Switzerland packs an astonishing amount of beauty into its compact borders. This alpine wonderland offers everything from snow-capped mountain peaks and crystal-clear lakes to medieval towns and cosmopolitan cities. Whether you’re dreaming of hiking through flower-filled meadows, exploring historic castles, or simply indulging in world-class chocolate and cheese, Switzerland delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Join us as we explore the 40 best places to visit in Switzerland, organized by region to help you plan your perfect Swiss adventure.
Planning Your Swiss Adventure
Before diving into Switzerland’s most beautiful destinations, make sure your trip is perfectly organized. Find the best flight and accommodation deals to maximize your Swiss experience without breaking the bank.
Breathtaking Alpine Destinations
The Swiss Alps form the country’s iconic backbone, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. These alpine destinations combine natural beauty with charming villages and world-class outdoor activities.
1. Zermatt & The Matterhorn
The pyramid-shaped Matterhorn is perhaps Switzerland’s most recognizable landmark, and Zermatt offers the perfect base for experiencing its majesty. This car-free village maintains its traditional charm while offering luxury amenities and world-class skiing. Take the Gornergrat Railway for breathtaking panoramic views or explore over 400km of hiking trails in summer. The best time to visit is winter for skiing or summer (June-September) for hiking when alpine flowers are in bloom.
2. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Known as the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch is home to Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 meters. The journey up via the Jungfrau Railway is an experience itself, passing through tunnels carved into the Eiger and Mönch mountains. At the top, explore the Ice Palace, step onto the Aletsch Glacier, and enjoy panoramic views from the Sphinx Observatory. Visit year-round, but check weather conditions as visibility is crucial for the best experience.
3. Interlaken
Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken serves as the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. This adventure capital offers everything from paragliding and skydiving to hiking and water sports. Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain, provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and lakes. The best time to visit is May through September for outdoor activities, though winter offers excellent skiing opportunities in nearby resorts.
4. Lauterbrunnen Valley
This fairy-tale valley features 72 thundering waterfalls cascading from vertical cliff faces, including the impressive 300-meter Staubbach Falls. The valley floor is dotted with flower-filled meadows and traditional Swiss chalets. Take the cable car to the car-free village of Mürren for spectacular views or visit Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside a mountain. Summer months offer the best hiking conditions, though spring showcases the waterfalls at their most powerful.
5. St. Moritz
This glamorous alpine resort has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and attracts a sophisticated international crowd. Beyond its luxury boutiques and five-star hotels, St. Moritz offers exceptional skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. In winter, experience the unique Cresta Run toboggan track or watch polo matches played on the frozen lake. Visit in winter (December-March) for snow sports or summer (June-September) for hiking and the beautiful alpine lake.
Stunning Lakes and Waterways
Switzerland boasts over 1,500 lakes, from large alpine waters to small mountain tarns. These pristine bodies of water offer beautiful scenery, recreational activities, and charming lakeside towns.
6. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
As Switzerland’s largest lake, Lake Geneva forms a crescent along the country’s western edge. The French-speaking region surrounding the lake offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and wine production. Cruise the lake’s azure waters, stroll along Montreux’s flower-lined promenade, or explore the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The lake is beautiful year-round, with summer offering swimming and sailing, while spring and fall showcase the vineyards at their most colorful.
7. Lake Lucerne
This irregularly shaped lake with its fjord-like arms is surrounded by mountains, creating a spectacular setting. Take a historic paddle steamer cruise to appreciate the scenery, or ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus for panoramic views. The lakeside city of Lucerne, with its medieval Chapel Bridge and charming old town, makes an excellent base for exploration. Visit between May and October for the best weather and full operation of boat services.
8. Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
These twin lakes in the Bernese Oberland offer distinct experiences: Lake Thun with its medieval castles and vineyards, and the turquoise Lake Brienz surrounded by forested mountains. Visit Oberhofen Castle with its picturesque lakeside setting, explore the charming town of Thun with its raised sidewalks, or take a boat to Giessbach Falls on Lake Brienz. Summer months are ideal for swimming and boating, while spring offers beautiful flower displays.
9. Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore
In Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region, these lakes offer a Mediterranean feel with palm trees, piazzas, and promenades. Explore Lugano’s elegant shopping streets and Monte San Salvatore for panoramic views, or visit the Brissago Islands on Lake Maggiore with their botanical gardens. The best time to visit is April through October when you can enjoy the warm climate, though September and October offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
10. Rhine Falls
Europe’s largest waterfall by volume, the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen creates a spectacular display as water crashes over a 150-meter-wide ledge. View the falls from several platforms or take an exhilarating boat ride to the central rock. The medieval Schloss Laufen offers additional viewing points and a visitor center. The falls are impressive year-round, but spring and early summer bring the highest water volumes when Alpine snow melts.
Stay Connected Throughout Switzerland
Don’t miss sharing those breathtaking Swiss vistas on social media or navigating mountain trails with GPS. Get an eSIM before your trip to ensure reliable connectivity across Switzerland’s diverse regions, from remote alpine villages to bustling cities.
Historic Cities and Towns
Switzerland’s urban centers blend medieval charm with modern amenities, offering cultural attractions, museums, and distinctive architecture alongside easy access to nature.
11. Lucerne
This picturesque city combines medieval architecture with a stunning lakeside setting. The iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a wooden covered bridge from the 14th century, spans the Reuss River with its distinctive Water Tower. Explore the well-preserved old town with its frescoed buildings, visit the moving Lion Monument, or take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. The city is beautiful year-round, with summer offering outdoor dining and winter bringing Christmas markets and easy access to nearby ski resorts.
12. Zurich
Switzerland’s largest city offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Stroll along the Limmat River through the medieval old town (Altstadt), shop on the upscale Bahnhofstrasse, or relax at the lakeside parks. The city boasts over 50 museums, including the renowned Kunsthaus art museum and the Swiss National Museum. Visit in summer to swim in the lake and river baths or during December for the magical Christmas markets.
13. Bern
Switzerland’s capital features one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centers, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the old town with its distinctive arcaded shopping streets, climb the Münster cathedral tower for city views, or visit the quirky Zytglogge clock tower with its moving figurines. The Bear Park, home to the city’s symbol, and Einstein’s house, where he developed his theory of relativity, are also worth visiting. The city is enjoyable year-round, with summer bringing outdoor dining along the turquoise Aare River.
14. Basel
Located where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet, Basel offers rich cultural experiences and distinctive architecture. The red sandstone Münster cathedral dominates the skyline, while the old town features medieval buildings and market squares. Basel is known for its world-class museums, including the Kunstmuseum and the modern Fondation Beyeler. The city hosts Switzerland’s largest carnival (Fasnacht) in February/March and Art Basel, one of the world’s premier art fairs, in June.
15. Geneva
This international city on the shores of Lake Geneva is home to numerous global organizations, including the United Nations and Red Cross. The city’s symbol is the Jet d’Eau, a 140-meter water fountain in the lake. Explore the old town with St. Pierre Cathedral, stroll through the English Garden with its flower clock, or visit CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. Geneva is pleasant year-round, with summer offering lake activities and winter providing easy access to nearby ski resorts.
Picturesque Villages and Towns
Switzerland’s smaller settlements often provide the most authentic experiences, with preserved architecture, traditional customs, and stunning natural settings.
16. Grindelwald
This village in the Bernese Alps sits at the base of the imposing Eiger north face, offering spectacular mountain scenery. It serves as an excellent base for hiking, skiing, and mountain activities. Take the Jungfrau Railway or the First Gondola for panoramic views, or try the thrilling First Flyer zipline. Visit in winter for skiing or summer for hiking and mountain biking, with the Eiger Ultra Trail running event held in July.
17. Appenzell
This traditional village in northeastern Switzerland maintains strong cultural traditions and distinctive architecture. The colorful buildings in the car-free center feature painted facades depicting rural scenes and local history. Experience local customs like the cattle descent (Alpabzug) in autumn, or sample the famous Appenzeller cheese. The surrounding rolling hills offer gentle hiking with views of Mount Säntis. Visit during spring and summer for the best hiking conditions or autumn for traditional festivals.
18. Gruyères
This medieval town perched on a hill is famous for its cheese production and preserved architecture. Wander the single cobblestone street lined with 15th and 17th-century buildings, visit the impressive castle, or sample fondue made with local Gruyère cheese. The town also houses the unusual H.R. Giger Museum, dedicated to the Swiss artist who designed the creature in “Alien.” Visit year-round, with summer offering pleasant outdoor dining and winter providing a magical atmosphere with fewer tourists.
19. Mürren
This car-free village perched on a mountain terrace offers unparalleled views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Accessible only by cable car, Mürren maintains an authentic alpine atmosphere with traditional wooden chalets. It serves as a base for hiking in summer and skiing in winter, with the challenging Inferno Race held in January. Take the cable car to Schilthorn for the revolving Piz Gloria restaurant featured in the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”
20. Stein am Rhein
Located where Lake Constance flows into the Rhine River, this perfectly preserved medieval town features remarkably painted building facades. The central Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square) showcases some of the most elaborate frescoed buildings, while Hohenklingen Castle overlooks the town from a nearby hill. Stroll along the Rhine promenade or take a boat trip on the river. Summer and early fall offer the best conditions for enjoying the outdoor cafes and river activities.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Switzerland’s rich history has left behind impressive castles, religious buildings, and museums that provide insight into the country’s past and artistic heritage.
21. Château de Chillon
This medieval island castle on Lake Geneva is Switzerland’s most visited historic monument. The fortress consists of 25 buildings and three courtyards, protected by two circular walls. Explore the underground Gothic halls, climb the towers for lake views, and see the dungeon that inspired Lord Byron’s poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.” The castle is open year-round, with fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.
22. Abbey of St. Gallen
This UNESCO World Heritage site features a magnificent Baroque cathedral and one of the world’s most beautiful historic libraries. The abbey library contains approximately 170,000 books and manuscripts, some over 1,000 years old, displayed in an exquisitely decorated rococo hall. The cathedral’s twin towers dominate the skyline of St. Gallen, a charming city in eastern Switzerland. Visit year-round, though the abbey library has limited opening hours.
23. Bellinzona Castles
The capital of Ticino is home to three magnificent medieval castles, collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro were built to control the strategic Alpine pass. Explore the fortifications, walk the ancient walls, and enjoy views of the surrounding valleys. The castles are open year-round, with summer offering special events and performances in the courtyards.
24. Avenches Roman Ruins
Once the capital of Roman Helvetia (Aventicum), this small town contains impressive remains of its ancient past. Explore the well-preserved amphitheater, which still hosts summer opera performances, see the tall column that once belonged to a temple, and visit the Roman Museum housing artifacts from the site. The ruins are accessible year-round, with the annual Avenches Opera Festival held in the amphitheater in July.
25. Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern
This undulating modern building designed by Renzo Piano houses the world’s largest collection of works by Paul Klee, one of Switzerland’s most famous artists. The museum’s distinctive wave-like structure harmonizes with the surrounding landscape and contains over 4,000 of Klee’s works. Beyond the permanent collection, the center hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events. Open year-round, with a pleasant sculpture garden to explore in summer.
Natural Wonders and Landscapes
Switzerland’s diverse geography has created some truly spectacular natural formations, from deep gorges to high-altitude lakes and massive glaciers.
26. Aletsch Glacier
The largest glacier in the Alps stretches for 23 kilometers with ice up to 900 meters thick. This UNESCO World Heritage site can be viewed from several vantage points, including Eggishorn, Bettmerhorn, and Moosfluh. Hiking trails along the glacier’s edge offer close-up views of this massive ice river. The best time to visit is summer (June-September) when mountain transportation is fully operational and hiking trails are clear of snow.
27. Oeschinen Lake
This alpine lake in the Bernese Oberland is surrounded by steep cliffs and mountain peaks, creating a picture-perfect setting. Accessible via a gondola from Kandersteg followed by a short hike, the emerald-green lake offers swimming, rowing, and fishing in summer. Hiking trails of varying difficulty circle the lake and lead to higher viewpoints. Visit between June and October when the gondola operates regularly and the lake is free of ice.
28. Creux du Van
Often called Switzerland’s Grand Canyon, this natural rock amphitheater features a semicircular cliff dropping 160 meters vertically. The rim stretches for 4 kilometers, offering spectacular views of the Val de Travers below. Wildlife including ibex and marmots can often be spotted in the nature reserve. Hiking trails lead to the rim from several starting points, with the circular route from Noiraigue being the most popular. Visit in spring through fall, avoiding winter when conditions can be dangerous.
29. Verzasca Valley
This picturesque valley in Ticino is famous for its crystal-clear emerald river flowing over smooth rocks. The stone Ponte dei Salti bridge in Lavertezzo, dating from the 17th century, has become an iconic photo spot. Swimming in the refreshing (but cold!) waters is popular in summer, while hiking trails follow the river through the valley. The best time to visit is summer when you can enjoy water activities, though spring and fall offer fewer crowds.
30. Swiss National Park
Founded in 1914, this was the first national park in the Alps and remains Switzerland’s only national park. Covering 170 square kilometers in the Engadine Valley, it offers pristine alpine landscapes and abundant wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, and bearded vultures. Over 80 kilometers of marked hiking trails allow visitors to explore, though strict conservation rules apply. The park is accessible from June to October, with July and August offering the best weather and wildflower displays.
Scenic Rail Journeys and Mountain Experiences
Switzerland’s engineering marvels allow visitors to experience the country’s most spectacular scenery in comfort, from panoramic trains to mountain cable cars.
31. Glacier Express
Billed as the world’s slowest express train, this iconic rail journey connects Zermatt and St. Moritz over 8 hours, crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. The panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views of mountain passes, deep gorges, and picturesque valleys. Highlights include the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 meters and the impressive Landwasser Viaduct. The train operates year-round, with winter offering snowy landscapes and summer showcasing green alpine meadows.
32. Bernina Express
This spectacular rail journey connects Chur in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy, crossing the Alps through the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway. The train climbs to the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters without the use of cogwheels, passing glaciers, lakes, and the spiral Brusio Viaduct. The panoramic cars offer unobstructed views of the changing landscapes. The train operates year-round, with each season offering different perspectives on the alpine scenery.
33. GoldenPass Line
This scenic route connects Lucerne with Lake Geneva, passing through diverse landscapes from central Switzerland to the French-speaking region. The journey can be split into sections, with the stretch between Montreux and Zweisimmen offering classic Belle Époque carriages. Highlights include views of Lake Geneva, the Simmental Valley, and Lake Thun. The train operates year-round, with the option to break the journey in Interlaken or other stops along the way.
34. Pilatus
Lucerne’s local mountain offers a unique “Golden Round Trip” combining a boat cruise, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway (48% gradient), and a panoramic gondola. From the 2,132-meter summit, enjoy spectacular views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. Activities at the top include hiking trails, a rope park, and Switzerland’s longest summer toboggan run. The cogwheel railway operates from May to November, while the gondola runs year-round (weather permitting).
35. Schilthorn
Made famous as a filming location for the James Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” this 2,970-meter peak offers panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The Piz Gloria revolving restaurant at the summit completes a full rotation in 45 minutes while you dine. The James Bond exhibition and Thrill Walk, a cliff pathway with glass floors, add to the experience. The cable car operates year-round (weather permitting), with fewer crowds in spring and fall.
Unique Swiss Experiences
Beyond the famous destinations, Switzerland offers distinctive experiences that showcase the country’s culture, traditions, and innovation.
36. Lavaux Vineyards
These terraced vineyards stretching for 30 kilometers along Lake Geneva have been cultivated since Roman times and are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main grape variety is Chasselas, producing crisp white wines that perfectly complement local cuisine. Walking trails wind through the vineyards, offering spectacular views of the lake and Alps. Visit during harvest (September-October) for special wine festivals or in spring when the vines begin to green.
37. Thermal Baths of Leukerbad
The largest thermal spa resort in the Alps features 65 hot springs supplying numerous pools with mineral-rich water at 51°C. The outdoor thermal pools offer spectacular mountain views while you soak in the healing waters. Beyond relaxation, Leukerbad offers hiking, via ferrata climbing routes, and winter sports. The thermal baths are open year-round, making this an excellent destination in any season.
38. Swiss Chocolate and Cheese Experiences
No visit to Switzerland is complete without sampling its famous culinary specialties. Visit the Maison Cailler chocolate factory in Broc to learn about chocolate production and enjoy tastings, or tour the La Maison du Gruyère to see traditional cheese making. For the ultimate cheese experience, try a traditional fondue or raclette in a mountain restaurant. These culinary attractions are available year-round, with special seasonal offerings during holidays.
39. Ballenberg Open-Air Museum
This living museum near Brienz features over 100 original buildings from all over Switzerland, relocated and reconstructed to preserve traditional rural architecture. Craftspeople demonstrate historical techniques like blacksmithing, basket weaving, and cheese making. Gardens showcase heritage plants, while farm animals roam the grounds. The museum is open from April to October, with special events and demonstrations during summer months.
40. Monte San Salvatore
This mountain near Lugano offers some of the best views in the Ticino region. A funicular railway takes visitors to the 912-meter summit, where panoramic vistas include Lake Lugano, surrounding mountains, and on clear days, the distant peaks of the Bernese Alps and Valais. Hiking trails lead from the summit through chestnut forests, and a small church and restaurant occupy the top. The funicular operates from March to November, with summer offering the best hiking conditions.
Practical Information for Your Swiss Adventure
Switzerland’s efficient infrastructure makes travel relatively straightforward, but some practical tips can enhance your experience and help you make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit
Switzerland offers distinct experiences in each season:
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for hiking, mountain activities, and lake swimming, with pleasant temperatures of 18-28°C (65-82°F).
- Fall (September-October): Beautiful foliage, fewer crowds, and pleasant hiking weather, though some mountain facilities begin to close.
- Winter (December-March): Perfect for skiing and winter sports, with Christmas markets adding festive charm to cities and towns.
- Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom in meadows, and waterfalls are at their most powerful, though some mountain areas may still have snow.
Getting Around
Switzerland’s public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency and coverage:
- Swiss Travel Pass: Offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, plus free entry to many museums.
- Railways: Connect virtually every town and village, with regular and punctual service.
- PostBuses: Reach even the most remote valleys with their distinctive yellow buses.
- Rental Cars: Provide flexibility for exploring rural areas, though parking in cities can be expensive.
- Connectivity: Ensure you stay connected for navigation and information with a reliable travel eSIM.
Ready to Experience Switzerland?
Start planning your Swiss adventure today with these essential travel resources. Find the best flight and accommodation deals, and ensure you stay connected throughout your journey with a reliable travel eSIM.
Embrace the Swiss Experience
Switzerland may be small in size, but its wealth of experiences is truly remarkable. From the soaring peaks of the Alps to the tranquil shores of its lakes, from medieval towns to world-class cities, this alpine nation offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the mountains, cultural immersion in historic towns, or simply the chance to relax amid some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, Switzerland delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Pack your camera, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare to fall in love with this extraordinary country.
