passionate traveler and blogger, as I take you on a personal journey through some of Switzerland’s most enchanting cities. From the bustling streets of Zurich to the historic charm of Chur, let’s embark on a Swiss adventure like no other.

1. Zurich: The Urban Symphony

Stepping into Zurich felt like diving into a dynamic blend of past and present. As I wandered its bustling streets, the serene Lake Zurich seemed to whisper tales of ancient times, while the modern skyline proudly showcased its cosmopolitan spirit. I remember the joy of discovering the Old Town, with its narrow alleyways and medieval facades; it felt like flipping through the pages of a centuries-old book. My evenings often gravitated towards Bahnhofstrasse, a shopper’s paradise, where the world’s most luxurious brands stood alongside quaint local boutiques. One of my most cherished memories is of a little café I stumbled upon. Nestled in a quiet corner, it served the creamiest hot chocolate, a perfect companion for the cool Swiss evenings. If there’s one piece of advice I’d give to fellow travelers, it’s to explore Zurich on foot. Every corner, every square has a story to tell, and there’s no better way to immerse oneself than by walking its streets. A visit to Kunsthaus Zurich, the city’s premier art museum, felt like a rendezvous with the greats of European art. And for those seeking a blend of greenery amidst the urban, Zurich’s many parks are a tranquil retreat.

2. Bern: Time-Traveling in the Almost Swiss Capital

Bern was like stepping into a time capsule. The UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its iconic Zytglogge clock tower and cobbled streets, felt like a journey back to medieval Europe. As I ambled under the city’s historic arcades, the aroma of fresh pastries wafted from local bakeries, tempting me at every turn. I recall spending an entire afternoon at the Rosengarten, a hilltop park. The view from there, overlooking Bern’s terracotta rooftops with the distant Alps, was nothing short of poetic. One of my most endearing memories is of a local artisan I met. Crafting traditional Swiss watches, he shared stories of Bern’s legacy as a city of clockmakers. The Aare River, meandering around the city, became my favorite spot for evening walks. Its turquoise waters, reflecting the city’s medieval architecture, were mesmerizing. For fellow travelers, my advice is to lose the map when in Bern. Let the city’s charm guide you. And if you’re lucky, like I was, you might stumble upon a local music ensemble performing in a hidden square, adding notes of nostalgia to Bern’s historic ambiance.

3. Lucerne: Where Nature Serenades Beauty

Lucerne was like a symphony of nature and architecture. Nestled by the lake and framed by snow-capped mountains, its beauty was spellbinding. The Chapel Bridge, with its ancient tower, became my favorite spot for sunrise. As dawn broke, the play of light on the lake, with swans gliding gracefully, felt like a scene from a fairy tale. I remember taking a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne; the gentle sway of the boat, with the Alps in the backdrop, felt like a dance with nature. The old town, with its frescoed buildings and quaint squares, was a delight to explore. One evening, as I sat by the lake, a local musician played the alphorn. The hauntingly beautiful melodies, echoing against the mountains, made Lucerne feel like a dream. A trip to nearby Mount Pilatus was an adventure. The panoramic views from the summit, with layers of the Alps stretching to the horizon, were breathtaking. My personal tip for Lucerne? Spend an evening by the lake, let the sunset hues and the alpine melodies serenade you. For in Lucerne, every moment feels like a love letter from nature.

4. Interlaken: Adventure Amidst the Alps

Interlaken was a dream come true for the adventurer in me. Nestled between the pristine Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this town was my gateway to the majestic Jungfrau region. I vividly recall the thrill of paragliding over Interlaken, with the bird’s-eye view of the turquoise lakes and alpine meadows – it was exhilarating! The town, with its wooden chalets and blooming gardens, exuded a serene charm. Yet, its heartbeat was adventurous. One of my most memorable journeys was the train ride to Jungfraujoch, aptly named the ‘Top of Europe.’ Standing amidst the snow-clad peaks, the world below seemed distant and ethereal. For those visiting Interlaken, my advice is to embrace both its tranquility and adventures. And if you get a chance, take a boat ride on Lake Brienz at sunset. As I did, you’ll find the shimmering waters, with the alpenglow on the mountains, painting a masterpiece of nature.

5. Geneva: The Cosmopolitan Melange

Geneva was like opening a window to the world. This international city, with its blend of cultures and languages, had a vibrant energy. The Jet d’Eau, shooting water into the sky from Lake Geneva , became my compass as I explored the city. Walking along the lake promenade, with the distant Mont Blanc on the horizon, I felt the city’s global pulse. The Pâquis district was a revelation. Here, I tasted flavors from around the globe, from spicy Lebanese falafels to creamy Portuguese pastries. One evening, as I sat in a café by the lake, I struck a conversation with a local artist. She shared stories of Geneva’s bohemian past, of poets and painters who were enamored by its beauty. For travelers, Geneva offers both sophistication and simplicity. My personal tip: visit Carouge, Geneva’s Italianate district. With its artisan shops and boho vibe, it feels like a quaint village, offering a delightful contrast to Geneva’s cosmopolitan sheen.

6. Basel: The Cultural Oasis

Basel , to me, was a celebration of art and culture. Located on the banks of the Rhine, this city had an artistic soul. The Art Basel fair, which I had the fortune to attend, was a kaleidoscope of global contemporary art. But beyond the fairs and galleries, Basel’s streets were a canvas. Murals, sculptures, and installations adorned its squares and lanes, making every walk a cultural journey. The Basel Historical Museum offered a deep dive into the city’s past, while the Tinguely Fountain, with its playful mechanical sculptures, added whimsy to its present. One of my most cherished memories is of a jazz evening by the Rhine. As the music floated, mingling with the river’s gentle ripples, Basel’s magic came alive. If you’re in Basel, my advice is to wander without an agenda. Let the city’s artistic spirit guide you. And if you stumble upon a riverside café, as I often did, take a pause. With the Rhine flowing by and Basel’s skyline in the backdrop, it’s a moment of serenity amidst the cultural vibrance.

7. Lausanne: The Olympic Spirit

Lausanne, often termed the ‘Olympic Capital’, was a blend of sporty spirit and serene beauty. Overlooking Lake Geneva, with the French Alps forming a majestic backdrop, Lausanne’s elegance was captivating. My first stop was the Olympic Museum, a tribute to the world of sports. Wandering through its exhibits, I felt the passion and dreams of athletes across generations. The old town, with its Gothic cathedral and cobblestone streets, held stories of Lausanne’s rich past. I fondly remember a café where I savored the local delicacy, ‘Lausanne tart,’ a sweet treat that felt like a hug on a cold day. One evening, I took a leisurely stroll along Ouchy promenade. As the sun set over Lake Geneva, casting a golden hue, Lausanne’s magic was palpable. For those visiting, my tip is to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. From jazz bars to dance clubs, Lausanne comes alive as the night progresses, offering a contrast to its daytime tranquility.

8. Lugano: The Mediterranean Soul of Switzerland

Lugano was like a slice of Italy in the heart of Switzerland. With its palm-lined promenades, Italianate architecture, and a laid-back vibe, Lugano felt like a Mediterranean oasis. Nestled by Lake Lugano and surrounded by mountains, its beauty was enchanting. I spent hours at Parco Ciani, the city’s green lung, watching the world go by. The local markets, with their fresh produce and Italian specialties, were a gastronomic delight. I recall a boat ride on Lake Lugano, where the reflections of the mountains on the crystal-clear waters created mesmerizing patterns. A visit to the Lugano Arte e Cultura, a modern arts center, introduced me to the city’s cultural heartbeat. My personal advice for Lugano: indulge in the local gelato. As I discovered, it’s a creamy delight that perfectly complements Lugano’s sunny ambiance.

9. St. Moritz: The Alpine Luxury

St. Moritz, nestled in the Engadin valley, was the epitome of alpine luxury. Known for its world-class resorts and winter sports, this town exuded opulence. I was fortunate to visit during the winter season, and the snow-covered landscapes were a sight to behold. Skiing down the Corviglia slopes, with the wind rushing past and the world below, was an adrenaline-charged experience. But beyond its snowy adventures, St. Moritz had a serene side. The frozen Lake St. Moritz, with its horse races and polo matches, was a unique spectacle. I also indulged in the local spa treatments, using natural mineral springs, a rejuvenating experience amidst the cold. One evening, as I dined at a mountaintop restaurant, the twinkling lights of St. Moritz below and the starry sky above felt like a moment frozen in time. If you’re in St. Moritz, my tip is to explore its vibrant art scene. From galleries to art cafes, the town’s creative spirit adds another layer to its alpine charm.

10. Davos: Beyond the World Economic Forum

Davos, popularly known for hosting the World Economic Forum, had so much more to offer than its global summit reputation. Nestled in the Alps, Davos was a fusion of business and leisure, modernity and nature. My first glimpse of Lake Davos, shimmering under the alpine sun, set the tone for my visit. I ventured into the Swiss National Park nearby, where the untouched landscapes and diverse fauna offered a tranquil escape. The Kirchner Museum, dedicated to the expressionist painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, was a cultural highlight, showcasing his vivid artworks inspired by the Alpine landscapes. Remembering a particularly snowy day, I took to the slopes, skiing amidst the towering pines and feeling the world’s worries melt away. My evenings in Davos were often spent savoring local Swiss dishes, with fondue becoming a quick favorite. A piece of advice for those visiting Davos: take a scenic train ride through the Bernina Express route. As I discovered, the picturesque landscapes, from icy glaciers to lush meadows, were a visual treat.

11. Zermatt: At the Foot of the Matterhorn

Zermatt , the car-free village, was a dreamy escape at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. The moment I set foot in Zermatt, the towering silhouette of the Matterhorn left me in awe. This town was a paradise for mountain enthusiasts like me. Whether it was skiing in the winters or hiking during the summers, Zermatt offered year-round adventures. One of my most cherished memories was the Gornergrat railway journey, ascending amidst snow-clad peaks and offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn. Exploring the old village, with its wooden chalets and winding paths, I felt the pulse of Zermatt’s rich history. A personal highlight was dining in one of the mountaintop restaurants, where the combination of gourmet meals and alpine views made for an unforgettable experience. For those traveling to Zermatt, I’d recommend spending a night stargazing. As I experienced, the clear alpine skies offer a celestial spectacle that’s truly magical.

12. Fribourg: The Medieval Marvel

Fribourg, with its medieval architecture and bilingual charm, was a delightful discovery. Wandering through its old town, I was transported to a bygone era, with Gothic cathedrals, ancient bridges, and fortified walls narrating tales of the past. The St. Nicholas Cathedral, with its intricate stained glass and towering spire, was a testament to Fribourg’s architectural grandeur. I recall a leisurely afternoon by the Sarine River, watching the boats glide by and soaking in the city’s tranquil ambiance. Fribourg’s museums, particularly the Gutenberg Museum, offered insights into the city’s artistic and historical legacy. One of my favorite experiences was attending a local music festival. As the melodies echoed through Fribourg’s historic streets, it felt like a celebration of its rich heritage. For those venturing to Fribourg, my tip is to explore its culinary scene. As I found out, the blend of German and French influences creates a gastronomic delight that’s unique to Fribourg.

Each Swiss city, with its distinctive allure, added a new dimension to my travels. From the adventurous spirit of Davos to the historical depths of Fribourg, my journey through Switzerland was a mosaic of emotions and experiences. And as my adventure continued, every city, every moment became a story, a memory that I, Asel, would treasure for a lifetime.

13. Montreux: The Riviera Romance

Montreux, often termed the ‘Swiss Riviera’, had an allure that was both elegant and enchanting. Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux felt like a serene embrace. The Chillon Castle, standing majestically on the lake’s edge, became my favorite spot. As I explored its historic chambers and battlements, I could almost hear the whispers of the past. The Montreux Jazz Festival was a highlight. Dancing to soulful tunes by the lakeside, under a star-studded sky, was an experience I’ll forever cherish. One afternoon, I took a stroll along the flower-lined promenade, and the sight of the French Alps across the shimmering lake was simply breathtaking. My advice for fellow travelers: take the GoldenPass Line train journey from Montreux. The scenic landscapes, with vineyards and alpine meadows, were a visual symphony that left me spellbound.

14. Chur: The Ancient Alpine Gateway

Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland, was like a journey through time. Nestled in the Graubünden region, its narrow winding streets and ancient buildings spoke of a history spanning over 5,000 years. The Chur Cathedral, with its towering spires and Gothic architecture, stood as a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage. I was particularly enchanted by the Rätisches Museum, which offered insights into the region’s art, culture, and history. Strolling through the old town, with its quaint boutiques and cafes, I often felt like I was walking through the pages of a history book. The nearby Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the ‘Swiss Grand Canyon’, was a natural marvel that took my breath away. I remember a delightful afternoon spent in one of Chur’s vineyards, sipping on local wines and soaking in the panoramic alpine views. My tip for those visiting Chur: take the Bernina Express from here. The train journey, cutting through alpine landscapes and picturesque villages, is an unforgettable experience.

15. Neuchâtel: The Lakeside Elegance

Neuchâtel, with its pristine lake and historic charm, was a blend of nature and culture. The city’s medieval castle and church, perched on a hilltop, offered panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Jura mountains. I spent many evenings by the lakeside, watching the sunset hues dance on the water, painting a canvas of gold and crimson. The Laténium, a museum and park, introduced me to the region’s archaeological wonders, spanning millennia. One of my most cherished memories of Neuchâtel was a boat cruise on the lake. As the boat gently swayed, the reflections of the city’s silhouette on the water felt like a mirage, blurring the lines between reality and dream. For those exploring Neuchâtel, my advice is to visit the local vineyards. Sampling the region’s wines, with the lake in the backdrop, added a flavorful note to my Neuchâtel sojourn.

Switzerland, with its diverse landscapes and rich tapestry of cultures, is more than just a travel destination; it’s an experience. Every city, every alley, and every mountain peak holds a story, waiting to be discovered. As my journey across this beautiful nation unfolded, I realized that the true essence of Switzerland lies not just in its postcard-perfect sceneries but in the moments of discovery, the warmth of its people, and the myriad memories created along the way. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or someone seeking tranquility, Switzerland offers a slice of paradise for every traveler. So, the next time you think of a European getaway, let the Swiss cities beckon, and who knows, you might just find your own story amidst the Alpine peaks and valleys.

• For first-timers, I’d recommend starting with Zurich or Lucerne. Both cities offer a mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and are well-connected to other parts of the country.
• While Switzerland is often perceived as an expensive destination, with careful planning and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, budget travelers can have a fulfilling experience.
• Switzerland is a year-round destination. Summers (June to August) are perfect for hiking and exploring cities, while winters (December to February) are ideal for skiing and winter sports.
• The Swiss Rail system is efficient, punctual, and offers some of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It’s my preferred mode of transport between cities.
• Definitely fondue! It’s a traditional Swiss dish made by melting cheese, enjoyed with bread cubes. Perfect for a cozy evening.
• Absolutely! I’ve traveled solo across many Swiss cities and always felt safe. The locals are friendly and always willing to help.
• When in Switzerland, watches, chocolates, and cheese are must-buys. Also, explore local markets for unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.

Remember, every journey is unique, and in Switzerland, every city holds a new adventure. Dive in, explore, and let the Swiss magic unfold!

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9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

• January 11, 2022 March 4, 2024

Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Admin

Switzerland is a beautiful country known for its mountains, glaciers, large lakes, and turquoise rivers. Switzerland has a lot more to offer than just the Swiss Alps . The country also has lots of interesting and beautiful cities to visit. 

Compared to some of the largest cities in the world, such as London, Paris, and New York, a Swiss city will always be minuscule. However, these places do have a lot to offer – from restaurants and shopping to old towns and museums.

So without further ado, here are 9 of the best cities to visit in Switzerland .

Switzerland’s fourth-largest city, Bern , is known as its Federal City. Bern is home to the federal government, international postal, and railway unions. With a UNESCO World Heritage site on its doorstep, its Old City in particular, Bern managed to retain its old-world charm.

Found west of central Switzerland, Bern is definitely more laid back than Zurich and Geneva. Flowing through the city of Bern is the River Aare , whose waters are crystal clear and turquoise. The city itself has its own share of interesting things to do. 

Wander through Gurten to take in the city’s sights and sounds. Following that, you can visit the bears (yes, real ones) and then walk further to explore the old city . In the city, you can walk along the 15th-century arcades, maybe go shopping a bit, or eat at one of the many restaurants. You’ll even come across some fountains from the 16th century on your way. Colorful figures and crafted pillars decorate the old city. 

Among Bern’s other notable landmarks are the Parliament Building , the Cathedral , and the Historic Museum , which is Switzerland’s second-largest historic museum. 

Near Bern, travelers often go to Wengen , Interlaken , and Mürren .

2. Lausanne

The eponymous capital of Vaud canton, Lausanne is a beautiful city. This city has everything – a beach on Lake Geneva, pools, a gorgeous old town, museums , shops, restaurants, an aquarium/vivarium , and views of the surrounding mountains. In addition, with varying altitudes, you have parts of the city with great views. 

Lausanne’s old town and Cathedral give it a rich history. The city was once ruled by Celts and Romans. Today, Lausanne is the fifth-largest city in Switzerland and the second-largest city in French-speaking Switzerland.

Near Lausanne, travelers often go to  Geneva and Montreux .

The city of Lucerne is one of the most popular tourist spots in Switzerland. In Lucerne, you’ll find everything you’d want in a typical Swiss city. The beauty of its fjord-like blue lake, charming old town, and mountains is unbeatable. For those who want to spend some time in Lucerne City, there’s so much to see: the Transport Museum, the Lion Monument , the Rosengart Collection , and Chapel Bridge , just to name a few. 

You can get around Lake Lucerne with the Lake Lucerne ship company . Various basins and bays provide exhilarating and changing views of the landscape on the lake – Stansstaad, Weggis, Buochs, Gersau, and Uri.

For those who want more details, we have an article about the best things to do in Lucerne:   9 Best Things To Do in Lucerne, Switzerland .

You can read more about other stunning places to visit near Lucerne such as Bürgenstock , Engelberg , Vitznau , and Weggis in this article 10 Beautiful Places Near Lucerne . And for those who wish to visit the mountains near Lucerne, you can find out about the Closest Mountains To Visit From Lucerne .

There’s an alpine city in Switzerland called  Chur  you might be familiar with. You may have passed Chur en route to Davos , St. Moritz , or another mountain resort in the canton Grisons. 

Chur has been inhabited for more than 11,000 years. The city of Chur is the oldest in Switzerland . Early trade also made the city important.

In 1803, canton Grisons ( Graubünden in German) recognized Chur as its capital. Chur might not be your first choice to visit in Switzerland, but it is definitely an alpine city worth visiting.

If you would like to read more about Chur , check out our articles:

• How to Spend 1 Day in Chur, Switzerland
• Is Chur Worth Visiting? 8 Fun Things To Do In Chur
• Discover St. Martin’s Church in Chur, Switzerland
• Rätisches Museum: Unleashing The Fascinating History Of Graubünden
• Closest Mountains To Chur in Switzerland
• Bernina Express Route: Chur to Tirano Train

Lugano  is the largest city in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. This charming city lies right along the shores of Lake Lugano quite near the Italian border. This beautiful city is home to 17 heritage sites. Aside from the city of Lugano itself, the districts Barbengo, Brè, Gandria, Castagnola, and Biogno are also part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites.

Worth visiting in Lugano is the Church of Santa Maria Degli Angeli with its stunning Renaissance fresco. This fresco has more than 150 faces and figures together with Jesus Christ, Gestas, and Dimas. A second Cathedral worth visiting is Catedrale San Lorenzo, with its Baroque decors. For those who are interested in shopping, Via Nassa is the place to be.

Near Lugano is the mountain called Monte San Salvatore . This mountain is part of the Lepontine Alps and is accessible by funicular from the city.

From Lugano , you can quickly go to Morcote , Locarno , Ascona , and Bellinzona . And if these are not enough, you can check out several other choices here: 8 Best Day Trips From Lugano .

The city of  Basel , along the Rhine River, is situated in northwest Switzerland, quite close to France and Germany. A highly cultural city, it also enjoys excellent weather year-round. It has also been included time and again in the list of most livable cities in the world.

Basel  is also known as  Switzerland’s cultural capital.  It has more than  40 museums , including the Kunstmuseum, the Fondation Beyeler , and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, it hosts Art Basel , an international art fair that attracts thousands of artists, art collectors, and art enthusiasts from Europe, the US, and Asia. 

One tradition that you might want to observe is the Basel Carnival festival . Sometime during the months of February and March, the country’s largest festival starts with what’s called the Morgestraich . It lasts a good 72 hours. As a highly anticipated and important tradition, the Basel Carnival was inscribed in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage back in 2017.

There’s more to Basel than just culture. Also in Basel are world-renowned institutions , like the University of Basel, the Bank of International Settlements, and FC Basel. Some of the biggest pharma companies are based in Basel, like Roche, Novartis, Lonza, and Actelion.

You can learn all about the local zoo in Basel in our review: Zoo Basel – An Honest Review.

If you would like to visit beautiful towns near Basel, you can choose from the list here 8 Beautiful Towns Near Basel, Switzerland .

Switzerland’s biggest and most populous city, it’s no wonder that people tend to visit Zurich . Home to the country’s biggest airport and train station, it is also logistically typically the easiest city to reach from abroad.

Zurich lies along the shores of Lake Zurich . It also has a charming old town and beautiful churches such as the Grossmünster and the Fraumünster . The city has a lot of restaurants, nightclubs, and bars compared to other cities in the country.

If you take the Polybahn up to the Polyterrasse , you will get fantastic views of the city. Another option is going up the Dolder . For those who want to see the greater Zurich area as well as see further away, Uetliberg Mountain is also relatively close.

For those who are interested in museums, Landesmuseum Zurich or the Swiss National Museum is right next to the Zurich Train Station. This castle-like museum is Switzerland’s most visited museum. You’ll find Bahnhofstrasse on the other side of the train station. This main shopping street ( Bahnhofstrasse ) has watches, jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs.

You can visit lots of cool towns nearby Zurich for a day trip – Arbon , Stein am Rhein , Aarburg , Lenzburg , Rheinfelden , and Laufenburg . And for those who want to visit the mountains and lakes close to Zurich, you can check out our list of Closest Mountains To Visit From Zurich and t he Most Beautiful Lakes Near Zurich .

Zurich’s counterpart on the French side of Switzerland is  Geneva . On the shores of Lake Geneva, it is the second-most populous country in Switzerland and the most populous in the French-speaking part of the country. 

A global city, Geneva is home to numerous  international organizations  such as the United Nations and the Red Cross. The city is also a  major financial center , ranking fifth in Europe after London, Zurich, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg. 

In Geneva, you can find also a beautiful historic center with Saint Peter’s Cathedral , Bastion Park , the Reformation Wall, and the Treille Promenade . The lake is also a wonderful place to visit with its iconic water jet called Jet d’Eau .

For museum lovers, Maison Tavel and Ariana Museum are worth visiting. Watch lovers might opt to explore the Patek Philippe Museum instead. The Palace of Nations , one of the most important diplomatic centers in the world, is also worth a visit.

Near Geneva, travelers often go to  Lausanne and Montreux . For those who wish to visit the mountains near Geneva, check out the Closest Mountains To Geneva in Switzerland .

9. St. Gallen

Often overlooked but still charming, St. Gallen is the location of the Cathedral of Saint Gall , a historic Catholic church from the Carolingian era. In 1983,  UNESCO  declared the Abbey Cathedral a  World Heritage Site . 

The  Abbey Library in St. Gallen , built around the same time as the Abbey Cathedral, has the  oldest book collection in Switzerland , and one of the oldest and richest in the world. 

St. Gallen , in northeastern Switzerland, is just a few kilometers from  Lake Constance . The old-world vibe of St. Gallen should appeal to those who love old cities. It’s a pretty city with 75,000 residents who mostly speak Swiss-German.

St. Gallen’s textile industry played a major role in Switzerland during the 19th and 20th centuries. Once, St Gallen was famous for textiles; embroidery was precious. St. Gallen’s Textile Museum is an excellent place to learn about textiles and the industry.

There are many beautiful places to visit near St. Gallen such as Appenzell and wonderful lakeside towns such as Arbon , Steckborn , Kreuzlingen , and more.

Final Thoughts: 9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

All nine cities mentioned above are worth visiting. Each has its charm, beauty, and place in history. In the German-speaking part of Switzerland, you can check out Bern, Lucerne, Basel, St. Gallen, Chur , and Zurich . In the French-speaking part of Switzerland, Lausanne and Geneva are worth exploring. Last but not least, Lugano , the largest city in the Italian part of Switzerland, is also worth a visit.

We hope that the list above was a good starting point for finding a city in Switzerland that you’re interested in.

Related Posts

• Best Places to Go to in St. Gallen
• Wonderful Towns To Visit on Lake Constance
• 12 Best Things To Do in Appenzell Region, Switzerland
• 9 Best Things To Do in Lucerne, Switzerland
• Make the Most of a Long Weekend in Lugano
• 10 Beautiful Towns near Zurich for Day Trips
• 25 Best Things To Do In Zurich, Switzerland
• 12 Best Unique Experiences In Zurich
• 10 Best Free Museums and Parks in Zurich
• Closest Mountains To Visit From Zurich

Lausanne and Geneva

• Is Lausanne Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why
• 9 Closest Mountains To Lausanne, Switzerland
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• Lausanne Cathedral: All You Need to Know in a Nutshell
• 8 Best Things to Do in Geneva on a Rainy Day
• Closest Mountains To Geneva in Switzerland

Darla is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country. Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

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10 beautiful cities to visit in Switzerland (+ tips & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 12, 2023

With so many fabulous destinations and experiences to choose from in Switzerland where do you start when planning a trip? To help you begin the process of selecting the places to visit for your Swiss itinerary this article covers my recommended top 10 beautiful cities to visit in Switzerland.

Included in this introductory guide to 10 Swiss cities you will find information about the best places to visit, what to see and do, where to stay, recommended restaurants and more. You will also discover why each city deserves to feature in your Swiss travel itinerary .

This article is a compilation of contributions from travel bloggers who also share a love of Switzerland. Having lived in Switzerland and visited numerous times over the years this (plus my Swiss bucket list ) is the perfect place to start when planning your itinerary.

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Map showing the locations of the 10 Swiss cities

Faqs plan your swiss travel adventure – top tips from a former swiss resident, which of these best cities to visit in switzerland will you add into your itinerary, guide to the 10 best cities to visit in switzerland.

There is no place on Earth more magical and enchanting than Switzerland. Within this country, there are plenty of beautiful places to visit , but a standout city is Zurich .

As the largest city in Switzerland and the global finical safe house, Zurich is packed with beauty and excitement at every turn. This city is located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland and is situated along the beautiful Lake Zurich. The combination of beautiful architecture, natural attractions, and a unique opulent atmosphere make it a top travel destination in Europe.

There is so much to see and do in Zurich and something for every type of traveler. One of the highlights of the city is the historic Altstadt or “Old Town”.

In Altstadt enjoy a walk through the cobblestone streets full of old buildings, modern cafes and shops. It is the perfect place to experience the two sides of Zurich, modern and historic.

You also cannot miss viewing and walking strolling along the shores of Lake Zurich. Walking along the promenade is the best place to go to admire the blue-hued water and millionaire’s yachts.

The Swiss National Museum is also located in Zurich and is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland to learn about Swiss history and culture.

Zurich is also a great place to immerse yourself in one of the most popular Swiss dishes of fondue! A fondue meal consists of melted cheese and an assortment of bites to dip in it. There are many restaurants serving fondue in Zurich. I recommend booking a table at Raclette Stube in the Old Town which specialises in Swiss dishes.

Prepare to fall in love with Zurich as you explore the historic streets and feel the Swiss charm around every corner.

Contributed by Sam of Sam Sees World

Perched on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore , Locarno boasts an idyllic position and, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, is a popular holiday resort.

There are plenty of things to do in Lake Maggiore , particularly in Locarno, which is situated in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of southern Switzerland.

Your first stop should be the palm-lined lakeside promenade where you can watch the ferries departing for other towns around the lake.  There are a number of lidos – swimming beaches – along the lakeside should you wish to have a swim, and the Termali Salina and Spa, a thermal wellness centre, welcomes visitors to soak in the tranquil waters.

Not far from the lake’s edge, Locarno’s Old Town is well worth a look.  The heart of the Old Town Piazza Grande , is lined with beautifully restored 19th-century arcaded buildings and is home to a weekly market.  This is the perfect place to enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes and people watch.

A highlight of any visit to Locarno is an excursion to the 15th-century Santuario della Madonna del Sasso at Orselina , just above Locarno. The church can be reached by funicular from Locarno and amongst its charms are beautiful frescoes, a 16th-century altarpiece and stunning panoramic views over Lake Maggiore.

If you’re keen to take in those views from an even higher altitude, hop aboard the cable car to Cardada and the chairlift to Cimetta at 1,670 metres above sea level.  Here, an observation platform offers breathtaking 360 degree views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains.  

Contributed by Carolyn of Holidays to Europe

Basel is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, located at the banks of the Rhine, right near the border with France and Germany, making a visit to the classic three-country corner sign one of the popular things to do in Basel.

The Altstadt (old town) of Basel is perfect to stroll around and admire the medieval city of Basel’s stunning architecture, such as Münsterplatz, the Base City Hall, the cute houses on Petersgasse, and the monkey fountain at Andresplatz. If you happen to visit Basel on a weekend, also add Marktplatz to your stroll through town to visit the farmers market.

Basel is also home to a number of cool museums . For example, the Basel Historical Museum, The Kunsmuseum Basel, Antikenmuseum Basel, Museum Tinguely, Fondation Beyeler, Spielzeug Welten Museum, and The Pharmazie-Historisches Museum and the best places to visit.

Of course, a visit to Basel cannot be complete without exploring one of the main European rivers, the Rhine. You could take a boat ride on the Rhine , or if the weather allows for it, you could relax at one the beaches further down the Rhine and go for a swim. Alternatively, you could grab a coffee at one of the pop-up coffee shops on the banks of the Rhine.

To admire Basel from above, climb up the Basler Münster, not only is it a stunning iconic landmark, but it also provides you with one of the best views over the city!

Lastly, you cannot leave a Swiss city without having tried some of the yummy Swiss food. And what’s more Swiss than a raclette or cheese fondue? Delicious melted cheese that basically goes with anything. Check out the Stadtkeller Basel or Walliser Kanne for your classic Swiss meal.

Though Basel is the third-largest city in Switzerland , it still gives a small-town feeling. It’s quite easy to walk around Basel’s Altstadt and explore many things on foot. For the sights that are further out of town, Basel’s public transport system works perfectly!

Contributed by Lara of Both Feet On The Road 

As the 5th largest city in Switzerland, Bern is not the most obvious when it comes to capital cities , and more so when put against the worldwide centre for diplomacy in Geneva, and the financial capital of Zurich. But due to its neutrality with language, its multicultural stance between French and German, and its central location , it is where Switzerland based its parliament, government and foreign embassies.

It is also culturally significant and the Old City is a designated UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site sandwiched between the passing River Aare connected by towering bridges on each side.

And the Old City just looks picture-perfect with medieval buildings, churches, Renaissance fountains, majestic federal buildings, all connected by a compact network of trams. But it is also simple to explore on foot.

The main attractions of the city , aside from the bridges, fountains, and quaint medieval backdrops, include the central Zyteglogge, the Cathedral of Bern, and Bear Park which is home to a controversial bear pit but also gives access to the riverside area.

The city is fairly multicultural these days, as expected, but there are also some great local restaurants including the famous fondue and rostis at Harmonie Restaurant .

It is also unbelievably picturesque in winter times and is the perfect stopover for those travelling to the higher ski resorts and Switzerland’s scenic train journeys like the Bernina and the Glacier Express . 

Chosen by Allan of It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor 

If you’re looking for the gorgeous alpine scenery of Switzerland while still enjoying the perks of a city, Thun is the place to go. It’s not a huge metropolis, but you won’t feel isolated, and it’s located in the Bernese Oberland region , you’ll have easy access to one of the most popular natural areas in the country. 

Take a stroll through the old town, and then visit the Thun Castle . It has existed in some form since the 12th century, and even though it’s probably not the most impressive castle you’ll ever see, it is very picturesque. Wander through the castle, which has a modest museum, and climb to the top for some fantastic views of Thun below. 

Since Thun is located on Lake Thun, it’s also a great place for water activities. If you’re visiting in the summer, the water should be warm enough for swimming.

You can join a rafting trip on the River Aare for those who are more experienced, or you can take a scenic boat cruise around Lake Thun . These cruises typically start and end in nearby Interlaken, but you can get on at Thun or any other stop. You can also switch at Interlaken to the cruise on Lake Brienz. You might also spot some surfers on the river.

Thun makes a good base for exploring the surrounding area. You can easily get to nearby Bern, Interlaken, Spiez, Lauterbrunnen, and more as day trips from Thun . The Thun train station has connections to all of these towns so you can easily travel around the area without needing a car.

Contributed by Ali of Travel Made Simple

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Montreux is a town surrounded by imposing mountains on the edge of the beautiful Lake Geneva . Quaint Montreux provides wonderful sightseeing opportunities.

Known for its history, fascinating culture, top-notch architecture, and lively cultural scene, the city has been attracting many impressive visitors throughout history. The likes of the Shelleys and Lord Byron chose to frequent the beautiful lakeside resort, while Charlie Chaplin decided to spend 25 years of his life in this charming city.

Montreux is home to a variety of attractions, activities, and events for all ages. You definitely shouldn’t leave Montreux without wandering through its quaint Old Town .

Home to a number of restaurants and a wealth of shops and quaint boutiques, it will also make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time several centuries. Make sure to pay a visit to the St-Vincent Temple , which provides fascinating views over the city and surrounding mountain scenery.

Another attraction you don’t want to miss is the iconic Chateau de Chillon. Build in the early 12th century, this beautiful castle and the museum, located on an island just off Montreux in Lake Geneva, feature hundreds of everyday objects dating from the Middle Ages to the 17th century.

If you’re looking for ways to save money , a glorious stroll along the promenade is a must. While Switzerland isn’t the cheapest country to visit, strolling along the banks is one of the best ways to appreciate its beauty without breaking the bank. There are, of course, cruise ships sailing on Lake Geneva . So there’s always a choice.

Along the promenade, you’ll find a plethora of lakefront cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy a lake view and surrounding mountains.

Contributed by Ivan of Mind the Travel

While the shores of Lake Geneva are home to some of the world’s most beautiful cities and lesser-known towns such as Nyon which are worth exploring too.

With so much history to uncover, you’ll never be at a loss for  things to do in Geneva ! Tucked away beside the French border, this underrated Swiss city is a lovely destination to explore in a day or two. The best part is the Old Town is relatively flat, which makes it a breeze to explore on foot.

While it may not be obvious at first, many of Geneva’s old buildings and cobbled roads date back to Roman times and links to its vibrant medieval history are still visible today. Meanwhile, the modern Jet d’Eau is an icon of the city, towering high above the skyline. Marvel at the impressive Flower Clock, a huge working timepiece of the English Garden. 

An unmissable spot to enjoy a bite to eat is Place du Bourg-de-Four , a charming old town square encircled by cafes and boutiques. Nearby St Piere’s Cathedral is a beloved icon of Geneva, having stood here since the 10th century. The cathedral’s lookout offers sweeping views over the city’s rooftops to Lake Leman.

The Reformation Wall located within the grounds of Geneva University displays important figures who spearheaded the Protestant Reformation during the 16th century. These stone statues are built into the old city walls and are a short stroll from Bastion’s Park. It’s the place to be if you fancy playing a game of human-sized chess within the leafy grounds.

Finally, Geneva is home to many global organisations and fascinating museums. If you have the time, head into the city’s north to take a guided tour of the United Nations headquarters.

Located in a prominent position here is the Broken Chair sculpture , it missing leg said to be a tribute to honour the victims of landmines globally. Enjoy your time discovering all Geneva has to offer! It is truly one of the best cities to visit in Switzerland!

Contributed by Alyce of the Invisible Tourist

The picturesque city of Lausanne is often referred to as the most beautiful location in Switzerland, offering sweeping views of Lake Geneva. The city’s landscape is highlighted by the Renaissance cathedral and age-old buildings which are scattered as far as the eye can see.

The fourth largest city in Switzerland , Lausanne has been recognised as the Olympic capital since 1994 and is also the site of the Court of Arbitration for Sport as well as 55 other international sports organisations which make it a prominent location in the world of sports. 

Inside the city there are 46 buildings which are included in the list of the Swiss heritage sites of national significance. The must visited sites are the Notre-dame cathedral, numerous civic structures, museums and libraries, archeological sites as well as noteworthy art galleries. 

Visitors may also enjoy the numerous street markets as well as the renowned  Quartier du Flon which over the years has evolved from a site of transshipment and storage facilities to a hub of modern buildings, including offices, apartments, shopping malls, and nightly entertainment places.

Lausanne is also a famed wine-growing region and is a paradise for wine lovers. When in Lausanne don’t miss the opportunity to take a day trip to the Lavaux region , one of the most beautiful sights in the whole of Switzerland thanks to its vineyard terraces which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

You can reach here by the vineyard train which you can take from the main train station of Lausanne. Lausanne is a wonderful destination which boasts a selection of activities, historical sites and fantastic scenery for all tastes and ages.

Contributed by Elena of Passion for Hospitality

You cannot afford to miss Lugano while visiting Switzerland. It is located in the southern part of the country and just 8 kilometers from the border with Italy. Once you land in Lugano, you can feel the charm of one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. You will be delighted by the blend of Swiss and Italian cultures that you find here at every corner of this small Swiss city.

Lugano is an all-season destination in Switzerland. However, I will recommend visiting during the spring months (March – May) to avoid the summer crowd and to get a hotel at a cheap price.

The public transportation network is very impressive and well developed in Lugano. All the major tourist attractions in Lugano are within a short distance from each other which makes it easy to get around the city by walking or biking.

There are plenty of things to do in Lugano to keep you busy. Visiting the Old Town of Lugano with its narrow pedestrian lanes and arcade covered sidewalks is truly enjoyable.

Walk along the waterfront and explore the lovely shops and restaurants of the Old Town. Enjoy the spectacular view of gorgeous Lake Lugano. You can also take a ferry ride to see the city from a different perspective.

Next take a funicular ride to Monte Bre , a picturesque mountain that offers a fantastic vista over Lake Lugano. There are also several hiking trails and mountain biking opportunities for adventure seekers.

After that stop at the Alprose Chocolate Museum . Watching the chocolate-making process is a very fun and unique experience. Don’t miss the chance to taste their famous Alprose chocolate, one of the best chocolate brands in Switzerland .

When you are done with Lugano, visit Parco Civio and spend a relaxing evening while enjoying the enchanting views of long, tree-lined pathways, beautiful flower beds, and fountains. The food in Lugano has Italian influence everywhere. Enjoy your lunch at Ristorante Trattoria Galleria with Italian pasta and seafood.

Contributed by Trijit from BudgetTravelBuff

Lucerne is one of the most popular cities in Switzerland for tourists from all over the world (and one of the best cities to visit in Switzerland!) With stunning views over the lake and surrounded by the mountain peaks of the Central Swiss Alps Lucerne offers visitors plenty to do and see!

Lucerne is a compact city and can be explored on foot. Walk over the Chapel Bridge (Kappellbrucke) – the worlds oldest existing truss bridge – before taking a leisurely stroll around the shores of Lake Lucerne.

For stunning views over the city the Musegg Wall . The wall was built during the 14th century and parts of the wall are open to visitors from April to October.

The Lion Monument must also be visited when you are in Lucerne. It was created in 1820/1 to commemorate the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution.

If you have time for a day trip head to Mt Pilatus . It is the mountain that stands highest among the peaks surrounding Lucerne. The Golden Round Trip is highly recommended and involves a boat ride across the lake, a trip on the steepest cog railway in the world, a cable car then a gondola ride before heading back to Lucerne by bus.

This is a fantastic day trip from Lucerne with breathtaking views of the Alps from the mountain as well as of the lake. There are many different tours available including independent, guided and hiking trips.

Learn more about what to do and see in Lucerne.

What languages are spoken in Switzerland?

There are 4 languages spoken in Switzerland. By far the most common is Swiss German which is spoken by around 63% of the population. Not to be confused with German – it is quite different and in my humble opinion is not the easiest language on the ear in the world.

Although Swiss German is spoken in the north, east and central parts of Switzerland it manifests in numerous dialects. Swiss German in spoken in the cities of Zurich, Bern, Basel, Thun and Lucerne.

Swiss French is spoken by 20% of the Swiss population and is the language you will hear in Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux and the western part of Switzerland.

Only spoken by 8% of the population Swiss Italian can be heard in Lugano and Locarno – the areas of Switzerland bordering Italy in the south. And last but not least Romansh is spoken by approximately 40,000 Swiss who mainly live in the south-eastern canton of Grisons.

English is widely spoken in Switzerland though some understanding of German (all Swiss German speakers also learn German) or French is always handy!

Is the Euro the currency of Switzerland?

No Switzerland has its own currency called the Swiss franc . Notes are available in denominations of 10,20,50,100,200 and 1,000 Swiss francs.

Coins are available in 1, 2 or 5 francs.

Euros may be accepted in some shops and hotels. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Switzerland.

I recommend using a Transferwise currency card when traveling in Switzerland. You can find out more about how to save money with the Transferwise card here.

When is the best time of year to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland experiences 4 distinct seasons with average temperatures in summer of between 18 – 25 degrees centigrade (65 – 82 F) and of -2 to 7 degrees centigrade (28 – 45 degrees F) in winter.

Expect snow during the winter months. I recommend packing waterproof clothes that can be layered. If you are heading off to the slopes for a spot of skiing don’t forget to pack suncream and sunglasses.

In summer although the days can be sunny and hot I recommend packing a light jacket if you are planning to take a trip up Jungfrau , Mt Pilatus or other Swiss mountain. Temperatures can drop rapidly if clouds descend.

What accommodation options are available in Switzerland?

Switzerland is NOT a cheap country and you may discover fairly early on when planning your itinerary that it is a costly country to visit.

There are a myriad of accommodation options available in Switzerland from top class luxury 5 star hotels to more affordable airbnbs.

Should I plan a road trip or a train travel itinerary?

The roads are excellent in Switzerland so you could plan a road trip however my favourite way to travel the country is by rail. With a Swiss rail pass you can experience some of the most scenic train journeys in the world.

I have travelled the country extensively by train and there are so many wonderful Swiss rail trips to take that you really are spoilt for choice.

To find out more about rail passes and the various options available to you click the relevant link below.

What souvenirs can I buy in Switzerland?

Cuckoo clocks, Swiss army knives, Swatch watches, lace and of course chocolate.

I have a wonderful collection of Swiss cow bells too. Make sure you have lots of room in your suitcase for all your purchases!

With all this Swiss travel inspiration I am sure you will have lots of ideas for your itinerary.

Don’t miss my many posts about Switzerland on this website. As a former resident you can find lots of great insider information, tips and advice to help you make the most of your Swiss travel adventure.

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• The 10 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland In 2024

The cities in Switzerland are known for their scenic beauty, from the Alps in the south to the Jura Mountains in the north to the bustling centre of Geneva to the quiet locales of Bern. The country is also famous for its high-quality products like chocolate, watches, and cheese. In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Switzerland is also a scenic winter holiday destination that is much recommended for a visit. No matter where you are in the country or learning about a different city every week, here’s an expert-curated guide to help you explore the best places to wander through during your next visit.

Top 10 Cities In Switzerland

From Interlaken to Geneva, we have rounded up the best cities in Switzerland that have long attracted travellers from all over the world. Read on to learn more.

1. Interlaken

Image Source: Shutterstock

Hailed as one of the best cities in Switzerland that you can explore. This serene metropolis is a postcard destination. ‘Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau’ are the world-famous mountains that form the Interlaken touristic centre. One of the top cities in Switzerland, the Interlaken region is a world-renowned adventure sports destination, and here you will find a variety of activities. The journey through the tunnels is a journey through history as well as nature. The two tunnels, which allow you to see the Eiger north wall and the surrounding Alps glacier world, are particularly stunning.

Must Read: Villages In Switzerland

The bustling city is located close to the Alps, and therefore it is often referred to as ‘the Portal to the Alps.’ Zurich is renowned for its cleanliness and efficiency, in addition to its popularity as a tourist destination. Zurich has gained notoriety in the last decade for its cosmopolitan culture, nightlife, and cuisine along with some of the best restaurants in the world. This place is one of the best cities in Switzerland to visit in summer. The financial centre of Switzerland, Zurich is home to all of Switzerland’s major companies and media organisations and the country’s financial centre. It is also renowned for its Swiss chocolates—something that you can learn about during your time in the city.

Geneva is the capital of Switzerland’s Geneva Canton in the southwestern part of Switzerland. It comes under one of the best cities in Switzerland. The city is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), the province’s largest body of water, and is bordered by the Jura Mountains to the west and the French Alps to the east. Geneva has a stunning view of Mont Blanc, which is about an hour away by car, from its downtown. The city is only two hours away by plane from most European places and is a hub for commerce.

Suggested Read: Switzerland Mountains

4. Lausanne

Image Source: Shutterstock Lausanne is situated on the northeasterly shore of picturesque Lake Geneva, the largest on the western European continent, it is the capital of Vaud and Switzerland’s fourth largest city. The city has a lengthy and extraordinary history, beginning when the Romans settled and camped nearby Vidy, turning it into an active and attractive tourist destination and home to a variety of significant institutions, including the International Olympic Committee and the Federal Tribunal. Lausanne, in addition to its picturesque old town with its narrow alleys, boutiques, and cafe life, has several significant institutions including the Olympic Museum, with its fascinating museum, the Olympic centre with its fascinating museum, and the Ouchy area with its lively cafes and renowned gourmet restaurants.

Switzerland’s often-overlooked capital has a wealth of modern and historic landmarks, from its medieval Old Town to urban swimming in the Aare River, from its capital’s wealth of attractions to its government buildings and Parliament. The city is also the location of Switzerland’s government and houses of parliament. The centre of Switzerland’s intellectual life, Bern is a relaxing place to unwind and have a leisurely holiday. It is a destination for avid thinkers, especially Albert Einstein. Its cafés and pretty neighbourhoods are ideal for kicking back and grasping modern masters. It is also considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.

Suggested Read: Festivals In Switzerland

6. St. Gallen

With just under 75,000 inhabitants, St. Gallen is ranked eighth in Switzerland, when it comes to population size. It is one of the biggest cities in Switzerland. Home to a lot of things to see and do culturally, as well as making a name for itself in the textile business. Abbey Library and Olma Bratwurst are just two of the delicious treats this city has to offer. St. Gallen is positioned perfectly between Lake Constance and the Alpstein mountains, making it an ideal spot for day trips. There are many things to see and do in this city, and it’s well worth a visit.

7. Winterthur

Winterthur is a bit offbeat and often overlooked by travellers when visiting Zurich. Winterthur is a magnificent natural environment, art, and historical site all in one place. Even so, it takes at least one or two days to explore it properly. It’s the sixth-largest city in Switzerland. Winterthur has a medieval old world feel with a busy, bustling city centre. It has a high-tech industrial satellite town in Zurich canton.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Switzerland In Winter

8. Montreux

Switzerland’s most visited tourist destination is Montreux. It boasts a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is renowned for its pleasant weather, gorgeous surroundings, and exciting cultural events. This place offers an array of opportunities to sports and activities which makes this place a heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. The best months to visit this picturesque place are between May to September.

9. St. Moritz

Switzerland’s St. Moritz is a fantastic place to visit. Situated in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz, is home to magnificent ski resorts, glistening lakes, and gorgeous scenery. This spectacular city is a perfect getaway for skiing enthusiasts. The weather here is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. With a stunning view in the background, this place can be your most favourite city in Switzerland. Though this place can be visited anytime of the year, the month between June to September offers the most pleasant weather. If you wish to visit the city in the winter, make sure to visit in between December and March.

Suggested Read: Resorts In Switzerland

10. Zermatt

Situated in the Canton of Valais, the popular mountain city Zermatt offers the most scenic landscapes in Switzerland. It is located at the base of one of the tallest peaks in the Alps, the Matterhorn. This place offers a range of opportunities for outdoor sports, such as skiing and mountain climbing and many more.  Furthermore, hiking enthusiasts can take a walk to the Five Lake Trail. Tourists from all over the world come to admire the beauty of this stunning city. The best time to visit this place will be the months between June to September.

Further Read: Water Sports In Switzerland

The awe-inspiring beauty of Switzerland can often be seen reflected in the many cities that are sprawled across this place. Visiting one or more of these destinations can help you learn about the culture, destination and history of this iconic country. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Switzerland   and have an enjoyable experience in the nature. 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Cities in Switzerland

What is the best time to visit Switzerland?

The months of the spring season, are the best. Most of the snow has cleared by now and one can easily go hiking on the most gorgeous hiking trails in Switzerland. During these months one can get cheaper hotels and tickets as the tourist's footfall is less.

Which city is recommended for visiting Switzerland?

While the above-mentioned cities are all worthy of a trip, if you are visiting Switzerland for the first time you can start your journey from the capital city of Bern.

What is the distance between Bern and Interlaken?

The distance between Bern and Interlaken is approximately 56 kilometres which you can cover by Swiss Railways in less than an hour.

What are the major towns in Switzerland?

Here are some of the major towns in Switzerland: Zurich, Geneva, Bern, Interlaken etc.

Which month is best to visit Switzerland?

Though Switzerland is beautiful throughout the year, the best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October.

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland, made famous thanks to the fictional character of Heidi, cuckoo clocks, and alpine scenery, is often described as one of the most beautiful places on earth. So beautiful in fact, that you may think that you have stumbled into a picture postcard filled with gorgeous deep blue lakes, romantic snow capped mountains, and lush verdant forests.

All of this exists of course but, not to be outdone, Switzerland’s cities are now leading also that way in terms of art, culture, and cuisine, and while they may still be nestled in between stunning natural wonders, they show a vibrancy and diversity that is not to be missed.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Switzerland :

Zurich lies on the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich as well as at the base of the Alps, ensuring that wherever you look, you are sure to find beautiful vistas and stunning scenery.

Popular activities in Zurich include boating on the lake, or simply strolling along its pristine edges, or you can go for a light hike at Utliberg Mountain.

Not just a one hit wonder, Zurich is also a city of culture and there are a plethora of museums to visit such as the Swiss National Museum housed within an alpine style castle. If you are an art lover then this city doesn’t disappoint with over 100 galleries to choose from, or if you prefer shopping then you can make for one or several of the high end boutiques that Zurich is known for and indulge in some retail therapy of famous Swiss brands.

2. Lausanne

Part of the Lake Geneva Region, the town of Lausanne is perhaps most famous for being the base of the International Olympic Committee, who certainly can’t resist its charms, having been housed there since 1914.

The old part of the medieval town features a towering Gothic cathedral that is said to be the finest example of its kind in all of Switzerland, and Lausanne also has a quaint city centre for visitors to explore on foot, and as such a vibrant cafe culture where you can relax and watch the world go by.

The surrounding area of Lausanne is also simply breathtaking, from Lake Geneva that rests at the base of the town, to the vineyards that grow rampant and provide excellent and ever-flowing wines if you fancy trying some of the local tipple.

Perhaps most famous for being the home of the United Nations, there is also much more to Geneva than just its humanitarian heart, and although it may be dubbed the ‘Capital of Peace’ by many, the city also has a diverse and exciting undercurrent for visitors to uncover.

For those who want to stroll around the city at their leisure, there are chic boutiques, galleries, winding streets, and quaint quays. Also not to be missed on a trip to Geneva is the iconic fountain that erupts from Lake Geneva and launches jets of water up to 500 feet in the air.

If you are a culture fiend, then Geneva is home to theatres and opera houses, as well as museums including one dedicated entirely to Switzerland’s famous timepieces.

4. Interlaken

Interlaken , in the Bernese Oberland Region, used to be famous as the centre for watch making in Switzerland, although nowadays it is best known as a nature resort, or a kind of theme park that takes place in the natural world.

If you like all things related to the great outdoors then Interlaken won’t disappoint with idyllic mountain railways, cable cars, ski slopes, and hiking trails for those who want to visit in the warmer summer time.

If you don’t fancy skiing or hiking, then there are lots of other activities to choose from like paragliding or even wood carving classes available. If you are feeling hungry after a day of exploring outside, then you can try the local delicacy of raclette, which features lots of melted cheese.

5. Appenzell

Come to Appenzell in the Alpstein Region, if you want to learn all about the culture and folk traditions of Switzerland.

Positively steeped in local flavor, Appenzell still follows and showcases centuries old traditions such as the annual descent of the cattle in anticipation of the winter months, as well as cultural practices like folk dancing and traditional music, or there is also the Appenzell Museum for those who want to delve into the history of the region even further.

Many visitors also come here to hike or climb in the area, and there are rock formations that tower over 2500 meters high.

Located close to the magnificent Matterhorn, Zermatt has made a name for itself as the place to go if you enjoy skiing and mountaineering in the winter, or if you just want to go for a hike in the summer months.

Whatever time of year you visit, there is a cable car to allow you access to the summit of the neighboring mountains, and you can also travel around the area by scenic mountain trains, 63 of them in fact, that service the area. Skiers in the region can enjoy over 200 miles of slopes that cater to all levels of ability, or if you prefer to walk then there are over 400 kilometers of hiking and nature trails to follow.

Zermatt is also famously unpolluted as gasoline run vehicles are not allowed in the town and only cars that run on battery power can access the area. This means that you will get clean air, stunning views, and a range of outdoor activities in what is said to be one of the prettiest towns in the world.

Bern is often said to look much like it must have done 500 years, all sandstone buildings and cobbled stone streets, although the city actually dates back to the 12th century and still has medieval architecture in places to prove it.

The city lies in a peninsula of the River Aare and the old town section has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the waterside promenade that stretches for over four miles.

Also of note in Bern is the Zytglogge, a clock tower that features puppets that dance around to the chimes of the clock, as well as the city’s main Gothic style cathedral named the Munster.

Nestled on the banks of Lake Lucerne, with the imposing Alps in the background, Lucerne is almost so pretty that it looks like a painting.

If you want to get out on the water then you can float around Lake Lucerne on a cruise ship, or you can choose to browse the streets of the old town, now car free, where you will find wooden bridges, dainty town squares, and ornate frescoes. That isn’t to say that Lucerne is stuck in the past however, and you can also catch some of the up and coming cultural events that are being promoted and which make use of the Culture and Convention Centre, a building that is leading the way in modern architecture in the city.

If you like to try the local foods, then you can’t miss Luzerner Chügelipastete, a shell made of puff pastry filled with veal, mushrooms, and cream sauce.

9. The Matterhorn

Marking out the basic border between Switzerland and Italy, the Matterhorn is one of a series of mountains that makes up the Alps. It’s also one of the most photographed mountains in the world, perhaps due to its almost perfect pyramid shape, sometimes said to resemble a jagged fang.

The Matterhorn used to only be accessible to harden climbers, but now there are cable cars and trains that will take you near to the summit. If you do indeed decide to trek on the Matterhorn, then expect the trip to take 10 days, walking along trails that have been in use for centuries, and passing by natural wonders such as meadows, forests, and glaciers.

10. The Rhine Falls

If you venture to the town of Schaffhausen, it may well be in preparation for a trip to the Rhine Falls which are located nearby. Standing tall at 23 meters high, these are the largest plain falls in all of Europe, and you can take a boat trip up the Rhine to near the base of the falls to see them in all their glory.

If you fancy getting even closer to the action then you can observe the falls from one of the special viewing platforms that are accessible via stairs built into the mountainside.

Visitors can also follow guided tours around the immediate area that culminate in a trip to the Rhine Falls, and there are picnic spots and local restaurants dotted around if you fancy trying some local food as you watch the clouds of billowing spray.

11. Engadin, St Moritz

Said to be one of the most clement areas of Switzerland, many visitors come to this region to experience fresh air, stunning lakeside views, and small homey villages that are scattered all over the countryside.

If you want to get to know a little more about local rural life in Switzerland then this is the place to come, or you can take in the scenery during a hike in the surrounding mountains. Interestingly, this region of Switzerland is a melting pot of languages with some areas speaking German, French, or even English.

Close to Italy, Ticino has a strong Mediterranean feel, and this is reflected in the fact that it is the only part of Switzerland to speak Italian. Even the flora, fauna, and architecture appear different when you get to Ticino, with warm sun kissed color palettes and even some palm trees.

The capital of this area, known as a canton, is the city of Bellinzona, and period features of the old part of this town are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including three castles and the remains of the old fortification wall.

Ticino is also famous for the food and drink, with a great love of pasta being another sign that you are close to the border with Italy, as well as an abundance of locally produced wines.

The city of Basel is located between France and Germany, as well as being neatly bisected by the River Rhine, and this geographical mix is reflected in the atmosphere of the city, also the third largest in Switzerland.

There is a diversity felt here in the different cultures, architecture, and influences seen in the city, which is well known for its cultural pursuits such as an abundance of art galleries, museums, orchestras, theatres, and the world famous Basel Art Museum. No wonder therefore that Basel is often also called the ‘City of Art’.

Aside from the attractions and exhibitions on display, the architecture in Basel is art in itself, as many of the buildings are sculpted from red sandstone, particularly around the town square.

Lugano is an Italian speaking section of Switzerland, and is said to be increasingly popular with the glitterati thanks to its calm and serene atmosphere and all round air of sophistication.

The city is said to date all the way back to the 9th century, and as such you can expect to see a whole host of relics from bygone eras, such as churches, cathedrals, museums, and libraries.

Lugano is nestled close to the shores of Lake Lugano, and you can tour the lake on a speedboat if you want the full celebrity effect of a trip to the ‘Monte Carlo of Switzerland’ as it is sometimes teasingly known.

15. Jungfrau Region

Whether you choose to visit during the summer or winter months, you won’t be disappointed with a trip to the Jungfrau Region which has something for visitors to enjoy all year round.

In the summer there are miles of hiking trails so that you can check out the local plant and wildlife, or you can go climbing if you prefer something more strenuous. In the winter skiing is a popular pastime in the region, and there are also biking trails for when the terrain allows for you to take to a set of wheels.

The Jungfrau Region is made up of four Alpine towns and three mountains, and there is a mountain railway to take you across the region in style.

15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland:

• The Matterhorn
• The Rhine Falls
• Engadin, St Moritz
• Jungfrau Region

15 Beautiful Cities in Switzerland That We Loved

Written By: The Planet D

Switzerland

Updated On: February 8, 2024

We have traveled to Switzerland four times and have visited all of the best cities in Switzerland . Some on multiple occasions.

Switzerland is known for its breathtaking landscapes in the Swiss Alps, its world-class ski resorts, and impeccable spas, but it is also home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world. In this article, we will explore the 16 best cities in Switzerland that are a must-visit for any traveler.

Table of Contents

15 Most Beautiful Cities in Switzerland To Visit

From its medieval cities of Lucerne and Gruyeres to the boutique shops of Zürich , Switzerland’s cities are something to remember. We made our first visit to Switzerland in 1999 when we went snowboarding in the small town of Gstaad. We have been back to Switzerland another three times and have spent a total of three months in the country, so we know a thing or two about Swiss cities. These are our favorite cities in Switzerland and we are going to share the top attractions and reasons to visit. If you are planning your next trip to Switzerland keep reading!

1. Zürich, the Cultural Hub

Zürich is the largest city in the country and is the most beautiful city in Switzerland. Located on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, Zurich is beautiful as the steeples from its old town churches line the waterfront.

As the financial capital of Switzerland, Zürich has its share of upscale attractions including one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world but it is its old town center that we fell in love with. Key attractions include the iconic cathedrals,, Lindt Home Chocolate, and the hip Zürich West neighborhood.

Take a stroll along the cobbled streets of its charming old town and marvel at the stunning sunset over the spires of the city’s cathedrals. We suggest at least three days in Zurich to enjoy its many interesting museums most notably the Swiss National Museum, get lost in its narrow cobblestone streets of Altstadt and explore its many Swiss heritage sites.

The affluent city is also a university town making for great places to eath Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich, hike into the mountains, and enjoy its fine cuisine.

• Read More:  Amazing Zurich – Discover the Best of Switzerland’s Largest City
• The Perfect 3 Days in Zurich, Switzerland

2. Basel, the Cultural Haven

Basel is a cultural haven with an array of museums, art galleries, and the beautiful Rhine River. Basel is a wonderful city located directly on the Rhine River.

Sharing a border with France and Germany, it is an ideal location to make a base and explore the countryside. Known as the cultural capital of Switzerland, Basel boasts some of the country’s most unique and beautiful architecture.

Its modern structures blend seamlessly with the Altstadt (Old Town) spanning across the Rhine as Basel Minster, the largest cathedral in Basel, stands like a sentry looking over from Grossbasel (Left Side of the River Bank) toward Klein Basel (Right Side of the River Bank)

• Read more:  20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland
• 24 Fantastic Things to do in Basel, Switzerland
• For more information on travel to Basel, visit the  Basel Tourism website.

3. Lugano, the Mediterranean Escape

Located in the Italian border in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, Lugano offers a stunning lakeside setting and a Mediterranean flair.

The town of Lugano is the star attraction of Ticino Canton with mountains framing its long beach and waterfront path along pristine glacial Lake Lugano. Known as the “Little Rio of Switzerland”, Lugano is the perfect place to slow down and take in the sunshine. (It really did remind us of  Rio de Janeiro )

Take a boat tour on Lake Lugano or rent one of its paddle boats to enjoy the breathtaking views of the waterfront. It rivals nearby Lake Como in Italy for beauty and luxury and it makes complete sense since it shares its border with Italy.  Read more:  Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland

4. Locarno, the Festival City

Locarno, with its historic old town, vibrant film festival, and stunning Lake Maggiore views, is a cultural hotspot. Located on Lake Maggiore, Locarno is another lovely waterfront town with painted buildings lining the harbour. Get lost in its cobblestone streets or sip an espresso in Switzerland’s largest Piazza – Piazza Grande.

Locarno is famous for hosting festivals in its square and while we were visiting, they were setting up for the Locarno Film Festival, one of the most highly anticipated film events in Europe. While in Locarno, take the funicular up to the 14th-century church, Santa Maria della Misericordia.

5. Belinzona, Ticino’s Capital

The region of Ticino has many beautiful towns to explore. Belinzona is the capital of Ticino but it is one of the smaller towns on this list. This beautiful city it is one of the most popular stops in the country thanks to its three castles – The Bellinzona Castles.

Castle Grande is located near the main square and stands proud over the town. If you have a bit of time, you can hike to all the castles. They are connected by trails that weave through vineyards and rolling hills. The return trip by walking is only a couple of hours.

fI you are up for more hiking, a great pit stop is to make your way out to Piotta to take the cable car up to Piora.  The Ritom Funicular  is a steep incline railway that was built in 1921.

6. St Moritz, The Birthplace of Winter Tourism

St. Moritz is the original winter tourist destination and with good reason, there are plenty of winter sports to enjoy. This beautiful Switzerland destination has been welcoming tourists to its slopes since the 1800s.

The quintessential Swiss Town is home to two Winter Olympics, St. Moritz is an all-season mountain destination with spectacular hikes, world-class hotels and dining, and more than 250 km of ski trails and 580 km of hiking trails, it is an outdoor lover’s dream.

Winter sports lovers flock to St. Moritz as it truly is a winter wonderland, but it is an amazing place in Switzerland to visit in the summer too. The city hosts many world cup events and the annual White Turf Winter Horse race. Hiking here in the summer offers some of the most stunning views in the country.

Read our full article on  What to do in St. Moritz.  

7. Interlaken, the Adventure Capital

Interlaken is a haven for adventure seekers, with a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding. One of the larger cities in the Jungfrau region, Interlaken is one of the top places to visit in Switzerland making for a great base to explore the Jungfrau Region of the Bernese Oberland. This beautiful lake destination has a gorgeous lookout.

Take the cogwheel train up to the spectacular Harder Kulm, 1322 meters above sea level. for stunning views. This view lets you see, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and the striking peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. While you are at the top, you can enjoy a cheese fondue.

• Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4-Day Itinerary

8. Zermatt, the Mountainous Retreat

Zermatt is a gateway to the spectacular Matterhorn mountain, offering a picturesque setting for exploration. The Matterhorn is one of Switzerland’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the most photographed mountains on earth.

In fact, the town of Zermatt was created to promote this spectacular landmark making it the first tourist destination in the country. Over the years, it has become one of the top tourist attractions in Switzerland.

Zermatt may be a small town, but it is the most popular and beautiful place in Switzerland. This car-free town is beautifully located in a valley at the base of the Matterhorn and there are countless attractions from riding the world’s highest cable car to enjoying its hiking trails, mountain biking, and taking in its natural beauty.

Read more: 23 Incredible Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland

9. Montreux, the Musical City

Montreux is famous for the Montreux music festival and is one of our favorite places to visit in Switzerland. It didnt’ hurt that we stayed in the legendary Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic was like staying in a palace. Overlooking Lake Geneva, we really got a feel of what it was like for the many rock stars and celebrities that chose this town for their own inspiration..

We loved walking along the waterfront of this beautiful city set among the backdrop of the rolling hills of the Alps and Lake Geneva. One of the top historical places to visit in Switzerland is the picturesque Chateau de Chillon. Dating back to the 12th century, the historic castle stands like a fairytale on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The top things to see at Chateau de Chillon are the Gothic underground rooms, its paintings dating back to the 17th century, and its chapel. But it is truly its setting that took our breath away.  Read more:  Montreux and its Musical Legacy

10. Geneva, the Cosmopolitan City

No trip to Switzerland would be complete without visiting Geneva. Switzerland’s second largest city is located on Lake Geneva. Geneva is also home to the headquarters of the United Nations. There are plenty of cultural attractions in Geneva including the Grand Theatre and the Opera House. Read more: Best Things to do in Geneva

Geneva stands out with its Red Cross headquarters, the insightful International Museum of the Reformation, and the magnificent Jet d’Eau fountain.

Geneva may be one of the larger cities in the country, but it is often touted as one of the safest cities in the world with a very low crime rate.

11. Lucerne, the Picturesque City

Lucerne captivates with its iconic Chapel Bridge, poignant Lion Monument, and breathtaking mountain vistas. ike many cities in Switzerland, Lucerne has a gorgeous old town on a picturesque body of water. Lake Lucerne is the focal point of visiting the city with the gorgeous Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) spanning the River Reuss.

Lucerne’s most popular landmark dates back to the 14th century is the oldest covered bridge in Europe. Filled with medieval buildings lining Lake Lucerne, this beautiful city is one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland.

With the Swiss Alps nearby, we ventured off the spa taking the Rigi Bahn cogwheel train for a ride on Europe’s first railway. It’s a wonderful place to spend a few days.

12. Bern, the Historic Capital City

Bern, the capital city, is steeped in history and culture, boasting the Old Town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the famous Zytglogge clock tower. Don’t miss stopping to see the landmark medieval clocktower tower in Bern, The Zytglogge. It is one of the top attractions in the city.

We only spent a day in this beautiful Swiss capital but I wish we spent more. Bern’s medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting the world’s longest-covered shopping promenades with 6 km (3.7 miles) of arcades. It is the gateway to the Alps, houses the highest cathedral in Switzerland, and is the seat of parliament. The Old Town snakes alongside the Aare River creating a picture-perfect setting.

13. Lausanne, the Vibrant City

Lausanne situated on the shores of Lake Geneva on the Swiss Plateau, is one of the best cities in Switzerland to visit due to its beautiful scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. Lausanne’s Gothic cathedral is a stand out but there are many other interesting museums and popular attractions you must visit.

The city is home to the impressive Lausanne Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Switzerland, and the Olympic Museum, which celebrates the history of the Olympic Games.

This university town is renowned for its university, which is one of the best in the world and contributes to the city’s lively and youthful atmosphere. Additionally, the city’s location on the shores of the lake provides ample opportunities for water sports and lakeside walks, and the nearby vineyards of Lavaux offer some of the finest wines in Switzerland.

Don’t miss the Olympic Museum. This town is so Olympic-centric, that The International Olympic Committee is headquartered in Lausanne. With its diverse range of attractions and beautiful setting, Lausanne is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Switzerland.

14. Chur, the Ancient City

As the oldest city in Switzerland, Chur offers visitors a unique blend of ancient charm and modern allure, making it a captivating destination. Situated in the picturesque Graubünden canton, Chur is surrounded by majestic alpine landscapes. making it an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts keen on hiking, skiing, or simply absorbing the scenic beauty.

Between its surrounding mountains and old city, a trip here provides a rich historical and scenic experience.

The city itself boasts a well-preserved Old Town, with its winding narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and the iconic Chur Cathedral. A stroll in this car-free area feels like a journey back in time, as many structures date back hundreds of years.

Furthermore, Chur’s vibrant cultural scene, characterized by art galleries, museums, and frequent festivals, beautifully complements its historical allure. Accessible by the renowned Bernina Express train, which offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, Chur is an unmissable gem in the heart of Switzerland.

15. St. Gallen, the Abbey City

St. Gallen, nestled between Lake Constance and the Appenzell Alps near the German border, is one of Switzerland’s hidden gems and a must-visit destination. At the heart of the city is the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts an exquisite baroque cathedral and a library containing a vast collection of medieval manuscripts.

The old town is a car-free village that is lined with beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, and the colorful oriel windows add to the city’s picturesque atmosphere. St. Gallen is also a paradise for art lovers, with numerous museums and galleries showcasing both local and international artists.

Moreover, the city’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region, with easy access to the beautiful Appenzell countryside and the shores of Lake Constance. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, St. Gallen is truly one of the best cities to visit in Switzerland.

FAQs About The Best Cities in Switzerland

Which City of Switzerland is Beautiful?

The most beautiful city in Switzerland is Zürich and is listed on our list as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Check it out here . Zurich offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Nestled on the banks of the pristine Lake Zurich and set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Swiss Alps, the city offers stunning panoramic views.

Its iconic cathedrals Grossmünster and Fraumünster stand proud on the Limmat River and the picturesque old town, with its winding cobblestone streets and historic buildings, adds to the city’s charm.

What are five major cities in Switzerland?

Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, and Lausanne are the five major cities in Switzerland.

What is the number one city in Switzerland?

The number one city in Switzerland is Zurich. Not only is it the most beautiful city in Switzerland, but it is also the best because it has a diverse range of attractions, from the famous Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, to the tranquil shores of Lake Zurich, the city offers a unique blend of natural and urban beauty that makes it a must-visit destination in Switzerland.

Is Zürich or Geneva better to visit?

Zurich and Geneva are both beautiful cities with much to offer, but there are several reasons why some people might prefer Zurich as a travel destination.

Larger City with More Options : Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and has a wider range of cultural and recreational activities to choose from. There are numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and shopping districts to explore.

Rich History and Architecture : Zurich has a well-preserved medieval old town, with charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, with their impressive architecture and stained glass windows, are must-see attractions.

Natural Beauty : Zurich is situated on the shores of the picturesque Lake Zurich and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and swimming.

Vibrant Nightlife : Zurich has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

Accessibility : Zurich is a major transportation hub, with a large international airport and well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city and explore the surrounding region.

Read our posts the best things to do in Zurich and the best things to do in Geneva to compare for yourself.

While Geneva also has its own unique charms, such as the iconic Jet d’Eau and its status as an international city with numerous international organizations, some people may find Zurich to be a more vibrant and diverse destination with more options for things to see and do.

Why We Love All These Switzerland Cities

And these are the best towns and cities in Switzerland. Switzerland is a year round destination drawing visitors to enjoy its crystal clear waters and mountain views in the warmer months to its snow sports and luxury accommodations and spas in the winter months. Its one of the best countries in Europe offering everything from romantic escapes to epic adventures. Its urban centers are never far from the great outdoors and often surrounded by mountains and amazing views. So what are you waiting for, make one of these towns a base for your next Switzerland trip.

Plan More of Your Swiss Travels

• Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip
• 22 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland
• The 14 Best Hikes in Switzerland
• The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary
• 24 Incredible and Fun Facts About Switzerland
• 15 Swiss Foods to try in Switzerland or at Home

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• 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Switzerland

Though it is a small, landlocked country , Switzerland boasts some of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is well known for its natural beauty, and the picturesque collections of buildings and historic centers add to the appeal. From mountain resorts to gorgeous villages nestled amongst lakes and rivers, there are so many enticing destinations in Switzerland.

While there are many scenic towns worth the visit, these cities each offer something unique and exciting, definitely earning them a spot on top of your bucket list. Learn about the views, museums, and adventures awaiting you in these Swiss cities, so you can decide where you will visit next.

Situated in the mountainous Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland , Interlaken rests between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz . It offers views of three mountains, Eiger , Mönch, and Jungfrau. The beauty of the area makes it a great spot for wellness trips, as well as the different spas for a comforting, relaxing retreat.

The city of Interlaken is the perfect starting point for numerous excursions in Switzerland. There is plenty of access to cable cars, lifts, and ships that will take you across the land, into the Swiss Alps , and throughout the different lakes. It is also a popular skiing and tobogganing region, ideal for family vacations. In summer, enjoy cruises, paragliding trips, and hikes along the many available routes.

Geneva sits at the southern tip of Lake Geneva, surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains with views of Mont Blanc . It is also home to the headquarters for Europe’s United Nations and the Red Cross . There are things to do in every season, with options ranging from strolls through the city to vineyard tours and paragliding. 

The treasures of the Old Town include scenic cathedrals, terraces, and streets that earn a spot on your list of things to see. Climb the towers of St. Peter's Cathedral and take in the views of the cityscape and Lake Geneva, but do not forget to enjoy the beautiful settings inside the cathedral itself.

At the foot of the alps and situated near Lake Geneva, Montreux offers beautiful views of the sloping hillside and flowing lakes. The enchanting town is full to the brim with flowers, sculptures, and grand Belle Époque buildings. You will find the Château de Chillon, a medieval island castle, nearby, beautifully decorated with 14th-century murals.

Visit in July and attend the Montreux Jazz Festival , perusing through the mountains, vineyards, and lakes in the summer. The microclimate provides a comfortable climate that is ideal for tranquil days spent walking through meadows, visiting restaurants, and hiking along trails. In winter, visit the Alpine resorts and ski, snowshoe, and revel in the fairytale-like snowy weather.

Zürich sits at the north end of Lake Zürich in northern Switzerland. It boasts views of central Old Town, which shares a glimpse into the city's pre-medieval history. The twin towers of the Grossmünster are the city's most prominent landmark, which you can climb and revel in scenic views of the area. A 10-minute train ride to the lookout of the Uetliberg, Zürich's own mountain, is the perfect way to take in the beauty of the city, lake, and Alps.

Enjoy guided day trips from Zürich to the Alps or get a city pass and receive access to excursions such as the Old Town walking tour, lake cruise, and numerous city tours. If you are a chocolate fan, do not forget to pay a visit to the world's largest Lindt shop and café.

Lucerne lies among the snow-capped mountains and Lake Lucerne. The medieval Chapel Bridge, one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe, sits at the city's center. You can also visit the nearby mountains of Rigi, Pilatus, and Stanserhorn . Also, the Museggmauer, a medieval wall that is well-preserved, borders the colorful Old Town.

If you are a lover of outdoor adventures, visit the Glacier Garden to see the glacial potholes formed during the last ice age, or take a trip to the top of 6,982-foot Mount Pilatus. The Swiss Museum of Transport is another interesting spot, boasting a unique collection of impressive vehicles. The Lion Monument is another marvel, as a carving of a lion in a sandstone quarry documents the Swiss Guard, massacred while trying to protect Louis XVI in 1792 during the French Revolution .

Fribourg is the capital of the region of Fribourg in Switzerland. The medieval city sits above the Sarine River and the St. Nicholas Cathedral is one of the best places to stop, featuring stained glass artwork and scenic views from its 249-foot-high bell tower. The Old Town is especially unique, boasting views of over 200 Gothic facades from the 15th century.

The city is also home to 11 historic fountains , which each come with their own stories and secrets that you can learn in a guided tour. In winter, take a walking tour to learn all about the history of the city, or take a leisurely stroll across the many bridges, marveling at the flowing rivers. Boutiques, cafes, and restaurants line the narrow streets of the cities, alongside modern art displays and galleries.

Grindelwald

Situated in Switzerland's Bernese Alps , Grindelwald is most popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Surrounded by a captivating mountainscape, the city offers many lookout points and fun activities. You will also find Gletscherschlucht, a glacial gorge, just outside the city, along with gorgeous views and rushing waterfalls. 

If you want to combine the joy of skiing with the marvels of Switzerland, visit the Jungfrau region ski arena, which reaches an altitude of 9,748 feet. There are also many winter walking trails and tobogganing areas, along with numerous other winter sports. In summer, enjoy over 186 miles of walking trails, along with views of the mountains of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Revered for its attractive combination of art, nature, and history, Winterthur is a medieval city chock full of life, shops, markets, and festivals year-round. The pedestrian zone in the charming Old Town, Switzerland's largest, is a most popular attraction, and there are a whopping 17 museums to also pique your interest.

Depending on when you visit, you might be in time for the International Short Film Festival or the Winterthurer Musikfestwochen festival, though there are always different events and exhibitions going on. If you are interested in traversing through the beautiful outdoors, check out one of the many beautifully cared-for gardens and parks, or join the city tour "Villas and Gardens."

A Swiss Alpine resort village, Wengen is a car-free city perched below the Bernese Alps in the Lauterbrunnen Valley . Take the railway up the mountain from Lauterbrunnen to reach the serene resort and indulge in family-friendly skiing around the Männlichen and the Kleine Scheidegg. The timber houses and hotels from the belle époque period add to the city's charm and character.

While skiing is most popular in this area, there are also toboggan runs and hiking trails to enjoy in the sun. In summer, there are over 310 miles of walking trails, many of which boast panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Paragliding, canyoning, and river rafting are other popular activities.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sits around a crook in the Aare River . The city is home to some of Switzerland's most famous activities, including skiing, pots of scrumptious fondue, and gorgeous artwork and architecture. Bern's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , boasting everything from sandstone sculptures to architecture that dates back to the 12th century.

You will find many attractions in the city, including the Albert Einstein House , the Swiss Alpine Museum, and the Houses of Parliament. Enjoy the beauty of the area by taking a swim or cruise in the Aare River, and check out the Botanical Gardens in the area. There are many free activities, including the Bern Minster, which is home to the country's highest church steeple.

Venture to Switzerland

In the heart of Central Europe, Switzerland offers a glimpse into some of the most beautiful places, picturesque landscapes, and rich histories. The old city walls, majestic lakes and rivers, and enchanting mountainscapes promise a trip jam-packed with excitement. Each city is well-loved for its attractive views and delicious food so be sure to bring your camera and an appetite! From medieval Lucerne to the historic capital of Switzerland, there are countless cities to visit!

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Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Switzerland

Nothing compares to the beautiful European country of Switzerland with its Alpine views, snowcapped mountains built for skiing, ice-blue lakes, and breathtaking valleys. A vacation to Switzerland is an adventure-lovers dream.

Tourists usually start their Switzerland holidays in big cities like Zurich or Geneva and then make their way out to iconic places such as Interlaken, St Moritz, and the Alps. Wherever you go, you’re in for a trip of a lifetime.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of five vacation ideas everyone should check out when they visit Switzerland.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Switzerland?

Choosing when the best time for you to travel to Switzerland really depends on what type of holiday you’re going for. Are you looking to enjoy some outdoor activities, or would you prefer just a quiet city break?

June until September is the summer high season. This is when the weather is at the warmest temperatures, ranging from 16 to 23°C, more and more festivals are being held, and Europeans are all on their summer holidays, so the crowds are bigger even on the trails up in the mountains.

The winter months run from November through Christmas right up until March. This is prime time for snow sports, so it does get busy, but it’s pretty cold, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 7 °C. That’s music to skier’s and snowboarder’s ears.

Finally, you have the shoulder seasons from April to June and September to October. These are less busier times to visit and far cheaper too, which is ideal because Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world.

Five Cool Places To Go In Switzerland

Zurich – One Of Switzerland’s Top Destinations For Families And Couples

Stunning Zurich is the world’s financial center and sits directly at the end of the charming lake Zurich in the northern part of the country. Stroll through the alluring old town a handful of times, grab a beer along the banks of the river Limmat or admire some contemporary art at the Helmhaus Gallery.

Zurich – What To Do There

Take a train up to Uetliberg – Southwest of Zurich is the breathtaking Uetilberg, a huge summit in the Albis ridge. You can take a train ride from Zurich city center that will leave you about a ten-minute walk from the peak of the mountain. When you reach the top, you’ll be treated to an outstanding view of the city center.

Check out the Fifa Museum – Every fan of sport knows what Fifa is. Gain insight into one of the world’s most famous sporting global brands and the story behind its success by taking a tour of its museum in Zurich. It’s a 13-meter-long interactive display that focuses mainly on the World Cup and how it has evolved over the years. You’ll even get the chance to see a trophy replica.

Hop on a Lake Zurich boat ride – Taking a cruise up Lake Zurich is one thing you must do. Catch a glimpse of the city’s promenades and the Glarus Alps from a different perspective. Either book a tour online beforehand, or you can approach one of the boat companies on the day to see if they have any availability. This is the perfect activity for honeymoons.

Must Try Food And Drink In Zurich

Cheese Fondue – Cheese fondue is a classic Swiss dish that dates all the way back to 1699. The recipe was first discovered in an old cookbook and has since evolved into a world phenomenon. It’s simply a pot of a couple of melted cheeses mixed in with additional ingredients like herbs, tomatoes, and mushrooms. A loaf of bread is usually served on the side for dipping when ordered in a restaurant.

Vivi Kola – Are you addicted to coca cola but would love an alternative that’s slightly better for your insides? Try Viva Kola. It’s made with 100% natural ingredients and is the perfect refreshment on a warm summer’s day in Zurich.

Tips For Visiting Zurich

• If you plan on spending a few days in Zurich, consider buying the Zurich Pass. It gives you unlimited travel on all forms of public transportation in the city for between 24 and 72 hours, depending on how long you buy it for.
• Lunch is the cheapest time to go out and eat. Many restaurants and bistros will offer great deals for a bite to eat that you should take advantage of when you can.
• Switzerland isn’t in the EU, and they don’t use the euro as currency; they only use the Swiss Franc, so stock up on some before you arrive.

I plan on visiting Zurich and want to see cheap flight deals.

• Discover the heart of Switzerland: flights to Zurich from Vienna.
• Fly to Zurich – the ultimate Swiss experience awaits from Warsaw.
• Your gateway to the breathtaking Alps: flights from London to Zurich.
• Explore the beauty of Switzerland with flights from Berlin to Zurich.
• Escape to Switzerland – flights from Paris to Zurich.

Bern – The Capital City That Everyone Loves

Most people usually assume that Zurich is the capital of Switzerland, but in fact, it’s Bern. The tiny capital is famed for its magical old town, ticking Zytglogge Clock Tower, and elevated viewpoints that give you a glimpse of the majestic metropolis from a different angle. You can easily make a day trip between Zurich and Bern as the train ride only takes an hour.

Top Places To See and Spots To Visit In Bern

Wander through the old town – Bern’s old town is a Unesco World Heritage Site located on the edge of a cliff, adding to its charm. Walk through the Medieval cobblestoned streets and scout out uniquely situated stores and cafes. Walk across one of the bridges to discover why some people say it looks like Venice.

Visit the Zytglogge Clock Tower – The Zytglogge Clock Tower is over 800 years old and is 23 meters high. Every three minutes before the clock strikes the hour, a display of mechanical dolls comes out and puts on a little performance to entertain the crowd as they wait patiently for the clock to finish the hour.

Go see some bears – Have you heard of Bear Pitt? It’s a tourist attraction that many people visit Bern for. In 2009, a bunch of bears found a new home in the Swiss capital at a 6000-meter square park where they roam freely, and you can go and watch them from a distance.

What To Eat And Drink In Bern

Meitschibei – Grab yourself a coffee and order a Meitschibei, a horseshoes shaped pastry with sweet hazelnuts. You can find these delicious snacks in bakeries throughout Bern and coffee shops; one is never enough; you’ll find it hard to resist.

Appenzeller Alpenbitter – Appenzeller Alpenbitter is simply a dark liqueur mixed with dark herbs. Of course, you can have it as a shot, but it’s best enjoyed on the rocks. There are many different types of Swiss Alpenbitter, but the most popular is the Appenzeller.

Must-know Tips For Visiting Bern

• Upon your arrival in Bern, take a free walking tour to get a real feeling for the city. Free attractions in Bern are rare, and because it’s so expensive, you will want to utilize what you can when possible.
• Uber is available in Bern and cheaper than taxis, but you’re better off avoiding both and sticking to public transport.
• If you plan on hiking near Bern, keep an eye on weather warnings. You don’t want to walk into an unexpected avalanche by accident.
• Explore the beauty of Switzerland: Fly to Bern from Antalya.
• Book now and discover gorgeous Bern: Flights from Heraklion.
• Discover the heart of Switzerland with flights from Larnaca to Bern.
• Escape to the Alps: Flights from Palma, Majorca to Bern.
• Experience the charm of Switzerland: Flights from Athens to Bern.

Geneva – The World Center For Diplomacy

Geneva is an oddly located city in southwestern Switzerland that France almost entirely surrounds. While the metropolis is often seen as business-oriented, there’s quite a lot to do there. Imagine slowly sailing up Lake Geneva to catch a jaw-dropping sunrise or admiring the Temple de Saint-Pierre. This is why Geneva is one of the most interesting places to travel in Switzerland.

Beautiful Places To See In Geneva

Sail up lake Geneva – Lake Geneva is, without a doubt, the highlight of everyone’s trip to the city. Kick back and enjoy a full-day boat tour or just an hour or two of the natural beauty, lake Geneva. Hear fascinating stories and see outstanding forms of nature as you immerse yourself in the Swiss countryside.

Walk around the Temple de Saint-Pierre – This romanesque church is a fascinating display of Gothic architecture and dates back to 1150. It’s situated at the Geneva old town’s highest point, so you’ll have to do some intense walking to get there. Be sure to climb to the top to catch an excellent city view.

Visit the Palais des Nations – The Palais des Nations is the general headquarters for the United Nations in Europe; that’s why Geneva is often referred to as the home of diplomacy. The marble buildings that make up the complex are impressive in themselves and will blow you away, to say the least. Join a guided tour to discover its role in the world and some of its great work.

Dishes And Drinks Everyone Has To Sample In Geneva

Swiss Meringue – Swiss Meringue is a dessert consisting of whipped egg whites and sugar. It looks the same as a blob of cream, only the consistency is more solid. The Swiss version of Meringue is fluffier than the French version but as tasty.

Iva – Iva, also known as Musk Arrow, is a sweet spirit made from the Iva plant with a light floral tang to it. Some health professionals have said that Iva can be used to help gastrointestinal issues because the Iva plant has always been used for various medical reasons.

What To Know Before Visiting Geneva

• Anyone who arrives in Geneva is entitled to a complimentary 80-minute transport card that can be used on all public transport.
• Many people in Geneva use bikes to get around. Blend in like the locals and hire a PubliBike, a part of the bike-sharing scheme, to explore the city.
• To experience Geneva’s nightlife, visit Eaux-Vives, a vibrant district with many clubs and cocktail bars that play all kinds of live music.
• Fly from London to Geneva – explore the Swiss Alps now!
• Paris to Geneva flights – experience the beauty of Switzerland.
• Barcelona to Geneva flights – book your next adventure now.
• Lisbon to Geneva flights – discover Switzerland’s stunning scenery.
• Bucharest to Geneva flights – get ready for a Swiss adventure.

Interlaken – A Typical Swiss Alpine Resort Town

Interlaken is a quintessential Swiss alpine resort town in central Switzerland embedded in a picturesque mountain valley. Many travelers will base themselves in Interlaken for their outdoor adventures because of its prime location. Take on challenging hikes like the Schynige Platte Trails, cross the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge, and go on the hunt for the mysterious St. Beatus Cave.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Interlaken?

Hire a kayak and hit Lake Brienz – East of Interlaken is the peaceful Lake Brienz, a quiet area that avid kayakers can’t stop talking about. Head down there early in the morning, and you might be lucky enough to have the place to yourself.

Chase the Giessbach Falls – The Giessbach Falls are over 500 meters high and crash down 14 rock ridges. To get there from Interlaken, buy a ticket for the Lake Brienz boat and get off at the Giessbach See landing stage. It’s about a 20-minute walk from there.

Experience the Brienzer-Rothorn Railway – Switzerland is home to some of the most scenic train rides in the world, including the Brienzer-Rothorn Railway, the country’s oldest steam rack railway. Buy your tickets beforehand and enjoy your ride to the enchanting town of Brienz.

The Best Food And Drink In Interlaken

Rostis – Rostis is a traditional Swiss breakfast dish made from leftover sliced potatoes that are fried in a pan with some butter. For some added flavor, ask for some meat or eggs to be added; you won’t regret it.

Filets de Perches – Seafood, anyone? Filets de perches is a freshwater fish caught in lakes around Switzerland. It’s served with either potatoes or French fries; most restaurants will give you the option. Unfortunately, finding Filets de Perches on the menu is becoming less common because they’re harder to catch.

Essential Information You Need To Know Before Traveling to Interlaken

• Interlaken doesn’t have an airport, so the best way to get there is by flying into Bern and taking a 53 minutes train ride there.
• To save money, stay at one of the many camps in Interlaken. They’re a fraction of the price of a hotel for a night and still come with great amenities.

Basel – The Cultural Capital Of Switzerland

Situated on the Rhine River, Basel is an adorable city in northwest Switzerland near the German and French border. Basel is sometimes called the cultural capital of the country, and Swiss citizens will tell you if you want to experience a whole different side of Switzerland, you need to visit Basel.

Which Are The Best Things To Do In Basel?

Start in the old town – To understand local life in Basel, start your trip in the old town, filled with medieval churches, cobblestoned streets, and uniquely designed homes; you’ll almost feel like you’re in a fairytale. If you’re a history buff, you should book yourself on a walking tour to get a real insight into the district’s background.

Visit the Paper Mill Museum – If you’re interested in unique museums, check out the Paper Mill Museum. It’s situated on the edge of a medieval canal in the heart of Basel. The museum aims to provide visitors with helpful information about the papermaking process and how the techniques have evolved over the years.

Go see some wildlife at Tierpark Lange Erlen – Take a break from city life and visit the Tierpark Lange Erlen, where wild boar, deer, lynx, and other animals roam freely. It’s a popular area for walking and a gem for any wildlife photographer looking to add some snaps to their portfolio.

Traditional Food And Drinks Everyone Should Try In Basel

Basler Mehlsuppe – A simple soup that will warm you up on a cold winter’s day in Basel is the Basler Mehlsuppe, consisting of brown flour, beef stock, onions, and a drop of red wine. This dish gains popularity throughout the city during the Carnival Basel celebration, which kicks off with a bowl on the first Monday after Ash Wednesday at 4 am.

Glühwein – Similar to mulled wine, Glühwein is a favorite among the Swiss, served around Christmas time and drank during skiing season. Its ingredients include red wine, sugar, citrus fruits, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon. Before consumption, the ingredients must be heated and mixed, but it’s forbidden to boil them.

Useful Information For Traveling To Basel

• If you’re on a tight budget, take advantage of the many street food stalls selling inexpensive meals.
• The tap water in Basel is safe to drink, so don’t waste your money buying bottled water.
• Budapest to Basel flights – discover one of the most charming Swiss city!
• Explore Basel from Warsaw – book your flights today.
• Bucharest to Basel flights – experience the beauty of Switzerland.
• Fly from London to Basel – discover the heart of Europe!
• Prague to Basel flights – book now and explore the Swiss Alps.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

Switzerland can be visited at any time of the year, but if you want the nicest weather, June until September is ideal for sun lovers.

As for anyone looking to take part in winter sports, November until March is when the snow falls and ski resorts begin opening up their doors to visitors.

The shoulder seasons are always a good option for lower prices and fewer crowds if you have time.

Kiwi.com allows everyone to fly to their favorite destinations for an affordable price. Whether you're looking to spend time at warm places by the sea or mountainous regions away from civilization, we have you covered.

With the help of our travel hacks and technology, Kiwi.com shows you unbeatable fares that you won't find on any other flight website.

To start planning your holidays in Switzerland, visit our Switzerland destination page, tell us where you want to fly to in the country, and within minutes, we'll provide you with the cheapest flight fares that suit your travel dates.

Switzerland is famous for its incredible outdoor excursions, tasty chocolate, quirky clocks, and ice-blue lakes.

People who have visited Switzerland before will take you scrumptious dishes like fondue and rostis are the best, but other secret delights, such as Raclette and Polenta and braised beef, are well worth trying out.

One week in Switzerland will give you a little mix of cities and countryside towns and villages, but if you can, allocate at least two weeks to your trip so you can go deep into the alps and discover some hidden gems.

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