12 Absolutely Stunning Lakes in Switzerland to Add to Your Bucket List

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I’ve been to Switzerland seven times, and no matter how much I explore—Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne, the Engadin—it’s always the lakes that stop me in my tracks. The color alone is next level: deep glacial blues, emerald greens, and alpine reflections so clear they look edited. I’ve swum in Lake Lucerne, paddled on Lake Brienz, and hiked to hidden gems most tourists miss.

This list includes some of Switzerland’s most iconic lakes, along with a few tucked-away stunners in regions like the Bernese Oberland, Graubünden, and Appenzell. If you think you’ve seen beautiful lakes before…Switzerland is about to raise the bar. Here are my 12 favorite Swiss lakes you should know about.

What makes Switzerland’s lakes so special?

After visiting dozens of lakes across Switzerland on seven separate trips, a few things stand out. First, the color…it’s unreal. Many are glacier-fed, which gives them that signature milky-turquoise or deep sapphire hue, depending on the minerals and light. Second, the settings. These lakes aren’t just pretty…they’re framed by soaring peaks, storybook villages, and wildflower-covered trails.

Switzerland has over 1,500 lakes, but I’ve chosen these 12 based on three things: natural beauty, accessibility (some require epic hikes, others are right in town), and how memorable the experience felt. Whether I was watching the sunset over Lake Thun with church bells echoing in the distance or floating alone in the glassy waters of Seealpsee, each of these spots left a mark.

Some are well-known (Lake Lucerne, Lake Brienz), while others—like Lake Obersee or Lake Sils—feel like secrets worth keeping. Here are the most scenic lakes in Switzerland you gotta check out in 2025 and beyond…

1. Lake Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is hands-down one of the most breathtaking lakes in Switzerland. Surrounded by jagged peaks, forested slopes, and postcard villages like Weggis and Vitznau, the lake feels like it was designed to impress. I’ve cruised across it by paddle steamer, watched the sun rise over the water from a mountaintop in Bürgenstock, and swum off the quiet shores near Gersau.

Stroll the lakeside promenade in Lucerne’s Old Town, then take the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus for panoramic views you’ll never forget. My personal favorite? Taking the boat to Weggis at golden hour — the sky lights up over the water, and it feels like stepping into a painting. Whether you’re into scenic hikes, relaxing spas, or sipping Swiss wine by the lake, Lake Lucerne is where alpine magic meets serenity.

• Read also: My Absolute Favorite Activities in the Swiss Alps

2. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of Switzerland’s most scenic lakes, with its crystal-clear water framed by vineyards, medieval castles, and the snow-capped Alps. It’s massive — stretching from Geneva to Montreux — and every section feels like a different world.

The lakeside promenades in Geneva and Lausanne are perfect for a morning walk, while Montreux gives off serious French Riviera vibes with its palm trees and jazz history. Don’t miss Château de Chillon, a stunning castle that sits right on the water’s edge. One of my favorite experiences was sipping local white wine in Lavaux, a UNESCO-listed vineyard terrace overlooking the lake — it’s pure magic at sunset. Whether you’re into boat cruises, lakeside cafes, or exploring charming towns like Vevey and Nyon, Lake Geneva delivers nonstop views and a unique blend of Swiss and French culture.

3. Lake Thun

Lake Thun is an underrated gem in the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by snow-dusted peaks, fairytale castles, and picturesque villages. Its deep blue water reflects the Alps like a mirror, making every boat ride feel surreal.

One of the best ways to take it all in is on a paddle steamer from Thun to Interlaken — the views along the shoreline are incredible. Explore Thun’s Old Town with its elevated cobblestone streets and lakeside cafés, then visit the iconic Oberhofen Castle, which looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook.

My favorite experience? Watching the sunset from the Schadau Park gardens with the lake in front and mountains glowing behind — unreal. Whether you’re into water sports, scenic hikes, or just want to soak in alpine serenity without the crowds, Lake Thun offers some of the most photo-worthy landscapes in Switzerland.

4. Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is one of the dreamiest lakes in Switzerland, glowing turquoise thanks to glacial runoff and tucked between towering alpine peaks. Located just 15 minutes from Lake Thun (they’re connected via Interlaken), it’s easy to explore both in one trip.

Cruise across Lake Brienz on a vintage paddle steamer, then hop off to explore the magical Giessbach Falls and ride Europe’s oldest funicular up to the Grandhotel Giessbach. One of my most memorable experiences? The Brienz Rothorn Railway, a steam-powered cogwheel train that climbs above the clouds with panoramic views you’ll never forget.

In the town of Brienz, stroll the lakefront, shop for hand-carved wood souvenirs, or visit Ballenberg, Switzerland’s open-air folk museum. For peaceful vibes and epic photos, head to Iseltwald, a quiet lakeside village that looks straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re kayaking, hiking, or just soaking up the views, Lake Brienz is pure Swiss magic.

5. Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich may not be tucked deep in the Alps, but it delivers major vibes. Think swan-dotted waters, lakeside lidos, and chic city energy with mountain views on the horizon. The star here is Zurich itself, a city that blends sleek Swiss efficiency with café culture and quirky charm.

Stroll the promenade at Seefeld, grab a gelato, and watch the sailboats drift by. In summer, locals flock to public swimming spots like Strandbad Mythenquai or Badi Enge. Floating docks, diving boards, and rosé on tap? Yes please.

Take a ferry ride to the medieval town of Rapperswil, aka the “Town of Roses,” where you can visit a hilltop castle, walk the wooden footbridge over the lake, and sip Swiss wine in a cobblestone square. For a dose of nature, hike or bike along the panoramic trails lining the lake. Whether you’re into sunsets, sailing, or swan selfies, Lake Zurich brings the chill.

6. Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano completely surprised me…in the best way. Tucked into the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, this lake is pure magic: dramatic peaks, palm trees, and pastel villages that feel more Mediterranean than Swiss. It’s lesser visited than Lake Como or Lake Geneva, but honestly just as stunning, and WAY less crowded. I was lucky enough to explore it on my last trip to Ticino, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots in all of Switzerland.

The city of Lugano blends Italian flair with Swiss polish. I love the waterfront piazzas, gelato shops, and funicular rides to epic viewpoints like Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Hop on a boat to charming lakeside towns like Gandria, with its narrow alleys and lakeside trattorias, or cross into Italy for a glass of wine in Porlezza. Lake Lugano has this easygoing, romantic vibe that makes you want to slow down, sip something cold, and stay a while.

7. Lake Oeschinen

Lake Oeschinen (Oeschinensee), perched at 1,578 m above Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, is a stunning stop on any Swiss road‑trip or Jungfrau region itinerary. This UNESCO-listed jewel is framed by dramatic peaks like Blüemlisalp and Doldenhorn and is renowned for its fluorescent turquoise water.

Accessible via a short 10-minute cable car from Kandersteg (or for the adventurous, a 2.4‑mile uphill hike), the payoff is jaw‑dropping: emerald meadows, cascading waterfalls, and sheer cliff vistas reflected on the lake’s glassy surface. The highlight for me was the Panorama Loop hike, a roughly 8.6 km route with 500 m of elevation. What I love about it are the sweeping views above the lake before descending to the shoreline. Boat rentals are available in summer (around CHF 26/hr), and the alpine coaster adds a dash of thrill near the top station.

Lake Oeschinen is just 45 min drive or 1 hour train ride from Interlaken, making it a perfect alpine detour when exploring nearby Lake Thun or the Lauterbrunnen region. If you’re planning a Swiss road trip, this is one natural gem you truly don’t want to skip.

8. Lake Sils

Lake Sils is one of Switzerland’s most magical alpine lakes, and one of the most underrated. Tucked in the Engadin Valley near St. Moritz, this high-altitude lake (1,797m) is surrounded by golden larch forests, jagged peaks like Piz da la Margna, and charming villages like Sils Maria and Maloja.

What makes it special? The light. Mornings here are pure magic, with mirror-like reflections and soft mist rising off the water. Come before 11am to catch it calm…it gets windier later due to the Maloja breeze. One of my favorite views is from the Chastè peninsula, where Nietzsche once sat and wrote (there’s even a bench with his name on it). In summer, you can take Europe’s highest passenger boat across the lake or hike the peaceful shoreline trail. Lake Sils is quieter than the tourist-packed lakes, but every bit as scenic…maybe even more.

• Read also: My Favorite Experiences in St. Moritz

9. Lake Constance

Lake Constance (Bodensee) is a stunning, expansive lake that borders Switzerland, Germany, and Austria…offering three countries’ worth of charm in one place. What makes it so scenic? A mix of vineyard-covered hills, snow-capped Alps in the distance, and historic lakeside towns. My wife is from Austria, so we enjoy visiting here either on the way or coming home from Switzerland.

On the Swiss side, Romanshorn and Arbon are peaceful spots with lakefront promenades. Hop across to Lindau (Germany) for a storybook island town with medieval towers and harbor views. One of the most beautiful villages is Stein am Rhein, known for its colorful frescoed houses.

A top highlight for me is Mainau Island, a botanical paradise covered in tropical flowers and palm trees. You can explore the lake by bike, ferry, or even paddleboard.

Pro tip: Get the Bodensee Ticket if you plan to cross borders. It covers regional trains, ferries, and buses in all three countries. Lake Constance is the ultimate lake trip for culture, nature, and variety.

10. Lake Zug

Lake Zug may be smaller than its alpine neighbors, but the sunsets here are absolutely next-level. One of my fondest memories was sitting by the water with a gelato and watching the sky turn every shade of gold and lavender behind Mount Rigi.

Surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and the charming town of Zug, this lake is perfect for a relaxed, off-the-radar day trip. Stroll the historic old town, rent a paddleboard, or hike up to the nearby Zugerberg for panoramic views over the water.

Pro tip: Head to the lakeside promenade in the evening. It’s a local favorite for sunset walks and has some of the best photo ops in central Switzerland.

11. Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is one of Switzerland’s most enchanting lakes, and one that often flies under the radar. Stretching from the Italian-speaking region of Ticino into northern Italy, this lake blends alpine beauty with Mediterranean flair. Think palm-lined promenades, lush gardens, pastel villages, and towering peaks in the distance.

Start in Locarno, known for its sunny climate and gorgeous lakeside walkways. From there, cruise to Ascona, a chic town with art galleries, waterfront cafés, and that unmistakable dolce vita vibe. One of the best ways to explore the lake is by boat. I recommend hopping across the border to visit Italy’s Borromean Islands, dotted with palaces, gardens, and fairytale scenery.

I was blown away by how relaxed yet vibrant this lake feels. Iit’s where you sip espresso with locals, hike in the mountains above, and swim in sparkling water all in the same day. If you’re after a lake with character, charm, and variety, Lake Maggiore should be high on your Switzerland itinerary.

12. Lake Blausee

Lake Blausee looks like something out of a dream. Tucked deep in the Bernese Oberland near Kandersteg, this tiny alpine lake is famous for its insanely clear, turquoise-blue water… so clear you can see all the way to the bottom. The color comes from natural underground springs, and when the light hits just right? Unreal.

Blausee is set in a peaceful nature park surrounded by mossy forests, with easy walking trails, picnic spots, and even a trout farm. In summer, you can ride across the lake in a glass-bottom boat (included with entry). There’s also an on-site restaurant that serves fresh fish caught right from the lake.

Pro tip: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the reflections when the light is soft. Pair it with a visit to nearby Lake Oeschinen for one of the prettiest alpine day trips in Switzerland.