5 best cities to visit in switzerland

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

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

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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17+ Best Towns and Cities in Switzerland (That Visitors Love!)

Tiny Alpine mountain towns perched on green hillsides, vibrant capitals with breathtaking Rococo libraries and age-old frescos, and lakeside getaways that put Lake Como to shame. This is just a taste of the unforgettable and diverse destinations that await among the soaring Alps, green pastures, and rolling hillsides of Switzerland.

Planning your Switzerland itinerary and want to make sure you don’t miss any of the country’s most unforgettable destinations? This ultimate guide to the best towns and cities in Switzerland for travelers has all the details about the best places to visit in Switzerland for your trip.

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Best Towns and Cities in Switzerland

Switzerland has endless towns and cities worth exploring, but if you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Switzerland, these are the destinations that come to the top of our list:

• Best Small City in Switzerland: Grindelwald
• Best Major City in Switzerland: Zurich
• Best Small Town in Switzerland: Lauterbrunnen

The best part of these three must-visit towns and cities in Switzerland? All three are within just a three-hour train ride of each other – you could even visit them all in one day if you wanted to. Of course, part of the experience of visiting them comes from enjoying them, so we recommend at least a one-week itinerary spent visiting them all.

However, for a hassle-free visit to the most beautiful part of Switzerland, head from Zurich to the Jungfrau Region – home to Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen – for the best the county has to offer.

Jungfrau Travel Pass

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

Cities in Switzerland

1. grindelwald.

Grindelwald is little more than a charming mountain town among the high peaks of the picturesque Jungfrau Region, but it’s among the best cities in Switzerland for travelers looking for that quintessential Swiss mountain experience.

Stunning views of snowcapped mountains like the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau await visitors the second they step out from the train station, a magical welcome to a town that feels plucked from a storybook. More than just beautiful views, Grindelwald is also a top-notch destination for skiing in the winter, adventure sports in the summer, and world-class treks year-round.

Grindelwald’s proximity to some of the best things to do in Switzerland, such as the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe and the adventurous activities at Grindelwald First, makes it easily one of the best bases for exploring the Swiss Alps. Spend at least three days in Grindelwald to take in all the city and surroundings have to offer, though travelers could easily spend a week here.

Where To Stay in Grindelwald

• Hotel Pinte ($)
• Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort ($$)
• Boutique Hotel Glacier ($$ – $$$)
• Bergwelt Grindelwald Design Resort ($$ – $$$)

Plan a Trip to Grindelwald

• Grindelwald, Switzerland: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• 20+ Best Things To Do in Grindelwald, Switzerland

Set along the shores of Lake Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland is both a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment as well as a visually appealing and historically significant destination that instantly enchants visitors. Rather than skipping over Zurich on your way through the international airport, spend time appreciating all that the largest of the cities in Switzerland has to offer.

Zurich is packed with things to see and do, including visiting beautiful churches like Grossmünster. Fraumünster , just across the river, with its famed Marc Chagall stained glass windows is a must-visit despite its small entrance fee. Stroll through the rest of Zurich’s old town and take in the view over the river from Lindenhof.

A trip to Zurich isn’t complete without window shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse . This is Zurich’s most important downtown thoroughfare, also known as one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.

Where To Stay in Zurich

• Boutique Hotel Helvetia ($ – $$)
• Hotel St. Josef ($$)
• Baur au Lac ($$$)
• The Dolder Grand ($$$$)

3. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen isn’t just another one of any cities in Switzerland, and it’s all the better for it! Our pick for the best small town in Switzerland, Lauterbrunnen is the closest thing you’ll find to a fairytale Alpine villages in the Swiss Alps .

Small timber frame homes and historic churches dot this tiny town in the mountains, but the true appeal of Lauterbrunnen over countless other Swiss mountain towns is its natural surroundings. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is home to 72 plunging waterfalls, including the dramatic Staubbach Falls, which cascade dramatically from a sheer, rocky cliff face. It’s a stunning backdrop to one of the most gorgeous cities in Switzerland.

Lauterbrunnen is also known for being one of the best places in the Jungfrau Region for scenic hikes to towns like Grindelwald , Mürren, and Wengen, biking excursions through the mountains, and adventurous activities like paragliding. Any way to take in both the natural beauty of the valley and the historic charm of the town is worth it!

Where To Stay in Lauterbrunnen

• Valley Hostel ($ – $$)
• Hotel Staubbach ($$$)

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Basel is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, with plenty of claims to fame that make it one of the top destinations for travelers visiting the country. Known as the cultural capital of Switzerland, Basel is home to world-class museums (Kunstmuseum Basel is a must!) and a well-preserved Old Town center with medieval buildings and squares.

The city comes alive in the winter – in fact, Basel is home to arguably the most beautiful Christmas market in Switzerland.

Basel is also known for its prime position on the Rhine River, which lends endless beauty to this Swiss city. It’s also the starting point for countless river cruises down the Rhine as the river charts its course through Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

Where To Stay in Basel

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

5. Engelberg

There are countless cities in Switzerland known for their world-class skiing and gorgeous year-round mountain views, but Engelberg is something special. Renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding and easily accessible in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Engelberg is a prime destination for travelers in Switzerland.

Even a visit in summer can offer plenty of things to see and do for adventurous travelers. Take on the Titlis Cliff Walk for mountain views of snow-capped peaks year round, or embark on any of a number of treks near town. Engelberg is also home to a beautiful 12th-century Benedictine monastery that history buffs will love.

Where To Stay in Engelberg

• Hotel Engelberg “das Trail Hotel” ($$)
• Villa Hundert Boutique Mountainscape ($$$)
• Kempinski Palace Engelberg ($$$$)

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

While many travelers zip through Lucerne on their way to the mountain towns of the Swiss Alps or grand Zurich, Lucerne is a lovely and historic city in Switzerland that is considered among the country’s best destinations . The covered, wooden Chapel Bridge, also known as Kapellbrücke, is one of the city’s most famous destinations; adorned with flowers in the summer, it’s a gorgeous, classically Swiss spot travelers shouldn’t miss.

Lucerne is nestled along the shores of Lake Lucerne, and its lakeside promenades add significant charm to an already picturesque destination. Nearby, some of the most well-known mountains in Switzerland tower, with Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi awaiting adventurous mountaineers or carefree trekkers content to explore in their shadows.

Where To Stay in Lucerne

• Barabas Hotel Luzern ($)
• Cascada Boutique Hotel ($$)
• Hotel des Balances ($$$)

7. St. Gallen

The small northeastern Swiss city of St. Gallen is nestled between Zurich and Lichtenstein, a little-visited gem with plenty to offer. Delicious German food, a laid-back, quaint charm, and beautiful surroundings make it well worth adding to your Switzerland itinerary, even if you have just a few days in the country.

St. Gallen’s most impressive historic architecture is undoubtedly its baroque Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates the city skyline with its twin bell towers. Its interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with its impressive frescoed ceilings contrasting stark white walls throughout the property. Its dramatic Rococo library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world .

Where To Stay in St. Gallen

• Hotel Metropol ($)
• Sorell Hotel City Weissenstein – Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$)
• Oberwaid ($$$)

Just a stone’s throw from the border of Italy, the small Swiss city of Lugano is a warm, lush lakeside destination that puts Lake Como to shame. Less than two hours north of Milan, it’s a favorite getaway for those looking to escape the hectic energy of the northern Italian capital.

Don’t expect to find the timber-frame homes and chalets of the Swiss Alps here; Lugano feels like a Mediterranean paradise with palm-lined streets and plazas filled with tables for long, late dinners over candlelight. Use Lugano as a base to explore the rest of the Ticino border region of Switzerland, or do as the Italians do and call it home for a laid-back weekend escape. Either way, its easily one of the best places to visit in Switzerland .

Where To Stay in Lugano

• International au Lac Historic Lakeside Hotel ($$)
• Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano ($$ – $$$)
• The View Lugano ($$$)

9. Bellinzona

Continue your grand tour of the Italian side of Switzerland with a stop at Bellinzona, one of the most charming small cities in Switzerland’s southern region. Whether you have days to spend exploring the region or are just crossing into Switzerland for a few hours on a day trip from Lake Como, Bellinzona is a perfect addition to your itinerary.

Bellinzona is most famous for its series of medieval castles – among them, Castelgrande, Castello di Montebello, and Castello di Sasso Corbaro are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their impressive architecture and important historical significance. Spend a day walking in the loop from castle to castle or choose just one for your visit.

In addition to its historic charms, Bellinzona also has a growing gastronomic scene, which boasts both Swiss and Italian culinary traditions and a number of Michelin-star restaurants like Ecco and Locanda Orico.

Where To Stay in Bellinzona

• Hotel Garni Elisabetta Gordola Locarno ($)
• Campofelice Hotel Village ($$)
• Castello del Sole Beach Resort & Spa ($$$)

Plan a Trip to Switzerland

• 18 Most Beautiful Fairytale Towns in the Swiss Alps
• 24+ Best Places To Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland’s capital city, Bern is much more than just the country’s administrative hub. This riverside city boasts an impressive array of historical, cultural, and scientific merits that make it an attractive destination in Switzerland.

Bern is also home to a medieval Old Town center, which is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved architecture and historical highlights like the Zytglogge clock tower. Among the city’s impressive museums, galleries, and theaters, it’s also just a stone’s throw from the soaring mountains of the Bernese Oberland and Jungfrau , making it a gateway to so many of the best things to do in Switzerland.

Where To Stay in Bern

• Hotel NH Bern The Bristol ($ – $$)
• Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa ($$)
• Hotel Bellevue Palace ($$$)

Perched above a sheer cliff face among the soaring mountains of the Jungfrau Region of the Swiss Alps, Mürren is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities and beloved mountain towns .

This tiny town is among the few car-free cities in Switzerland. Only accessible via public transportation, Mürren is quiet and tranquil in a way that few other cities and towns are, which simply adds to the destination’s quaint charm.

Despite its small size, Mürren has plenty of things to do, including the adventure sports that the Jungfrau is known for like paragliding, skiing, trekking, and Via Ferrata. Murren’s location at the base of the Schilthorn, which was a filming location for the James Bond movie On Her Majesties Secret Service gives easy access to the revolving summit restaurant at Piz Gloria, which offers stunning views and plenty of 007 references.

Where To Stay in Mürren

• Hotel Regina ($ – $$)
• Hotel Alpina ($$)
• Hotel Alpenruh ($$ – $$$)

Not only is Geneva one of the most important cities in Switzerland, but it’s a global capital. Geneva is home to such prestigious institutions as the United Nations, the Red Cross, and a seemingly endless list of non-profits and organizations doing important work far beyond the borders of Switzerland.

In addition to the city’s marked cosmopolitan ambiance, Geneva has plenty of things to see and do for visitors. One of the city’s most beautiful features is the Jet d’Eau, a dramatic fountain that shoots water high over the lake. A charming Old Town, lakeside promenades along Lake Geneva, and beautiful mountain views meet a rich cultural scene, upscale shopping, and posh hotels to make for a memorable stay in Geneva.

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

Where To Stay in Geneva

• citizenM Geneva Hotel ($)
• Hôtel de la Cigogne, Relais & Châteaux Genève ($$)
• Beau Rivage Geneve ($$$)

13. Zermatt

Skiiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports enthusiasts will certainly have heard of the Swiss mountain town of Zermatt. Known as one of the best ski resorts in the Alps, Zermatt is a laid-back yet vibrant car-free mountain town that is among the most popular destinations in Switzerland for travelers , even during the warmer months.

The Zermatt “skyline” is dominated by the iconic Matterhorn mountain, known as the “jewel of the Swiss Alps” with its distinctive crooked yet symmetrical pyramid peak. There’s no cable car to this mountain, though several hiking trails around it offer stunning views; adventurous and acclimated mountaineers can also attempt the ascent to the summit!

Where To Stay in Zermatt

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

14. St. Moritz

Few cities in Switzerland are well-known or beloved as St. Moritz, long considered the winter playground of Europe’s rich and famous looking for a snowy escape to the slopes. Plan a ski retreat to this upscale resort town or even a summer visit; year-round, iron-rich mineral springs make St. Moritz a haven for spa-goers.

Even travelers who aren’t interested in taking to the slopes will find a lot to do here. The city hosted two Winter Olympics, and there are plenty of Olympics-related attractions in town alongside upscale shopping and a lush apres-ski scene. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is legendary and worth a visit even if the sumptuous rooms are over your budget for an overnight stay.

Where To Stay in St. Moritz

• Hotel Chesa Spuondas ($)
• Schweizerhof St. Moritz ($$ – $$$)
• Hotel Grace La Margna ($$$)
• Badrutt’s Palace Hotel ($$$$)

15. Interlaken

Take to the skies in Interlaken, one of the most popular cities in Switzerland for travelers looking for adventure travel experiences like paragliding among classically Swiss landscapes of pristine glacier-fed lakes and snowy mountain peaks. From lakefront promenades to historic fondue shops and lush parks, Interlaken leaves no doubt as to what makes it such a popular destination in Switzerland.

Interlaken is considered one of the gateways to the Jungfrau Region , with its soaring mountains and endless Swiss mountain towns. Make it your base for a trip, or just pass through on the way to some of the region’s quaint villages.

Whether you have several days to look forward to in Interlaken or you’re just in town for a few hours, taking the funicular to the top of Harder Kulm is a must. This mountaintop offers sweeping vistas over Interlaken’s two aquamarine lakes and to snow-capped peaks beyond. It’s also the start of plenty of panoramic hikes that reveal even more stunning views.

Where To Stay in Interlaken

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

16. Montreux

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, the small city of Montreux may be one of the lake’s lesser-visited destinations, but it doesn’t lack any of the charm or appeal of its larger neighbors. Graceful promenades make lakeside strolls one of the best things to do in Montreux year-round.

In-the-know travelers flock to Montreux for its renowned music scene and annual jazz festival. Meanwhile, history and culture buffs will know that the Château de Chillon (Chillon Castle) is one of the most important and beloved places to visit in Switzerland .

Montreux is also renowned for its annual Christmas market, which is considered one of the best Christmas markets in Switzerland. The market is traditionally held through the end of November through Christmas Eve. The lakeside promenade with 175+ chalet-style stalls and vendors is that picturesque, twinkling Christmas Market experience you’ve been dreaming of.

Where To Stay in Montreux

• La Rouvenaz ($)
• Jetty Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$)
• Hotel Fairmont Le Montreux Palace ($$$)

17. Gruyères

Gruyères is more than just a delicious type of Swiss cheese – it’s also one of the best-preserved and most impressive medieval cities in Switzerland, well worth an addition to your Switzerland itinerary. This small city’s main attraction is the Gruyères Castle; not only is it a stunning historic landmark, but it also has beautiful vistas over the green valleys below.

Of course, you can’t leave Gruyères without sampling some of its namesake cheese – La Maison du Gruyeres offers visits to observe cheese production that includes samples and informative tours. Spend a day getting lost among the town’s cobblestone streets before retreating to one of the charming hotels in town or in the surrounding villages like Rougement.

Where To Stay in Gruyères

• Hotel D Bulle ($ – $$)
• Le Saint Georges – Gruyeres ($$)
• Hôtel de Rougemont & Spa ($$ – $$$)

Carley Rojas Avila

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

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Places to Visit in Switzerland

The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

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

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

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

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

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

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

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

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

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

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

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

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

St. Moritz & the Engadine

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

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

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

Lugano and Ticino

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

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

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

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

Great St. Bernard Pass

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

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

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

Trümmelbach Falls

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

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

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

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

Switzerland Travel Guide

The Top 9 Scenic and Novelty Train Rides in Switzerland

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Switzerland

The Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

The 5 Best Day Hikes in the Swiss Alps

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

Best Lakes to Visit in Europe

The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

The Complete Guide to Switzerland's Nature Parks

The Top 15 Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Rigi Kulm

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

Lake Lucerne

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

Oeschinen Lake

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

Lavaux Vineyard

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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, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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

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

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

Rhine Falls

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

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

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

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

Swiss National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

La Chaux-de-Fonds

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best swiss city to visit during winter.

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

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

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

What is the best Swiss city for young adults?

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

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

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

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

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

Which Swiss City is the best to live in?

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

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

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

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

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

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18 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on March 3, 2024

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

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

Map of Switzerland

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

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

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

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

17. Appenzell

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

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

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

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

16. Swiss National Park

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

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

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

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

15. St. Moritz

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

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

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

14. Gruyères

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

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

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

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

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

13. Verzasca Valley

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

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

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

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

12. Montreux

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

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

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

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

11. Rhine Falls

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

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

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

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

10. Interlaken

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

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

9. Lausanne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Jungfrau Region

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Lake Geneva

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

December 14, 2020 at 10:57 am

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

November 4, 2019 at 4:44 pm

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

December 27, 2018 at 2:52 pm

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

January 1, 2018 at 3:21 pm

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

October 27, 2017 at 2:22 am

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

May 18, 2017 at 10:51 pm

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

April 19, 2017 at 7:37 am

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

May 10, 2016 at 6:46 am

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

March 14, 2016 at 2:35 am

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

November 15, 2015 at 7:09 pm

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

October 3, 2015 at 1:21 pm

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

June 2, 2015 at 3:01 am

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

May 22, 2015 at 11:35 pm

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

May 19, 2015 at 7:20 am

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

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The Matterhorn

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

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

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

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

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

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. 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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Switzerland

A Smithsonian magazine special report

20 Must-See Places in Switzerland

Here are the destinations you can’t miss

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

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

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

Swiss Grand Canyon

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

Swiss National Park

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

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

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

The Glacier Express

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

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

Zurich's Bahnhoffstrasse

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

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

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

Harder Kulm

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

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

The Schilthorn

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

Jungfraujoch

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

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

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

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

Chillon Castle

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

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

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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 September 2022 and updated December 2023

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9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

• January 11, 2022 March 4, 2024

Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Lausanne

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

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

Near Lausanne, travelers often go to  Geneva and Montreux .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. St. Gallen

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts: 9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

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

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

Related Posts

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

Lausanne and Geneva

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

Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Andermatt or Grindelwald: Which is Better?
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ 7 Best Things to Do in Seelisberg, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Exploring Bauen: A Traveler's Guide

Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Switzerland

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

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

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

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Switzerland?

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

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

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

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

Five Cool Places To Go In Switzerland

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

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

Zurich – What To Do There

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

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

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

Must Try Food And Drink In Zurich

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

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

Tips For Visiting Zurich

• If you plan on spending a few days in Zurich, consider buying the Zurich Pass. It gives you unlimited travel on all forms of public transportation in the city for between 24 and 72 hours, depending on how long you buy it for.
• Lunch is the cheapest time to go out and eat. Many restaurants and bistros will offer great deals for a bite to eat that you should take advantage of when you can.
• Switzerland isn’t in the EU, and they don’t use the euro as currency; they only use the Swiss Franc, so stock up on some before you arrive.
• Discover the heart of Switzerland: flights to Zurich from Vienna.
• Fly to Zurich – the ultimate Swiss experience awaits from Warsaw.
• Your gateway to the breathtaking Alps: flights from London to Zurich.
• Explore the beauty of Switzerland with flights from Berlin to Zurich.
• Escape to Switzerland – flights from Paris to Zurich.

Bern – The Capital City That Everyone Loves

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

Top Places To See And Spots To Visit In Bern

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

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

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

What To Eat And Drink In Bern

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

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

Must-know Tips For Visiting Bern

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

Geneva – The World Center For Diplomacy

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

Beautiful Places To See In Geneva

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

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

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

Dishes And Drinks Everyone Has To Sample In Geneva

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

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

What To Know Before Visiting Geneva

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

Interlaken – A Typical Swiss Alpine Resort Town

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

What Are The Best Things To Do In Interlaken?

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

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

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

The Best Food And Drink In Interlaken

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

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

Essential Information You Need To Know Before Traveling to Interlaken

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

Basel – The Cultural Capital Of Switzerland

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

Which Are The Best Things To Do In Basel?

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

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

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

Traditional Food And Drinks Everyone Should Try In Basel

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

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

Useful Information For Traveling To Basel

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

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

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel with pets
• Travel with kids

Top 5 Cities and 5 Towns To Visit In Switzerland

They say when people travel, they take memories from each place they visit and leave their footprints there. This may be the reason why people choose to absorb the beauty of the world by traveling. Taking a few memories here, a few there may fulfill one’s soul. Fortunately, there is no shortage of beauty in Switzerland’s cities and you can leave your footprints and fill your soul in some of the greatest and charming cities there.

Switzerland is a vibrant country and you can feel its lively spirit in the languages spoken there, beautiful scenery, lifestyle , and its people . It could be hard to find a place a tourist wouldn’t like to visit in Switzerland , but since we couldn’t include all of them, we tried to narrow it down by compiling a list with the best cities and towns you should give a try when in Switzerland.

Best Cities in Switzerland

One of the top Swiss destinations is also the capital city of Switzerland. It’s a dreamy place to visit with many architectural and natural sightings to check out. Bern is built around a crook in the Aare River and its origin dates back to the 12th century.

Walking around the cobblestone paved streets, you’ll pass plenty of old buildings. The medieval architecture of the city is preserved in the Old Town, or as the locals call it Altstadt, which is protected by the status of UNESCO World Heritage.

This city is the ideal place for people who enjoy seeing massive collections of art and sculptures. Bern’s cultural scene includes a variety of impressive museums and galleries such as the Bern Historical Museum and Zentrum Paul Klee . Bern is home to the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, Bern Minister, and the medieval clock tower Zytglogge. Apart from the collection of historical sites, the city also offers many fun things to do .

Besides Lake Geneva, another world-famous tourist attraction is the Jet d’Eau Fountain , which dates back to the 19th century. It was built to fulfill Geneva’s need for energy to power the industry and trade machines. Even though its world record was broken a while ago, Jet d’Eau fountain is one of the tallest in the world.

Additionally, tourists may also take pleasure from visiting the city during wintertime, as it offers a list of amusing things to do. Especially if they’re looking forward to enjoying the beautiful panorama of the Alps.

Apart from the numerous museums and galleries, you can also visit Lake Zurich, which offers breathtaking views. There is hardly a better way to explore the city than on a boat trip. If you need another reason to believe Zurich is worth a visit, consider the fact that Mercer has ranked it as one of the cities with the best quality of life in the world.

The city is an ideal destination for those that love and appreciate art offering them 40 different museums to visit. Like many cities in Switzerland, Basel, too, has an Old Town. It makes one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Basel as it consists of buildings of the 15th century’s medieval architecture and contemporary one. This diversity turns Old Town into one of the prettiest neighborhoods out there. There are many more places to see, food to taste and things to do in Basel. You just have to put this city on your list of places you’re going to visit and see for yourself.

Best Towns in Switzerland

1. interlaken.

There are plenty of activities you can do in Interlaken , regardless the time of the year you’re there. In the winter you can go snowboarding or skiing. When it’s warmer, paragliding is a popular choice. Other alternatives are to go hiking in the mountains or white-water rafting in the amazing lakes .

2. Montreux

You may know Montreux as the town resting on the shores of Lake Geneva, or, you may know it as the place where Charlie Chaplin lived for 25 years, the town for which Lord Byron wrote a poem about, and where the famous rock band Queen created some of their best selling albums. How you came to hear about the city isn’t important as long as that convinced you to pay the city a visit.

Considering that the climate in Montreux is quite mild, there are many things you can see and do throughout the year. You can start by visiting Château de Chillon , see the statue of Freddie Mercury, walk around the shoreline of the Montreux lakeside, and stroll around the Old Town.

Although the main attraction is skiing, the town is also known for hiking and many enthusiasts come to visit it because of the great hiking trails. The town has a lengthy list of hiking trails, taking place in the heart of the town.

It’s important to know that tourists who visit the place can purchase an Arosa card that provides access to seasonal activities, museums, cable cars , and more.

5. Grindelwald

If you are on the lookout for a peaceful mountain retreat, then this mountain village is the place to be. Whether you prefer skiing during winter, or hiking in summertime, you can find many fun activities to do in Grindelwald.

Switzerland is famous for many things but mostly for its landscape, lakes, and Swiss Alps, the beauty of which attracts most of the visitors. Despite this, its cities with a long cultural and artistic history don’t lag behind. They offer visitors numerous attraction sites and pleasant activities to do. Whichever city you’re planning to visit anytime soon will surely exceed your expectations. So, get ready to create a bunch of unforgettable memories.

Q1: What is the best time to visit Switzerland?

A1: Switzerland can be visited any time of the year. The ideal time depends on what you’re interested in doing. For skiing and other winter sports, the best time is from December to March, when the mountain ranges are covered in snow. For sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes, the best time is from April to October.

Q2: Are these cities and towns easily accessible by public transport in Switzerland?

A2: Yes, Switzerland boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system , including trains, trams, buses, and boats, which makes it easy to reach both cities and towns mentioned in the blog. The Swiss Travel Pass might be a good investment if you’re planning on traveling around a lot.

Q3: Is it expensive to visit Switzerland?

A3: Switzerland is often considered one of the pricier European destinations, due to high living costs . However, the expenses can vary depending on personal preferences. There are ways to keep costs down, such as using public transport, staying in budget accommodations, eating at local supermarkets, and planning your trip well in advance.

Q4: Can I visit all the cities and towns mentioned in the blog in one trip?

A4: It’s possible to visit all the places mentioned in a single trip, but it would depend on the duration of your stay and how much time you want to spend in each location. The cities and towns mentioned are spread across Switzerland, so consider your time and budget carefully while planning the trip.

Q5: What are some local dishes I should try while in Switzerland?

A5: Switzerland is famous for its cheese and chocolate . Fondue and Raclette are must-try dishes. You should also try Rösti, a kind of Swiss potato pancake, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy dish made from sliced veal. For dessert, don’t miss out on Swiss chocolate and pastries like Nusstorte.

Q6: Is Switzerland a safe destination for tourists?

A6: Yes, Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are very low and it’s generally safe to walk around at any time of the day. However, like anywhere else, it’s important to take basic precautions, like watching your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Q7: Do I need to know German, French or Italian to travel around Switzerland?

A7: While Switzerland has four national languages – German, French, Italian, and Romansh, you can travel comfortably with English as most Swiss people are multilingual and have a good command of English, particularly in urban areas and tourist centres.

Q8: Can I use Euro in Switzerland?

A8: Switzerland is not a part of the European Union and the official currency is Swiss Francs (CHF). However, Euros are accepted at some places, but the exchange rate might not be favorable and change will usually be given in Swiss Francs. It is recommended to use Swiss Francs or credit/debit cards for payments.

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5 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

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Zermatt, Switzerland

Charming storybook villages and dramatic alpine scenery define the spirit of Switzerland and create timeless must-see destinations to visit during your trip.

Snowcapped peaks, emerald valleys, hanging glaciers, and urban culture capture the essence of the country’s must-see destinations, which are accentuated by innovative modernity that contrasts traditional beauty.

From ski resorts to hiking trails and cities brimming with chocolate and iconic watches, the following information is meant as a guide to enable you to navigate the true grandeur of Switzerland’s old-world allure and new-world boldness.

2. Interlaken

3. lake geneva, 5. lausanne, how many days is enough to see switzerland, more travel information & tips.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne is a captivating immersion into the past. It has an elegant medieval heart where historic buildings create a graceful atmosphere. The summer hums with music from orchestras and soloists, while the winter on the eponymous lake resembles a snowy wonderland. Covered bridges and sunny plazas lead to candy-colored houses and a waterfront promenade overlooking the shimmering water. With a mixture of old-world charisma and a vibrant modern pace, Lucerne is easy to explore and an endless delight to discover.

Highlights: Chapel Bridge | Lion Monument | Hofkirche | Mount Pilatus | Glacier Garden

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: June | July | August | September | October

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Harder Kulm Viewpoint in Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken stands at the center of the dramatic beauty that makes Switzerland such a fascinating destination. Snowcaps the mythical mountains of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau to add a sense of spectacle to the city’s chic resort reputation. Outdoor excursions, from sailing to horseback riding, climbing, and hiking, showcase the variety of activity and beauty possible within the thrilling landscape, magnified by the city’s enjoyable comforts.

Highlights: Harder Kulm | Höhematte Park | Schynige Platte | Lake Brienz | St Beatus Caves

Best time to visit: June | July | August | September

Lavaux, Switzerland

Lake Geneva is reputed for its mild climate, alluring splendor, and grand size as the largest lake in central Europe. Beyond its many names and titles, Lake Geneva is filled with and surrounded by grandeur, from Belle Epoque boats to charming villages that lead to elegant cities and stunning vineyards. Soaring vistas give way to unthinkable panoramas and lush hillsides support storybook chateaus. Lake Geneva balances luxury and coziness, charm, and glamour.

Highlights: Lavaux Vineyards | Chillon Castle | Montreux | Cern | Mont-Blanc

Zermatt celebrates its history as a glitzy resort destination famous for ski runs, valley hikes, and access to the breathtaking slopes of the Matterhorn. The town feels like a postcard, embodying the perfection of the Swiss landscape and preserved architecture set beneath definitive mountains that curve over the lush plains. Zermatt is about discovering nature’s raw power, but also its ethereal beauty in a comfortable, accessible, and elegant way.

Highlights: The Matterhorn | Breithorn | Gornergrat | Hinterdorf | Sunnegga

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Lausanne, Switzerland

With hillsides tumbling down to the lakeshore and vineyards adding texture to the terraces, Lausanne is a picture-perfect representation of Switzerland. With layers of history dating back to ancient Rome and winding streets exuding grace, Lausanne is the perfect city in which to endlessly wander. Eighteenth-century architecture decorates the esplanade alongside Belle Epoque facades, and the unique museum galleries represent the contemporary movement of a culture in which the Gothic old town meets the city’s present pace.

Highlights: Cathedral of Notre-Dame | Musée Cantonal des Beaux Arts | Place de la Palud | Escaliers du Marché

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Ten days is a perfect amount of time to see Switzerland. With a 10-day trip, you can see its highlights and travel at an easy pace. A customized tour lets you discover, uncover, and experience the best of Switzerland's epic scenery and famous culture. A longer trip will give you time to visit popular neighboring countries like Italy, Germany, or Austria.

Switzerland embraces its juxtaposition of old-world beauty and modern aesthetic, with fairytale villages and contemporary art museums, ancient landscapes and modern technology referencing only a touch of the must-see destinations. Switzerland abounds with things to do that capture the culture, heritage, and nature from different perspectives. You can speak with a Switzerland travel expert free by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707 .

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The Best Places to Stay in Switzerland + Top Hotels In Each Town

Switzerland might be a small country, but it has plenty to offer, and finding the best places to stay in Switzerland can be overwhelming. But don’t fret. I’ve rounded up the best towns to visit in Switzerland and the best accommodation options for each. Let’s get to it!

Switzerland might be small, but it has mighty things to offer, so finding the best places to stay in Switzerland can be overwhelming. I’ve rounded up the best towns and accommodation options for each. So let’s get to it!

When it comes to the best destinations in Europe , Switzerland comes top of my list. The mere word “Switzerland” conjures so many amazing things in mind: delicious chocolate, high-quality luxury watch brands, beautiful snow-covered mountains, and of course, adrenaline-pumping ski experience.

From the modern city of Zurich to the historic capital of Bern to the charming towns, villages, and mountain resorts, you’ll see why Switzerland is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. Its stunning scenery, lustrous lakes, and gorgeous mountain views just seem so surreal it’s like stepping into a postcard!

I don’t dare rank these beautiful towns and cities because they are exquisite in their own ways! Still, I will try my best to discuss all the best places to stay in Switzerland, what to expect from each of them, and of course, where to stay. Switzerland has everything from luxury hotels to boutique hotels for budget travelers!

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

Wanderlust switzerland guide.

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

Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland

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

Must Have: Swiss Pass

Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland

• Paragliding
• Lindt Chocolate Tour
• Lake Lucerne Cruise

Where to stay in Switzerland: Best Towns and Cities

Are you wondering where to stay in Switzerland ? I’ve rounded up gorgeous towns and best cities in Switzerland to visit to help you out. Plus, I discuss the best hotels in Switzerland in each town or city so you can start narrowing down your accommodation options and cut the overwhelm.

Zurich is a vibrant and beautiful city in Switzerland. It is modern and clean, yet parts are also teeming with a cultural vibe, especially if you wander into Zurich’s old town. Zurich’s central location also makes it the country’s economic hub and is thus quite popular among tourists and jet-setters.

Zurich has the largest airport in the country. You’ll also find Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous and high-end shopping boulevard, and Altstadt, Zurich’s old town, composed of beautiful narrow streets reflecting Switzerland’s colorful past and vibrant history. Zurich is also gifted with other attractions, such as galleries and museums, opera houses, zoos, and stunning natural scenery.

From modern amenities to fantastic local cafes and cozy restaurants to dynamic nightlife, Zurich has them all, making it one of the best cities to stay in Switzerland. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a family-run boutique hotel, Zurich offers many fantastic accommodation options.

Best Hotels in Zurich

Baur au lac.

Baur Au Lac is a historic hotel located at the heart of Zurich. This 5-star luxury hotel offers splendid views of the Swiss alps and Lake Zurich. Its central location allows guests access to almost every attraction and destination in the city, especially Bahnhofstrasse, which is just a stone’s throw away from the hotel.

Baur Au Lac is one of the luxury hotels in Switzerland that set the standard for Swiss luxury. The elegant rooms and suites are dressed in old-world charm as seen in the art deco pieces, carefully combined with modern amenities in your hotel room. Marble floors in the private bathroom, luxury bedding, high-end furniture, and a fully-stocked minibar are just some hotel amenities in your cozy and intimate stay in Baur Au Lac.

Of course, dining is top-notch at Baur Au Lac. The 2-star Michelin Restaurant delights guests with classic haute cuisine. The Brasserie & Bar also serves classic European cuisine, while the Lobby Bar is an excellent place to enjoy your morning coffee or aperitif.

Widder Hotel

Widder is a luxury boutique hotel with all the amenities you would expect for pleasant and comfortable accommodation.

Widder Hotel is within Zurich’s city center, with the train station is five minutes walking distance and the old town nearby. High-end boutiques and shops, fancy cafes and restaurants, and the most exciting landmarks are just a stone’s throw away from the hotel’s prime location.

The hotel rooms feature period pieces, modern amenities, and some designer furniture property art collections. The cozy rooms have a high-speed internet connection, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a well-stocked minibar. If you’d like to go all out, book one of the suites with complimentary breakfast, a bottle of champagne, and welcome VIP treatment.

The Widder Hotel may be a historic hotel, but the hotel amenities and services are high-quality and top-notch. The modern gym allows you to work out during your holiday, while the relaxing massage services are perfect after an exciting day of exploring the city. Dining experiences are exceptional at the Widder Restaurant. The hotel’s on-site bidealerfect for socializing and winding down after sunset.

Sorell Hotel Seefeld

If you’re looking for a mid-range, budget-friendly hotel to stay in Switzerland, Sorell Hotel Seefeld fits that bill. With facilities like free private parking, private bathrooms, and bicycle rentals, Sorell Hotel Seefeld is an excellent accommodation with good value for the money.

Located in the trendy neighborhood of Sorell, this business hotel is perfect for exploring the city of Zurich. Lake Zurich, for instance, is within walking distance. In addition, you can ride a tram and get to the train station to explore other points of interest, such as the opera house, Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, Zoo Zurich, and the Swiss National Museum, Switzerland’s largest art museum.

The rooms are decent for their prices. You can choose from the smaller standard single rooms to spacious family rooms. The rooms are tastefully designed with modern conveniences such as free WIFI, TVs, and air-conditioning units. Some rooms do have a sun terrace.

Moving away from the city center of Zurich to the shores of Lake Geneva and the foot of the Swiss Alps lies Montreaux, a gorgeous Swiss town. Montreaux offers stunning mountain views practically anywhere you look. Add to that the pristine views of Lake Geneva, and it’s easy to see why this charming town has become a world-class destination and one of the best places to stay in Switzerland.

There are plenty of things to do in Montreaux that make for an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience. First, visit Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that’s quite popular among tourists. Then, stroll along the banks of the Montreux Riviera while savoring the gorgeous views of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped Alps.

Montreaux is also close to some of the best ski resorts in Switzerland. If you’re looking for some fun and adventure in the snow, consider visiting Verbier and Crans-Montana, well-known skiing and snowboarding destinations.

The Best Hotels in Montreaux

Royal plaza montreaux.

Royal Plaza is a luxurious hotel located on the lakeside. There are 119 private rooms and suites in the hotel. You can book one with a private balcony to relish the stunning views of the mountains and the lakes from the comforts of your own room.

The hotel is well-equipped with modern facilities, such as an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub for the ultimate relaxation. In addition, the hotel serves sumptuous breakfast at Café Bellagio while you can order cocktails and drinks at Sinatra’s bar.

Royal Plaza Montreaux has the perfect location to enjoy all the good things this beautiful town offers. You can’t miss a visit to Château de Chillon, just four minutes by foot, and the Freddie Mercury Statue, just a 14-minute drive. In addition, the train station is only 10 minutes from the city center.

Eurotel Montreaux

Eurotel Montreaux is a gorgeous 4-star hotel sitting on the banks of Geneva Lake and is one of the best hotels in Switzerland. It is near the train station and the lake and has access to stunning mountain views. It is one of the best Switzerland hotels if you’re in town for Montreux Jazz Festival.

Booking a private room in Eurotel Montreaux means one thing: you’ll get a room with a view! The 154-room hotel has access to the best views of the Alpine Peaks and Lake Geneva from every angle. Add to that four-star hotel amenities like bathrooms, bathtubs, flatscreen TVs with cable, and Wi-Fi connection.

The hotel’s desirable location allows you easy access to the main attractions in town, including Château de Chillon and Montreaux Casino. Although exploring the town leisurely on foot is recommended, the hotel also provides free bicycle rentals to guests and a Riviera Card, which gives you free access to the town’s public transport.

Lucerne is a gorgeous city located in Central Switzerland, right on the shores of Lake Lucerne. This picturesque village is your gateway for a spectacular vacation in the heart of Switzerland. You can admire the dreamy views of the lake and mountains from your hotel room, explore the old town at your own pace, be one with nature, hit the hiking trails, and ride cable cars.

While there are plenty of cool things to do in Lucerne, I suggest you visit the Chapel Bridge, the most iconic structure in town. Chapel Bridge is a 14th-century wooden bridge that connects two towns across the Reuss River.

Lake Lucerne itself offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. You can take a scenic boat ride to admire to appreciate the unparalleled views of the mountains, stroll or bike around the lake, or even swim in the summer. But the highlight of your trip would be the cable car ride that takes you high up on Mount Pilatus, which will be your most unforgettable experience.

The Best Hotels in Lucerne

Bürgenstock hotel & alpine spa.

Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa is one of the best five-star hotels in Switzerland. Famous personalities like Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn stayed here, proving that accommodations in this resort village are spectacular!

Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa is nestled high up on a mountain ridge and overlooking the glorious beauty of Lake Lucerne. There are 102 gorgeously-appointed rooms, each with sweeping views of the lake and mountains. The spacious modern rooms have modern conveniences, such as free WIFI, flat screen TV, freestanding baths, double-sided fireplaces, and luxury brand toiletries.

The state-of-the-art facilities are also worth every money you spend, including an indoor pool, an infinity outdoor pool, and a spa. After that much-needed pampering, go to the hotel’s restaurant and bar, where you can indulge in a lengthy selection of delicious traditional swiss cuisine and drinks.

Hotel Villa Honegg

When it comes to the best place to stay in Switzerland, particularly in Lucerne, Hotel Villa Honegg always comes as a top choice. Hotel Villa Honegg is a 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of Switzerland, located at Mount Bürgenstock at 914 meters above sea level. The hotel’s unique location gives you unforgettable views of Lucerne’s natural beauty.

Hotel Villa Honegg has everything, and more you’d desire from a five-star hotel. The rooms are suites are designed, decorated, and supplied to perfection. The hotel has superb modern amenities, stunning views, and excellent services. It’s noteworthy that the spa has a heated outdoor pool set against picturesque mountains.

Dine at the hotel’s restaurant and enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by the skilled staff. The hotel boasts of using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Zermatt is definitely one of the best towns in Switzerland. The town is known for the breathtaking views of the Alps, particularly that of Matterhorn, one of the most recognized peaks in Europe and all over the world. In addition, Zermatt is a well-known destination for skiing and snowboarding. With many excellent ski resorts in town, Zermatt gets an influx of adventure-seeking tourists all year round.

One of the most important things to know when you visit Zermatt is that it is a car-free town. You can reach Zermatt by taking the train. You can either walk or ride an e-bus once you enter the town. That’s pretty good, though, as walking around town gives you plenty of opportunities to truly appreciate Zermatt’s natural beauty.

Since Zermatt is one of the cool places in Switzerland, you can find great accommodations during your vacation, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels.

The Best Hotels in Zermatt

Zermatt youth hostel.

Zermatt Youth Hostel is one of the town’s cheapest yet most decent accommodations. It is perfect for not-so-picky travelers who want to meet and socialize with other tourists while getting a good night’s sleep at a low price.

Zermatt Youth Hostel is at a prime location, giving guests access to the incredible views of the Matterhorn. The city center is also just a 10-minute walk from the hostel. Also, several ski lifts near the hostel, such as the Furi Ski Lift, Matterhorn Gondola Express, and Zermatt-Sunnegga, are all within walking distance.

The Omnia is a luxury 5-star hotel, considered one of the best hotels in Switzerland mountains. Perched high on a hill, guests at The Omnia are afforded the most panoramic and unforgettable views of the Alps.

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience in Zermatt, The Omnia is the best place to stay in Switzerland. There are 30 beautifully-appointed rooms, and all are supplied with the best amenities, such as high-quality mattresses, luxury-brand toiletries, a dressing room, and complimentary Bourbon as a welcome gift.

The modern and high-end facilities at The Omnia further enhance your already pleasant stay. You can access outdoor and indoor pools, a sauna with steam, and even book a massage appointment on-site. A Michelin-starred restaurant and a lounge bar are also on-site to offer you a fantastic gastronomic experience.

Located in the Mountainous Bernese Oberland Region, between two stunning lakes, Lake Breinz and Lake Thun, plus the towering Alps in the background, there is no doubt that Interlaken is one of the best Switzerland vacation spots.

This beautiful Swiss destination features a charming atmosphere thanks to the presence of three mighty peaks in the area: Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch. It is a fantastic destination for year-round outdoor excursions and is most famous for its hiking trails, paragliding, snowboarding, and skiing.

Some of the most exciting things to do in Interlaken include riding the funicular to climb Interlaken’s most formidable mountain, the Harder Klum. For more relaxed and chill sightseeing, go to some of the most beautiful gardens in Switzerland, which you’ll find in Interlaken: the Höheweg and the Garden of Friendship.

Of course, you can’t miss the chance to go up the Schynige Platte via the rack railway, taking you to the best vantage point to see the panoramic Alps.

The Best Hotels in Interlaken

Hotel interlaken.

Hotel Interlaken offers a luxurious stay in Switzerland. This luxury hotel was established in the 14th century and is now a 4-star luxury hotel serving as a cozy and pleasant temporary abode in your holiday to Interlaken.

The hotel offers different room types, from small rooms that sleep two people to family rooms with balconies. They all come with stunning views of the natural scenery, up-to-date amenities, and various breakfast options. Restaurant Taverne, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, serves modern Swiss cuisine and a massive selection of wines.

The hotel sits on the heart of the main street, adjacent to the Japanese Garden and two beautiful churches. Plenty of shops and restaurants are nearby, and other attractions, such as the Congress Center, are also within walking distance.

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel

Dubbed the “Grand Dame of Swiss Luxury Hotels”, the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel offers unforgettable experiences that further elevate your Swiss holiday. Located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and with stunning panoramic views of Jungfrau Mountain, this hotel promises an exquisite and relaxing stay in Switzerland.

There are numerous accommodation choices at Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel. Each beautifully-appointed hotel room sports an elegant color palette, spacious bathrooms, corner seating, and unbeatable views of Jungfrau.

With two on-site restaurants, a bar, and a bistro, you can indulge in Swiss cuisine and refreshing aperitifs without leaving the hotel. Other remarkable facilities include wellness retreats, spa, and facial and body treatments that rejuvenate the mind and body.

Bern, Switzerland’s capital city, is an incredible vacation destination. It is most popular for its Old Town, a Unesco world heritage site that has impressed tourists with its medieval charm. The Old Town comprises a six-kilometer-long arcade of beautiful alleys and fascinating fountains. While there, remember to see the Zytglogge, the Clock Tower, probably the most well-known landmark in the city.

Also visit Bear Park, a peaceful enclosure that houses bears (if you must know, the bear symbolizes the city of Bern). And then take a stroll at the Rose Garden, a massive park that overlooks the Old Town. This serene place is home to various flowers, a pond, and a charming restaurant.

The Bernese Minster is another must-see attraction in Bern. Climb the 344 steps leading to the church’s view deck and hold your breath as you take in the mesmerizing panoramic city views.

If you visit Bern in the summer, don’t be surprised to see people splashing about in the Aare River. The river is an essential avenue for exciting water activities (and we’re not just talking about swimming). Locals and tourists flock to the river to enjoy rafting, surfing, kayaking, and canoeing. However, if you want to just chill by the riverside, go on a picnic and enjoy the cool breeze and the sight of the crystal clear water before you.

Best Hotels in Bern

Hotel schweizerhof bern & spa.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Bern, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa is one of the best places to stay in Switzerland.

Located in downtown Bern, this 5-star hotel boasts first-class accommodation. The hotel eloquently combined tradition and modernity, as seen in the 99 beautiful hotel rooms and suites. The spacious rooms feature handpicked furnishings, Japanese bathtubs in spacious bathrooms, and modern entertainment systems and minibars.

The facilities at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa are renowned. The spa facilities include a whirlpool, sauna, and steam bath. You could also book a massage or beauty treatment for ultimate pampering.

Afterward, head over to the restaurant, Jack’s Brasserie, and indulge in sumptuous French cuisine in such a homey yet elegant ambiance. Or, go to the Sky Terrace for a more casual setting and enjoy seasonal and fresh snacks while admiring the city views with the Swiss Alps in the background.

Hotel Savoy Bern

Several words may describe Hotel Savoy Bern: minimalist, contemporary, functional, practical, and value for money. Hotel Savoy Bern may not be as lavish or elegant as luxury hotels, but it is nonetheless one of Bern’s best places to stay.

The hotel is located within the Old City, bringing you close to the main attractions in Bern, such as the Prison Tower and the Church of the Holy Ghost. In addition, the renowned Rose Garden and Berner Munster are only a few minutes’ drive away. You’ll also find the shopping streets and strings of cafes and restaurants nearby.

There are 63 well-appointed rooms in Hotel Savoy, each featuring modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs, WIFI connection, Nespresso machine, and minibar. If staying longer, opt for the sizable suite on the top floor and enjoy the charming views of the Old Town from the terrace.

Geneva is a gorgeous city in the western part of Switzerland. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and at the foothills of the Swiss Alps, the city features unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime!

The first point of your excursion begins at the charming Lake Geneva, where you can take a boat tour and leisurely admire the natural scenery in the city. Be sure to watch out for The Jet d’Eau, a famous fountain located in the heart of Lake Geneva. The fountain shoots water up to 460 feet in the air, and the sheer sight and experience of it should make your trip even more memorable.

Hopping off, wander into Genevea’s Old Town, and savor the rich history as you stroll along charming streets and old cobbled streets. You’ll also find the majestic St. Pierre Cathedral in the Old Town, so consider climbing the towers to admire the splendid view of the city.

There are several outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Geneva. Book a paragliding tour and fly over Mount Salève. Your day trips may include hiking or biking in the Swiss Alps, skiing, and snowboarding during winter.

Best Hotels in Geneva

The woodward.

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Switzerland that your money can pay, consider The Woodward. The hotel, composed of 26 suites, oozes elegance, sophistication, and luxury.

Located on the northern portion of Lake Geneva, The Woodward gives you access to the most breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. The best points of interest in the city center are close to the hotel, including the Grand Opera House and Douglas Theatre.

This exclusive all-suite hotel is designed for the most exquisite stay. Apart from the sweeping views of Lake Geneva straight from your hotel room window, you also enjoy the finest amenities featuring king-size beds, fireplaces, free WIFI, and full-stocked minibars. The Royal Suite, the largest room in the hotel, comes with a private elevator, a marble fireplace, and lake-facing balconies.

Swiss Luxury Apartments

Swiss Luxury Apartments offer a unique accommodation experience for discerning guests. These service apartments ensure a most comfortable stay in Geneva, thanks to its high-tech amenities, including free WIFI, smart TV, coffee and tea maker, Oculus VR Quest II, PS4, and Bluetooth charger. In addition, your booking includes a free transportation card, laundry services, and housekeeping.

Swiss Luxury Apartments is located in Old Town Geneva. Lake Geneva is just a two-minute walk away, while the central train station is nearby. Some must-see spots near your accommodation are Patek Philippe Museum, Villa Diodati, Jardin des Alpes, Square du Mont-Blanc, and the Flower Clock.

You can book a private dinner right in your apartment and order breakfast in bed. The Swiss Treatment Room offers signature treatments to help your body detoxify, relieve stress and get a good night’s sleep.

The Best Places to Stay in Switzerland

Switzerland is a spectacular country. The cities and towns are just as pretty and magical as the next. With endless views of the Swiss Alps, crystal clear waters in major rivers, magnificent natural views from every angle, and gastronomic delights at each turn, we just can’t say enough how beautiful Switzerland is.

Planning your Swiss holiday starts with identifying the cities and towns you wish to visit and the activities you want to do. You’ll need at least a week or two to see all the major places in Switzerland, so this perfect Switzerland itinerary will be handy!

We hope this article helps you find the best places to stay in Switzerland and the perfect accommodation in each of them. There are plenty of options in each town or city, and we are rooting that you find the best hotel, apartment, or hostel that best fits your needs and budget. 

The post The Best Places to Stay in Switzerland + Top Hotels In Each Town appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .