Switzerland, often hailed as the “Playground of Europe,” is a land of unparalleled beauty. Its dramatic mountains, pristine lakes, and charming towns create a landscape that seems almost too perfect to be real. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or tranquil moments surrounded by nature, Switzerland offers a diverse range of experiences that will captivate any traveler. From glacier-topped peaks to historic cities, prepare to be amazed by the sheer variety and splendor of this Alpine nation.
The red train running on the Jungfrau Railway in Switzerland.
1. Jungfrau Region
Best for: Outdoor Activities and Breathtaking Alpine Scenery
The Jungfrau region, nestled within the Bernese Oberland, is a jewel in Switzerland’s crown. This area is dominated by the iconic “Big Three” mountains: the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, each soaring above 4,000 meters (13,123 ft). Glaciers carve through valleys, waterfalls cascade down cliffs, and hiking trails wind through meadows, creating an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
A highlight of any visit is a journey to Jungfraujoch, “the Top of Europe,” the continent’s highest railway station at 3,454m (11,332ft). The train ride from Lauterbrunnen, through Kleine Scheidegg, is an experience in itself, offering stunning views of the Eiger North Face and glacial landscapes. Grindelwald provides a base for hiking, skiing, sledding, and zip-lining amidst legendary mountains. Interlaken, situated between two lakes, is known as the adventure capital, offering everything from paragliding to canyoning. The Jungfrau region is truly an outdoor playground on an epic scale.
Planning Tip: To fully appreciate the Jungfrau region, plan to spend at least a week. Base yourself in charming villages like Wengen or Mürren for easy access to trails and attractions.
A view of old town buildings by the river in Bern, Switzerland.
2. Bern
Best for: Historical Immersion and Medieval Charm
Bern, Switzerland’s capital, often surprises visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and rich history. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a captivating maze of cobblestone streets, sandstone buildings, and six kilometers (3.7 miles) of covered arcades. These arcades house unique cellar shops, cozy bars, and ornate fountains, each telling a story of the city’s past. The Zytglogge clock tower, with its astronomical clock, is a must-see landmark.
The city is beautifully situated, framed by wooded hills and bisected by the turquoise Aare River. Bern offers storybook appeal, with its Bear Park, home to the city’s mascots, and the intriguing Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain).
For culture enthusiasts, Bern boasts attractions like the Einstein House, where Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity, the Kunstmuseum, renowned for its fine arts collection, and the Zentrum Paul Klee, a modern art museum designed by Renzo Piano.
Planning Tip: In the summer months, Bern transforms into a riverside city. Join locals for swimming, tubing, rafting, or paddleboarding in the Aare River. A popular float route is from Camping Eichholz to Marzili Lido, offering stunning views of the Old Town.
Exterior of Castle Chillon, one of the most visited castles in Switzerland.
3. Geneva
Best for: Cosmopolitan City Life and Lakeside Beauty
Geneva, located in the westernmost corner of Switzerland, is a sophisticated city bordering the crescent-shaped Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). The lake is framed by mountains, vineyards, and charming towns, creating a stunning backdrop.
The city is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and international organizations. The iconic Jet d’Eau fountain shoots water high into the sky, a symbol of Geneva. On clear days, Mont Blanc is visible on the horizon. Geneva is an excellent base for exploring the Lake Geneva region, with world-class museums, botanical gardens, lakeside lidos, and vibrant cafes. Yellow mouettes (water taxis) offer scenic commutes across the lake.
Detour: A short boat or train ride from Geneva takes you to Lausanne, a city with a thriving arts scene, particularly around the Plateforme 10 arts district. Nearby, explore the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine region and Montreux, famous for its jazz festival and the stunning Château de Chillon on the lake shore.
Outdoor restaurant in Zermatt, Switzerland, with the Matterhorn in the background.
4. Zermatt
Best for: Hiking, Skiing, and Iconic Mountain Views
Zermatt is synonymous with the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most iconic mountain. This 4,478m (14,692ft) peak, shaped like a jagged tooth, dominates the landscape above the charming, car-free village of Zermatt. Its striking silhouette even inspired the shape of Toblerone chocolate.
Zermatt is a haven for mountaineers, hikers, and skiers. Since the 19th century, climbers have been drawn to conquer the Matterhorn. For less experienced visitors, hiking trails abound, and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car whisks you to a station offering panoramic views of glaciers and surrounding 4,000m peaks.
Detour: For a unique experience, take the cable car from Zermatt to Testa Grigia, crossing into Italy. Enjoy an Italian lunch (pranzo) with breathtaking views from the top, straddling the Swiss-Italian border.
5. Swiss National Park
Best for: Wildlife Encounters and Untamed Nature
Switzerland’s only national park, located in the southeast on the border with Italy, is a pristine wilderness of 172 sq km (66 sq miles). The Swiss National Park is a haven for wildlife and untouched landscapes. High moors, dense forests, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and alpine lakes characterize this region. Ibex, chamois, marmots, deer, bearded vultures, and golden eagles roam freely.
Conservation is paramount here, with minimal human intervention. The landscape is so ancient and undisturbed that dinosaur tracks are occasionally discovered. Hiking is the best way to explore, with numerous phenomenal trails.
A top trail is the challenging 21km (13-mile) round trip hike from Zernez to the Macun lakes. This high-alpine plateau features 23 shimmering lakes in shades of sapphire, azure, and turquoise, with spectacular views of the Bernese, Silvretta, and Ortler Alps.
Planning Tip: Begin your Swiss National Park adventure at the visitor center in Zernez. Here, you can get detailed information about walking trails and join ranger-led guided hikes to maximize your experience.
A sunny day at Piazza Collegiate in Bellinzona, Switzerland
6. Bellinzona
Best for: Italian Flair and Medieval Castles
Bellinzona, located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of southern Switzerland, offers a taste of Italy amidst the Swiss Alps. Three impressive medieval castles, perched on hilltops overlooking the city, are UNESCO World Heritage sites and the main attraction. The city center exudes Italian charm, with flower-lined alleys, Renaissance churches, and lively piazzas filled with cafes and restaurants.
The atmosphere is distinctly Italian, reflected in the food, language, and relaxed lifestyle. Enjoy al fresco dining in the piazzas, savoring regional specialties and local wines.
Detour: Castelgrande, the largest and most impressive of Bellinzona’s castles, is a must-visit. Explore its ramparts and towers, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills dotted with more castles. Plan a full day to explore Castelgrande thoroughly, bringing water, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a picnic.
7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel
Best for: Scenic Road Trips and Undiscovered Landscapes
The Jura Mountains, stretching along the French-Swiss border, offer a different kind of Swiss beauty – tranquil, forested, and less crowded than the high Alps. This region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, meadows, rocky outcrops, and serene lakes. Slow-paced villages and valleys retain a timeless charm.
A road trip is the ideal way to explore the Jura. Start in the Jura Vaudois Nature Park, offering hiking trails with views of Lake Geneva and opportunities for Gruyère cheese tasting at traditional Alpine huts. Continue north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, home to impressive limestone caves.
Detour: Extend your trip to include Lac de Neuchâtel. Relax in thermal waters at Yverdon-les-Bains, explore the Val-de-Travers, the birthplace of absinthe, and visit the Creux du Van, a dramatic natural amphitheater. The town of Neuchâtel, with its grand château, provides a fitting end to the journey.
Young man walking with a Swiss cow on a mountain footpath on Mount Pilatus, Lucerne, Switzerland.
8. Lake Lucerne
Best for: Lakeside Promenades and Medieval City Charm
Lucerne, nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne, is a picturesque medieval city with an enchanting atmosphere. Walking along the lakeside promenade at sunset, with the Alps reflecting in the water, is a magical experience. A cruise across the lake to Mount Pilatus, offering panoramic Alpine views, is another highlight.
Lucerne has captivated visitors for centuries, including Goethe, Turner, Queen Victoria, and Wagner. The city’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Don’t miss the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), spanning the Reuss River, and the cultural treasures within the KKL arts center designed by Jean Nouvel, and the Sammlung Rosengart museum, housing a significant Picasso collection.
Local Tip: Explore Lake Lucerne further by taking a boat cruise to the southeastern, fjord-like section of the lake. Visit Rütli Meadow, historically significant as the reputed site of the oath that founded Switzerland.
Appenzeller cheese in storage in Switzerland.
9. Appenzell and Northeastern Switzerland
Best for: Rural Landscapes and Traditional Culture
Northeastern Switzerland, while lacking the dramatic peaks of the high Alps, offers a serene and deeply rural charm. This region, characterized by rolling dairy country, half-timbered towns adorned with murals, and gentle mountains, is perfect for families seeking a blend of culture and outdoor activities.
Start in St. Gallen, visiting the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library (Stiftsbibliothek), a masterpiece of Rococo art and architecture. Move on to Appenzell, a remarkably pretty village, and sample regional cheeses at the Appenzeller Schaukäserei dairy.
Venture south into the Alps to Säntis, reaching 2,501m (8,205ft) for views encompassing six countries. Visit Werdenberg, a tiny medieval hamlet with Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.
Detour: Take a side trip to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, located on the banks of the Rhine. Explore Vaduz Castle and consider hiking the Liechtenstein Trail, a 75km (47-mile) path encircling the entire country.
Detail of the historic town hall clock in Basel, Switzerland.
10. Basel
Best for: Underrated City Exploration and Art Scene
Basel, often overlooked by tourists, is a vibrant city straddling the Rhine River. It offers a rich blend of world-class art, a thriving food scene, a lively cafe culture, and striking modern architecture.
Spend several days exploring Basel’s cultural highlights, including the Kunstmuseum, housing an exceptional fine art collection, the Fondation Beyeler art museum designed by Renzo Piano, and the Vitra Design Museum (just across the border in Germany), designed by Frank Gehry.
The Rehberger-Weg, a 5km (3.1-mile) art trail connecting the Fondation Beyeler and the Vitra Design Museum, is best explored on foot or by bike, crossing the border between Switzerland and Germany.
Planning Tip: Experience Basel like a local by enjoying sundown drinks by the Rhine or taking a swim in the river. Rent a Wickelfisch (a waterproof swimming bag) and float downstream past the city’s landmarks.
Scenic view of historic Zurich city center with the famous Fraumunster and Grossmunster churches and the Limmat River, Switzerland.
11. Zürich
Best for: Urban Sophistication and High Quality of Life
Zürich, consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities, is a dynamic urban center. It exudes a sense of “the good life,” from trendy waterside bars along the Limmat River to the charming Old Town. The Grossmünster church, with its stained-glass windows by Augusto Giacometti, is a notable landmark.
Culture lovers will appreciate the Kunsthaus gallery, showcasing Old Masters, Le Corbusier’s architectural works, and the edgy Züri-West district, home to the Schiffbau, a former shipbuilding factory now hosting cutting-edge arts performances.
Planning Tip: In mid-August, Zürich hosts the Street Parade, one of Europe’s largest techno parties. During warm summer days, locals flock to “Badi-Bars,” lake and riverside pool bars with a lively atmosphere. Rimini is a popular choice to experience this unique Zürich summer vibe.
