Switzerland is more than chocolates and watches; it’s a traveler’s dream. Imagine towering mountains, lush green valleys, and pristine lakes reflecting the world like mirrors. I’ve been to many places, but Switzerland? It’s in a league of its own.
Tucked in the heart of Europe, Switzerland brims with epic landscapes. From the Swiss Alps’ snowcapped peaks to Lake Geneva’s picturesque castles, every slice feels like a movie scene. And just wait until you see the country’s fairytale towns and glacial rivers! I’ve been to Switzerland seven times, and I’ll never grow tired of the scenery.
It’s not just the views though—it’s the Bernina Express, cowbells, and fresh pastries. Sure, visiting Switzerland is pricey, but it’s worth every penny. Ready to dive into the magic? Bring a camera and let’s explore the most beautiful places in Switzerland.
👉 Switzerland Accommodations
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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Switzerland
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Swiss adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). This year alone, I’ve flown to Switzerland roundtrip for $350 thanks to their free email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like Coop and Migros. They have ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and salads at reasonable prices.
- Transport: Get the Swiss Travel Pass, which gives you unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats. It also comes with free entrance to over 500 attractions. This has saved me HUNDREDS of dollars on each trip.
Switzerland may have a reputation for being pricey. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore its wonders on the cheap. Fly into Switzerland and you’ll be amazed by what you see.
Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Switzerland:
21 prettiest places in Switzerland
Ready to uncover Switzerland’s best-kept secrets? Dive into our curated list of the most enchanting spots this Alpine paradise has to offer. This includes fairytale towns, turquoise lakes, epic mountains, and more!
To help you get started, here’s a quick overview of some highlights:
- Best place for hiking/nature: Grindelwald
- Best place for foodies: Basel
- Best place for museums: Zurich
- Best place for families: Lauterbrunnen
- Best place for skiing: Zermatt
- Best hidden gem: Thun
In no particular order, here’s my detailed list of my favorite places in Switzerland:
1. Lucerne
Flanked my majestic mountains and old city walls, Lucerne is the quintessential Swiss town. It’s jam-packed with precious sights and scenery, encapsulating just about everything you’d expect to see in a picturesque Swiss town.
Lucerne boasts a postcard-worthy lake, Lake Lucerne, and a charming covered bridge, Kapellbrücke. These notable sights provide a breathtaking view amid the epic mountain backdrop. Additionally, Lucerne is a popular place for shopping, where you can buy (overpriced) postcards showcasing all the above.
Stay overnight to truly experience the magic of Lucerne
At times, it feels surreal that a place could be this beautiful (and deservingly crowded). What makes a visit to Lucerne more magical than touristy is staying overnight. Day trippers come here in droves, but if you’re willing to stay for a night or two (I paid $30/night for a hostel during high season, which is actually a good deal for Switzerland standards), then you’ll have the whole place to yourself in the moon-lit mornings and evenings.
During mid-day, consider day trips to places like Mt. Pilatus to experience the other side of Lucerne, while avoiding the hordes of tourists that flock to the old town. Mt Pilatus (6,982 feet / 2,128 m) overlooks Lucerne and the surrounding alpine landscape. It’s an absolute must to venture up there when the weather permits!
If you’re looking for a fairytale city with crisp alpine air and stunning views, look no further than Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus, two beautiful places in the heart of Switzerland.
2. Zermatt
Add Zermatt to your Switzerland itinerary and you won’t regret it! Zermatt is a popular ski resort town at the base of one of the world’s most iconic mountains, the Matterhorn.
Like all beautiful places in Switzerland, Zermatt comes with a steep price tag. But it’s worth every Swiss Franc to experience the lofty snowcapped mountains, ritzy resorts, and charming cottages that line this compact, car-free town.
Read next: Coolest Airbnbs in Switzerland
The Matterhorn is a sight to behold
During a visit to Zermatt, the star of the show is undoubtedly the Matterhorn, which stands tall at 14,692 feet (4,478m) elevation. I first saw the Matterhorn on the Toblerone chocolate bars growing up, so it was surreal to finally see it up close!
For me, seeing the Matterhorn was a dream come true! After hours of thick cloud cover and rain, I was convinced that I, like most visitors who spend a day or two in Zermatt, wouldn’t see this majestic mountain. I came to terms with the fact that the closest I’d get to seeing it was the Matterhörnli Chocolate I devoured earlier in the day. Then, when I least expected it, the clouds began to clear and the Matterhorn gloriously revealed itself. What a spectacular sight!
(Here are my Instagram stories from my visit to Zermatt!)
Last thoughts on Zermatt as one of the best places to visit in Switzerland
Zermatt is a year-round destination. From January through March, it’s a winter wonderland with a lively après ski scene. From April onwards, it becomes a summer resort town, where you can still go skiing up in the Swiss Alps if you choose.
3. Ticino
Ready to learn about my favorite underrated destination in Switzerland? Don’t miss out on Ticino. Located in Southern Switzerland, this is an Italian-speaking region that is totally different from the rest of the country. It’s known for its incredible architecture, palm-tree lined lakes, and delicious food.
Ticino is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking lakes, iconic castles, and so much more. It feels more Mediterranean than the rest of Switzerland, and the food is just like what you’ll find next door in Italy.
During my visit to Ticino last summer, I was blown away by the traditional stone houses in the mountains. Some of my favorite towns and villages include Corippo, Lavartezzo, Sonogno, and Foroglio. Take a drive north from Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, and you’ll be amazed by what you see. For more photos and images of these places, be sure to check out my Instagram!
Ticino is only about an hour away from Milan, and even closer to Lake Como. So, it’s definitely worth pairing this trip with a Northern Italy itinerary. Is this one of the best places in Switzerland? 100%!
4. St. Moritz
Oh St. Moritz, where the mountains meet the sky and the glistening snow meets the sparkling lake. This Swiss destination is truly a winter wonderland, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a year-round destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
St. Moritz is a best place to visit in Switzerland during all seasons
During the winter, St. Moritz transforms into a ski and snowboard paradise. With over 350 km of ski slopes, it’s a haven for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. But even if you’re not into winter sports, the town offers many activities to keep you entertained, from ice-skating to horse-drawn carriage rides. And don’t forget the famous Cresta Run, a natural ice luge track where daredevils from all over the world come to test their mettle.
As the snow melts and spring blooms, St. Moritz turns into a hiker’s paradise. Take a gondola to the top of the mountains and hike through the lush greenery and wildflowers. The views are breathtaking, and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Summer brings even more opportunities for adventure. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of St. Moritz lake, or go for a leisurely boat ride. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at paragliding or take a hot air balloon ride for an bird’s eye view of the town.
But even if you’re just looking for a relaxing getaway, St. Moritz has got you covered. The town is known for its luxury spas and wellness centers, where you can indulge in some much-needed pampering.
With its picturesque mountain scenery, world-class skiing, and endless activities, it’s easy to see why St. Moritz is a must-visit destination in Switzerland. So pack your bags, and get ready to be enchanted by this alpine paradise.
5. Bern
Bern is the capital of Switzerland and a great launchpad for exploring the Bernese Alps. It’s also an obligatory stop on a Switzerland road trip itinerary for those seeking history, culture, and architecture. As such, it’s no wonder this is top among the places to visit in Switzerland.
Nestled along the Aare River, Bern’s Old Town is a picture-perfect, pedestrian-friendly sight. It dates back to the late 1100s, making it a treasured UNESCO
World Heritage Site.
Scattered around its cobbled streets are dozens of 16th century fountains that are a bit quirky and out of place yet add a colorful character to the Old Town. Bern’s Minster, or Gothic-style Cathedral, is another iconic sight that you can’t (and won’t) miss. In between, you’ll find two prominent towers—the Zytglogge and Käfigturm— that bring you back to centuries past.
Swimming down the Aare River
The best time of year to visit Switzerland (including Bern) is during the summer, when you can go swimming down the Aare River. Take a train to Uttigen, and from there, begin your boat ride down the Aare with amazing views of snow-capped mountains. The journey downstream to Bern is about 2.5 hours, which gives you plenty of time to relax, sunbathe, and go swimming in the turquoise alpine waters (which some even consider clean enough to drink). It’s truly the perfect summer activity. The Aare is the best lazy river imaginable!
The nice part about being in Bern is that the Swiss Alps aren’t too far away!
6. Grindelwald is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland
Not far from the capital is a town called Grindelwald, the gateway to the Jungfrau Region. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, and skiing.
Grindelwald is nature at its finest
Grindelwald blew my mind, and I think it will for you, too! The snowcapped mountain views, the happy (and noisy) cows, and the crisp Alpine breeze were enough to give me a dose of adrenaline. And then, there was the mountain cart and scooter rides down the mountain…amazing!
(Want a Switzerland print like this for your home? Check out my Etsy shop!)
My friend Sven and I took a gondola to the top of Grindelwald First (7,110 feet / 2,167 m), where we spent a few hours checking out the hiking trails and enjoying the panoramic view of the village and valley. Then, we did the mountain cart and scooter ride. The only more thrilling way to see these landscapes would be by paragliding. But if you’re a bit of a wimp, like me, then mountain carts and scooters down the mountain are just as fun!
7. Lake Oeschinen
Tucked away in the heart of the Bernese Alps, Lake Oeschinen is a slice of paradise that many travelers often overlook – and perhaps, that’s part of its charm. It’s one of the most scenic lakes in Switzerland, hands down.
This glacial lake, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Blüemlisalp mountain range, creating awhe scene so picturesque it feels straight out of a fairy tale. But it’s not just the views that captivate; it’s the serene ambiance.
In summer, the lake’s surface mirrors the sky, creating a mesmerizing blend of azure blues. Wooden rowboats drift lazily, leaving gentle ripples in their wake. Trails around the lake offer hikes ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks, each providing a unique vantage point of this natural wonder. And when winter rolls in, the lake transforms into a frozen wonderland, with ice fishermen and skaters dotting the icy expanse.
While many flock to Switzerland’s more renowned spots, Lake Oeschinen remains a tranquil retreat, untouched by the throngs of mass tourism. It’s a place where you can truly connect with nature. This is true whether you’re picnicking on its shores, diving into its refreshing waters, or simply soaking in the panoramic beauty. I’d sawhey that if you’re seeking that off-the-beaten-path magic in Switzerland, Lake Oeschinen is where your heart will find it.
8. Sion
Located in the Swiss canton of Valais, Sion is a city known for its two hilltop fortifications. It’s home to the 13th-century Tourbillon Castle, one of the most
beautiful castles in the world, and Valère Basilica, a castle church with one of the world’s oldest playable organs.
Sion is a great launchpad for exploring the region’s thermal spa resorts. It’s also a popular place for shopping and museum hopping, which you’ll find aplenty throughout the Old Town.
Sion is situated in the center of one of Switzerland’s most notable wine regions. It’s especially known for its Fendant, a dry white wine that embodies the sunny and dry valley where it’s grown. Beyond Sion’s rustic scenery and medieval center, it also has a modern and industrial side to it, making the city the best of both worlds.
People come to Sion for its medieval old town and stay for the fine wines and vistas of the Rhône Valley. Oh, and it’s also just 20 miles away from the Matterhorn, so you can easily cover both in one fell swoop.
9. Montreux
Montreux is a pretty resort town on the shores of Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman). With its Mediterranean flair, Montreux is the pulse of the Swiss Riviera, extending from Lausanne to Montreux in Switzerland’s French-speaking Vaud region. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland because of its idyllic lakeside setting, rolling hills and mountains, and sprawling vineyards.
Whenever I hear the name Montreux, I always think of the Deep Purple song – ‘Smoke on the Water.’
“We all came down to Montreux, on the Lake Geneva shoreline…”
Montreux has been a hot destination since the 19th century, when famous artists, writers, and musicians began settling here in search of inspiration. Since then, it’s become a popular place for tourism and cultural attractions, including the Montreux Jazz Festival that’s held every July.
Wine is another big draw to Montreux, as the terroir along the lake is perfect for growing grapes. It’s been an important part of the local economy since at least the 12th century. The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces that hug the shoreline are so impressive and culturally significant that they’re deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fun fact: Montreux’s tourism board gives visitors a free welcome drink at the Montreux-Vevey Tourisme information desks. They also let you keep the mini wine glass – a great souvenir!
The Chillon Castle is a must
Another highlight of a visit to Montreux is the Château de Chillon (Chillon Castle), an island castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. This medieval castle dates to the 13th century. From the Chateau de Chillon, you’ll have a stunning view of the lake below.
If you’re looking for a fun lake town with a Game of Thrones-esque castle and lots of wine, Montreux is a great choice! It’s one of the most livable places in Switzerland, and for good reason.
10. Appenzell
Located in the northeast corner of Switzerland, Appenzell is a must-see on your Switzerland travel bucket list. This is the smallest Swiss canton by population, but it has no shortage of breathtaking sights that make it worthy of a visit.
Appenzell is best known for its verdant rolling hills, alpine folk traditions, and like the rest of Switzerland – its cows! This is where Appenzeller cheese comes from. This world-famous cheese dates back more than 700 years!
Explore the Alpstein mountains, which offer some of the best hiking, climbing, camping, and mountaineering in the country. It’s also home to amazing postcard-worthy lakes and villages, and perhaps the most iconic sight of all – Saxer Lücke. In between lots of hiking, don’t forget to eat you way through the little villages and towns that dot the region.
Appenzell is just under 2 hours by train from Zurich, but it’s truly worlds apart with its serene nature and charming mountain villages. As such, it’s no wonder that it’s among the best places to see in Switzerland.
11. Brienz is THE place to visit in Switzerland
Oh boy, let me tell you something, Brienz is a hidden gem in Switzerland that you do not want to miss out on! Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this charming little town is the perfect blend of traditional Swiss culture and breathtaking natural beauty.
First things first, what makes Brienz unique? Well, for starters, it’s home to the world’s largest rotating water wheel, the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn which is a must-see attraction. But that’s not all, the town is also famous for its woodcarving and you’ll find some of the most intricate and beautiful woodcarvings here, from small trinkets to large sculptures.
Brienz is a great year-round destination in the Swiss Alps
Now, let’s talk about what you can do in Brienz during different seasons. In the summer, you can go for a hike in the surrounding mountains, take a dip in the crystal-clear lake, or even go for a paddleboat ride. In the winter, the town transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
But why should you include Brienz on your Switzerland itinerary? Because it’s a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Swiss countryside. Plus, it’s an opportunity to experience the traditional Swiss culture and witness the famous Swiss craftsmanship firsthand. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you!
In conclusion, Brienz is a must-visit destination for any traveler visiting Switzerland. With its unique attractions, diverse activities, and stunning natural beauty, it’s the perfect place to relax, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this little slice of Swiss heaven!
12. Basel
Basel is a pocket-sized city in northwestern Switzerland that shares borders with Germany and France. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland in a different way than the other destinations I’ve highlighted so far. There are no towering mountains dangling over the city, nor is there a semblance to a postcard fairytale town. But what Basel lacks in the quintessential Swiss stuff, it makes up for with its cool culture and countless things to do.
Though Switzerland’s third largest city, Basel feels like a hidden gem. Outside of the art circles and pharma industry, it’s relatively unknown and unexplored for most international travelers. But it shouldn’t be.
Basel is home to world-class museums, galleries, and festivals that showcase the city’s multicultural persona. It also has a walkable Old Town with architectural treasures like the red Rathaus (City Hall) and Basel Minster. The food in Basel is next level, but it will cost you a pretty penny.
Visit Basel in the summer
During the summer, Basel is especially beautiful and lively. The Rhine River provides locals and visitors with a scenic summer swim. The alfresco scene along the riverbank, amid the backdrop of the Old Town, makes for an incredible sight!
Bike riding is another must when you’re visiting Basel. You can easily explore three countries in one day— Switzerland, Germany, and France— while riding up and down gently rolling hills, through cities and towns, and getting lost a couple of times in the process. This was such a fond memory of my trip to Basel last summer.
Basel was so beautiful and interesting, that I even decided to extend my stay for a couple of days!
13. Interlaken
As its name indicates, Interlaken is wedged between two lakes. It’s one of the most touristy resort towns in Switzerland, and for good reason.
Interlaken resembles something out of a fable, brimming with old timber houses, scenic mountains, and emerald-colored waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. People come to this romantic place for all the above, as well as its proximity to the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland.
Though this picturesque holiday town is enticing to just about anyone, it’s most appealing to the adrenaline junkies. In Interlaken, there’s no shortage of adventurous activities, including paragliding, canyoning, and white water rafting. Hiking and skiing are also immensely popular. Whichever outdoor adventures you decide to partake in, you’re guaranteed scenic views of Switzerland’s landscapes.
Other attractions in and around Interlaken include lake cruises, visits to nearby castles and waterfalls, and train and helicopter rides. There’s so much to do in Interlaken that you’re best off spending at least a few days here, though preferably not during high season when it’s flooded with tourists.
14. Zürich is the most beautiful city in Switzerland
As the largest city in Switzerland, Zürich is the major financial and cultural hub of central Europe. It’s known for being expensive and high-end, though it’s also considered one of the world’s most livable cities, due to its booming economy, beautiful landscape, and variety of cultural attractions. It’s cheap to get to from the US, but things are pricey once you get here. Totally worth it though – here’s why:
Zürich is among the most beautiful places in Switzerland
Zürich is bordered by river, lake, and mountains, ideal for capturing the perfect Instagram photos. It also boasts a well-preserved Old Town, including sights like the Grossmünster and Fraumünster, both built more than 800 years ago.
For the art and history aficionados, Zürich houses more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries – making it an attractive place for appreciating past and contemporary art. This beautiful city is very walkable, but it also has an excellent public transportation system to get you around to all its precious sights. The main train station isn’t far from the airport, so you can even see some of the city on a brief layover.
What I love about Zürich is that it embraces new trends while also preserving its rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a special taste of old and new.
In Zurich, you’ll never run out of fun things to do, so bring your friends along and explore this beautiful city in Switzerland!
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15. Chur
Chur is yet another beautiful place in Switzerland that you should add to your bucket list. It’s the country’s oldest city with a history spanning more than 5,000 years. The Old Town is enchanting by itself, but the alpine backdrop certainly adds to its splendor.
Like Zermatt, Chur’s Old Town is totally car-free, making it one of Switzerland’s most pedestrian-friendly cities. It offers a vast collection of cultural and historic attractions, including the Chur Cathedral, Bündner Kunstmuseum, and St.
Martin’s Church.
Chur is also the starting point to one of Europe’s most thrilling train rides, the Bernina Express. This train connects Chur with Poschiavo, Switzerland and Tirano, Italy. Gliding past glaciers, mountains, and lakes, the Bernina Express is the highest railway in the Alps.
Whether you’re stopping by for a day or a weekend, you’ll find plenty of charm and intrigue in Chur, Switzerland.
Read next: Coolest Bucket List Ideas for Travelers
16. Lauterbrunnen
It’s easy to fall in love with Lauterbrunnen and the Swiss Alps.
Lauterbrunnen is a small picturesque village set in a valley in the Bernese Alps. These alpine meadows are surrounded by rocky mountain peaks and waterfalls, adding to its magical setting. This town is all over Instagram these days, a telltale sign that it’s among the most beautiful places of Switzerland.
Lauterbrunnen is part of the Jungfrau UNESCO World Heritage Site, which covers an area of 824 square kilometers. There are so many things to do here—summer and winter—including hiking, skiing, paragliding, and chasing waterfalls. Two imposing cascades are Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls, which hang high over the valley.
As I drove threw the Lauterbrunnen valley, one of the paragliders nearly missed the car! See my TikTok video below:
I stopped by Lauterbrunnen very briefly en route to Grindelwald, but wish I had stayed longer. There’s enough to do here to spend at least 2-3 days partaking in these incredible alpine activities.
In Lauterbrunnen, there are many stunning landscapes like the waterfall below.
17. Stoos is one of the top places in Switzerland
Trying to figure out where to visit in Switzerland? The Switzerland scenery in Stoos will leave you in awe.
This car-free village in the mountains is one of the best places to go in Switzerland, hands down. It’s best known for its steep funicular and gorgeous ridge trail with views of Lake Lucerne.
For amazing hiking, skiing, and sightseeing, it doesn’t get any better than Stoos. It’s truly a top destination not only in the Swiss canton of Schwyz, but also in the country as a whole. It’s easy to ground yourself in a gorgeous nature area like this one!
18. Geneva
Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, Geneva is a must-see destination in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, and a place that you should consider visiting in 2024.
Geneva probably has the most international name recognition of any city in Switzerland. The city serves as the headquarters for many international organizations like the International Red Cross and the European headquarters for the United Nations, among many others. It’s also a hub for diplomacy and banking.
The highlights of any visit to Geneva include strolling around its Old Town and beautiful lake. A boat cruise—which allows you to see both— is a must when the weather permits. To get from one side of the city to the other, you can take a water taxi across the lake, which gives you an up-close glimpse of Jet d’Eau, a water fountain that shoots up to 459 feet (140 meters) into the air.
There are more than 40 museums in Geneva, most notably the International Museum of the Red Cross, Patek Philippe Museum, and Musée d’ethnographie de Genève (MEG).
Geneva is also known for its high-end watches. Did you know that the city is also famous for its flower clock? It’s made from 6,500 flowers and shrubs.
Day trips near Geneva
Aside from the attractions inside the city, there are many popular day trips nearby. My favorite spot is Annecy, France, a short bus ride away across the border. Known as the Venice of the Alps, Annecy is one of my favorite places in Europe. I decided to spend a night here rather than just doing a day trip.
Another sought-after day trip is Mont Salève, which is called the “Balcony of Geneva.” You can take a téléphérique—or cable car— to the top with incredible views of the Geneva area. Another mountain worth noting is Mont Blanc (15,780 ft. / 4810 m elevation), the tallest mountain in the European Union, just a short distance away.
Rain or shine, Geneva is chock-full of unique attractions that offer a taste of its rich culture, history, food, and shopping scene.
19. Lausanne
Lausanne is a city on the Swiss Riviera that you should add to your Switzerland wish list.
Located near the crossroads of the French and Swiss Alps, Lausanne is filled with cathedrals, castles, and stunning scenery. Explore the Renaissance and Baroque architecture in the Old Town, and walk around the scenic waterfront area on Lake Geneva, where you’ll be inspired just like many famous writers over the centuries. Lausanne is perched atop three hills, each looking out on the lake and French-speaking region below.
Though Lausanne is the fourth largest city in Switzerland, it feels like a hidden gem. If you’re looking for a beautiful and off-the-beaten-path place to visit in Switzerland, this is it!
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20. Lake Constance (Bodensee)
Lake Constance (“Bodensee” in German) is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and enchanting destinations. Nestled at the borders of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, this vast lake offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps and charming lakeside towns.
The region is perfect for outdoorsy types like myself, with activities like sailing, cycling along the famous Lake Constance Cycle Path, and hiking through picturesque vineyards and orchards.
Some of my favorite towns on the Swiss side of the lake include Arbon, Romanshorn, Rorschach, and Stein am Rhein. You’ll also want to visit the historic town of Constance and the beautiful island of Mainau, which belong to Germany.
The crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere make Lake Constance a perfect spot for both adventure and relaxation, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Europe.
21. Thun – the best place to go in Switzerland for lake views
Last, but certainly not least on my list of the most beautiful places in Switzerland is a quaint town called Thun (pronounced “toon”).
Resembling a fairytale village, Thun enchants travelers with its medieval flair and beautiful scenery. The idyllic alpine setting emits a feeling of tranquility and charm that is so prevalent in Switzerland.
One of the most iconic sights in Thun is the Thun Castle, a turreted 12th-century fortress. This castle turned tourist attraction gloriously watches over the sleepy alpine village below.
Situated between Bern and Interlaken, Thun presents the perfect day-trip opportunity or weekend getaway that will leave you in awe. Nothing says Beautiful Switzerland like a visit to Thun!
Read next: Most Unique Vacation Rentals in Switzerland
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best places to visit in Switzerland
Here are some popular questions and answers about Switzerland’s beautiful places.
Which part of Switzerland is most beautiful?
In my experience, the Bernese Oberland is the most beautiful part of Switzerland. This region, home to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and the Jungfrau area, offers breathtaking alpine scenery, lush valleys, and charming villages. The majestic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are simply awe-inspiring.
Highlights include the stunning Trümmelbach Falls and the serene beauty of Lake Thun. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just soaking in the views, the Bernese Oberland has it all. The combination of dramatic landscapes and picturesque towns makes this my top pick for the most beautiful spot in Switzerland.
What are the must-visit cities in Switzerland for beautiful sights?
Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne are top cities to visit. Zurich offers a mix of modern and medieval architecture, Geneva has stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau, and Lucerne is famous for its picturesque lake and the Chapel Bridge.
What is the #1 tourist attraction in Switzerland?
The top tourist attraction in Switzerland is the iconic Matterhorn! Towering over the charming town of Zermatt, this pyramid-shaped giant is more than just a mountain. It’s the symbol of the Swiss Alps and a bucket-list spot for travelers from around the globe. Whether you’re skiing its slopes or just sipping hot cocoa with that mesmerizing view, the Matterhorn is the heart of Switzerland’s allure. Don’t miss it!
What are the best places for outdoor activities?
- Zermatt: Ideal for skiing, mountaineering, and hiking near the Matterhorn.
- Interlaken: Perfect for adventure sports like paragliding and skydiving.
- Grindelwald: Offers excellent hiking and skiing opportunities.
What month is the best time to go to Switzerland?
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you’re looking to do. For hiking and enjoying green landscapes, June to September is ideal. The weather is warm, the trails are clear, and the scenery is lush and vibrant. If you’re a fan of winter sports, December to February is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The Swiss Alps are at their best, with plenty of snow and festive holiday vibes. Personally, I love visiting in September – the summer crowds have thinned out, the weather is still pleasant, and the autumn colors start to appear, adding a magical touch to the already stunning scenery.
Is Switzerland expensive to visit?
Switzerland can be quite expensive to visit, but there are ways to manage costs. Accommodation, dining, and transportation tend to be pricey. For example, hotels in cities like Zurich and Geneva are often costly, and eating out can add up quickly. However, you can find more affordable options by staying in smaller towns, guesthouses, or using Airbnb.
Grocery stores like Coop and Migros offer reasonably priced food for self-catering. Public transportation is efficient but can be expensive; consider getting a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats. And I recommend reading my guide on how to find cheap flights before you go. Overall, while Switzerland is known for its high costs, planning and budgeting can make your trip more affordable.
What should I not miss in Switzerland?
Oh boy, where do I start? Switzerland is packed with must-see attractions, but if I had to narrow it down to just a few, here’s my top picks:
- The Matterhorn: This iconic mountain is synonymous with Switzerland and is a must-see for any first-time visitor. Whether you’re admiring it from the town of Zermatt or taking a ride on the Gornergrat Bahn for a closer look, the Matterhorn will take your breath away.
- Lake Geneva: This stunning lake is home to several charming towns and villages, including Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux. Take a boat ride or stroll along the shoreline and enjoy the stunning views of the Alps.
- The Jungfraujoch: This is the highest railway station in Europe, located at an altitude of 3,454 meters. Take a ride on the Jungfrau railway and enjoy views of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
- The Rhine Falls: The largest waterfall in Europe and located near the town of Schaffhausen. You can take a boat ride right up to the base of the falls.
- The Old Towns: Switzerland is home to several charming old towns, such as Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich. These towns are filled with medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and plenty of quaint shops and restaurants.
In short, Switzerland is a country filled with natural beauty, charming towns and villages, and plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip, pack your bags and don’t miss these must-see attractions, Switzerland is waiting for you!
How many days is enough for Switzerland?
In my experience, spending at least 7 to 10 days in Switzerland allows you to see a good mix of the country’s highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s a helpful itinerary breakdown:
- Day 1-2: Explore Zurich, visit the Old Town, and take a boat trip on Lake Zurich.
- Day 3-4: Head to Lucerne, visit the Chapel Bridge, take a cruise on Lake Lucerne, and ride the cable car up Mount Pilatus or Rigi.
- Day 5-6: Spend time in the Bernese Oberland, exploring Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and taking a trip up to Jungfraujoch for stunning alpine views.
- Day 7-8: Visit Zermatt to see the Matterhorn, hike the scenic trails, or take the Gornergrat Railway for incredible vistas.
- Day 9-10: End your trip in Geneva, enjoying the Jet d’Eau, the Old Town, and a day trip to nearby Montreux or Lausanne.
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of cities, mountains, and lakes, giving you a thorough taste of Switzerland’s diverse beauty. For more specific advice, read my comprehensive road trip itinerary for Switzerland in 30 days.
What are some lesser-known but beautiful places in Switzerland?
- Aletsch Glacier: The largest glacier in the Alps, perfect for hiking and stunning views.
- Lauterbrunnen Valley: Known for its waterfalls and alpine scenery.
- Appenzell: Offers charming villages and rolling hills.
Do you need a car in Switzerland?
You don’t need a car in Switzerland to enjoy your trip fully. The country has an excellent public transportation system that is both efficient and extensive. Trains, buses, and boats connect major cities, towns, and tourist attractions seamlessly.
In cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, public transport is highly reliable, and parking can be expensive and challenging to find. Additionally, many alpine destinations, such as Zermatt, are car-free zones, meaning you’ll need to use trains or cable cars to reach them.
However, if you plan to explore remote areas or smaller villages not well-served by public transport, renting a car is a good idea. Overall, for most travelers, using Switzerland’s public transport is the best and most convenient option, but I personally prefer renting a car in Switzerland.
Beautiful places in Switzerland to visit in 2024
I hope you enjoyed my list of the most beautiful places in Switzerland! I hope it provides you with some interesting itinerary ideas for your next trip.
Are there any other beautiful places in Switzerland that I should add? Leave a comment below, and I’ll look out for them next time. Also, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Guide!
Happy Travels! -Jon
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