Switzerland, often lauded as the “Playground of Europe,” is a land of unparalleled beauty. It’s a place where majestic mountains pierce the sky, and lakes stretch out like liquid sapphires, offering a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Sixty percent of this stunning country is draped in the Alps, creating landscapes that seem plucked from the most vivid imaginations. Picture glacier-crowned peaks, dramatic waterfalls cascading down rocky faces, fairytale castles with turrets reaching for the clouds, and lakes reflecting the heavens in surreal shades of blue.
Even the simple act of traveling through Switzerland is an enchanting experience. Imagine swaying cable cars gliding over deep valleys, iconic red trains winding their way up mountains to breathtaking altitudes, and the melodic clang of cowbells echoing across lush meadows, inviting you to embrace the idyllic Swiss countryside.
Switzerland’s cities are equally captivating, seamlessly blending cultural richness with stunning natural backdrops of vineyards, lakes, and rivers. The mountains are always a whisper away, a constant reminder of the country’s breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re wondering Where To Visit In Switzerland, look no further. This guide unveils 11 of the most exceptional destinations that Switzerland has to offer, promising an unforgettable journey.
The iconic red train of the Jungfrau Railway ascends through a snowy landscape in Switzerland.
1. Jungfrau Region: The Adventure Capital
Best for: Outdoor Activities, Alpine Scenery, Hiking, Skiing
The Jungfrau Region stands as the jewel in the crown of Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. This is a realm of towering peaks, immense glaciers, and thunderous waterfalls, a spectacle that inspires awe at every turn. Here rise the “big three” of Swiss mountains – the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau – each soaring beyond 4000m (13,123ft) and steeped in mountaineering history and legend.
Embark on an extraordinary journey to Jungfraujoch, “the Top of Europe,” home to Europe’s highest railway station at 3454m (11,332ft). The train ride itself, originating from Lauterbrunnen and passing through Kleine Scheidegg, is an epic adventure. In Grindelwald, immerse yourself in hiking, skiing, sledding, or zip-lining amidst legendary mountains. Interlaken beckons with its stunning waterfalls and a plethora of extreme sports for adrenaline seekers. The Jungfrau region is the ultimate playground for outdoor adventures on a grand scale, making it a prime location for where to visit in Switzerland for thrill-seekers.
Planning Tip: To truly appreciate the Jungfrau Region, allocate at least a week to delve into its wonders. Base yourself in the charming villages of Wengen or Mürren for an authentic Alpine experience.
A picturesque view of the Old Town of Bern, Switzerland, alongside the turquoise Aare River.
2. Bern: A Step Back in Time
Best for: History, Medieval Architecture, Cultural Exploration
Bern, often surprisingly overlooked as a capital city, deserves significant recognition. Switzerland’s capital city boasts a captivating medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, discover hidden cellar shops and bars, and admire fountains adorned with whimsical folk figures. Don’t miss the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, a masterpiece of medieval engineering.
Encircled by wooded hills and bisected by the Aare River, Bern is visually stunning from every angle. Its storybook charm is perfect for families, complete with a bear park housing resident bears and the intriguing Kindlifresserbrunnen (Ogre Fountain), depicting a mythical giant.
Explore key attractions like the Einstein House, where Albert Einstein developed his theory of relativity, the Kunstmuseum Bern with its impressive art collection, and the Zentrum Paul Klee, a modern art museum designed by Renzo Piano. Bern offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, making it a must-see when considering where to visit in Switzerland for a historical journey.
Planning Tip: In summer, Bern transforms into a water lover’s paradise. Enjoy swimming, tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding in the Aare River. A popular and scenic float is from Camping Eichholz to Marzili Lido, offering breathtaking views of the Old Town.
Château de Chillon, a stunning medieval castle, stands majestically on the shores of Lake Geneva.
3. Geneva: Cosmopolitan Elegance
Best for: City Life, International Culture, Lakeside Beauty
Located in Switzerland’s western corner, Geneva sits at the edge of crescent-shaped Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). This region is a visual delight, framed by mountains, vineyards, and charming shoreline towns and cities crowned with castles.
Geneva itself is a cosmopolitan hub, marked by the Jet d’Eau fountain and views of Mont Blanc on the horizon. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the Lake Geneva region. Discover world-class museums and galleries, stroll through botanical gardens, swim in lakeside lidos, relax in vibrant cafes, and utilize the bright-yellow mouettes (water taxis) for scenic commutes across the lake. Geneva embodies cosmopolitan charm and natural beauty, a key consideration for where to visit in Switzerland for a city experience with a view.
Detour: A short boat or train ride from Geneva leads to Lausanne, a city rivaling Geneva in cultural offerings, particularly with its Plateforme 10 arts district. Nearby, explore the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards and Montreux, home to the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival and the picturesque Château de Chillon.
An outdoor restaurant in Zermatt with the iconic Matterhorn mountain dominating the skyline.
4. Zermatt: At the Foot of the Matterhorn
Best for: Hiking, Skiing, Mountaineering, Iconic Views
No mountain holds more allure than the Matterhorn, a striking 4478m (14,692ft) peak that towers over the charming, chalet-filled resort town of Zermatt. This iconic Swiss mountain is so beloved that it inspired the shape of Toblerone chocolate.
Zermatt is more than just the Matterhorn, however. It has been a magnet for climbers since the 19th century and remains a premier destination for mountaineers. For less ambitious visitors, hiking, skiing, and panoramic views from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car station are major draws, offering vistas of glaciers and 4000m peaks. Zermatt is synonymous with alpine adventure and iconic scenery, making it a top choice for where to visit in Switzerland for mountain lovers.
Detour: Take a cable car ride from Zermatt to Testa Grigia and cross into Italy for a taste of Italian cuisine and culture, experiencing two countries from one mountaintop.
5. Swiss National Park: Nature Untamed
Best for: Wildlife Spotting, Hiking, Alpine Nature
Switzerland’s sole national park, nestled in the southeast bordering Italy, is a remarkable destination. The 172 sq km (66 sq mile) Swiss National Park is a showcase of raw Alpine beauty. Discover high moors, dense forests, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and pristine lakes, all under the gaze of towering mountains. Wildlife thrives here, including ibex, chamois, marmots, deer, bearded vultures, and golden eagles.
Human intervention is minimal, prioritizing conservation and allowing nature to flourish. This ancient landscape is so untouched that dinosaur tracks are still occasionally found. Explore it through exceptional hiking trails.
A top trail is the challenging 21km (13-mile) return hike from Zernez to the Macun lakes, where 23 sapphire, azure, and turquoise pools shimmer on a high-Alpine plateau, framed by views of the Bernese, Silvretta, and Ortler Alps. The Swiss National Park is a sanctuary of natural wonders, a must-visit for those seeking where to visit in Switzerland for wilderness exploration.
Planning Tip: Begin your visit at the Swiss National Park visitor center in Zernez to get information on trails and ranger-led guided hikes for a more enriching experience.
Piazza della Collegiata in Bellinzona, Switzerland, bathed in sunlight.
6. Bellinzona: Italian Flair in Switzerland
Best for: Piazza Dining, Medieval Castles, Italian Culture
Bellinzona in Ticino, southern Switzerland, offers an Italian cultural experience with its three medieval castles overlooking the city. The historic center is a vibrant mix of Italian influences, evident in its flower-lined alleys, Renaissance churches, and lively piazzas filled with cafes and restaurants.
Experience the Italian zest for life in Bellinzona, enjoying delicious food and local wines in the sun-drenched piazzas. Bellinzona is a charming blend of Swiss efficiency and Italian passion, making it a unique destination for where to visit in Switzerland for a cultural fusion.
Detour: Explore the castles, especially Castelgrande, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. Allow a full day to explore these historic sites, bringing water and comfortable shoes.
7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel: Road Trip Paradise
Best for: Road Trips, Scenic Drives, Nature Parks
The Jura Mountains, along the French-Swiss border, are a haven of natural beauty. This tranquil region features whispering meadows, ancient forests, rocky viewpoints overlooking mountain lakes, and timeless villages.
A road trip is the ideal way to explore this area. Start at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with Lake Geneva views and Gruyère cheese tastings in rustic huts. Continue north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, home to impressive limestone caves. The Jura region is perfect for scenic drives and nature immersion, a great choice for where to visit in Switzerland for a road trip adventure.
Detour: Extend your trip to Lac de Neuchâtel. Relax in thermal waters at Yverdon-les-Bains, explore the Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe), and visit the Creux du Van canyon. Conclude in Neuchâtel, with its grand château.
A hiker with a Swiss cow on Mount Pilatus near 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 charm. Stroll along the promenade at sunset for breathtaking views, or cruise across the lake to Mount Pilatus for panoramic Alpine vistas that inspired artists and royalty alike.
Walk past belle époque hotels and soak in the same views that captivated historical figures. Lucerne, though small, is culturally rich.
Visit the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), explore art at the Jean Nouvel-designed KKL arts center and the Sammlung Rosengart museum, home to Picassos and other masters. Lake Lucerne combines urban charm with natural splendor, making it a compelling destination for where to visit in Switzerland for a balanced experience.
Local Tip: Explore the fjord-like southeastern part of Lake Lucerne by boat to reach Rütli Meadow, a historically significant site marking the origin of Switzerland.
Appenzeller cheese wheels aging in a Swiss storage facility.
9. Appenzell and Northeastern Switzerland: Rural Idyll
Best for: Rural Experiences, Countryside, Cheese Tasting
Northeastern Switzerland, while less dramatic than the high Alps, offers serene rural beauty. Dairy country meets mountains, and towns are adorned with half-timbered houses and murals. This region is ideal for families seeking culture and gentle adventures.
Start in St Gallen, visiting the UNESCO-listed Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library). Continue to Appenzell, a picturesque town, and sample local cheeses at the Appenzeller Schaukäserei dairy.
Venture south to Säntis mountain for views across six countries, and visit Werdenberg, a tiny medieval hamlet with Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets. Northeastern Switzerland offers a taste of rural Swiss life, a peaceful retreat for where to visit in Switzerland for countryside charm.
Detour: Visit Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and explore the Liechtenstein Trail for a unique hiking experience around an entire country.
Detail of the historic town hall clock in Basel, Switzerland, showcasing intricate design.
10. Basel: The Understated Gem
Best for: Art, Culture, Urban Exploration, Food Scene
Basel, often overlooked, is a vibrant city on the Rhine River. It boasts world-class art galleries, a thriving food scene, a lively cafe culture, and striking modern architecture.
Spend days exploring Basel. Must-sees include the Kunstmuseum Basel, Fondation Beyeler, and the Vitra Design Museum (just across the border in Germany).
The Rehberger-Weg, a 5km art trail connecting Fondation Beyeler and Vitra Design Museum, is best explored on foot or bike, crossing the border multiple times. Basel is an underrated cultural hub, making it a surprising choice for where to visit in Switzerland for urban art and innovation.
Planning Tip: Experience Basel like a local by enjoying sundown drinks by the Rhine or swimming in the river. Rent a Wickelfisch waterproof bag and float downstream past city landmarks for a unique perspective.
Zurich city center with Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches along the Limmat River, under a clear sky.
11. Zürich: The Good Life Defined
Best for: City Living, Nightlife, Cultural Experiences, Lakeside Activities
Zürich, consistently ranked high in quality-of-living surveys, is a dynamic urban center. It epitomizes “the good life,” from trendy waterside bars along the Limmat River to the charming Old Town. Visit the Grossmünster church with its Augusto Giacometti stained glass.
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 cutting-edge arts venue. Zürich is a sophisticated and lively city, a top contender for where to visit in Switzerland for a vibrant urban experience.
Planning Tip: In mid-August, Zürich hosts the Street Parade, one of Europe’s largest techno parties. In summer, locals enjoy “Badi-Bars,” lakeside and riverside pool bars with a festive atmosphere. Rimini is a popular choice.
