tourist attractions of switzerland

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

The Matterhorn

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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 .

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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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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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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.

Related Articles

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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25 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written By: The Planet D

Switzerland

Updated On: June 18, 2024

Switzerland is spectacular . Whenever anyone asks us where we have seen the most beautiful mountains in the world , we always reply, “Swiss Alps.” After our latest visit to Switzerland, we loved it even more! With every turn in every destination, we looked on in awe as we remarked how we felt we were walking through a work of art. As one person put it when writing in a journal sitting on a bench at the top of Grindelwald-First “I feel like I am looking at a Bob Ross painting.”

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland has more beautiful places than just in the Alps; there’s the enchanting Lake Lugano sharing its border with Italy, the stunning Lake Maggiore with its Mediterranean vibes, picturesque towns, and lakeside living, beautiful Basel which we fell in love with, and the sophisticated city of Zurich. Appenzell is a picturesque town known for its hand-made cheeses and rolling green pastures and one you don’t want to miss. It can be difficult to decide where to go when you visit Switzerland , so we are going to break down the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland to help you choose. Or better yet, do as we did and see them all!

1. Swiss Alps

I know we said there is more to Switzerland than The Alps, but with their snow-capped mountains, they truly house the most spectacularly beautiful places in Switzerland, so we must start in the mountains.

The Alpine Region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason. It is impossible to beat when it comes to beautiful landscapes in the country, therefore, making it our #1 choice for the best places to visit in Switzerland . Plus, the Swiss have done an outstanding job making their mountain peaks accessible and easy for everyone to see.

The Swiss Alps offer spectacular mountain scenery that can be enjoyed while exploring the region, adding to the allure of this natural wonder.

From Grindelwald to Jungfrau in the Bernese Oberland Region to St. Moritz and Zermatt-Matterhorn, these mountain destinations should be put at the top of your list of places to visit in Switzerland.

2. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it truly lives up to the hype. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Switzerland, and once you see it with your own eyes, you’ll understand why!

Located in the Bernese Alps of the Jungfrau Region, a trip to Switzerland’s most exciting UNESCO World Heritage Sites takes you up to the most modern cable car in the world to the highest train ride in Europe on a cogwheel train to an elevation of 3454 meters (11,332 feet).

This viewpoint offers incredible views of the snow-capped peaks, including the 4000-meter peaks of Jungfrau 4,158 meters (13,642 ft), Eiger 3,967-metre (13,015 ft), and Mönch 4,110 meters (13,480 ft).

• For more information on traveling to Jungfrau,  visit the tourism website.
• To purchase tickets up to Jungfraujoch via  Jungfrau Railways here.

3. Aletsch Glacier

After you have taken in the beautiful scenery, take a walk under the Aletsch Glacier to explore the ice palace, a labyrinth of tunnels spanning 1000 meters under the sea of ice. We enjoyed our time at Jungfraujoch so much that we put it at the top of our most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland, not only for the beauty but for the experience.

There are so many things to do at Jungfraujoch that your senses will be overwhelmed with fun and excitement. Read more at Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

4. Gornergrat

We didn’t think it was possible to top Jungfraujoch, but when we hopped on a train ride to Gornergrat in Zermatt, we couldn’t believe our eyes as we looked out the window. Located at an elevation of  3,089 m, Gornergrat has been one of Switzerland’s top places to visit for more than a century.

The stunning views of the surrounding mountains include the Matterhorn in all its glory, but it is the sea of glaciers that really took our breath away. Reaching the top takes you to a view of 29 mountains reaching more than 4000 meters. With every turn, it is one dazzling view after another.

The best way to get around the mountains and to explore all the things to do in Zermatt is to purchase an all-inclusive lift package that gives access to cable cars, the cog railway and gondolas. You can search for the right one for you at the  Zermatt tourism website. Zermatt is popular in the summer, but it is also one of the premier places in Switzerland for winter sports.

Make sure to hike down to the Toblerone viewpoint in search of the cute black-nose sheep that roam the hills. The black nose sheep have become one of the top tourist attractions in Zermatt in their own right.

They are so darn cute and there is an app that you can download to see where they are roaming on the mountain. It works too! We found them during our hike down from Gornergrat. This is one of the most beautiful walks we’ve ever done in our lives. Read more: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do

5. Grindelwald-First

Grindelwald-First is one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland, and with good reason. Located in the Interlaken-Oberhasli administrative district in the canton of Berne, Grindelwald First has one of the most photographed places in Switzerland.

Bachalpsee (Lake Alpsee) is a beautiful alpine lake that reflects the surrounding mountains when the weather is just right. Visit the  Grindelwald Tourism website  for more information on traveling to Grindelwald.

6. First Cliffwalk and Adventures

One of the most popular things to do at the top of Grindelwald first is to take the first cliffwalk. It’s free to enter and offers beautiful views of the velley below. There is a reason Grindelwald-First is so popular, besides its stunning scenery. It has some of the best tourist attractions in the region.

From unique adventures like Trottibiking and mountain carting to the First Flyer and First Glider, there’s plenty of hiking, a heart-racing cliff walk, and cute marmots squeaking in the distance it makes for a great choice when planning your trip to Switzerland. Read more: The Complete Guide to Grindelwald-First in Switzerland

7. Zermatt Matterhorn

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 country’s first tourist destination. Over the years, it has become one of the top tourist attractions in Switzerland.

Hiking out to Lake Stellisee at sunrise is one of the most beautiful places to see it. Take the train ride up the Sunnegga-Rothorn Valley station for sunrise and then hike out to Stellisee for the most beautiful view of the Matterhorn. After you have enjoyed the morning, continue on to the 5 Lakes hikes for extraordinary stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains of Zermatt.

When you visit Switzerland, make sure not to miss seeing the Matterhorn. It took us three visits before we finally witnessed it, and it turned out to be our favourite destination in the entire country. Read more: 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Incredible Matterhorn Views

8. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is another amazing destination in Zermatt. Zermatt may be a small town, but it is the most popular and beautiful place in Switzerland. When you reach the top of the world’s highest cableway, you are treated to a view of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks (13,000 feet) and 14 glaciers across Italy, Switzerland, and France.

There is also an awesome maze of tunnels to visit under the second-largest glacier in Europe. This is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland to ski. Glacier Paradise is Switzerland’s highest ski resort, and you can ski here all year long.

9. St. Moritz

St. Moritz is the original winter tourist destination, and for good reason: there are plenty of winter sports to enjoy. This beautiful Switzerland destination has been welcoming tourists to its slopes since the 1800s. St. Moritz, known as the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism, offers world-class skiing, cross-country skiing, sledding, and winter hikes and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice. But let’s not forget that 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. Read our full article on What to do in St. Moritz.

10. Harder Kulm Interlaken

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. The view lets you see, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun and the striking peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and should not be missed. 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, Zurich has its share of upscale attractions including one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.

Take a stroll along the cobbled streets of Old Town and marvel at the stunning sunset over the spires of the city’s cathedrals. We suggest spending at least three days in Zurich enjoying its museums (most notably, the Swiss National Museum and the House of Lindt).

The affluent banking capital of the world (okay, we are just speculating here) has so much to see and do. 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

As Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich is a place you can spend days exploring, there are plenty of cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures from taking the train to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city to stand-up paddleboarding through the marinas of Lake Zurich.

Don’t forget to visit the chocolate museum at Lindt Home of Chocolate. Read more: The Perfect 3 Days in Zurich, Switzerland

12. Basel on the 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

13. Ticino Region – Italian Switzerland

When you visit Switzerland, the Mediterranean isn’t something that springs to mind, but that is exactly what you’ll get in Ticino. The Mediterranean feel of the Ticino Region of Switzerland will transport you to Italy. In fact, it is almost entirely surrounded by Italy. Ticino has a distinct feel from the rest of Switzerland.

Just a short trip away, Lake Maggiore on the southern border of Switzerland near the Italian border offers Mediterranean vibes with picturesque towns, gelato in piazzas, and Italian architecture. The warm climate and lakeside living with subtropical touches make it a perfect spot for various outdoor activities.

The warm weather and colorful buildings lining the likes of Lake Lugano feel as if you are on the Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terra. When looking for something different, make sure to put Ticino at the top of your places to visit in Switzerland.

14. Lugano in Ticino

The town of Lugano is the star attraction of Ticino, 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 )

It rivals nearby Lake Como in Italy for beauty and luxury, and it makes complete sense since Lake Lugano shares its border with Italy. Read more: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland

15. Verzasca Valley

The Verzasca Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. It isn’t quite as famous as other places in the country, but it has not been for long! It is known for its electric emerald green waters flowing through polished layers of rocks, it is a gorgeous way to spend a day.

Swim in the waters, go for a hike, or marvel at the cliff jumpers leaping from the double arches of the Ponte dei Salti. (A lovely medieval footbridge crossing the river)

16. Castles of Bellinzona

The capital of Ticino is not to be missed for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites – The Castles of Bellinzona. The castles consist of three well-preserved castles and fortified walls, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, which are not to be missed when visiting Southern Switzerland. For more information on traveling to Ticino – visit the  Ticino Switzerland website.

17. Leukerbad

Switzerland is known for its spa experiences, and one of the most beautiful spa retreats is in Leukerbad. The thermal baths date back to Roman times.

This wellness retreat attracts tourists to its 65 natural springs containing 3.9 million liters of hot water to relax in the healing pools of Valais Valley. It is one of the largest and most popular spa resorts in Switzerland. For more information on traveling to Leukerbad, visit the tourism website.

18. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz

The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is the granddaddy of spas in Switzerland. Located just 1 hour from Zurich, this is the ultimate luxury spa retreat. The hot springs were discovered in the 1200s and people have been seeking their healing properties for centuries.

The hotel opened in 1869 and in 1872 it housed the first thermal water indoor pool in Europe. Today it is a five-star hotel that sits in the Rhine Valley. Visit Tamina Therme for more information on visiting the spa.

19. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland, and one would argue that it is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.

Surrounded by the Alps on one side and terraced vineyards on the other, it’s one of the most romantic places in the world. As the largest body of water in Switzerland, it’s also pretty hard to miss. Straddling the border of France and Switzerland, Lake Geneva is also Europe’s largest alpine lake.

20. Chateau de Chillon Montreaux

Montreux is famous for the Montreux music festival. We loved walking along the waterfront of this beautiful city set among the backdrop 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

While we are on the subject of the Lake Geneva region, no trip to Switzerland would be complete without visiting Geneva. Geneva is home to the headquarters of the United Nations, and the international Red Cross Committee. There are plenty of cultural attractions in Geneva including the Grand Theatre and the Opera House.

It is also the city where Dave got stuck on Swiss Rail without his passport, phone, or wallet. The train system is efficient in Geneva, and when he dropped his tripod while getting off the train, the doors closed in front of him. I was carrying all his ID and was stuck on the other side. It was 3 hours later that he made his way back to me while I sat in the metro station waiting for his return in a huge panic! (But that’s another story)

22. Bern – The Capital City

e only spent a day in the Capital City of Switzerland , 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.

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.

23. Lucerne

Like 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 and is the oldest covered bridge in Europe. 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.

Additionally, boat trips on Lake Lucerne offer a unique perspective of the city and its natural landmarks, enhancing the overall travel experience.

24. Swiss National Park

It is hard to believe that Switzerland only has one national park, but it is true. It is aptly named Swiss National Park and is a favorite among nature lovers.

Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps in eastern Switzerland, Swiss National Park was established in 1914 and covers an area of over 170 square kilometers (65 square miles).

The park offers a network of well-maintained hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, from gentle walks through lush meadows to challenging ascents to alpine peaks, there’s a trail for every adventurer.

25. Swiss Grand Canyon

The Rhine Gorge is often touted as the Swiss Grand Canyon. Visitors can witness this beauty by taking one of the most scenic train routes along the Rhine Gorge Adventure Train. Check out America’s Grand Canyon Attractions.

Best Way to Get Around Switzerland

Switzerland had an extensive rail system and you can easily travel to Ticino via rail with a  Swiss Travel Pass.

• A Swiss Travel Pass includes:
• Unlimited travel by  train, bus,  and boat
• Public transportation in more than 90 cities and towns
• Including mountain excursions: Rigi, Schilthorn, Stanserhorn, and Stoos
• Free admission  to more than  500 museums  throughout Switzerland
• Get your Swiss Travel Pass  Here.
• Two free informative apps to help plan your Switzerland journey are:  Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app  and the  Swiss Travel Guide app
• Our trip to Switzerland is in partnership with MySwitzerland.com  Visit their website  to start planning your trip today.

One of the must-visit attractions in Lucerne is the Swiss Transport Museum. It features extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.

There are so many amazing and beautiful places in Switzerland, and we have not seen them all, but we certainly look forward to visiting this beautiful country. We have had the good fortune of visiting Switzerland three times, and each time we visit, we find it to be more beautiful than the next. We can’t wait to visit again! Have you been to Switzerland? What are your favourite places to visit in Switzerland?

Plan Your Trip To Switzerland With Our Recommendations

• Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
• The Ultimate One-Week Switzerland Itinerary
• 10 Simple Ways to Travel Switzerland on a Budget
• Unique and Crazy Things to do in Switzerland
• Our Best Switzerland Pictures

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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3 thoughts on “25 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland”

Absolutely stunning guide to Switzerland’s top destinations! I’m captivated by the majestic Swiss Alps, especially Jungfraujoch and Gornergrat. The Aletsch Glacier’s ice palace sounds incredible! Ticino’s Mediterranean charm and Lake Lugano’s beauty are enticing. Excited about spa retreats in Leukerbad and Bad Ragaz! One question: What are the must-try traditional dishes in Switzerland?

nice place to visit thank you for sharing those information

Firstly, Thankyou for sharing such an amazing piece of content with us. I have next year’s plan for the Switzerland travel trip and bookmarked this blog for the structuring of my travel plan. Thanks again.

31 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland & Things to do

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

Written by Kyle Kroeger

From breathtaking Alpine scenery to picturesque villages with a fairy-tale appeal, Switzerland has it all. For the stunning natural beauty of Switzerland, travelers from all over the world come.

Switzerland offers options to suit various interests, regardless of your desired holiday. Where do you begin when deciding where to go?

The lofty snow-capped mountains of the Alps, lush valleys, sparkling blue lakes , and picturesque lakefront cottages provide the nation with a certain appeal that nowhere else can offer.

Some of Switzerland’s most popular vacation spots are Lucerne , Geneva, Bern, and getaway destinations like Chateau de Chillon and Zermatt. Each of these places offers something different to visitors, so it is worth checking out a few other locations to see what might appeal to you the most.

Switzerland, at times, feels like many different countries crammed into one package for global travelers. Make sure you read to the end. That way, you can pack your itinerary full of Swiss-made fun. 

Things to Do & Places to Visit in Switzerland

This medieval town has covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains—making it a spectacular, popular tourist spot.

Lucerne is famed for its music concerts, luring in renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to the annual International Music Festival in the Culture and Convention Center .

Historic Swiss landmarks , like the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monuments, pull people in, but history buffs will have plenty of other sights to see, especially at the Swiss Transport Museum .

Lucerne is nestled along Lake Lucerne and lies at the foot of the Alps, surrounded by mountains. The Reuss feeds the lake, which flows from the Urner Alps and empties into the Luzernerschlucht.

The lake has several arms, the most prominent of which are the Urnersee to the west and the Zugersee to the east. Lake Lucerne is a popular tourist destination , especially for those interested in water sports or hiking in the nearby mountains.

Lucerne is a destination filled with iconic cable cars at Mt. Pilatus and Rigi. There are several cable car systems that connect Lucerne with the surrounding mountains. We suggest you take the Golden Round Trip ticket to the top of Mt. Pilatus , which includes a boat ride on the lake, a ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel rail, and a cable car ride to the mountain’s peak.

Check out these best hotels in Lucerne to maximize your stay. Below is a complete travel guide from our visit to Lucerne.

2. Grindelwald

Many come to enjoy the Jungfraujoch excursion, which offers many delights to discover, including the incredible journey to the summit. However, there are plenty of other things to do that should draw you to Grindelwald as a destination. There is always plenty to offer in this stunning scenery all year round.

This is not to undersell the beauty of the mountain trails, clear blue skies, bright green pastures that envelop the beautiful surroundings, the charmingly cute Swiss town, excellent local cuisine, and so much more.

For many, there is the First Glider, giving you a chance to glide over the mountains in an incredible 800m zipline experience, coursing you down at 83 km/ph securely fastened and accessible as an eagle perfect for families with children looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You won’t want to miss everything that Grindelwald has to offer and want to soak in as much as possible.

3. Lauterbrunnen

By far, it is one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland. Lauterbrunnen is the gateway to the Jungfrau Region and is referred to as the Valley of 72 Waterfalls. The high rock walls and many waterfalls serve the small town as a transit town to Mürren, Wengen , Jungfraujoch, and the Schilthorn , keeping it busy and buzzing with tourists year-round.

It’s also car-free, offering a highly walkable experience as you traverse the stunning waterfalls, hiking trails , and quaint villages. 

See Related : Best Travel Apps for Europe

As Switzerland’s largest city and central transportation hub (and a high point for many travelers), Zurich is well-loved by people worldwide . Beyond the clean, buttoned-up façade of the town, this affluent banking capital boasts an incredible line-up of cultural treasures.

You can begin a fantastic walking tour of the cobbled streets in the Old Town with quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. The mile-long Bahnhofstrasse boasts one of Europe’s most delightful shopping strands, beckoning with great boutique designer stores selling jewelry, fashion, and watches.

Lake Zurich is one of the largest lakes in Switzerland and offers plenty to do for tourists. The views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking, and the lake is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Switzerland.

There are more than 100 galleries and 50 museums for those seeking cultural enrichment, such as the Swiss National Museum , as well as plenty of other exciting exhibits like the Zurich Zoo or a train ride through the city and countryside to the Uetliberg Mountain.

See Related: Where to Stay in Zurich

Perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, Bern, the Swiss capital, exudes old-world charm. The city’s medieval old town is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.

Whether you’re strolling along the cobbled street or exploring the tallest cathedral in the country, there is plenty to do and see. Don’t miss the Zytglogge , a medieval clock tower with unique moving puppets, or the Rosengarten, which offers beautiful views from the old town center.

There are plenty of tourist attractions just waiting to be discovered in Bern . Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries and the markets where you can better view the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building or the family-friendly Bear Park. 

6. Interlaken

Interlaken is located in the country’s southwest, between Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east. It is one of Switzerland’s most popular summer getaways, and there are plenty of great things to do in Interlaken during any season.

In the middle of town, you’ll find Höhematte, a marvel of urban planning with over 35 acres of open space surrounded by hotels, cafes, and flower gardens, making the area unique and beloved.

The mighty peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau tower above the town, providing excellent opportunities for Alpine adventures, including hiking, climbing, abseiling, and kayaking all around the valley. This makes it one of the best things to do in Switzerland for outdoor adventures.

While skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding are popular attractions, depending on the season, that’s not all. You can also admire the lakes from below by climbing aboard a paddle steamer and cruising around the lakes. 

Like what you are hearing? Check out our list of the best hotels in Interlaken, Switzerland , to make the most of your stay.

See Related: Where to Stay in Lucerne

The city of Geneva sits between beautiful snow-capped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva , Europe’s largest Alpine Lake, straddling the Swiss/French border.

This French-speaking “capital of peace” is the European seat of the UN, exuding a pleasing mixture of French joy de Vivre and Swiss structure.

Between the promenades, parks, and gardens surrounding Lake Geneva, the old town is a lovely historical spot perfect for strolling around. Cultural hotspots for those looking to include the Opera House and Grand Théâtre, both of which stage international acts. 

8. St. Moritz

For the best nightlife, the top resort in Switzerland for glitz and glamour is St. Moritz. Saint Moritz has a variety of exciting activities, a wide range of shopping, and tons of great opportunities for Apres-Ski.

If you want to see and be seen, St. Moritz is one of the best places in Switzerland in winter. Two Winter Olympics games were held here. Make an enjoyable Swiss winter trip to St. Moritz by skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing trails, or snowshoeing through the mountains.

Mineral springs in St. Moritz helped boost tourism in the 1800s, and today, it is one of the most popular ski resorts in the world, known for its consistently snowcapped mountains.

One of the best places to stay in St. Moritz is the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains on Lake St. Moritz’s beach. This five-star luxury hotel has everything you could want, from a spa and wellness center to a casino, as well as a wide range of restaurants. This town is an excellent option if you want to take a day trip to Swiss National Park.

Zermatt , in and of itself, is an excellent destination, more so as you consider the slopes of Matterhorn, which make the destination so unique.

The slopes present the magnificent beauty of its landscape and nature all year round, perfect for snowboarders, skiers, or hikers in the winter or cyclists in the summer. There’s a mountain trail for cyclists from Winkelmatten up to the Furi, and the Zermatt Alpin Center offers year-round guides for climbers.

Between the stunning views, lovely mountain town, and plenty to do, Zermatt is worth the effort if you can make it out there. It will make your trip worthwhile.

Close enough to Italy to retain a certain Mediterranean flair while remaining quintessentially Swiss, Lugano is an eclectic destination with many visitors and a perfect blend of Swiss and Italian Alps.

The city is nestled on Lake Lugano, a glacial lake between Switzerland and Italy . It is situated at the feet of the Alps and is surrounded by picturesque mountains.

Lake Lugano is a popular tourist destination and offers many activities, such as swimming, boating, fishing, and windsurfing. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species and is a popular spot for bird watching.

Whether you’re seeking peace and relaxation, beautiful scenery, adrenaline and thrills, delectable food, or refined culture, there’s something worth visiting for just about anyone.

Best known for combining Swiss efficiency with the lovely charm of Italy, on a picturesque alpine lake that stretches along both countries’ steeply-pitched shores.

You can hike up a mountain and windsurf on the same day, eat in an art gallery, savor some local wines directly from their producers, and discover a rich local culture – you’ll leave Lugano changed and enriched by the experience. 

11. Jungfraujoch

One of the most popular things in the beautiful Bernese Oberland is the journey by train to the “Top of Europe,” the Jungfraujoch —the tallest mountain in Europe. It has an observation terrace that takes you to what feels like the world’s top, perched 3,454 meters up.

This is also the beginning of Europe’s longest glacier, and the region is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Eiger Trail begins at Eiger Glacier Station and climbs along the rocks at the foot of the north face to Alpiglen, where it ends.

The most popular way to the top of Jungfrau is via Grindelwald station. You’ll take a cogwheel railway that climbs up the northeast flank of the Jungfrau, making several stops along the way, including Kleine Scheidegg . The two-hour ascent is an unforgettable experience with stunning views.

12. Swiss National Park

Swiss National Park first opened its doors in 1914 in the Engadine Valley. It is one of Europe’s oldest natural preserves, located along the Italian border, and (believe it or not!) is Switzerland’s only national park.

The park’s boundaries include approximately 175 square kilometers of hollows, rapidly flowing river banks, and limestone caves. During the winter, when the forest mountain of this national park is blanketed in snow, it’s even more spectacular.

Visitors who enjoy nature will love exploring these huge pathways. Nevertheless, they should avoid them to protect the natural environment and habitat.

13. Lake Constance

Lake Constance , also known as Bodensee in German, is a lake in Switzerland in northwestern Switzerland. It is split into two parts, both Upper Lake Constance and Lower Lake Constance. It is one of the largest lakes on Earth and Europe’s third-largest. This vast lake borders Switzerland, Germany , and Austria .

This gorgeous lakefront setting is a dream come true for all outdoor enthusiasts. Watersport activities, trekking, roller-skating, and cycling are among the most popular with tourists from all over the world. This is your chance to go on a journey to these azure waters.

Spiez is a charming village on the Lake Thun peninsula near the town center. Its beauty is especially striking during the summer months when the lush greenery is at its peak. The area boasts stunning lakeside resorts nestled amidst hills and vineyards.

Spiez’s idyllic setting in Switzerland, with its agricultural charm and vineyards, makes it a delightful destination to explore. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss mountains, the village is shielded from harsh winds, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

The landscape is a harmonious blend of greenery and vineyards contrasting with the serene blue waters of the lake. Visitors can enjoy local specialties like wine and freshwater fish in this picturesque location.

15. The Albula-Bernina Railway Line

The Bernina Railway crosses the Bernina Pass in the eastern Swiss Alps. It links the valley of Chur in the canton of Graubünden with that of Poschiavo in the canton of Ticino. The line was opened on October 15, 1910. The highest point on the railway is the peak of the Omisalp, at 2,253 meters above sea level.

The Albula-Bernina railway line , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s most scenic train routes. The train travels 122 kilometers through the Albula and Bernina hills, passing over a hundred bridges and tunnels.

The panoramic views from a panoramic seat of unspoiled mountain scenery are part of the experience with these trains. Trains run all year, and the view is as stunning in summer as in winter.

16. Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen is one of the most underrated places in Switzerland and is definitely worth a visit. Surrounded by pristine mountain scenery, the crystal-clear waters provide swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities.

It’s located in the Kander Valley of Switzerland, surrounded by three mountains and fed by a glacier-fed creek. My favorite activities are swimming, rowing, walking, and riding the 3.5-kilometer toboggan run.

The surrounding area is also great for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The nearby tiny town of Kandersteg, home to around 1,300 people, features a unique style that includes multicolored wooden roofs and stained glass windows.

17. The Matterhorn

Matterhorn is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, and for good reason. Cervinia, Italy, is the nearest town to the mountain and is connected to Zermatt by a tunnel.

Climbers from all over come to attempt to summit the Matterhorn; although it is not the easiest mountain to climb, it is one of the most photographed mountains in the world and an excellent spot for nature lovers.

The Matterhorn has been featured in many films, including “The Great Escape” and “Where Eagles Dare.” It is also one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations , with over 350,000 visitors annually.

The views from the summit are stunning, and the experience is one that you will never forget. Matterhorn can be accessed by car, train, or bus. The nearest town to the mountain is Cervinia, Italy, connected to Zermatt, Switzerland, by a tunnel.

18. Oberhofen Castle

The picturesque Castle of Oberhofen , dating from the 12th century and located on Lake Thun’s northern basin, is one of Switzerland’s finest. This 13th-century castle has 2.5 hectares of gardens and is within striking distance of Lake Thun .

Oberhofen Castle has been rebuilt many times due to changes in ownership throughout history and damage from various wars. Today, Oberhofen Castle is a luxurious hotel and restaurant overlooking the lake. It is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience a fairytale vacation in Switzerland.

19. The Rhone Glacier

The Rhone Glacier is the largest in the Alps after the Aletsch Glacier. It is located in the canton of Valais and covers an area of around 15 square kilometers. The glacier has been receding since the mid-19th Century, and there are concerns that it could disappear altogether within a few decades.

Despite its decline, the glacier is still one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist attractions. The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warm, and the glacier is easily accessible.

20. Stein Am Rhein

Stein am Rhein is certainly one of Switzerland’s most stunning destinations. Regarding rest, Stein am Rhein is one of Switzerland’s best places to visit. The medieval Old Town, featuring lovely cobbled streets, is charming and popular with visitors.

The city is also home to many art galleries and museums, including the Kunstmuseum Stein am Rhein , which displays works from the Middle Ages to the present day.

21. Montreux

Montreux is located on the shores of Lake Geneva. The town overlooks the breathtaking scenery, sitting perfectly in the Swiss Alps . Montreux has medieval residences.

The blessed city reflects the surreal beauty of 18th-century literature, where peace may be found at every turn. With a surreal view of the lush green countryside, the lakeside town of Montreux is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

The city is home to the celebrated Jazz Festival , which takes place every July. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the music and the atmosphere. Montreux is also a great place to shop, with many stores selling everything from Swiss souvenirs to luxury brands.

22. Lausanne

Lausanne is not a large city, but it’s definitely worth seeing while on holiday. It is located near Lake Geneva, and the surrounding mountainous regions are home to alpine forests and lakes where you can admire ancient historical structures.

Its varied cultural mix with the arts has made Lausanne a fantastic city for history enthusiasts. There will be no issue finding a place to roam and take photos.

The pedestrian streets are always busy with locals and visitors, as the city is also home to a large university population. Lausanne offers marvelous architecture, energetic nightlife, and lovely waterfront promenades on Lac Léman.

23. Gruyères

Gruyères is a municipality in the district of Gruyère in the canton of Fribourg in Switzerland. The small town is best known for its castle, which dates back to the 13th century, and the Gruyère cheese produced in the area.

The town of Gruyères is located on a hill above the valley of the Sarine River. It is a popular tourist destination with a castle, cheese factory, museums, and a number of shops and restaurants.

Gruyères is a beautiful place to visit, with its medieval streets and buildings and stunning views of the Alps. The town is well worth a visit, and there’s plenty to see and do.

24. Appenzell

Appenzell is a municipality in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden in Switzerland. It is the canton’s capital and has a population of around 15,000. The town is located in the Alpine foothills and is a popular tourist destination. Appenzell is known for its traditional culture and architecture.

The town has a number of museums, including the Museum Appenzellischer Bauernkrieg, which tells the story of the peasant war of 1653. There are also a number of churches and chapels in the town, including the Basilica of Sankt Martin.

Appenzell is a beautiful town with traditional architecture and fascinating history. It’s well worth a visit for anyone interested in Swiss culture.

25. Villars-Sur-Ollon

Villars-Sur-Ollon is a stunning luxury resort on a sunny southern balcony in the Rhine Valley. It offers spectacular views of Dan du Midy, Mont Blanc, and Lake Geneva.

There are 25 kilometers of Premier Snow Park and 44 kilometers of ski runs at this postcard-pretty mountain village and upscale resort. It also has three snow parks, an outdoor school for snow sledding, and a tobogganing area.

For those who want to take a break from skiing, the resort offers plenty of other activities, such as hiking, climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, golf, and tennis. There are also several spas and wellness centers where you can relax and rejuvenate. Villars-Sur-Ollon is the perfect place to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing holiday in the Swiss Alps.

See Related : Most Beautiful Places in the World

26. Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana is a world-famous ski resort located in the Valais region of Switzerland. The resort is situated on a plateau at an altitude of 1,500 meters and has 137 kilometers of ski runs. It is also home to the Crans-Montana Golf Club , one of Europe’s most prestigious golf clubs.

Crans-Montana is a popular tourist destination for skiing, golfing, and hiking. The resort has a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Crans-Montana is also home to several events and festivals, such as the Crans-Montana Jazz Festival and the Crans-Montana Classic Car Show. It is a beautiful resort for skiing, golfing, or simply relaxing.

The picturesque villages of Bernese Oberland are among the most popular attractions and the best places to visit in Switzerland. Wengen is a stunning example of a mountain community nestled in the wooded crags of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

It’s a pretty Swiss Alpine village known for its timber chalets and belle époque hotels. Since then, it has become a car-free resort town with a unique high-end atmosphere and fantastic activities.

In Wengen, you can enjoy stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking, mountain biking, golfing, and swimming. You can also relax in one of the town’s many spas and wellness centers.

Wengen is the perfect place to relax in a traditional resort town setting and enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps . This area is home to some of the best hotels in Switzerland .

28. The Abbey of St. Gall

The Abbey of St. Gall is another destination claimed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth seeing when visiting Switzerland – it’s a must-see for history lovers.

The visitor within you will be intrigued by the ancient library at the Abbey of St. Gall, which ranks among the world’s most visited libraries. The monastery’s structures, dating from the eighth century, are magnificent. It’s a fantastic location for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

The Abbey of St. Gall is a must-see for history lovers and anyone interested in Swiss culture. Its beautiful location has a rich history and merits a stopover.

The highest village in the Alpine region, as well as a high-altitude medical center, is Davos . Despite its fame for being the meeting point for the United Nations, the municipality has several wintertime recreational activities in Switzerland, making it also Switzerland’s highest ski resort.

Tourists may select from a variety of businesses, restaurants, and pleasant lodgings in the city’s core. In addition, there are numerous alternatives for Aprés ski, nightlife, and events.

Davos is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a high-altitude town with plenty of activities to keep you busy. The town is a sanctuary for the best skiing in Switzerland, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options exist.

Davos is also a great place to visit if you’re interested in Swiss culture and history. It’s also a great option for a day trip to Swiss National Park. There are several great places to stay in Davos, including The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains , a luxury choice. For an affordable option, check availability at the Davos Youth Hostel .

Basel is the largest city in Switzerland and is considered the country’s cultural capital. Its history dates back to the Roman Empire, and it has been a cultural center for centuries.

Today, Basel is home to several museums and art galleries, as well as a lively nightlife scene. It is a great place to visit if you’re interested in Swiss culture and history.

Basel has many museums and art galleries, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants to keep you entertained. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for things to do at night.

See Related : Day Trips from Lake Como, Switzerland

31. Swiss Grand Canyon

The Ruinaulta is a long stretch of gorges encircled by huge meadows, cliffs, and forest settings. The Ice Age Rhine glaciers incrusted the river valley over a million years ago, triggering a chain of events that resulted in massive boulders crashing into a rocky canyon.

Rivers descended into the rocks, creating a gorge and resulting in rapids. The Swiss Grand Canyon is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a thrilling rafting experience. The canyon is full of rapids and huge boulders, and it’s a great place to explore the Swiss Alps.

There are a number of great places to stay near the Swiss Grand Canyon , and each offers its unique experience. Some of the best places to stay include Wengen, Davos, and Basel. These towns are all located near the canyon and offer a variety of activities and amenities.

See Related: Hidden Gems in Switzerland

How to Plan a Trip to Switzerland

When planning a trip to Switzerland, there are a few things you need to take into account about this beautiful country. The first thing you must do is decide what time of year you want to visit. Switzerland has a temperate climate, so it’s comfortable to visit year-round.

However, some parts of the country are more prevalent during certain times of the year. For example, the ski resorts in the Alps are busiest during the winter, while the Lake Geneva region is most popular during the summer.

The next thing you must do is decide how long you want to stay. If you only plan to spend a few days in Switzerland, you’ll probably want to stick to one or two main regions. However, if you plan on spending a week or more in Switzerland, you’ll need to do more planning to ensure you see everything you want.

Once you’ve decided when and where you want to go, the next step is to start planning your itinerary. When it comes to sightseeing, Switzerland has a lot to offer. Some popular tourist attractions include the Matterhorn, the Jungfrau region, Lake Lucerne, and the Swiss Alps.

If you’re interested in experiencing the country’s more unique culture, you might consider visiting one of the many small villages in the countryside.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

While there are many things to do in Switzerland, the best time to visit is between April and November unless you’re a winter sports enthusiast. The best time to visit Switzerland for winter sports is from late December to March.

The region has distinct seasons, with many activities and attractions throughout the year. Alpine flowers blossom on trees from March through May, and cattle migrate to pastures. It’s a beautiful sight to see, as the natural beauty of the mountains comes alive after snowy winters. Here’s a table summary of the best times to visit to help you plan your trip:

What is the most beautiful canton in Switzerland?

Canton Ticino, located in the country’s south, is probably the most beautiful canton. The canton is home to some of the country’s most stunning mountain scenery, as well as beautiful lakes and charming villages .

Some of the most popular places to visit in Canton Ticino include Lugano, Locarno, and Ascona. If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing destination in Switzerland, Canton Ticino is definitely worth considering.

Another beautiful canton to visit in Switzerland is Canton Bern, located northwest of the country. The canton is home to stunning alpine scenery, a number of charming villages, and fascinating historical attractions.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Canton, Bern, include the capital city of Bern, the Jungfrau Region, and the beautiful Lake Thun. If you’re looking for a scenic and historical destination in Switzerland, Canton Bern is worth considering.

There are so many unique places to visit in Switzerland that it’s hard to choose just a few! These are some of my favorites, but there are plenty more where they came from.

If you want to experience all Switzerland offers, I highly recommend visiting as many places as possible. You won’t be disappointed in seeing this iconic European country.

What are the best places to visit in Switzerland?

There are many places to visit in Switzerland, but some of the most popular include Zermatt, Geneva, Lucerne, and Interlaken. Each destination has distinct attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists .

Whether looking for stunning mountain views, picturesque lakeside villages, or lively city life, Switzerland is a great place to explore and participate in various outdoor activities.

Is Switzerland worth visiting in the summer?

Switzerland’s summer “tourism season” lasts from April to August throughout the country, although it ends about June at the heights of the Alps.

The High Summers (July–August) are a wonderful time to visit: great weather, no snowfall on alpine pathways, long hours of light until 9:00 p.m., and busy sightseeing and outdoor activity schedules.

What are the best things to do in Switzerland?

Switzerland is a country that is a perfect destination for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts with its combination of glacial lakes, roaring Alps, and green valleys. Hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, and rafting are all popular activities in Switzerland.

In addition, the country is home to several charming villages and historical attractions, making it an excellent destination for those who want to explore Switzerland’s culture and history.

Related Resources

• Best Winter Destinations in Europe
• Most Beautiful Cities in Europe to Visit
• Best Travel Puzzles | Beautiful Landscape Puzzles

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Switzerland’s top attractions

From grand buildings to stunning natural wonders, here's our checklist of the essential Switzerland attractions and sights

Rhine Falls

At 150 metres wide and 23 metres high, the Rhine Falls are Europe's largest waterfalls

Jungfraujoch railway station

• Jungfrau-Region

Surrounded by the largest glacier in the Alps, Jungfraujoch has been a top Swiss attraction since 1912. 

Lavaux vineyards

• Walks and tours
• Lavaux-Oron

A short ride from Lausanne you can find this UNESCO World Heritage site which dates from the 12th century.

Contra Dam bungee jump

• Sport events
• Tenero-Contra

Go bungee jumping off the 220 metre tall Contra Dam in Ticino, as seen in the Bond film GoldenEye. 

Chillon Castle

Explore one of Switzerland's top historic tourist attractions, which inspired the likes of Lord Byron, Rousseau, Delacroix and Courbet. 

Jet d’eau - Geneva

• Rive Droite / Right Bank

Don’t fight it: as possibly the most recognisable image of Geneva (you can even see it from the plane), it’s practically the law to get your photo taken in front of the city’s giant water fountain. Originally built as a pressure release valve for Geneva’s water supply, rather than for any aesthetic reason, the jet d’eau spurts 500 litres of water per second some 140m (459ft) into the air, before thundering back into Lake Geneva. You can get up close to the refreshing spray by walking the path to the fountain from the lake’s left bank. The jet really comes into its own during the city’s annual August fireworks display, when the colours are reflected and refracted in the spray. The fountain is occasionally switched off in high winds.

Palais des Nations

• Servette/Petit-Saconnex/Sécheron

This huge 1930s houses the European headquarters of the United Nations

CERN - Geneva

• Specialist interest

Straddling the Franco-Swiss border is the world’s largest physics lab 

Cathédrale de Lausanne

• Cité / Old Town

Perched atop a hill in the Cité, Lausanne’s 13th century gothic cathedral is the largest in Switzerland. 

Château de Gruyères

Gruyères castle is one of the most prestigious in Switzerland

CGN Lausanne-Ouchy

Making the most of its position on one of Europe’s largest lakes, Lausanne’s ferry port at Ouchy offers cruises to many destinations around the lake in both Switzerland and France. 

Discover more great things to do in Switzerland

Inspiring ski-in and ski-out hotels across switzerland.

Make the most of skiing in Switzerland during winter with a ski-in and ski-out hotel. These venues are the ideal getaway for skiers wanting super-easy access to the slopes, because they’re located  right by  those very slopes – metres away, in some cases, meaning you can spring out of bed and straight on to the piste. Time Out has chosen some of the very best venues from around the country – in association with Switzerland Tourism – which boast even more than superb slopes by your door.

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20 Famous Landmarks In Switzerland (All Worth Visiting)

Traveling to Switzerland and wondering what the top sights in the country are? Then you are in the right place because this detailed guide features all the best and most famous landmarks in Switzerland!

Our guide covers everything, from the country’s most impressive mountain peaks to the best historic monuments. We’ve also included a variety of landmarks in Switzerland, so there’s something interesting for you regardless of the part of Switzerland you are visiting!

Table of Contents

Natural & Historical Landmarks in Switzerland

Switzerland has a huge range of famous historical and natural landmarks. Many of which you probably know.

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is the most visited historical landmark in Switzerland, so it’s easily one of the best tourist attractions in the entire country. Situated on the eastern end of Lake Geneva in the Vaud Canton, the medieval castle is easily one of the most impressive sights in this part of the country, especially since it is a man-made landmark.

There are indications that the site of the castle has been occupied since the Bronze Age. First, it was occupied by the House of Savoy, then by the Bernese, and now it is owned by the State of Vaud. The castle’s various collections tell the story of its past with objects that were discovered at the castle site.

More than 50 castle rooms are open to visitors and each houses a unique collection. There’s everything from medieval furniture to charcoal drawings on the former prison site. Chillon Castle’s underground rooms are a highlight of the tour, but so are the courtyards and most of the rooms.

Related Reading

Chillon castle: history, general info & more, the matterhorn.

The Matterhorn is the most famous mountain in Switzerland. Part of its fame is due to the fact that its iconic pyramid-shaped peak is featured on the Toblerone chocolates , but that’s certainly not the only reason why this mountain is famous.

This is one of the tallest mountain peaks in the Swiss Alps, so it’s extremely popular with Alpine adventurers. Most adventurers who want to attempt an ascent of the Matterhorn will travel to Zermatt. The resort village is the ideal base for the exploration of this majestic mountain, and it even has a museum that’s entirely dedicated to the fascinating peak.

It’s worth noting that it’s possible to explore parts of the mountain without doing any hiking or climbing. Ski lifts can take you to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which is a truly breathtaking sight. Europe’s tallest viewing platform is also located in the area, and it offers unimaginably stunning alpine views.

Related: Discover the highest peak in Eastern Switzerland – Säntis !

Chapel Bridge in Lucerne

The Chapel Bridge is situated in Lucerne and it is easily one of the most famous Switzerland landmarks in this beautiful city. Constructed in the early 14th century, the wooden bridge over the river Reuss is best known for its winding design. It’s the oldest wooden bridge in Europe and it’s definitely one of Switzerland’s landmarks that you must go see if you get the opportunity.

The covered footbridge is unique for the numerous paintings that can be seen inside it. It’s worth noting that many of the paintings were destroyed in a 1993 fire and not all of them were restored. In fact, traces of fire damage can still be seen on this bridge, but they only add to the landmark’s character.

Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge is 205 meters long, which makes it the second longest wooden bridge on the European continent. It takes about 5 minutes to cross the bridge, but that doesn’t account for any time you spend admiring the paintings and taking in the panoramic views of Lucerne.

Fraumünster

Fraumünster is one of the two landmark churches in Zurich, as well as one of the four main churches in the city. The church and its convent were founded in 853 by King Louis the German, on the grounds of a former abbey for aristocratic women of Europe.

Fraumünster church and the convent enjoyed great political power until the Reformation when the ownership of the church was transferred to the city of Zurich. Nowadays, the church is a popular tourist attraction for its impressive architectural elements, the most notable of which are the nave, the high vaulted transept, and the Romanesque chancel.

The stained glass windows of Fraumünster church are its most famous feature. They were created by Marc Chagall, Paul Bodmer, and Augusto Giacometti. If you get the opportunity to see the interior of this Zurich church, definitely do it or you will miss out!

Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is the fourth largest in Switzerland, a country that boasts more than 1,500 lakes throughout its territory. It’s situated in central Switzerland and the namesake city is the largest settlement on this lake.

There are many reasons why Lake Lucerne is an iconic Switzerland landmark. The lake is famous for its complicated shape, which boasts four arms and multiple sharp bends. Lake Lucerne stretches into four different Swiss cantons, so there are plenty of places on its shore you can visit.

Boat tours of Lake Lucerne are extremely popular, especially for visitors who want to experience the magical views of Swiss nature. But getting on a boat isn’t the only way to experience the lake and there are plenty of other ways you can have fun while discovering this Swiss gem, including some romantic hotels above the town!

10 Most Scenic Lakes In Switzerland (For Your Bucket List)

Jungfraujoch.

Jungfraujoch is a mountain saddle connecting two major mountains in the Bernese Alps – the Mönch and the Jungfrau. The saddle is located at an altitude of 3,463 meters and it can be easily accessed by a railway from Grindelwald.

The saddle is home to Top of Europe, which is the highest-altitude railway station on the continent. But Top of Europe isn’t just a train station – it’s a visitor’s center with a restaurant, gift shop, a fabulous observation deck, an ice palace, and more!

The Sphinx Observation deck is easily a highlight of this unique place. It offers spectacular panoramic views of four mountain peaks that are more than 4,000 meters tall. The ice palace is equally impressive with its unique ice sculptures and it can be visited any day of the year. Even the train ride to Jungfraujoch is stunning, boasting mesmerizing mountainous landscape that showcases the best of Switzerland’s natural landmarks.

Lion Monument

The Lion Monument is a rock relief in the city of Lucerne and it is one of the most famous man-made landmarks in the country. It gets around 1.4 million visitors every year, so expect large crowds near the Lion Monument whenever you visit.

The Lion Monument was created in the early 19th century. It was designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen but hewn in by the stonemason Lukas Ahorn. The monument is 10 meters long and 6 meters tall, but the size is not even the most impressive thing about it.

What’s so special about a piece of stone? It depicts a mortally wounded lion to honor all the Swiss guards that died during the storming of the Tuileries Palace in the city of Paris. It’s impressive just how emotional a piece of stone can make you, and the Lucerne monument is proof that anything can be moving as long as it manages to convey the right message.

Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich is one of the most spectacular lakes in Switzerland and an excellent excuse to spend some time in Zurich city, whether you love to shop, or not. It stretches into three cantons and there are several cities on the coast of the lake, so you don’t necessarily have to visit Zurich if you don’t want to.

But it is one of the best cities in Switzerland, especially for tourists. If you travel to Zurich in the warmer months, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of fun activities on the lake, from swimming to stand-up paddleboarding!

Boat cruises on Lake Zurich are also a popular way to discover this beautiful lake. Opt for an evening dinner cruise, to enjoy a romantic night out on the lake while indulging in some of the best delicacies the Swiss cuisine has to offer.

Rhine Falls

Situated in northern Switzerland near the German border, Rhine Falls is a vast waterfall on the High Rhine. This is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, so it’s definitely a unique Swiss attraction worth visiting when you get the chance.

The waterfall is 23 meters tall and 150 meters wide. The sheer size of this unique fall is an astounding and truly mesmerizing sight. Add to that the huge amount of water that flows down the rocks, and it becomes evident why this waterfall is so famous.

The best thing about a visit to these falls is that there are plenty of things to do and see in the area. Boat rides on the River Rhine are extremely popular, as is Smilestones – a park boasting miniature replicas of all the best-known Swiss landmarks.

Ruinaulta (Rhine Gorge)

Ruinaulta (or Rhine Gorge in English) is a canyon in eastern Switzerland and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in the country. It’s also known as the Rhine Gorge or the Swiss Grand Canyon, although the latter is more of an ironic nickname.

Exploring this captivating scenic site is very easy. The area is easily accessible by public transport and the Rhine Gorge Experience Train is the best option for travelers who just want to admire the stunning views. It’s also possible to take the bus to the gorge, which might be the better option for travelers who want to explore the area.

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Ruinaulta is popular for hiking, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, and spectacular views. There are plenty of things to do in the area to keep you occupied in this magical Swiss gorge and nature lovers could easily spend an entire day just exploring the mesmerizing canyon. There are multiple viewing platforms in the area that are accessible by hiking trails and each offers a unique perspective on this famous Swiss landmark.

The Best Gorges In Switzerland (Exploring Nature’s Masterpieces)

Oberhofen castle.

Situated in the Oberhofen municipality on the shoreline of Lake Thun, the Oberhofen Castle is one of the most spectacular man-made landmarks in the entire canton of Bern. You can travel directly to Oberhofen by public transport, or you can visit the place on a boat tour from Interlaken, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in this part of Switzerland.

Touring the Oberhofen Castle is undoubtedly the best way to discover its history and significance. There’s a museum within the castle that tells the story of its previous owners, plus it’s possible for visitors to tour the kitchen and servants’ quarters. The smoking parlor in one of the castle towers is also a must-see attraction, especially if you want to enjoy some stunning panoramic views of Lake Thun.

Don’t miss out on the Oberhofen Castle park either, especially if you’re visiting in the spring or early summer. See the exotic trees and the beautiful flower beds, but also the 19th-century orangery, the gardener’s house, and the children’s chalet!

Widely known as the birthplace of Alpine tourism in Switzerland, St. Moritz is more than just a popular resort for the rich and famous. It has been the host of the Winter Olympics twice, and it’s home to the Cresta Run – a world-championship bobsled run that is entirely made from natural ice.

The fabulous resort town is the ideal Swiss destination for travelers who are into winter sports, whether you prefer to spend your time skiing or you’d like to try playing cricket on a frozen lake. The town is also home to a variety of high-end resorts and hotels, where you can enjoy world-class service and admire the snowy slopes while sipping champagne in the hot tub on your hotel room balcony.

St. Moritz is very popular for the White Turf horse racing event, which attracts more than 35,000 visitors annually. The event consists of horses racing on a frozen lake, and it’s as impressive as it sounds.

Lake Lugano

Situated on the Swiss border with northern Italy, the glacial Lake Lugano is another popular destination with locals and foreigners traveling in Switzerland. With plenty of mountains, beautiful towns on the shore, and world heritage sites, travelers who make it to Lake Lugano will not be disappointed!

The lake is named after the town of Lugano, which is the most popular destination on the lake. It’s a great place to visit on a day trip from southern Switzerland or even northern Italy – Lugano is well connected to other destinations by train, and there are plenty of interesting things to do in the town.

It’s home to the Swissminiature Park , which will allow you to discover all of the country’s most famous landmarks in one quick visit! Lugano also boasts beautiful parks, art museums, excellent dining, and fabulous lake views wherever you look!

The spectacular Mt. Titlis is best known for being the home of the first revolving cable car in the world. As you ascend to the top of this majestic summit, the cable car rotates, offering incredible 360° views of the Swiss mountainous landscape. The ride is only five minutes long, so you’ll want to keep your eyes wide open to really take in the mesmerizing vista.

To reach the rotating cable car, you will first need to take a gondola from Engleberg to Stand. Although this journey isn’t quite as unique as the ride to the top of Mt. Titlis, it offers some equally beautiful panoramic views.

Palais des Nations

No trip to Geneva is complete without a tour of the grounds of Palais des Nations . It is the home of the United Nations Office in Geneva and it is open to the public for guided tours. Situated in Parc de l’Ariana, the UN office complex is impressively big and offers tours for visitors in several different languages.

While you’re already in the area, take the opportunity to explore at least Parc de l’Ariana, if you don’t have enough time to walk through Geneva. The park is massive and in addition to Palais des Nations, it also houses several museums, sculptures, landscaped gardens, and even a few shops.

Grossmünster

Grossmünster is perhaps the most famous church in Zurich and an iconic man-made landmark. Best known for its twin Romanesque towers which have led to it being known as “salt and pepper” locally. This church dates back to the 12th century and legend has it that it was built atop the graves of Zurich’s patron saints – Regula and Felix.

The church is open to the public and it’s definitely worth going inside to see its fabulous interior. The beautiful stained glass windows were created by Sigmar Polke, a famous German painter. The Swiss painter Augusto Giacometti created the choir windows, while Otto Münch was responsible for the impressive bronze doors. In many ways, it is a living museum in the heart of Zurich.

Those are just a few of the highlights of this beautiful church. It’s also worth noting that visitors can climb the clock tower for panoramic views of Lake Zurich. This is definitely worth doing, especially if you want to see the skyline of Zurich!

Lake Geneva Water Fountain (Jet D’Eau)

Jet d’Eau is the water fountain on Lake Geneva and it’s easily one of the most recognizable landmarks in this Swiss city. The iconic fountain pumps half a cubic meter of water every second, projecting it 140 meters in the air. As you can imagine, this creates quite a bit of a splash, and it’s recommended to wear a raincoat if you’re going to admire the fountain up close.

You definitely should get as close to the fountain on Lake Geneva as you can, especially on a sunny day. As the drops of water fall back into the lake, you can often see a rainbow form.

On the other hand, Jet d’Eau is even more impressive at night than during the day. The fountain lights up in bright colors, and it’s truly one of the best things you can see in the city of Geneva.

Bern Old Town

Can an entire part of a city be considered a landmark? It can if it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is exactly why you need to visit the old town of Bern ! The city was founded in the 12th century and expanded slowly over the next several centuries. In 1405, a fire broke out in the area of today’s Brunngasse alley and spread rapidly through the city, destroying more than 650 wooden houses.

Since then, only stone has been used for the construction of buildings in Bern’s old town, which is why sandstone structures are so dominant here. Many of the iconic landmarks were rebuilt in sandstone and they’ve been preserved ever since.

The old town of Bern is truly an astonishing sight full of famous Swiss landmarks. Clock towers, fountains, statues, and gorgeous buildings are all reasons why Bern is a place you shouldn’t skip in Switzerland.

Mount Pilatus

Pilatus is the home mountain of Lucerne and dominates it from afar. You certainly can’t miss it as you approach Lucerne, or look at the city from the northern shorn of the lake. It’s composed of multiple mountain peaks. Tomlishorn is the tallest peak with an elevation of 2,128.5 m – it’s practically a hill compared to the Matterhorn and the other 4,000+ peaks in the Swiss Alps!

It’s possible to reach the top of the mountain with the Pilatus Railway, so this spectacular natural landmark is accessible to people who aren’t very experienced in hiking and alpine climbing. This is the steepest cogwheel railway in the world, so the ride to the mountaintop is a unique experience in its own right.

Mount Pilatus overlooks Lucerne and offers some beautiful panoramic views from the top. But enjoying the vista is certainly not the only way to experience Pilatus! The more adventurous travelers will be glad to know that Mount Pilatus offers several ropes courses on both stations and an exciting toboggan run of more than 1350 meters!

Glacier Garden of Lucerne

Lucerne Glacier Garden is a unique attraction that you absolutely need to visit if you’re ever in the city. It’s like a museum with multiple exhibits, but it’s as far from a traditional museum as it can be.

The highlights of the place are remnants of the last Ice Age. Petrified mussels and fronds of palm trees were discovered at the site of the Glacier Garden, and they are proof that millions of years ago, Lucerne used to be lined with palm trees! It’s a fascinating exhibit and definitely worth checking out, especially if you’re interested in geology and history.

The mirror maze is also a popular attraction here since it never fails to amaze visitors. There’s also the viewing tower – you’ll need to climb quite a few steps to get to the top, but it’s absolutely worth it if you want to experience a mesmerizing panoramic vista of the city of Lucerne!

Swiss National Park

One of my favorite places to hike is the Swiss National Park. Although it is the only national park in Switzerland it was founded way back in 1914. It contains a whopping 170 square kilometers, which may not sound much but is a lot for such a small country.

The park contains a huge range of habitats and some of the rarest animals in Switzerland including the Bearded Vulture , which I was lucky enough to see there a few years ago.

Best National & Nature Parks In Switzerland

Frequently asked questions, what is the most famous landmark in switzerland.

The Matterhorn is probably the most famous landmark in Switzerland. This towering mountain peak is recognisable almost anywhere thanks to its presence on the Toberlone chocolate bar . It also features in almost any Swiss promotion and lots of screensavers worldwide!

What are some natural features in Switzerland?

The most famous natural features in Switzerland are: The Matterhorn The jungfraujoch Lake Lucerne Lake Geneva The Rhine Falls Lake Oeschinen Mount Pilatus The Eiger North Face The Aletsch Glacier Titlis

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Switzerland

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on June 7, 2024

A natural and historic playground, Switzerland evokes a mystical aura. Her mountain villages are the scenes of fairytales, and the snow-capped peaks have long inspired poets and climbers alike. The peaks are the stuff of mountaineers’ dreams. Yet, they remain accessible for the likes of you and I, thanks to an abundance of fabulous cable cars.

Back in the lush valleys of Switzerland, trains that take you on a journey where some of Europe’s most spellbinding beauty is laid out before you. In between them all, medieval old towns hold fort with a timeless culture that sticks close to its heralded heritage. Medieval and Renaissance architecture becomes the everyday experience.

From the Rhine Falls to the terraced vineyards on Lake Geneva, there is no shortage of beautiful tourist attractions in Switzerland, where natural and human intertwine seamlessly. It’s time to find out why.

17. Grindelwald

In the Jungfrau region, Grindelwald has a cozy spot nestled in the Bernese Alps. The mountain town is the definition of idyllic. The old-time village is backed by spectacular scenery which quickly becomes a playground to be discovered.

You can relax here and take in the scenery as you please. Or, you can make the most of every second, as Grindelwald has a seemingly endless list of adventures and things to do to choose from. The first is the town’s original cable car which takes you up to 2,160m. From the top, you can fly 800 meters on a suspended cable at speeds over 80 km/h.

Later, take a ride to the top of Pfingstegg where you’ll find the Pfingsteggbahn! This sled zips you down into the valley with memorable views along the wild ride down.

16. Castles of Bellinzona

Set in a strategic position in the Swiss Alps, the three Castles of Bellinzona are a living masterpiece. With the addition of fortress walls and ramparts, these castles are incredible examples of medieval mountain architecture.

The three castles are Castelgrande, Montebello and Sass Corbaro. They helped the Milanese control the Alpine and San Gotthard passes. With a little help from modern restoration, the castles have now returned to their former splendor just in time for your visit.

Montebello and Castelgrande feature interior museums. These allow you to discover rich archaeology from the region and the castles themselves. The area boasts over 6,500 years of human touch.

15. Upper Engadine Lakes

Home to St. Moritz , Silvaplana and more, the Upper Engadine Lakes is a fairy tale plateau surrounded by classic Swiss peaks. Romance and beauty floats around every corner and off the leaves of the forested hills.

The alpine region basks in summer sunlight, one that provides travelers with the perfect balance between mountains and warmth. The lakes melt and shimmer through the afternoon where you can kayak, SUP, sail or simply admire the views from the hiking trails.

On Silvaplana Lake, wind and kite surfers make the most of the Maloja wind to speed across the water at 80km/h. If you’re traveling in winter, enjoy the snow-capped summits, ice skating and the White Turf. The latter is a frozen lake horse race.

14. Zurich Altstadt

Switzerland’s natural beauty will be all around you on your travels. But you’ll uncover an array of man-made creations that will pull at your heartstrings just as much. Perhaps the best example is Zurich Altstadt.

Set within an already gorgeous city, Zurich’s Old Town is split into two sections across the Limmat River. On either side, you’ll find cobbled narrow streets that have been worn smooth by centuries of footsteps.

Among the medieval homes are charming cafes and restaurants. You’ll even find Zurich’s best club scene. Save that for later and explore the areas 50 plus museums and major landmarks such as the St. Peter Church with the largest clock face on the continent.

A shared passion for knowledge and the thought that so much of the world is unknown turns the wheels behind CERN. The European Organization for Nuclear Research is at the forefront of physics. Its Hadron Collider sends 200,000 billion proton beams rushing towards each other at 11,000 times a second!

It’s an incredible experiment that hopes to uncover the nature of our world and what it may become. In Geneva, you can explore parts of CERN open to the public to learn more about what’s happening behind the scenes, including its major Higgs Boson discovery. You can even embark on a guided tour to the antimatter factory.

12. Lavaux Vineyards

In the Vaud region on the northern banks of Lake Geneva, the Lavaux Vineyards are like few others. These wineries are set upon terraces that rise from the lake’s edge like Tegalalang.

Much like the location and layout is unique, this beloved wine region is likely different to what you’ve experienced previously. Despite the opulent beauty, you won’t find an abundance of visitors in Lavaux.

When you add the fact that the main grape grown is Chasselas, with little export, it makes your time here all the more memorable. Be sure to make reservations for wine tastings as many of the vineyards are small operations.

11. Chaplin’s World

Over the last 25 years of his famous life, Charlie Chaplin lived here in Vevey, Switzerland. His neoclassical Manoir de Ban has been transformed into a living museum where various eras of his life are put on display. Now one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist attractions, you’ll find parts of the home were as he left it, with family photos and personal items frozen in time.

The house is joined by a modern, interactive studio which has a series of interactive exhibits and showcases some of his films. You’ll also be able to get up close to replicas of old movie sets. After exploring it all, check out the gift shop to complete the visit.

10. Jet d’Eau

A centerpiece of your Geneva experience , Jet d’Eau is a dramatic lakeside fountain. With the city, marina and lakeside villages encasing the lake, the fountain shoots up a thin veil of water over 140 meters.

The water flies towards the skies, a 200km/h before pluming out across the lake. On sunny days, multiple rainbows burst out from the falling droplets. At any given time, there may be seven tons of water in the air!

The Jet d’Eau is the completion of Geneva’s rich heritage of pencil fountains. The first burst upwards every Sunday between 1886 and 1890. This was improved upon with the 90m Jetée des Eaux-Vives from 1891 until the current which began in 1951.

9. Mount Pilatus

Standing proudly above Lucerne, the massif of Mount Pilatus has a spellbinding presence. From the valley, the range that features multiple 2,000 meter-plus peaks captures your attention and never lets go.

At the center of the snow-capped peaks is the monstrously beautiful Mount Pilatus, 2,128. From the summit, you’re spoiled with panoramic views that boast over 70 alpine peaks. It’s a true buffet for the eyes.

While you can hike to the top, most prefer the train departing from Lucerne from May to October. After taking in the view, take the 3km moderate trail to Tomlishorn Peak. Other adventures include the thrilling 1,350m toboggan run down into the valley.

8. Rhine Falls

You can relax or seek a heart-pumping adventure at Rhine Falls. At 150 meters wide and tumbling down over 20 meters, the Rhine Falls is one of Europe’s largest waterfalls. Before you can even see the majestic surge of water, you’ll be able to hear the thunderous roar of 600,000 liters bouncing down the rock face.

Those looking to take in the beauty of the falls can wander the hiking trails that enveloped Rhine Falls. This includes a walk across the viaduct, Schloss Laufen, that offers some of the best views.

However, you’ll find one of the most unique things to do in Switzerland here. In the heart of the falls stands a towering rock covered in bushes. A path snakes to the top where you can stand as if you’re floating above it all.

7. Bernina Express

There may not be a better way to cross the Swiss Alps than the Bernina Express. The scenic train route is a narrow-gauge railway then spans over 120 kilometers from Chur to Tirano, Italy.

The four-hour journey is akin to a Shakespeare play or Beethoven symphony. It’s pure, unspoiled mastery. From charming towns, you’ll venture up and over iconic passes with the views growing more spectacular with each rotation of the wheelset. This is topped off by traversing the famed Landwasser Viaduct.

The Bernina Express is as comfortable as the scenery is stunning. The railway is a UNESCO Heritage Site based on how it blends in with the landscape, while the incredible engineering has the locomotive floating on a cloud.

6. Zytglogge

The city of Bern is littered with medieval and Renaissance masterpieces. However, Zytglogge should be your first stop in town. That’s a big call for a clock tower, but you’ll soon discover why.

Bern is a magical place, as the Zytglogge is the centerpiece of a medieval time warp. The gate was built in the 1100s, and the clock that graces the tower is one of the most spectacular and oldest clocks that can be visited anywhere in the world. Built in 1530, this clock was the city’s master clock for centuries.

As you make your way to the tower, get there a few minutes before the hour mark to experience old-time figurines dart out from the tower as they have for hundreds of years.

This joyful sight is your first step. Next up is wandering inside. Within are beautiful, giant wooden beams that run along the endless stone walls. The clicking of the clock is rhythmic and grows louder as you venture up the 130 steps. After learning how the ancient clock works, take in the view of the old town and the Bernese Oberland from the top.

5. Jungfraujoch

If Grindelwald is the gateway, then Jungfraujoch is the destination. Known as the Top of Europe, this train station is the continent’s locomotive ceiling.

Standing between two monstrous 4,000m peaks, Jungfraujoch sits in a saddle at 3,454m above sea level. Surrounded by year-round snow and glacial action, you can already begin to picture the epic train ride. But that’s just the beginning.

Beyond the station is a vast mountain destination, where you can explore the Sphinx Observatory. This has an observation deck facing the enormous Aletsch Glacier. Afterwards, check out the Ice Palace and tube at the Snow Fun Park.

Travelers seeking some more adventure can lace up their boots. Between the months of March and October, you can trek to Monchsjoch Hut, the highest serviced hut in the country.

4. Chapel Bridge

In Lucerne , there stands a wooden bridge that expands over 200 meters across the Reuss River. This is Chapel Bridge, an iconic Swiss sight that will inspire more than just those enthused with old-world architecture.

In classic Swiss style, Chapel Bridge is as quaint and charming as it is practical. The covered bridge shimmers with auburn in the evening, illuminating the hedges and roses that bloom on either side.

It is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, and one of main tourist attractions in Switzerland. The covered bridge, constructed in 1333, was designed to help protect the city of Lucerne from attacks. Inside the bridge are a series of paintings from the 17th century, depicting events from Luzerne’s history. Much of the bridge, and the majority of these paintings, were destroyed in a 1993 fire, though it was quickly rebuilt.

3. Château de Chillon

With its reflection bouncing of the calm waters of beautiful Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle (Château de Chillon) was built in a prime location. First a Roman outpost, the castle, was developed in the 10th century to become the home of dukes and counts.

With the lake and the rising Swiss Alps in the background, there’s a lot to take in when you first arrive. But once you cross a historic drawbridge, your attention will turn to the fortress walls, ballasts and towers that take you back to the Middle Ages.

The interior of Château de Chillon has been masterfully preserved. With the help of an audio guide, you can explore almost the entire castle to uncover old-time prisons, halls, and chambers. From its top, you’ll have an even better view of the lake and its surrounding villages.

2. Lauterbrunnen Valley

Picture a waterfall for me. It’s likely the image conjured is a waterfall tucked away in nature at the end of a winding hiking trail. That’s how it is for most, but not here in Lauterbrunnen Valley.

In a country rich in tumbling waters, Lauterbrunnen Valley takes the cake. There are over 70 here, each diving off the sandstone cliffs like a bridal veil. The most renowned may be the 297m Staubbach Falls. However, for photographers, nothing tops Trummelbach. It’s a conglomeration of 20 thin falls that form the backdrop behind ancient bridges and tunnels.

Beyond the spectacular waterfalls, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is easy to explore on bike or foot. A mecca for adventure, you’ll have your plate full hiking to the Sphinx Observatory, exploring the village of Murren and trying your hand at paragliding.

1. Matterhorn

Such an epic mountain name deserves an epic mountain landscape and that’s what you’ll find as you gaze at Matterhorn. The soaring pyramid peak is an icon of the Swiss Alps. It’s a rugged mountain, whose edges are as thin as a knife’s edge.

For most of us, without a high level of mountaineering experience, seeing Matterhorn up close is the best we can hope for. That still creates one of Switzerland’s unforgettable experiences.

You can gawk up at the top from the charming village of Zermatt . Or, put on your hiking shoes and explore the mountain’s swarming trail system. The views promise to be just as captivating, away from the overhanging peak of Matterhorn. Turn your eyes to the waters of Lake Riffelsee, whose reflection is a mirror-like image of Switzerland’s celebrated summit.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Switzerland

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• Geneva With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the «capital of peace». Learn more
• Jet d'Eau In Geneva harbour, known as “La Rade”, this water jet up to 140 metres high is a real eye-catcher. Learn more
• Appenzell The village of Appenzell and the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden are situated in a singularly beautiful landscape of rolling hills. Learn more
• Appenzeller® Cheese The country’s spiciest cheese has been made by hand in the same way for more than 700 years. Learn more
• Alpine Panorama Route The Alpine Panorama Route crosses the northern Alpine foreland with its many passes and gorges, tradition-rich culture, settlements and mountain farms. Learn more
• Hallwilersee Like the Baldeggersee lake a little further south, Lake Hallwil is located in the Seetal, a north-south valley that leads from the Lucerne hinterland to Lenzburg. Learn more
• Monte Generoso At the southern end of Lake Lugano is the 1,701 metre high Monte Generoso. Learn more
• Via Albula/Bernina Through moorland and Alpine pastures to the Berninapass. One highlight follows another. Learn more
• Autumn The forests reveal a wonderful palette of colours, leaves crunch underfoot and you can already imagine the wonderful seasonal dishes that await. Learn more
• Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces The natural, cultural and culinary highlights of this area are definitely well worth a visit. Learn more
• Jura Crest Trail The undisputed highlight of this tour across an extensive grazing area is Mont Tendre, the highest point in the Swiss Jura. Learn more
• Zug Zyt Tower, which offers a magnificent view of the Old Town, the Zug Mountain and Lake Zug, is the city's landmark. Learn more
• Zug Castle Museum With its many nooks and crannies, Zug Castle has been home to the museum of cultural history for the city and the Canton of Zug since 1983. Learn more
• Creux du Van – Natural Spectacle Impressive 160 meter high vertical rock faces surround a four kilometer long and over one kilometer wide valley basin. Learn more
• Val de Travers The Val de Tavers is characterised by the watch industry and extends from Lake Neuenburg across the Jura all the way to the French border. Learn more
• LAC Arte e Cultura The building by Ticino architect Ivano Gianola offers visitors art across 2500 square metres Learn more
• Lugano With Mediterranean flair, Lugano offers all the advantages of a world-class city, combined with the cachet of a small town. Learn more
• Art & culture Switzerland is brimming with cultural surprises. Learn more
• Fribourg / Freiburg Over 200 unique Gothic facades from the 15th century impart incomparable medieval charm to the Old Town. Learn more
• Cathedral of St. Nicholas Climb the 368 steps and you will be rewarded with an unforgettable view of the town of Fribourg. Learn more
• Val Calnègia It can only be reached on foot, but the reward in the form of a submerged creek, unusual buildings and spectacular scenery is well worth the effort. Learn more
• Rochers-de-Naye: mountain with a view No two worlds could contrast more than those at the beginning and the end of the thrilling train ride from lively, sophisticated Montreux to the austere summit of Rochers-de-Naye.
• Schwarzsee The vacation region around the Black Lake and in the Eastern Freiburg Pre-Alps (Voralpen) is well-known for its authenticity and its wild, romantic natural landscape. Learn more
• Zurich The cosmopolitan city by the water combines creative urban life with nature in all its glory. Learn more
• Zürich West In the last 10 years the industrial wasteland to the west of Zurich has grown into a new bright lights district. Learn more
• Patinoire du Flon Lausanne The ice rink in Flon is a great place for outdoor ice skating. Learn more
• Europe’s highest suspension bridge The suspension bridge stretches spectacularly from one rock face to the other. Learn more
• Hikes to suspension bridges Thrills over the abyss Learn more
• Freestyle Academy In Europe’s first Freestyle Indoor Base, jumps and tricks can now be practiced all year.
• rockresort From bed to board. Learn more
• Panorama view Sweeping views extend from part of Lake Lucerne as far as the Black Forest. Learn more
• Gstaad Gstaad attracts a charming mix of visitors. Learn more
• Gstaad Saanenland ... ... a highlight on the Grand Tour of Switzerland. Learn more
• Snow and piste report Daily updated information on 250 winter sports stations. Learn more
• Matterhorn – Symbol for Switzerland The Matterhorn and Switzerland are inseparably linked to each other. Learn more
• Zermatt The vacation destination is a car-free zone and has preserved its original character. Learn more
• Bernina Express Fresh mountain air and stunning views from the Albula and Bernina rail lines. Learn more
• Train, Bus, Boat – Grand Train Tour The way of travelling that is as exciting as it is relaxing. Learn more
• St. Gallen The compact metropolis of eastern Switzerland between Lake Constance and Appenzellerland with a charming, traffic-free old town. Learn more
• St. Gallen Abbey District In St. Gallen you'll find history at every turn. Learn more
• Saas-Fee 13 four thousand meter peaks surround the glacier village, which is located at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level. Learn more
• Jungfraujoch On the Top of Europe: A visit to the Jungfraujoch puts a jewel in the crown of any visit to Switzerland. Learn more
• Crans-Montana Sun-drenched plateau high above the Rhone Valley. Learn more
• Albert Heim Hut The views of the Galenstock and the crystalline rock-climbing routes are stunning.
• Rigi Kaltbad Swiss Quality Hotel Enjoy the hospitality in an inspiring alpine setting. Learn more
• Highland hike from Rigi-Kaltbad to Urmiberg The highland tour from Kaltbad via the Scheidegg to Urmiberg can only be described as absolute top!
• Lucerne Gateway to central Switzerland. Learn more
• Switzerland’s cities ... ... want to seduce you into discovering something new or experiencing something old in a new way. Learn more
• Chapel Bridge and Water Tower At the outflow of the river Reuss, a historic needle dam, built in 1860, regulates the water level of the lake. Learn more
• Giessbach Falls The Giessbach brook tumbles in 14 stages, over a length of 500 meters and out of the high valleys of the Faulhorn area down to Lake Brienz. Learn more
• Waterfalls You can feel the sheer force of the water as it thunders down into the depths. Learn more
• Swiss Historic Hotels Unique accommodation options from an unpretentious historic guesthouse to the luxurious grand hotel. Learn more
• Emmentaler AOP The king of Swiss cheese. Learn more
• Scenic nature Thanks to its unique geographical location at the heart of Europe, Switzerland is endowed with an extraordinary variety of scenic countryside. Learn more
• Rhine falls circular route The Rhine Falls are the centrepiece of this circular hike. Learn more
• The Rhine Falls By ship one can reach castles, the Rhine Falls Basin and even the mighty rock in the midst of the waterfall. Learn more
• Oeschinensee – gondola rail One of the most attractive and imposing mountain lakes, namely Oeschinensee, is reached by gondola rail from Kandersteg. Learn more
• Kandersteg Kandersteg is located at 1,200 meters in the Bernese Oberland and offers a fantastic view of the Blümlisalp Massif. Learn more
• Rivers and lakes Discover the most beautiful lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls and gorges in our country. Learn more
• Chäserrugg – and the Churfirsten From Chäserrugg, the mightiest of the seven peaks of the Churfirsten mountain range, you can enjoy unsurpassed views into six countries.
• Wildhaus Nestled between the mighty Säntis massif and the seven Churfirsten peaks, the resorts of Alt St. Johann, Unterwasser and Wildhaus are among the highest-lying municipalities in Toggenburg. Learn more
• Ruinaulta - Switzerland's Grand Canyon 10,000 years ago, 10 billion cubic metres of rock thundered into the valley. Learn more
• On a raft through the Swiss Grand Canyon The Rhine gorge is among Switzerland’s most beautiful locations for rafting. Learn more
• Brissago The lowest and oldest part of the village is clustered around the beautiful Renaissance church of St. Peter and Paul, surrounded by centuries-old cypresses. Learn more
• Brissago - Ronco - Ascona Strong fragrance of mimosas, well-tended Palm Gardens and simply unsurpassable views of the deep-blue Lago (Lake) Maggiore.
• Around the Churfirsten This moderately challenging loop takes you to the Wildhaus ski resort along a minor, little-known road and skirts magnificent Lake Walen. Learn more
• Donkey trekking The first item on this special walk is “donkey knowledge” before everybody prepares their “own” donkey. Learn more
• La Gruyère The Gruyère region, with its rolling green landscape and the peaks of the Fribourg Pre-Alps, is home to the world-famous Gruyère cheese. Learn more
• HR Giger Museum As tourists savor a fondue outside on the square, the surreal works of H.R. Giger come alive inside the Château St. Germain castle. Learn more
• Fribourg Region The Pays de Fribourg is somewhat a world turned upside down: cold, limestone summits are found in the south and mild, even Mediterranean-like lakesides in the north. Learn more
• Viamala Gorge The Viamala is full of history and stories. 2000 years ago, the Romans passed through the gorge. Learn more
• Canyoning in the Viamala Gorge The tour is led by experienced guides who assist the visitors with this nature adventure.
• CabriO Stanserhorn Enjoying the wind in one’s face and the perfect view. Learn more
• Mountain railways The journey to the top is an attraction in itself, be it onboard a cogwheel train, a cable car or the world’s steepest funicular. Learn more
• Hiking and Äscher cliff restaurant Nowhere else in Switzerland is the change from the hilly landscape of Central Switzerland to the craggy alpine scenery so abrupt or impressive as in the Alpstein area. Learn more
• Ebenalp and Wildkirchli Already Neanderthal men were here where today a cableway sweeps visitors up. Learn more
• Montreux Riviera The town of Montreux nestles in a sheltered Lake Geneva bay, surrounded by vineyards and against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-covered Alps. Learn more
• Bern Cathedral The Bern Münster Cathedral of St. Vincent is the most impressive late-Gothic building in the city. Learn more
• City breaks City breaks are a brief escape from everyday life – and our Swiss Boutique Towns are perfect for the occasion. Learn more
• Bern Not many cities have managed to retain their historic features quite as successfully as Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Learn more
• Dream route Airolo - Gletsch From Airolo, the historic pass road snakes around hairpin bends up to the Gotthard. Learn more
• Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch The Jungfrau-Aletsch Region was chosen as the first Alpine UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2001. Learn more
• Glaciers Venture out onto eternal ice and explore our country’s many glaciers. Learn more
• Oberhofen Castle - Living Museum and Park The castle, which dates back to the early 13th century, houses a living museum. Learn more
• Lake Thun Lake Thun is especially popular amongst sailors and windsurfers who appreciate the prevailing light breeze. Learn more
• Swimming in the Rhine through the historic old town Thousands of people cool off by leaping into the refreshing water during the warmer months of the year. Learn more
• Basel Home to 40 museums, the city of culture for connoisseurs has the highest concentration of museums in the country. Learn more
• Nationalpark Bike-Marathon In four one-day stages you experience the unique countryside on the National Park bike marathon route. Learn more
• Swiss parcs The Swiss parks are not just great spots for rest and relaxation, but also play a key role in the preservation of natural habitats. Learn more

Video control

• Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Albulatal / Bergün
• Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces
• Jura & Three-Lakes
• Fribourg / Freiburg
• Stoos – Fronalpstock

Jungfraujoch

• Crans-Montana
• Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• Unterwasser
• Brissago Island
• Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Aletsch Arena
• Geneva Geneva
• Appenzell Appenzell
• Seengen Seengen
• Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Albulatal / Bergün Albulatal / Bergün
• Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces
• Jura & Three-Lakes Jura & Three-Lakes
• Noiraigue Noiraigue
• Lugano Lugano
• Fribourg / Freiburg Fribourg / Freiburg
• S. Carlo S. Carlo
• Veytaux Veytaux
• Schwarzsee Schwarzsee
• Zurich Zurich
• Lausanne Lausanne
• Engelberg Engelberg
• Stoos – Fronalpstock Stoos – Fronalpstock
• Gstaad Gstaad
• Zermatt Zermatt
• Engadin Engadin
• St. Gallen St. Gallen
• Saas-Fee Saas-Fee
• Jungfraujoch Jungfraujoch
• Crans-Montana Crans-Montana
• Andermatt Andermatt
• Lucerne Lucerne
• Brienz Brienz
• Emmental Emmental
• Neuhausen am Rheinfall Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• Kandersteg Kandersteg
• Unterwasser Unterwasser
• Flims Flims
• Brissago Island Brissago Island
• Wildhaus Wildhaus
• Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Viamala Viamala
• Stans Stans
• Wasserauen Ebenalp Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Montreux Montreux
• Airolo Airolo
• Aletsch Arena Aletsch Arena
• Basel Basel
• Zernez Zernez
• Sep Appenzell
• Sep Seengen
• Sep Monte Generoso and Valle di Muggio
• Oct Albulatal / Bergün
• Oct Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces
• Oct Jura & Three-Lakes
• Nov Noiraigue
• Nov Fribourg / Freiburg
• Nov S. Carlo
• Dec Veytaux
• Dec Schwarzsee
• Dec Lausanne
• Jan Engelberg
• Jan Stoos – Fronalpstock
• Feb Zermatt
• Feb Engadin
• Feb St. Gallen
• Feb Saas-Fee
• Mar Jungfraujoch
• Mar Crans-Montana
• Mar Andermatt
• Apr Lucerne
• Apr Emmental
• Apr Neuhausen am Rheinfall
• May Kandersteg
• May Unterwasser
• May Brissago Island
• Jun Wildhaus
• Jun Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park
• Jun Viamala
• Jul Wasserauen Ebenalp
• Jul Montreux
• Aug Aletsch Arena

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• Hallwyl Castle (Schloss Hallwyl)

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The Matterhorn and Switzerland are inseparably linked to each other. The pyramid shaped colossus of a mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the most-photographed mountain in the world. The Klein-Matterhorn ("Little Matterhorn"), which can be reached via a funicular, lies adjacent to the Matterhorn.

The Rhine Falls

To stand high above Europe's largest waterfall, feeling the roar and vibration of the water over one's entire body - this can be experienced at the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen. By ship one can reach castles, the Rhine Falls Basin and even the mighty rock in the midst of the waterfall.

On the Top of Europe: A visit to the Jungfraujoch puts a jewel in the crown of any visit to Switzerland.

Château de Chillon

Chillon Castle is located on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva. The water castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland. For nearly four centuries Chillon was the residence and profitable toll station of the Counts of Savoy.

Creux du Van

"Creux du Van", a natural rock arena of immense proportions, is located at the border of the cantons of Neuenburg and Vaud. Impressive 160 meter high vertical rock faces surround a four kilometer long and over one kilometer wide valley basin.

Aletsch - the Largest Alpine Glacier

Incredibly immense, incredibly beautiful: the Large Aletsch Glacier is the Alps' mightiest ice flow. And the most popular, for it is easily accessible and is ideally situated for extensive hikes, winter sports and special nature excursions.

Swiss Museum of Transportation

Switzerland’s most visited museum showcases the past, present and future of mobility with interactive and varied exhibits. In addition to the museum, unique attractions found nowhere else in Switzerland, such as the film theatre, planetarium, Swiss Chocolate Adventure and Media World, are just waiting to be discovered.

10,000 years ago, 100 billion cubic metres of rock thundered into the valley. Known as the Flims Rockslide, this event created the Ruinaulta, a canyon-like gorge in the Anterior Rhine Valley that can be reached on foot, over water, by train or by bike.

Extend your business trip. Fly another day.

Zurich – for inquisitive urban explorers, recommendation summer, summer: vacation and excursion tips, everything about hiking, the grand tour of switzerland.

The most scenic road trip

City: tips for holidays and outings

Expert tips, waterside hikes.

What could be lovelier than a hike to a lake, along a river or even near a glacier? Water is a constant companion on these nine hikes. Immerse yourself.

Highlights by Train, Bus and Boat

Switzerland by train, bus and boat: The way of travelling that is as exciting as it is relaxing. Swiss public transport carries travellers away to the most fascinating panoramic routes, the most beautiful mountain summits and the most romantic boat tours.

Encounter local wild animals, sample traditional delicacies and learn all there is to know about handicrafts and architectural witnesses to history in our country. And, if that is not adventure enough, you should absolutely explore our adventure and theme trails.

Experience Switzerland on the golf course, at a highwire park, on a climbing wall or on inline skates.

Eight tips for a money-saving holiday in Switzerland

A holiday in Switzerland need not be expensive. Using these eight tips, a stay in Switzerland is possible whatever your budget.

• 14 Sep Trailrunning Wildstrubel UTMB Adelboden, 14.09.2024
• 14 Sep Alpine descent and farmers' market Urnäsch Urnäsch, 14.09.2024
• until 22 Sep The Swiss Week of taste for the good eating Schweiz / Suisse / Switzerland, 12.09. - 22.09.2024
• until 19 Jan colonial Zurich
• 16 Sep Sheep fair and « désalpe » in Jaun Jaun - Dorf, 16.09.2024
• 16 Sep Sichlete on the Bundesplatz Bern, 16.09.2024
• 17 Sep Cattle show Herisau Herisau, 17.09.2024
• 20 Sep Chästeilet Justistal 2023 Sigriswil, 20.09.2024

Golfhotel Les Hauts de Gstaad & SPA ****(Superior), Saanenmöser Blue Skies in the Autumn

Double room valid: 14.09.2024 - 31.10.2024

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25 best places to visit in Switzerland

Itinerary guides , Switzerland 29 comments

Beautiful scenic locations, stunningly pretty lakes and mountains, charming towns and villages, the yummiest chocolates and cheeses, and superlative public transportation – what’s not to love about Switzerland! (Except maybe how expensive it is but hey, you get used to it after a while!) You could spend years in Switzerland and still continue to be overwhelmed by how spectacular everything is! To give you a taste of the best of it, here’s my list of the best, most epic places to visit in Switzerland.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Click here for a detailed travel guide to Switzerland – including the best time to visit, itinerary options (for 3, 5, 7 or 10 days), visa, transportation in Switzerland (including Swiss Pass), and more!

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Have limited time in Switzerland? Here’s a 5-day Switzerland itinerary to take in the best of the country!

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The most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

Surrounded by snow capped mountains and crystal clear water, Bachalpsee is the prettiest Swiss mountain lake.

Located in the Bernese Oberland at a height of ~2200 m, amidst lush Alpine greenery and snowy vistas, Bachalpsee is a must-visit place in Switzerland . This is a day trip we take all our visitors to give them a jaw-dropping experience! 

The walk upto the lake is just as spectacular as the lake –  the sharp peaks of Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn are visible on the opposite side of the valley as you hike along it. This is the hike that will get you excited for more hikes in the Swiss Alps!

Best time to visit Bachalpsee: Bachalpsee can be visited during the spring/ summer depending on snow conditions. The best time to visit Bachalpsee is during the summer, around May-June when the flowers are at their best and the crowds are much thinner.

Wondering about the best time to visit Switzerland? Here’s my guide: What is the best time to visit Switzerland?

How to get to Bachalpsee: Head first to Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland region – easily accessible by car or train from anywhere in Switzerland. At Grindelwald, head to the Grindelwald First cable car station and take the gondola up to Grindelwald First. A 3 km easy hike from there will bring you to Bachalpsee.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bachalpsee: Grindelwald First is a beautiful mountain with a thrilling cliff walk which helps you take in the views in an even better way! There are several more activities such as first glider, first flyer, first mountain cart and trottibike available at this mountain.

Where to stay to visit Bachalpsee: Base yourself at Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for a quick trip to Bachalpsee. You can also visit the lake as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Bachalpsee

Read my complete guide to visiting Bachalpsee and my guide to the First Cliff Walk .

Oeschinensee

Oeschinensee is a bright blue Swiss mountain lake – unbelievably photogenic and much lesser known, making for fewer crowds!

Located in the Bernese Oberland region at a height of ~1600 m the lake makes for a stunning landscape. Surrounded by sharp peaks and a small waterfall at one end , Oeschinensee is ridiculously beautiful and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. This lake also features high on our list of places to take visitors to!

The very short optional hike to the lake adds to the charm of the experience . The landscapes along the hike are simply breathtaking and quite different to most other hikes you’ll do in the Swiss Alps.

You can also take a boat out to see the waterfall up close – and get a little workout for your arms!

Best time to visit Oeschinensee: May to October are the best months to hike to Oeschinensee. The lake freezes over in winter and the trails usually open by May.

How to get to Oeschinensee: From Zurich, take the train or drive up to the town of Kandersteg and head to the Oeschinensee cable car station. Take the gondola up to the top station, Oeschinen Bergstation and from there either take the electric bus or (recommended!) take the easy 2 km hike to the lake.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Oeschinensee: Ride the toboggan (or the mountain coaster) down the mountain for an exhilarating experience. Take up more hikes in the region – some take you higher up into the mountains for more spectacular views of Oeschinensee.

Where to stay to visit Oechinensee: Base yourself at Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for a quick trip to Oeschinensee. You can also visit the lake as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Oeschinensee

Read my complete guide to visiting Oeschinensee.

One of the steepest funiculars in Switzerland takes you up to the lake – on a ride that feels more like a roller coaster than a train!

You would have seen sped-up versions of this funicular on social media and though the actual ride is not quite as exciting, it’s spectacular nonetheless!

Crystal clear water, mirror-like reflections and no tourists – this lake is a treat to visit. There’s an optional 2-hour hike that you can do around the lake for even better views, or just walk along the dam and relax on the small beach.

We had booked our tickets for this lake a few times before we were finally able to make it there! Some of the times it was down to bad weather while other times it was our inability to get up early in the morning (the overconfident me had often booked tickets for the earliest time slot which meant leaving from Zurich at the crack of dawn, easier said than done!)!

The time we were finally able to make it was absolutely fantastic – it’s quite hard to believe how beautiful the place is . The pictures hardly do it justice!

Best time to visit Gelmersee: The Gelmerbahn runs from May to October and tickets are sold for exact time slots. Try to visit around May – June, preferably in the morning to enjoy the hike and the lake with minimal crowds.

How to get to Gelmersee: This lake is located near Meiringen, about 2 hours’ drive from Zurich and makes for an excellent day trip. It is easily accessible by car, however there are only limited connections with public transportation .

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Gelmersee: After you have visited the lake, you can also continue driving towards the Grimsel Pass for stunning panoramic views , and 3 more lakes to enjoy! 

Where to stay to visit Gelmersee: Meiringen or Interlaken, both of which are ~45 minutes’ drive away.

See also: Where to stay near Gelmersee

Bannalpsee is a hidden gem – a beautiful lake set amidst tall cliffs and with no people around! 

Bannalpsee is a reservoir in Wolfenschiessen in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden and was built in the 1930s. This lake is located close to Engelberg, home to the famous Mt. Titlis. 

While there are several hiking options, if you are a more laid back traveller (like me!) you can reach Bannalpsee taking a very short walk. 

While this may not be my absolute favourite lake, it’s one I’d happily go back to for more visits since it’s usually so empty. It’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve come across in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Bannalpsee: If you are there just to visit the lake, May to October would be ideal. The cable car runs during winter too if you’re interested in winter activities.

How to get to Bannalpsee: You need to get to the Fellboden cable car station or the Fell station to take the cable car up to the lake. If you are driving the address for the GPS is: Fellboden, 6387 Wolfenschiessen, Switzerland. By public transportation, take the train to Wolfenschiessen and then the bus from Wolfenschiessen Bahnof to Oberrickenbach, Talstat followed by a 2 minute walk to the Fellboden cable car station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bannalpsee: Located just 15-20 minutes’ drive (or train ride) away is the town of Engelberg, home to the cable car heading up to the famous Mt. Titlis.

Where to stay to visit Bannalpsee: Engelberg is closest to the lake, however Lucerne or Zurich would be more central locations to stay at.

See also: Where to stay near Bannalpsee

Read my complete guide to visiting Bannalpsee .

Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz’s powder blue colour and it’s stunning location surrounded by the mountains of the Bernese Oberland make it a breathtaking place to visit.

The town of Brienz located at the shores of this lake makes for the perfect spot to enjoy the lake. There is a wonderful promenade along the lake lined with beautiful wood carvings. Brienz town and the lake are bucket-list worthy places to visit in Switzerland!

Fun fact: The town of Brienz has a long history of woodworking and you’ll find fascinating carvings everywhere !

I’ve loved this lake ever since I first took the Golden Panorama train ride in Switzerland back in 2013 and then brought my husband back to it during our honeymoon! Can’t believe my luck that I’ve visited it so many more times now that I live in Switzerland!

We’ve been to this lake both during the summer and during the winter and every time it’s been fairly empty and we’ve had the most wonderful experiences. The milky blue colour of Brienzersee is very unique and it is one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Brienzersee: All year round! 

How to get to Brienzersee: One of the easiest lakes to reach, you just need to get to the town of Brienz – easily accessible by public transportation or by car!

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Brienzersee: Take the charming steam train up to Brienz Rothorn, the 2350 meter summit for some panoramic views.

Where to stay to visit Brienzersee: Stay right in the town of Brienz or at nearby Interlaken.

See also: Where to stay near Brienzersee

Read my guide to visiting Lake Brienz .

Blausee is the bluest lake you’ll ever see – its name literally means Blue Lake!

This small lake with crystal clear waters is located in a beautiful nature park . There is a trail that goes around the lake taking you through pine trees and moss-covered boulders. You are guaranteed to feel transported to an enchanted forest here!

There is an interesting legend behind Blausee . It is said that the lake is deep blue in colour because of the deep blue coloured eyes of the young girl who died of a broken heart. In eternal memory of the love of this girl, there’s even an underwater statue at Blausee!

Best time to visit Blausee: The park is open year round so pick your time! Try and avoid the peak summer season to enjoy the place in peace.

How to get to Blausee: If you’re driving, the GPS coordinates you need are: 46°32’02.0″N 7°40’01.6″E. We’ve visited Blausee on day trips from Zurich multiple times and it is easily doable. If you’re using public transportation, head to the train stations of Frutigen or Kandersteg and take the bus to Blausee.

Where to stay to visit Blausee: You can choose to stay at Grand Hotel – the hotel right in the park itself or in the nearby town of Kandersteg. You can also base yourself at Interlaken or Bern.

See also: Where to stay near Blausee

Located in the town of Flims in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, Caumasee is one of the least-touristy places in Switzerland.

Caumasee quite whimsically translates to Lake of Noon Rest. Surrounded by forests, it’s an ideal place to relax, swim and have a picnic. The most stunning feature of the lake is its turquoise green water, unlike anything you may have seen before. Caumasee is easily accessible by a very short walk. It can be visited standalone without the need for a hike. Take a virtual tour of the lake here.

We also took our parents to the lake and despite the long drive from Zurich, they were enthralled by the place. Bonus for us was that we reached the place after 5 pm so the entry was free!

Flims was the first area in Switzerland that we hiked in and though the hike may not be as spectacular as some in the Bernese Oberland region, it was still absolutely amazing. Tall mountains, beautiful forests and wild flowers made the trail supremely beautiful.

Best time to visit Caumasee: While you can visit the lake year-round, check the weather cam before you visit. The Caumasee lift and the bathing area at Caumasee are open from the end of May to October. While the lift helps save some time, it’s not essential to reach the lake.

How to get to Caumasee: You need to first get to the Flims Waldhaus bus stop. From there, follow the signs along the parking lot behind the bus stop to Caumasee lift – it’s an easy 10-15 minute walk. This lift takes you directly down to the lake. You can also skip the lift and walk another 15 minutes down to the lake if so inclined.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Caumasee: Take a hike from Caumasee to The Rhine Gorge, Switzerland’s very own Grand Canyon. This 13-kilometer long gorge is the result of geological events tracing back 10,000 years. While you can see the Rhine Gorge from several points along the way, the best views are from the viewing platform – The Il Spir viewing platform is located just a few minutes from Restaurant Conn. The Swiss grand canyon in all its glory can be seen from here.

Where to stay to visit Caumasee: Stay at the nearby town of Flims or if you have the energy, stay in Zurich and visit Caumasee as a day trip (which has been our preferred way to visit the lake several times!)

See also: Where to stay near Caumasee

Read my detailed guide to visiting Caumasee and the hike to the Swiss Grand Canyon.

Klöntalersee

Klöntalersee is a large Alpine lake surrounded by lush green forests and tall mountains.

Ridiculously photogenic and completely devoid of tourists, Klöntalersee is one of the hidden gems of Switzerland . 

This emerald lake occupies a large portion of the Klöntal valley and is used as a natural reservoir. There is a lovely trail along the lake through the forests where you can hike, picnic or swim.

We came across this lake when we were looking for places to visit in Glarus in Switzerland since that was a canton that we hadn’t been to much. Surprisingly, it took quite a bit of research to come across this beautiful lake! Well, now the secret is out! Add Klöntalersee to your list of places to visit in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Klöntalersee: All year round! If you’d like to swim or take the drive up to Klausen pass, choose the summer season to visit the lake.

How to get to Klöntalersee: Drive or take the train to Glarus. From there head to Klöntal and follow signs to Klöntalersee.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Klöntalersee: Take a drive along the stunning mountain scenery to Klausen Pass – an Alpine pass at a height of ~2000 m . The views from the top of the pass are absolutely spectacular. 

Where to stay to visit Klöntalersee: Stay at the town of Glarus nearby or camp at the lake itself! There are large camping grounds next to the lake.

See also: Where to stay near Klöntalersee

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Here are more useful tips.

Switzerland’s most stunning mountains

Mt. Rigi offers an all-encompassing experience of all that’s wonderful about Switzerland!

A trip to Mount Rigi from Lucerne includes a cruise on the delightful Lake Lucerne, a ride on a steep funicular, spectacular views from the Rigi cogwheel train, a beautiful mountain top and stunning views across Central Switzerland – and surprisingly few tourists! There are 13 lakes that you can see from the top ! On a clear day, even the sharp peaks of several Jungfrau giants are visible. 

A visit to Mount Rigi is fully covered under the Swiss pass. Need I sell the place more?! Make sure it’s on your list of places to visit in Switzerland! 

Best time to visit Mt. Rigi: Rigi is open for visits all year round – from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter, there’s a lot to do here!

How to get to Mt. Rigi: Start at Lucerne and take a ferry to Vitznau. You can buy a round trip ticket for the entire journey up to and back from Rigi Kulm right at the ferry ticket counter. Take the mountain railway from Vitznau to Rigi Kulm.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Mt. Rigi: There are multiple hiking trails on Mt. Rigi. Here’s where you can find more details .

Where to stay to visit Mt. Rigi: Lucerne or Zurich are both ideal for this trip. If you’re staying in Zurich, add about 45 min – 1 hour travel time for this excursion.

See also: Where to stay near Mt. Rigi

Read my complete travel guide to visiting Mount Rigi .

Schilthorn offers 360 degree panoramic views of the Swiss skyline including the giants of the Bernese Oberland region – Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

At a height of 2970 m, Schilthorn is one of the highest peaks in the region located across the Lauterbrunnen valley from the famous Jungfraujoch . From the multiple viewing platforms, you get spectacular views of 200+ mountain peaks!

Famous for being the shooting location for a Bond movie, there are Bond motifs all over the mountain. Enjoy the photo booths and the trivia about Bond movies here.

Another landmark at Schilthorn is Piz Gloria, the famous rotating restaurant! Enjoy a meal while taking in views of the mountains around you.

Best time to visit Schilthorn: Year-round! Since Schilthorn is less touristy than Jungfraujoch, you can easily get tickets and enjoy the views with much fewer crowds

How to get to Schilthorn: Head to Stechelberg, near Lauterbrunnen and take the cable cars upto Schilthorn.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Schilthorn: Stop over at Brig for the thrilling cliff walk and at Murren to take a stroll through the charming car free village.

Where to stay to visit Schilthorn: Stay at Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken to make the easy trip to Schilthorn. We have (as usual!) visited this place as a day trip from Zurich.

See also: Where to stay near Schilthorn

Mount Titlis

Mount Titlis is always our recommendation to visitors asking for a snow capped mountain to discover in Switzerland.

Cheaper than most other attractions (I’m looking at you Jungfraujoch!) and just as spectacular, Mt. Titlis is a must-visit place in Switzerland.

At ~3200 m, Titlis is one of the highest mountains in Switzerland and is perpetually covered in snow. The landscapes from the top are absolutely breathtaking. There are multiple viewing areas which give you 360-degrees views of the mountains around.

The thrilling cliff walk is one of our favourite features at Mt. Titlis. Walk through the snow to get to the start of the cliff walk, and end it in an ice cave – could there be anything more fun!

Best time to visit Mt. Titlis: Open year round, Titlis is an amazing place to visit in any season – just make sure it’s a clear sunny day.

How to get to Mt. Titlis: Drive or take the train to Engelberg where the Titlis cable car station is located and take the gondolas up to the mountain.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Mt. Titlis: Discover the pretty village of Engelberg!

Where to stay to visit Mt. Titlis: Stay at Engelberg for a quick visit to Titlis or stay at Lucerne or Zurich and visit Titlis as a day trip. Guess our preferred way to visit Mt. Titlis – that’s right, a day trip from Zurich!

See also: Where to stay near Mt. Titlis

Read my guide to visiting Mount Titlis .

Harder Kulm

Interlaken’s own mountain, Harder Kulm offers views like no other – from the stunningly blue Brienzersee to the emerald blue Thunersee, with the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau in the background.

Located at 1300 m, Harder Kulm is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. Take in the spectacular views from the Zwei-Seen-Steg (Two-Lakes-Bridge) or from the castle-like restaurant next to it.

Best time to visit Harder Kulm: The gondola that takes you up to Harder Kulm operates from April to November. Avoid the peak July – August season if you’d rather not stand in queues.

How to get to Harder Kulm: The easiest mountain to reach, Harder Kulm is super easy to visit. Take the 10-minute cable car up from the gondola station located next to the Interlaken train station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Harder Kulm: Several panoramic hikes start from Harder Kulm, or if you’re not feeling too adventurous, head down to the town of Interlaken and take a stroll through the pretty streets.

Where to stay to visit Harder Kulm: Interlaken forms the perfect base location not just to visit Harder Kulm, but also to visit all the attractions in the Bernese Oberland region.

See also: Where to stay in Interlaken

Fronalpstock (& Stoos)

The world’s steepest funicular (with a 110 percent incline and covering ~740 metres altitude in just about 5 minutes!) brings you to the charming village of Stoos, located at the foot of the Fronalpstock mountain.

Stoos is a beautiful village that you can walk across in about 30 minutes.

Once you’ve explored the village, take the chair lift and head up to the mountain for some panoramic views and spectacular hikes. Located at ~1900 m Fronalpstock has several viewing platforms and hiking paths to take in the stunning views over Lake Lucerne and 9 other lakes!

We took our parents on a short hike at Fronalpstock and they loved it! We had panoramic views of Lake Lucerne throughout the hike, as well as tall Alpine peaks of central Switzerland in the background.

Best time to visit Stoos: Year round! Go in the summer for the beautiful hikes and in the winter for fun winter sports.

How to get to Stoos: If you’re driving, head to Stoosbahn to take the funicular up to the village. Using public transportation, head to Schwyz and take the bus to Stoosbahn.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Stoos: Explore the beautiful lakes of Lucerne or Zug nearby.

See also: Where to stay near Stoos

Switzerland’s best Waterfalls

Rhine falls.

Europe’s most powerful waterfall, the Rhine falls, are our go-to day trip for any visitors.

We’ve already been to Rhine Falls 5+ times already and every outing continues to amaze us! 

These falls are super easy to reach and are among the cheapest but most amazing places to visit in Switzerland !

There are multiple platforms built along the falls that give you an opportunity to see them up close. Standing in front of the gushing waterfall will leave you spell bound!

Best time to visit Rhine Falls: Rhine Falls remain open throughout the year. It’s equally wonderful to take in the falls with snow surrounding them in the winter as it is to visit in the summer. I’ve been there in April, June and July and have enjoyed myself every time. I’d still suggest Summer as the best time, preferably May to July to get the best views.

How to get to Rhine Falls: Rhine Falls are easily accessible by train or by road from Zurich/ Lucerne. If you’re using public transportation, head to Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall. A short walk (or an elevator ride) up from the station is the Schloss (German for castle) where the falls are located. If you’re driving, head to Parking am Schloss Laufen.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Rhine Falls: The charming town of Schaffhausen is located very close to the falls. Explore the wooden buildings and the beautiful painted facades in this historic town.

Where to stay to visit Rhine Falls: Zurich would make an excellent place to base yourself in to explore these falls.

See also: Where to stay near Rhine Falls

Read my detailed guide to visiting the Rhine Falls .

Trümmelbach Falls

One of the most unique waterfalls I’ve ever seen, Trümmelbach Falls are Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Set inside a mountain, these are a series of 10 waterfalls fed by the Jungfrau glaciers . Superb Swiss engineering allows you to access these falls through underground lifts and galleries.

Deafeningly roaring water will greet you as you go inside the caves to see these falls – you’ll feel awed and supremely tiny in the face of the waterfalls!

As amazing as these falls are, they are very difficult to capture on camera – the low lights and the sprays of water do not help.

Best time to visit Trümmelbach Falls: The falls are open to visitors from April to November and are very busy during July – August. 

How to get to Trümmelbach Falls: About a 5-minute drive from Lauterbrunnen you’ll see signs for Trümmelbachfälle. If you’re using public transportation, take the post bus from Lauterbrunnen.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Trümmelbach Falls: Hike back from the falls to Lauterbrunnen through the valley of 72 waterfalls! On the way, spend some time at the famous Staubbach Falls.

Where to stay to visit Trümmelbach Falls: Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken would be ideally suited for a visit to these falls (and multiple other places in the Bernese Oberland region!). You can also visit as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Trümmelbach Falls

Reichenbach Falls 

I’m not saying I sneaked this one into this list since I love Sherlock Holmes, but hey, who doesn’t love Sherlock Holmes, right?!

The famous Reichenbach Falls are the setting of Doyle’s ‘The Final Problem’ where Sherlock fights Moriarty to his death (albeit a temporary one since he was resurrected later!). You will find odes to the great detective everywhere near these falls, including a small museum!

While Reichenbach Falls are not the most spectacular of waterfalls in Switzerland, the sweeping views of the valley from the top make it worth a visit.

Best time to visit Reichenbach Falls: The Reichenbachfall-Bahn funicular operates from May to October

How to get to Reichenbach Falls: Head to the Meiringen railway station and take a bus to the Reichenbachfall-Bahn funicular, or drive directly to the funicular station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Reichenbach Falls: Visit the spectacular Aare Gorge , located just a 10 minutes’ drive from Reichenbach Falls. The Aare Gorge is a stunning rock formation made by the Aare river eroding a series of rocks over thousands of years. There are a series of walkways inside the gorge to give you a close glimpse of this awe-inspiring geological phenomenon.

Where to stay to visit Reichenbach Falls: Base yourself at Meiringen or at Interlaken to visit most places in the Bernese Oberland region. Or, per my usual advice, visit as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne!

See also: Where to stay near Reichenbach Falls

the most Charming Swiss Cities & Towns

Zürich is a vibrant cosmopolitan city steeped in culture and history dating back 5000 years.

A beautiful river and a stunning lake surrounded by lush green hills add to the charm of this city.

I’ve called Zürich home for a few months now and can already understand why it ranks so highly on the list of cities with the world’s best quality of life. Head on to Zürich to discover for yourself and be prepared to be amazed at the plentiful opportunities (and mostly free ones!) for leisure, enjoyment and relaxation and the beautiful cultural and gastronomic diversity.

Every time I’m out in the old town of Zurich for shopping I’m tempted to take pictures and join the hordes of tourists doing the same! It’s just so pretty that I can’t help it!

Best time to visit Zürich: Any time! You can enjoy the beautiful Christmas markets and wonderful holiday season during the winter or come during summer for wonderful views and spectacular hikes.

See also: Where to stay in Zürich

Read my complete guide to Zurich, including things to do in every season, the best places to eat and stay at, and tips on getting around .

Lucerne is a fairy-tale like town, complete with charming cobbled streets, a stunning lake, snow peaked mountains and quaint buildings.

One of the most romantic places to visit in Switzerland , Lucerne will take your breath away!

From the charming old town to the famous Kapellbrücke, the Lion Monument, and the spectacular lake promenade, Lucerne has plenty of amazing sights to keep you engrossed in the town itself. 

Head on to the nearby mountains for panoramic views and opportunities for hiking (or skiing!).

Best time to visit Lucerne: Anytime! The beautiful town covered in snow looks just as magical as when it is covered in flowers! 

See also: Where to stay in Lucerne

Read my guide to Lucerne , including the best things to do, the best day trips to take and all the information you need to plan your trip to Lucerne!

Another fairytale-like (and charmingly car-free) town – inches of snow and the magnificent Matterhorn make Zermatt one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland.

Zermatt is a beautiful town located at an elevation of 1600 m, below the iconic Matterhorn . It’s a popular place for mountaineering, skiing and hiking. Or even a beautiful stroll in the town if you are the more laid back type.

We visited Zermatt on a day trip from Zurich (I know, ambitious right?!) and the 3 hours in the train to get there were tiring but worth it! The fresh air at Zermatt is enough to invigorate anyone! Plus, on the way back we decided to skip the regular route and took the Glacier Express route on a whim and it turned out to be a fantastic decision – we got to explore the beauty of the glaciers without paying the exorbitant ticket prices for the actual Glacier Express.

Best time to visit Zermatt: Anytime – Ski in the winter and hike in the summer!  Even if you are not into either of these activities, the views from taking various excursions such as the trains to Gornergrat or the cable car to Sunnegga, are worth a visit.

See also: Where to stay in Zermatt

Read my guide to the best things to do in Zermatt .

Let’s head to the Mediterranean side of Switzerland for a bit and take in Ascona, the pearl of Lake Maggiore!

Ascona is a historic village with a rich medieval and Renaissance history. As you stroll down the streets, you’ll be enthralled by the cultural and historic landmarks. The lakefront is my favourite place in Ascona – with colourful houses and cafes lining the promenade, it’s an amazing place to take a stroll in (and have some fantastic Italian food!).

We last visited Ascona during the winter and while there was snow everywhere on the drive from Zurich, Ascona was wonderfully bright and sunny ! (It’s another story that our car decided to make us extend our stay in the town by bursting one tyre! But hey, walking in a town is any day better than driving right?!)

Best time to visit Ascona: Anytime! The mild Mediterranean climate of Ascona means you’ll be able to enjoy sunny days whenever you visit.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Ascona: Visit the town of Locarno on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. This is Switzerland’s warmest town and just as pretty as Ascona!

See also: Where to stay in Ascona

Continuing your sojourn in southern Switzerland, head to Lugano located on the shores of Lake Lugano.

The Swiss-Italian mix of cultures in everything, from the food to the architecture will charm you to no end!

Stroll around the historic town centre or take the funicular up to Monte Brè for sweeping panoramic views over the lake and the mountains.

We visited Lugano over a weekend when we were headed to Lake Como and loved the place so much that we’ve been itching to go back! Our love for the city has not been hampered much (well maybe just a bit!) by the hundreds of Swiss Francs we had to pay in fines for disobeying a red light (by the most minuscule amount, barely a fraction of a second!).

Best time to visit Lugano: Visit in spring to enjoy the flowers blooming everywhere, especially along the lake promenade

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lugano: Bellinzona famous for its historic castles or Lake Como which is just a ~45 minutes’ drive away.

See also: Where to stay in Lugano

One of the lesser known places in Switzerland, Lavertezzo is a picturesque village, also in southern Switzerland.

The unique stone buildings in the village give it a very historic, romantic charm .

My favourite feature of the place is the 17th century double-arched stone bridge Ponte dei Salti over the River Verzasca. This strikingly emerald-coloured river will make you question whether it’s possible to have such vivid colours naturally! Smooth, bright white rocks along the river add to its other-worldly charm and make for the perfect spots to sunbathe or relax after a swim.

Best time to visit Lavertezzo: Visit during the summer so you can take a dip in the beautiful river!

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lavertezzo: Ascona is located just about 30 minutes away from Lavertezzo so you can combine the two into a day trip!

See also: Where to stay in Lavertezzo

From the Italian speaking part of Switzerland, head next to the French speaking one! 

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) , Montreux is a beautiful town with postcard-perfect landscapes. Start exploring the town from the pretty lake promenade, lined with flowers, interesting sculptures and cafes. This is our favourite part of the town and we always end up spending hours here often walking all the way to the Chillon Castle.

Montreux is also the end/ start station for the Golden Pass train line , one of the must-do train journeys in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Montreux: Summer, to see the flowers in all their glory, as well as the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. The famous Montreux Jazz Festival is held in this season too.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Montreux: Located little over an hour away on the other side of the lake is the city of Geneva. Visit the beautiful lakefront and the famous fountain Jet d’Eau, the Flower Clock in the English Garden and the charming old town.

See also: Where to stay in Montreux

Lauterbrunnen

Heading back into the heart of Switzerland and the Swiss Alps, unarguably the most beautiful region of Switzerland – the Bernese Oberland.

The small, traditionally Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen is located in a huge valley, surrounded by tall mountains and gigantic rock faces. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known for its 72 (!) waterfalls and beautiful alpine meadows. Stroll through the valley and try to spot as many waterfalls as you can!

I’ve lost count of how many times we’ve driven through this village and every time the landscapes have made us look up in awe!

Lauterbrunnen is where you can base yourself at for most excursions in the Bernese Oberland region – Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald, Schynige Platte, Trummelbach Falls, and more!

Best time to visit Lauterbrunnen: Anytime! Summer opens up more opportunities for hiking and mountain visits though.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lauterbrunnen: Take your pick of any place to visit in the Bernese Oberland region!

See also: Where to stay in Lauterbrunnen

The capital city of Bern is severely underrated for how pretty a place it is!

Surrounded on 3 sides by the Aare river, Bern is a historically and culturally rich city.

The old town of Bern is breathtaking to walk through with its numerous fountains and beautiful sandstone facades. The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland!

Somehow all our trips to Bern have been when it’s been raining so all my memories of Bern include an umbrella! However, despite the bad weather, we’ve always enjoyed a stroll through the old town towards the elevated Rose Garden above the Bear Park.

Best time to visit Bern: All year round! 

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bern: Bern is located in the heart of Switzerland and acts as the gateway to the Alps. Most places in the Bernese Oberland are within easy reach of the city. If you’re looking for something slightly different, make the ~1 hour journey to Gruyère and see cheese being made!

See also: Where to stay in Bern

Looking for more beautiful Swiss cities? Here’s a Basel city guide to inspire you!

Best places to visit in Switzerland on the map

Have you visited any of these places? Tell me about your experience!

Which place would you like to visit the most? Let me know in the comments below.

More information for your trip to Switzerland:

ITINERARY GUIDE: Travel guide to Switzerland | 5 days in Switzerland | Best time to visit Switzerland BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS: 25 best places to visit in Switzerland HIDDEN GEMS: 10 hidden gems in Switzerland TRAIN RIDES: The Golden Pass train line HIKES: Bannalpsee | Oeschinensee | Hike to Bachalpsee | Swiss Grand Canyon  |  Gornergrat hike  |  5 lakes hike LAKES : 7 most beautiful lakes in Switzerland | Lake Brienz | Melchsee-Frutt MOUNTAINS: Mount Titlis | Mount Rigi | Schynige Platte CITIES/ VILLAGES: Zürich | Zermatt  | Lucerne

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TRAVEL RESOURCES

Planning a trip? Here are some of my go-to travel resources to make it more efficient for you, while staying within budget!

ACCOMMODATION – Booking.com  is my favourite platform for hotel or apartment bookings. I love their map interface (I prefer to stay within walking distance of major attractions!) and they have an excellent customer service

FLIGHTS – I prefer to use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. I often use their monthly view of prices to decide my travel dates!

TOURS & ACTIVITIES – Get Your Guide  is my go-to choice for fun tours and activities. They have a wide range of options and a great interface.

TRAVEL INSURANCE –  Travel insurance is absolutely essential for all your international travels. I’ve been saved by it a few times when I fell sick while travelling and I swear by it since then! World Nomads is an excellent choice for travel insurance.

29 Comments

Loved reading this post as it brought back lovely memories of our visits to Switzerland. The country is a real treasure trove of nature and there is so much to see. We loved visiting Lucerne on a misty morning, it looked so ethereal. Our other favourites were Zermatt and Gornergrat. We also discovered some offbeat places like Rapperswil and Uster.

Goodness Smita you really have made the most of your time in Switzerland. You have been to sooooo many ridiculously beautiful places. I am so in love with all those crazy blue lakes!!

p.s. It made me smile that you booked to visit Gelmersee a couple of times before you made it there! I know what you mean about waking up early for adventures – it seems soooo hard when you actually wake up!

haha yeah Josy, somehow managed that! Can’t wake up early for the life of me!

Inspiring blog post and absolutely gorgeous photos. You had me at the Oeschinensee – I had never heard about this lake and really hope to visit it soon. Thank you for all the recommendations!

What a great round-up of places to see in Switzerland. I’ve never been, but would love to get there one day. It’s so beautiful!

Wow, look at those clear blue lakes and bright green landscapes, stunning! I’d love to visit Switzerland, especially after seeing your pics :-)

Every single time I read your blog, I am amazed at the sheer stunning beauty of Switzerland! It is gorgeous. I am trying to talk my husband into taking our next vacation here, because of how beautiful it is.

Wow this is a great guide to Switzerland. I have been to some of them. Reminded of my visit to Rhine Falls from your lovely pictures. I would love to visit Bern again.

Oh my goodness, so many wonderful places to see in Switzerland. I haven’t been since I was a child and only went to Lucerne. I desperately need to visit some of these gorgeous lakes. I can’t imagine why Klontalersee was completely devoid of tourists. It is stunning! Oeschinensee is unbelievably beautiful also. I wouldn’t be able to go on the steep funicular to Stoos, as I’m not a fan of rollercoasters. How else can you get there?

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more organized and beautiful travel blog post as this one! Switzerland is a place we still want to visit, so this one hit my bookmarks folder!

Switzerland certainly has a lot to offer! When I was a kid, my parents used to take me to Bodensee in Konstanz, Germany to visit relatives. It’s right at the German-Swiss border, so we would take a boat to visit Switzerland on a day trip. Now whenever we drive down to Italy, we have to cross Switzerland. Last time we stopped in Lugano for 2 days and liked it a lot. But we should certainly visit Switzerland for a longer period since there are so many amazing towns and sceneries! And by the way, I was supposed to go to Bern for work last year. Now I kinda regret that I cancelled that work trip!

Switzerland is on my travel bucket list. The views are amazing.

Hello Smita,

Thank you very much for the great collection of 25 best places to visit in Switzerland with fantastic photos. You provided a lot of information in one post – more than I could digest at once LOL. I bookmarked your post to come back when I start planning my trip to Switzerland. You are absolutely right: the lakes and mountains views are jaw-dropping.

Cities are good, but I love nature more. I liked the wood sculpture you posted the picture of, in the town of Brienz. :)

I’ve been to Switzerland twice and I loved both cantons I have been too. wonderful country, beautiful, and calm.

I have always wanted to travel to Switzerland, but your photos literally just gave me such a huge case of FOMO! It’s legit so clean and picturesque that I cannot imagine being there to take in all that beauty in person. This was a pretty epic virtual tour and I must thank you for it.

It seems to be that Switzerland is all about glorious blue lakes and mountains, mountain, mountains. Would you ever get sick of visiting quaint towns with towering hills and turquoise waters? I don’t reckon so.

This is great – I grew up in Bern, Switzerland and have visited many of these, but certainly not all. There are loads of wonderful places in Switzerland, both in winter for skiing and in summer for hiking and exploring.

One thing to note if you go to Bern in the summer: bring a bathing suit! You can actually swim in the river Aare, looking at the government building while you float along the river. Pretty unique experience.

I studied at les roches in bluche and did my stage in Geneva, Fribourg and craans montana and can relate to all the writing and wonderful pics you have. This is an amazing write-up and your pics are wonderful.

I have spent some time in Lucerne and everywhere around it including Liechtenstein but really haven’t explored much of the rest of Switzerland. So when I was reading these best places to visit in Switzerland I realized I really need to go back and spend a good chunk of time preferably during the warmer months to really explore the outdoors there. I love hiking and backpacking so exploring all the lakes and those waterfalls would be right up my alley! Though I have to say the little kid in me LOVES funiculars for some reason so when you shared that Stoos has the most steep funicular in the world, that immediately jumped into my bucket list project!

I am a HUGE fan of Switzerland. Not just because my part of my family lives there, but the landscapes are absolutely stunning! I try to get there once a year and when I do, we go to Grindelwald for the weekend. The glaciers and mountains are just breathtaking.

Great places! Switzerland is among the places I’m dreaming to settle down.

You are so lucky. I would love to visit Switzerland! Yet, your review and pics make me feel like I’m already there

Awesome! Every place is so picturesque. I can’t even decide where to go first! Thank you for this write up, Switzerland is just amazingly beautiful. ?

As someone who skis I have always wanted to visit Switzerland and I recognize some of the names of these mountains like Schilthorn. I’ve only ever seen Switzerland covered in snow yet these photos of lakes and valleys are stunning. Your pictures are unreal. I hope to one day visit Switzerland.

All these look so picturesque! Especially Oeschinensee. So pretty

Absolutely stunning photos, how can you not fall in love?

You brought my memories back from my visit to this beautiful nation. I visited Switzerland back in 2011, been a long time; almost enough time to visit again.

Switzerland is amazingly beautiful. I have been there only once and have fallen in love with it.

These places in Switzerland are absolutely stunning and picture-perfect! How on Earth is so unfair?! You are so lucky to visit these beauties. The Bachalpsee is truly breathtaking.

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Gruezi, Hi! My name is Smita, a part-time traveller and a travel writer. So far I’ve been what you might call a serendipitous traveller! I got a chance to visit several amazing places more by chance than by design. I would love to put all my extensive travel planning to good use by sharing it with you and hope that these inspire you to visit all those famous, and not-so-famous locations! Read More

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Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Switzerland Airports
• Getting Around
• Places to Visit in Switzerland
• Top Things to Do in Switzerland
• Top Things to Do in Geneva
• One Week Itinerary
• Most Scenic Train Routes
• Switzerland's Nature Parks
• How to Go Skiing
• The Top Hikes
• Matterhorn Complete Guide
• The Most Beautiful Lakes
• Foods to Try
• Best Restaurants

If you've ever ogled over photos of Switzerland's Alpine peaks, rolling meadows, and pristine lakes, you'll be happy to know that it's even more beautiful in person. The central European country is small compared to its neighbors, but it packs a lot into its 16,000 square miles, including 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , more than 1,500 glaciers, and at least that many lakes.

All these geologic wonders add up to some of the more stunning scenery in the world. And that's enough to bring travelers—about 12 million of them per year —to Switzerland. When you factor in the countless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and boating; hearty Swiss food; modern, interesting cities; and what is probably Europe's best public transportation system, you're met with an accessible, exciting, and altogether satisfying vacation destination.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to do while you're here. Ski slopes are open November through March (though there is year-round skiing in a few places), while hiking and swimming are glorious in the summer months. But to beat the crowds, consider a visit in spring or fall.
• Language:  Switzerland's cantons, or states, are mostly either French- or German-speaking. In the southern Ticino canton, Italian is the first language and in the Graubünden/Grisons canton, Romansh, a form of ancient Latin, is still spoken by about 60,000 people. The good news for travelers is that English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, stores, and tourist attractions.
• Currency:  Despite being in the middle of western Europe, Switzerland is not part of the EU, though it participates in the European Common economic market. The official currency here is the Swiss franc (abbreviated CHF). That said, your euros will probably be accepted at most places, though they'll give you change in francs.
• Getting Around :  The clean, convenient, and comprehensive Swiss Travel System is the pride of Switzerland, and rightly so. The system includes trains, buses, lake and river ferries, funiculars, cogwheel trains, ski lifts, and gondolas that permit access to virtually every corner of the country. Because the system is so complete, we recommend touring Switzerland by public transportation, instead of by rental car. From airports and larger train stations, taxis are always available for those who don't feel like schlepping their bags.
• Travel Tip:  If you plan to do a lot of travel within Switzerland, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass , which grants the holder unlimited first- or second-class travel across the country's network of trains, buses, and boats, and most scenic railways. Plus, you'll get admission to more than 500 museums, as well as discounts on mountain excursions. However, if you just plan to visit a couple of places in the country, you can get by with individual train/transit tickets.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Things to Do

While every traveler has their own reasons for visiting Switzerland, the big draws here can more or less be broken down into three categories: scenery, outdoor activities, and Swiss history and culture. Your trip will likely start or end in one of Switzerland's big cities, where that history and culture are on full display. Be sure to plan at least one (or several) excursions into the Swiss countryside, either on an easy or challenging hike, a boat ride across an iconic lake, or a cable car ride up to some of the highest peaks in Europe.

Here are some ideas for planning your Swiss itinerary:

• Explore one of the country's culturally rich cities. If you're flying into Switzerland, you'll most likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Zürich , Switzerland's largest city, is a delightful place to spend a few days taking in art and history museums, dining in centuries-old restaurants, and strolling down the River Limmat. Geneva , in French-speaking Switzerland, is the diplomatic center of Europe, with plenty of history and classical appeal, and an idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Hike, bike, swim, or ski. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find a huge range of outdoor activities in Switzerland—though admittedly, swimming is a bit brisk from October to June! There are biking and hiking routes for every level of fitness, extensive networks of ski "arenas" across the Alps and the Jura mountains, and rivers and lakes waiting for you to jump in for a swim or a paddle.
• Choose a mountain excursion. In Switzerland, it doesn't matter if you're not a skier or hiker. You can answer the call of the mountains just the same, thanks to dozens of scenic mountain excursions that whisk you—by cogwheel rail, cable car, or ski gondola—for close-up looks at the Matterhorn , the Eiger, the Aletsch Glacier, and more. At most places, you can have lunch on the mountaintop while you enjoy the view. Don't leave Switzerland without partaking in at least one of these thrilling rides.

For more trip-planning ideas, check out our full-length articles on the top things to do in Switzerland , Switzerland's most scenic train rides , and Switzerland's top lakes .

What to Eat and Drink

Swiss cuisine is hearty, to say the least. Cheese, chocolate, potatoes, and meat feature heavily on Swiss menus everywhere, and risotto is popular in the cantons bordering Italy. Swiss wine, from vineyards mostly south of the Alps, is so popular among the Swiss that only 2 percent is exported!

Here are some of the foods and beverages you shouldn't miss in Switzerland:

• Fondue. This classic dish of melted cheese, served with bread and vegetables for dipping, is as iconic as the Matterhorn. Fondue originated in French-speaking Switzerland , but it's pretty much ubiquitous across the country.
• Raclette. Sort of a cousin of fondue, raclette is melted cheese served on a plate with bread, potatoes, and gherkins. Its roots are high in the Alps, where farmers would make meals from their abundant cheese reserves.
• Rösti. Pancakes made of grated, fried potatoes, rösti may be served as a side dish or, when paired with eggs, meat, or cheese, as the main course.
• Chocolate. Thanks to milk from grass-fed Alpine cows, plus a few "secret" recipes, Swiss milk chocolate is among the creamiest in the world. Brands to look for include Toberlone, Lindt, Sprüngli, and Läderach.
• Swiss wine. Largely produced in the more temperant cantons south of the Alps, Swiss wine is equally celebrated in its red and white varieties. Chasselas and pinot noir are among the most common grapes, but across the country's wine-growing region, micro-vineyards specialize in small-batch wines. Be sure to sample the wine while you're here— Swiss wine is hard to find outside Switzerland.

Read more in our guides to the top foods to try in Switzerland and where to eat in Zürich .

Where to Stay

Switzerland's accommodation options range from rustic mountain bunkhouses for hikers to luxurious 5-star hotels with spas, Michelin-star dining, and every imaginable amenity. In between those extremes, there are concept hotels, ski-in/ski-out lodges, and a host of B&Bs, small inns, and vacation rentals.

If you're staying in a city, we usually recommend basing yourself in the historic center so that you're within walking distance of popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. But cities like Zürich also have creative, modern districts outside of the center, which make for interesting bases as well. In an Alpine destination such as Zermatt, Saas-Fee, or Gstaad, we like cozy, traditional hotels that really impart a sense of place.

For a taste of what Zürich has to offer, check out our articles on Zürich's top neighborhoods and best hotels.

Getting to Switzerland

International flights to Switzerland, especially those originating outside of Europe, will likely arrive in Zürich or Geneva. Some intra-Europe flights might land at Basel's airport, which is actually located just over the French border.

You can reach Switzerland by train from the neighboring countries of Austria, Germany, France, and Italy. Note that if you're traveling to Switzerland from an adjacent country, your ticket will likely only cover you until your first stop in Switzerland; for example, if you're traveling from Milan, Italy, your ticket will take you as far as Lugano. After that, you'll need a travel pass or ticket from the Swiss Travel System if you want to change trains.

If you're driving to Switzerland, you need to purchase or make sure your car already has a motorway vignette —a sticker that permits access to Swiss highways.

Learn more by checking out our guides to Zürich airport , traveling to Switzerland from Italy , and Zürich's public transportation .

Culture and Customs

While there are no special "rules" for visiting Switzerland, travelers here might find the Swiss somewhat reserved, especially when compared to Mediterranean cultures to the south. Here are a few basic customs and courtesies to keep in mind:

• Be on time. Trains aren't the only thing that runs on time in Switzerland. Plan to arrive on time, or even a few minutes early, for restaurant reservations or other reserved activities.
• Don't be noisy. In restaurants, on public transportation, and especially in the evenings in residential areas, keep your voices at a conversational level.
• Tip in moderation. While tipping waitstaff is appreciated in Switzerland, it's not expected. Tips for your hotel cleaning staff and bellhops are the norm, however.

Money Saving Tips

Here's something you should know about Switzerland before you start planning your trip: it's expensive. Hotels, dining, trains, and attractions are all costly compared to many other European countries, but there are a few ways you can save money:

• Travel in the shoulder seasons. Visit Switzerland in the spring or fall to save money on airfare and hotels.
• Drink tap water. Unless otherwise posted, tap water in Switzerland is clean and safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at any tap.
• Pack a picnic. Before you head out for a day of adventures, stop at a grocery store and pick up bread, cheese, cold cuts, or whatever else you want for a picnic. Just don't forget to grab a chocolate bar for the road!

https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/ch

https://www.worlddata.info/europe/switzerland/tourism.php

Switzerland Tourism. "Language distribution." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

Switzerland Tourism. "Currency." Retrieved on November 9, 2021.

BBC. "Tracing fondue’s mysterious origins." February 12, 2013.

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Home » Travel Guides » Switzerland » 15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland)

15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland)

It’s no mystery why Lucerne is so beloved by tourists. The city rests beside Lake Lucerne, couched in a heart-lifting mountainous landscape. Both the lake and the mountains are at your fingertips, whether you feel like a paddle steamer cruise or want to conquer a mighty Alpine peak like Pilatus or Rigi.

There’s also plenty to occupy you in the city, on the historic streets of the traffic-free Old Town, where medieval guildhalls have frescoes on their facades. You’ll venture over medieval wooded bridges with paintings in their ceiling vaults, and scale a line of powerful defensive towers. For more recent wonders see the poignant Lion Monument for Louis XVI’s massacred Swiss Guard, and a park of glacial potholes formed during the last ice age.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Lucerne :

1. Mount Pilatus

Standing in Lucerne it’s impossible not to be mesmerised by this 2,128-metre mountain to the south.

The peak is steeped in folklore, and has the nickname “Dragon Mountain” after a medieval legend claimed it was inhabited by dragons with healing powers.

A trip to the top is always an adventure, but could hardly be more convenient.

In summer a special loop, the Goldene Rundfahrt (Golden Tour) has been devised, in which you depart Lucerne by paddle steamer.

After going ashore you’ll ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, with a maximum gradient of 48%. And then after being dazzled by the scenery you’ll catch the new “Dragon Ride” aerial cableway, followed by a gondola cableway back down.

2. Old Town

On the right bank of the Reuss, allow as much time as you can to potter around Lucerne’s historic core.

There’s a sequence of squares hemmed by tall painted houses and linked by cobblestone shopping streets.

All of the old centre is free of traffic, leaving it for the hordes of shoppers and sightseers.

Weinmarkt is the obligatory starting point and is walled by medieval guildhalls, some with decorative painted facades.

Not far along on Kornmarkt is the Renaissance Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hal), built at the start of the 17th century and with lovely arcades on the ground floor.

Related tour : 2-Hour Walking Tour to Chapel Bridge and Old Town

3. Lake Lucerne

Known as the “Lake of the Four Cantons”, Lake Lucerne is a stunning body of water with an irregular shape that invites you to explore.

The lake has four arms going off at sharp angles, with epic mountains on all sides.

Lucerne sits in the northwesternmost nook, and you can make for the Luzern Bahnhofquai to catch one of five early-20th-century paddle steamers for cruises on the lake.

On land, Lucerne’s waterside neighbourhoods were reconfigured in the 1880s to take advantage of the landscapes.

The Nationalquai and Schweizerhofquai are refined, leafy promenades traced by mansions and where you can contemplate the lake and alpine peaks like Pilatus and Rigi.

Recommended tour : 2-Hour Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Lucerne

4. Swiss Museum of Transport

The most-visited museum in Switzerland is a great deal more than just a collection of vehicles.

At the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz by the water, this is a self-contained world of transport.

There are trains like Switzerland’s first diesel locomotive, 30 aircraft and the Autotheater, an astonishing attraction where a fleet of cars from all eras are stacked six-high on shelves as if they were toys.

But the vehicles are only one side to the story, as there’s also a newly updated planetarium, Switzerland’s first IMAX theatre, a 1:20,0000 scale photo of Switzerland from space and the new Swiss Chocolate Adventure for chocoholics.

Book online : Swiss Museum of Transport Entrance Ticket

5. Chapel Bridge

Crossing the Reuss at an angle is the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge, and Lucerne’s emblem.

The covered wooden bridge dates from the 14th century and runs diagonally for 200 metres.

In the ceiling pediments are triangular 17th-century paintings depicting events from Lucerne’s history.

There are 30 in all and used to be many more before a fire destroyed most of the bridge in 1993. The 35-metre tower that completes this ensemble is planted in the water and predates the bridge by about 30 years.

You can’t go up, but it’s a sight to admire and there’s a souvenir shop on the ground floor.

6. Rosengart Collection

The art dealer Siegfried Rosengart rubbed shoulders with modern painters in the first decades of the 20th century.

Together with his daughter Angela he gathered one of Europe’s richest modern art collections, comprising hundreds of works by artists like Chagall, Monet, Matissse, Miró, Braque and Fernand Léger.

But it’s the trove of pieces by Picasso and Paul Klee that are the crowning glory, and have been given special attention at this museum in the former National Bank building.

The museum was opened by Angela in 2002 and displays more than 300 pieces at any one time.

7. The Lion Monument

Carved into a former sandstone quarry is a rock relief of a dying lion.

The monument was designed by the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in the early 1820s by Lukas Ahorn.

The lion represents the Swiss Guard, which was massacred while trying to protect Louis XVI at the Tuileries Palace on 10 August 1792 during the French Revolution.

There’s rich symbolism in the work: The lion rests on top of a broken shield with the fleur-de-lis of the French royalty, and behind him is another intact shield with the Swiss coat of arms.

Get here early in the day to avoid the crowds.

8. Glacier Garden

Near the Lion Monument is a natural site that dumbfounded scientists when it was discovered in 1872. There’s a group of potholes that were formed during the last ice age 20,000 years ago.

And much older than these are the fossils of shellfish and palm fronds from when this spot was the shore of a subtropical sea some 20 million years ago.

These natural phenomena are complemented by new hands-on exhibits, as well as an 18th-century relief model of Switzerland.

And see if you can solve the Alhambra mirror maze, made with 90 mirrors and dating to 1896. From there, take the “Stone of Time” path to the observation tower, treating you to knockout views of Lucerne and Mount Pilatus in the background.

9. Musegg Wall

As we see them now, Lucerne’s city defences were raised at the end of 14th century and defend the old town on the sharp slope to the north.

It’s a breathtaking sight, as there are nine tall towers in a row all divided by a length of the of the city wall.

Four of them are accessible, including the famous Zytturm, which holds the oldest clock in the city.

This dates to 1535, and it honour of its age is permitted to chime a minute before Lucerne’s other clocks.

The other three towers are all worth scaling to survey the city and lake.

Included in : Lucerne: Classic City Walking Tour

10. Hofkirche

Lucerne’s medieval Romanesque basilica was burnt down During the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century.

So while the war was still raging in the 1630s the city built its new church, and it was one of only a few churches to be erected north of the Alps in that period.

The architecture is in the late Renaissance style, but there are elements from the original church, like the pair of towers and some medieval and Renaissance ornamentation in the interior.

On the north side of the nave is the polychrome Maria-End-Altar, which was rescued from the fire and was crafted in the 1500s.

It shows a dying Virgin Mary surrounded by the Apostles.

From the time of the 17th-century rebuild check out the black marble high altar and the exceptional carved wooden choir stalls.

11. Richard Wagner Museum

In 1865 after his affairs had got him into trouble, Richard Wagner was forced by Ludwig II to leave Munich.

The king set him up in a manor house in lakeside parkland in Lucerne’s Tribschen district.

Wagner lived in the house for six years, during which time he began Götterdämmerung and wrote Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.

The house is now a museum about Wagner and his time in Lucerne.

There’s correspondence, musical manuscripts, furniture, paintings and photographs to browse.

But the best bit is the Erard piano on which he composed his masterpieces.

12. Jesuit Church

This church was built just a few decades after the Hofkirche, and has an eye-catching Baroque style as a beacon of the Counter Reformation in the face of protestant cities like Geneva and Zürich.

The Jesuit Church was designed by architects from Austria and Italy, consecrated in 1677 and completed over the course of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Inside, the ornate stuccowork in the side chapels is the earliest example of the influential German Wessobrunner School.

The second side chapel is dedicated to the hermit and now saint, Brother Klaus, and you can see his 15th-century vestments.

13. Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre

Where the Reuss flows off the lake is jaw-dropping piece of modern architecture.

The Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre was drawn up by Jean Nouvel and took shape between 1995 and 2000. The feature that will catch your eye right away is the colossal flat roof pushing out over the waterfront.

Underneath it is a complex dominated by first-class concert hall, which has 1,800 seats and the best acoustics you could hope to experience.

The Lucerne Art Museum is also inside and has works from the Renaissance to the present.

Day or night you can also grab coffee or a bite at the unfussy World Café, which has warming stews in winter and ice cream in summer.

14. Reuss River Sights

Lucerne has a second medieval bridge downriver, against the western corner of the Old Town.

The 15th-centtury Spreuer Bridge is in the same format as the Chapel Bridge, featuring a roof, truss design and more 17th-century paintings on its ceiling pediments.

Painted between 1616 and 1637 these depict a Danse Macabre and each image is accompanied by a description and details of the donors.

Carry on downriver for a moment and you’ll come to the Nadelwehr (Needle Dam). The river’s history of floods was consigned to the past in 1852 when this dam was installed to maintain the level of the lake.

It’s an ingeniously simple system, involving wooden planks (needles) that are added or removed to regulate the flow on the Reuss.

Related tour : 1-Hour Historical Tour with Night Watchman

15. Bourbaki Panorama

Near the Lion Monument and Glacier Garden on Löwenplatz is a visitor attraction now almost 140 years old.

The Swiss artist Édouard Castres painted a panorama of a defining moment in the France-Prussian War at the start of the 1870s: In a snowy landscape, the defeated French army trudges into Switzerland for refuge.

The painting measures 112 metres by 10 and is displayed in a rotunda.

Castres had worked as a Red Cross volunteer during the war so could draw on firsthand recollections for his painting.

There’s a small museum at the Bourbaki Panorama, offering some context about the painting and the war.

15 Best Things to Do in Lucerne (Switzerland):

• Mount Pilatus
• Lake Lucerne
• Swiss Museum of Transport
• Chapel Bridge
• Rosengart Collection
• The Lion Monument
• Glacier Garden
• Musegg Wall
• Richard Wagner Museum
• Jesuit Church
• Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre
• Reuss River Sights
• Bourbaki Panorama

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Switzerland Tourism Named Official Travel Destination of Laver Cup 2024

Swiss national marketing organization Switzerland Tourism  has been named Official Travel Destination of Laver Cup 2024 , which will be held at Uber Arena in Berlin from September 20-22, 2024 .

Laver Cup and Switzerland Tourism will collaborate to highlight a new campaign that spotlights the unique atmosphere of Switzerland’s most colorful season; autumn. Featuring Roger Federer, the campaign will showcase the many facets of Swiss autumn; an unforgettable blend of cultural richness and tradition set against breathtaking alpine and forest landscapes.

Switzerland Tourism will be giving fans the opportunity to win a relaxing Autumn-2025 holiday for two people. Valued at CHF 5,000, the prize includes first class outbound panoramic train travel with stop-overs in Lugano, Lucerne and St. Moritz, and economy class return airline travel. The sweepstake will run from September 10 to October 10, 2024 at switzerland.com/watch-and-win , with entry open to European residents and the winner selected randomly from those who answer the competition questions correctly.

“Our partnership with Laver Cup for Berlin 2024 stands for our shared commitment to excellence ” said Martin Nydegger , Switzerland Tourism CEO . “Germany is the largest foreign market for Switzerland, and the Laver Cup provides us with an exceptional platform to spotlight autumn, Switzerland’s most colorful and sensual season.”

In addition to the chance to win a relaxing autumn holiday in Switzerland, fans visiting the Laver Cup practice court can explore Switzerland Tourism ambassador Roger Federer’s favorite autumn destinations in Switzerland or relax in the Fan Zone while soaking up the atmosphere from a red deckchair.

“Switzerland Tourism shares Laver Cup’s commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences,” said Laver Cup CEO Steve Zacks . “We look forward to working with Switzerland Tourism to showcase this beautiful season, and Switzerland’s spectacular hiking and biking trails and wine festivals. Their activations at the Laver Cup Fan Zone, and the fan walk to the practice court, will add to the experience of our fans in Berlin.”

The Laver Cup is played over three days, using an exciting team format, on a dramatic black court. The competition pits six of the best players from Europe against six of their counterparts from the rest of the World with tennis legends and great rivals  Bjorn Borg  and  John McEnroe  captaining Team Europe and Team World respectively for the last time this year.

Tickets and hospitality packages are available via lavercup.com/tickets .

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Bhutan's Unique Tourism Strategy: 'High Value, Low Volume'

Bhutan embraces a 'high value, low volume' tourism strategy, charging a sustainable development fee to enhance guest experiences and support national initiatives. while there are misconceptions about visitor caps, bhutan welcomes all without limits. the country's tourism adds less than 5% to gdp, with significant contributions from india, the us, and the uk..

Bhutan's tourism sector thrives on its 'high value, low volume' strategy, ensuring quality experiences for visitors while promoting sustainability. Despite rumors, there is no cap on tourist numbers, says Carissa Nimah, CMO of Bhutan Tourism. The Kingdom commemorates 50 years of welcoming international tourists.

The sustainable development fee supports infrastructure, free healthcare, and education. Although this fee naturally limits visitor numbers, Bhutan remains an open and welcoming destination. The majority of its tourism revenue comes from Indian, US, and UK travelers.

Bhutan aims to increase repeat visitors by diversifying attractions beyond the main valleys. Its new 'Mindfulness City' project, spearheaded by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, promises to transform Gelephu town into an economic hub, integrating sectors like education, technology, finance, healthcare, and tourism.

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Watch Roger Federer and Mads Mikkelsen go wild in the mountains in hilarious Swiss tourism advert

T here more’s to fall in the Swiss mountains than yodelling, and this new Switzerland Tourism (ST) promo video brings out the big guns to prove it.

Swiss tennis superstar Roger Federer and Danish acting legend Mads Mikkelsen (Bond villain, TV Hannibal Lecter and other scary parts) get in touch with nature in hilarious fashion in “Falling for Autumn”. And it really does make you yearn for a relaxing holiday, hiking among the country’s majestic slopes.

It’s all a bit meta – a promo about the filming of a promo. But it’s absolutely brilliant, with Federer left twiddling his thumbs while Mikkelsen goes AWOL to hug trees, eat moss and immerse himself in a chilly-looking lake. Then Federer decides that sounds like a good idea too.

Mikkelsen is magnificent in the clip, but we did wonder why the makers didn’t stay on brand and choose a Swiss actor… until we Googled “living Swiss actors”. David Bennent and Vincent Perez don’t quite have the same headline grabbing potential.

Besides, Federer makes up for it, flying the flag by wearing a pair of Swiss brand On Running ’s shoes. Then again, he is a hands-on partner for the brand so you’d expect him to take the opportunity for some product placement.

Switzerland is generally known for its winter and summer seasons. With this campaign, Switzerland Tourism is aiming to break with this seasonal pattern and make autumn an essential time for visiting the country. 

“This collaboration with Roger Federer and Mads Mikkelsen is a perfect reflection of our vision of autumn in Switzerland: a season that blends nature, elegance and tradition,” explains André Hefti, Chief Marketing Officer of ST. 

Switzerland is becoming an increasingly popular destination at this time of year, and hotels are adapting to stay open longer to accommodate this growing demand.

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