Switzerland, often lauded as the “Playground of Europe,” lives up to its reputation with breathtaking alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and charming towns. This guide unveils the Best Places To Travel In Switzerland, ensuring an unforgettable experience amidst its majestic landscapes and vibrant culture. From thrilling outdoor adventures to serene city escapes, Switzerland offers a diverse range of destinations to explore, making it a top choice for travelers worldwide.
The red train running on the Jungfrau Railway in Switzerland.
Switzerland’s allure lies in its dramatic topography, where the Alps dominate 60% of the landscape. Picture-perfect scenes unfold at every turn: glacier-crowned peaks that pierce the sky, powerful waterfalls cascading into valleys, fairytale castles perched on hillsides, and lakes mirroring the surreal blue of the heavens. Even simple journeys become magical here. Imagine gliding in cable cars over deep valleys, riding iconic red trains that climb impossibly steep mountains, and hearing the gentle clang of cowbells across verdant meadows.
Culturally rich cities in Switzerland seamlessly blend urban life with nature, often set against backdrops of vineyards, serene lakes, and rushing rivers. The imposing mountains are never far from view, a constant reminder of the country’s stunning natural beauty. With such unparalleled scenery, the question isn’t why visit Switzerland, but where to begin? Let’s explore 11 of the best places to visit in Switzerland, each offering a unique slice of Swiss paradise.
1. Jungfrau Region: The Adventure Capital
Best for: Outdoor Activities, Alpine Scenery, Hiking, Skiing
The Jungfrau region, the jewel in the crown of the Bernese Oberland, is synonymous with spectacular mountain landscapes. Here, the “Big Three” – Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau – mountains exceeding 4000m (13,123ft), reign supreme, steeped in mountaineering history and offering unparalleled views. This region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A highlight is the unforgettable journey to Jungfraujoch, “The Top of Europe,” home to Europe’s highest railway station at 3454m (11,332ft). The train ride from Lauterbrunnen, via Kleine Scheidegg, is an adventure in itself, winding through tunnels and offering panoramic vistas. For those seeking adrenaline and exploration, Grindelwald provides opportunities for hiking, skiing, sledding, and zip-lining amidst legendary mountains. Interlaken, nestled between two stunning lakes, is the hub for adventure sports, offering everything from paragliding to canyoning. The Jungfrau region truly embodies the Swiss outdoor experience on a grand scale.
Travel Tip: To fully appreciate the Jungfrau region, plan to spend at least a week. Charming villages like Wengen and Mürren serve as excellent bases for exploring the area, providing access to numerous trails and attractions.
A view of old town buildings by the river in Bern, Switzerland.
2. Bern: A Step Back in Time
Best for: History, Medieval Architecture, Cultural Exploration
Bern, Switzerland’s capital, often surprises visitors with its understated charm and historical depth. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a captivating maze of cobblestone streets, adorned with Swiss flags and boasting 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades. These arcades house unique cellar shops, cozy bars, and ornate fountains topped with whimsical figures, offering a glimpse into Bern’s rich past. The iconic Zytglogge clock tower stands as a testament to medieval engineering and Bern’s historical significance.
Surrounded by verdant hills and bisected by the turquoise Aare River, Bern presents a picturesque scene from every angle. The city’s storybook atmosphere extends to its attractions, including the Bear Park, home to Bern’s symbolic bears, and the intriguing Kindlifresserbrunnen fountain, depicting a mythical giant.
Bern is also a city of intellectual and artistic pursuits. Visit Einstein House, where Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity, and the Kunstmuseum, renowned for its impressive collection of fine arts. For modern art enthusiasts, the Zentrum Paul Klee, designed by Renzo Piano, offers a contemporary architectural marvel and houses an extensive collection of Paul Klee’s works.
Travel Tip: In the summer months, Bern transforms into an aquatic playground. The Aare River becomes a hub for swimming, tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Join locals for a refreshing float from Camping Eichholz to Marzili Lido, enjoying breathtaking views of the Old Town from the water.
Exterior of Castle Chillon, one of the most visited castles in Switzerland.
3. Geneva: Cosmopolitan Elegance
Best for: City Experience, International Culture, Lakeside Views
Geneva, nestled in the westernmost corner of Switzerland, is a city of international importance and stunning natural beauty. Bordered by the crescent-shaped Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), the city offers breathtaking views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and vineyards. The iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, a soaring plume of water, marks Geneva’s skyline, while Mont Blanc graces the horizon on clear days.
As a cosmopolitan hub, Geneva is a gateway to exploring the Lake Geneva region. The city boasts world-class museums and art galleries, beautiful botanical gardens, and lakeside lidos for swimming. Enjoy the vibrant café culture and utilize the bright yellow mouettes (water taxis) for scenic commutes across the lake.
Side Trip: A short journey by boat or train from Geneva leads to Lausanne, a city that rivals Geneva in cultural offerings, particularly with its Plateforme 10 arts district. Nearby, explore the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine region and the charming town of Montreux, famous for its annual jazz festival and the picturesque Château de Chillon, located directly on the lakefront.
Outdoor restaurant in Zermatt, Switzerland, with the Matterhorn in the background.
4. Zermatt: At the Foot of the Matterhorn
Best for: Hiking, Skiing, Mountaineering, Iconic Views
Zermatt is synonymous with the Matterhorn, the 4478m (14,692ft) peak that is arguably Switzerland’s most iconic mountain. This distinctive, jagged summit towers over the charming, car-free Alpine resort of Zermatt. The Matterhorn’s striking shape is so deeply ingrained in Swiss culture that it inspired the design of the Toblerone chocolate bar.
However, Zermatt offers much more than just the Matterhorn. Since the 19th century, it has been a magnet for mountaineers and climbers seeking to conquer the Alps. Today, it attracts visitors for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking panoramic views from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car station, offering vistas of glaciers and numerous 4000m (13,123ft) peaks.
Side Trip: Experience a unique cross-border adventure by taking a cable car from Zermatt to Testa Grigia in Italy. Enjoy an Italian pranzo (lunch) and stand with one foot in Switzerland and the other in Italy, all while surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
5. Swiss National Park: Wilderness Untamed
Best for: Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Nature Photography
Surprisingly, Switzerland has only one national park, but it is a truly exceptional one. Located in the southeastern corner of the country, bordering Italy, the Swiss National Park encompasses 172 sq km (66 sq miles) of pristine Alpine wilderness. This is nature at its most untamed, featuring high moors, dense forests, wildflower-strewn meadows, dramatic waterfalls, and jewel-toned lakes, all set against a backdrop of towering mountains. The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, deer, bearded vultures, and golden eagles.
Conservation is paramount in the Swiss National Park, with minimal human intervention to preserve its natural state. The landscape is so ancient and untouched that dinosaur tracks are still occasionally discovered here. Hiking is the best way to explore the park, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels.
A top trail is the challenging 21km (13-mile) round trip hike from Zernez to the Macun lakes. This trail leads to a high-Alpine plateau dotted with 23 stunning lakes in shades of sapphire, azure, and turquoise, offering extraordinary views of the Bernese, Silvretta, and Ortler Alps.
Travel Tip: Begin your visit at the Swiss National Park visitor center in Zernez to get information on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes. This will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the park’s unique ecosystem.
A sunny day at Piazza Collegiate in Bellinzona, Switzerland
6. Bellinzona: Italian Flair in the Swiss Alps
Best for: Piazza Dining, Medieval Castles, Italian Culture
Bellinzona, located in the Ticino region of southern Switzerland, offers a delightful taste of Italy amidst the Swiss Alps. Three imposing medieval castles, perched on hills overlooking the city and offering panoramic Alpine views, define Bellinzona’s skyline. The city’s historic center exudes Italian charm, with flower-lined alleys, Renaissance churches, and lively piazzas brimming with cafes, restaurants, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Italian influence is evident in Bellinzona’s cuisine, architecture, and lifestyle. Enjoy al fresco dining in the piazzas, savoring Italian dishes and local wines.
Side Trip: A visit to Bellinzona is incomplete without exploring its castles, particularly Castelgrande, the largest and most impressive. Allow a full day to explore the castle complex, wander its ramparts, and soak in the views of the surrounding vine-covered hills and valleys.
7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel: Scenic Road Trip Territory
Best for: Road Trips, Nature Parks, Lakeside Relaxation
The Jura Mountains, stretching along the French-Swiss border, offer a tranquil and picturesque escape. This region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, open meadows, and serene lakes, creating a unique natural beauty. Slow-paced villages and valleys preserve a timeless charm, seemingly untouched by modern life.
The Jura region is ideal for a scenic road trip. Start at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park, offering hiking trails with views of Lake Geneva and opportunities for Gruyère cheese tastings at traditional Alpine huts. Continue north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, known for its impressive limestone caves.
Side Trip: Extend your road trip to include Lac de Neuchâtel. Relax in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, explore the Val-de-Travers, the birthplace of absinthe, and visit the dramatic Creux du Van canyon. Conclude your journey in the charming town of Neuchâtel, dominated by its grand castle.
Young man walking with a Swiss cow on a mountain footpath on Mount Pilatus, Lucerne, Switzerland.
8. Lake Lucerne: Lakeside Charm and Mountain Majesty
Best for: Sunset Views, Lakeside Promenades, Cultural City
Lucerne, nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne, is a captivating medieval city with an undeniable magic. Stroll along the lakeside promenade as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the water and surrounding mountains. Take a boat trip across the lake to Mount Pilatus, a mountain that inspired Wagner and captivated Queen Victoria.
Lucerne’s beauty has long attracted artists and dignitaries. The same views that enchanted Goethe, Turner, and Queen Victoria in the 19th century continue to enthrall visitors today. Despite its small size, Lucerne boasts a rich cultural scene.
Don’t miss the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), spanning the Reuss River, and explore the art treasures within the Jean Nouvel-designed KKL Culture and Convention Centre and the Sammlung Rosengart museum, home to a remarkable private collection of works by Picasso and other masters.
Local Tip: Venture beyond the city center and explore the southeastern section of Lake Lucerne by boat. This fjord-like area, surrounded by mountains, offers a glimpse into Switzerland’s heartland. Visit Rütli Meadow, a historically significant site where the oath of confederation, marking the foundation of Switzerland, is said to have been taken.
Appenzeller cheese in storage in Switzerland.
9. Appenzell and Northeastern Switzerland: Rural Idyll
Best for: Rural Experiences, Cheese Tasting, Gentle Hiking
Northeastern Switzerland, while lacking the dramatic peaks of the high Alps, offers a serene and deeply rural charm. Rolling dairy country meets gentle mountains, dotted with half-timbered villages adorned with colorful murals. This region is perfect for families seeking a blend of culture, gentle outdoor activities, and authentic Swiss experiences.
Begin your exploration in St Gallen, home to the UNESCO-listed Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a masterpiece of rococo art and architecture. Continue to the picturesque village of Appenzell, and visit the Appenzeller Schaukäserei dairy to sample the region’s renowned cheeses.
Venture south towards the Alps and ascend Säntis, reaching 2501m (8,205ft) for panoramic views encompassing six countries. Finally, explore Werdenberg, a tiny medieval hamlet boasting Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.
Side Trip: Take a short trip to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, located on the banks of the Rhine. Visit Vaduz Castle and consider hiking the Liechtenstein Trail, a 75km (47-mile) route that circles the entire country, offering a unique weekend hiking adventure.
Detail of the historic town hall clock in Basel, Switzerland.
10. Basel: An Underrated Urban Gem
Best for: Art and Culture, Food Scene, City Exploration
Basel, often overlooked by tourists, is a vibrant city on the Rhine River with a thriving arts and culture scene, a dynamic food scene, and impressive architecture. Basel deserves a prominent place on any Swiss travel itinerary.
Spend several days exploring the city center, including the Kunstmuseum Basel, renowned for its fine art collection, the Fondation Beyeler art museum designed by Renzo Piano, and the Vitra Design Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, located just across the border in Weil am Rhein, Germany.
The Rehberger-Weg, a 5km (3.1-mile) art trail connecting the Fondation Beyeler and the Vitra Design Museum, crosses the border and features 24 art installations, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
Travel Tip: Discover Basel’s hidden gems by enjoying sunset drinks by the Rhine or experiencing a refreshing swim in the river. Rent a Wickelfisch, a waterproof fish-shaped bag, and float downstream, passing Basel’s iconic landmarks from a unique perspective.
Scenic view of historic Zurich city center with the famous Fraumunster and Grossmunster churches and the Limmat River, Switzerland.
11. Zürich: Quality of Life and Urban Excitement
Best for: City Living, Nightlife, Cultural Attractions
Zürich, consistently ranked among the top cities for quality of life, is a dynamic urban center that seamlessly blends efficiency with enjoyment. From trendy waterside bars along the Limmat River to the charming Old Town, Zürich offers a high quality of life and diverse experiences. Explore the Old Town’s winding alleys and visit the Grossmünster church, founded by Charlemagne, admiring the Augusto Giacometti-designed stained glass windows.
Culture enthusiasts can explore Old Masters at the Kunsthaus gallery, admire Le Corbusier’s architectural works, and discover the post-industrial Züri-West district, home to the Schiffbau, a former shipbuilding factory now showcasing cutting-edge arts.
Travel Tip: In mid-August, Zürich hosts the Street Parade, one of Switzerland’s largest and most energetic techno parties. During the warm summer months, 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.
Switzerland’s best places to travel offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures. Whether you seek alpine hikes, historical explorations, or vibrant city experiences, Switzerland promises an unforgettable journey. Start planning your Swiss adventure today and discover why it truly is the playground of Europe.
