Did someone say cheese and chocolate? Welcome to Switzerland, home to whimsical mountains, beautiful lakes, and of course, delicious cheese and chocolate. Switzerland calls all adventurers, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
With so much to see and do, you might need help to pick a few. Take a cruise down Lake Zurich, try cheese fondue, or take a trip through the Gotthard Tunnel (the world’s longest rail tunnel). Switzerland has some of the world’s best winter resorts, so be sure to book your spot.
Get ready for your Swiss adventure as we discover some of the best places to visit in Switzerland.
7 Must-See Cities in Switzerland
You are about to embark on the ultimate Swiss adventure. From visiting one of its 7000 lakes to seeing some of the highest mountain tops in Europe.
Zurich
If you’re making your way to Switzerland, Zurich is a must-see. As the largest city in Switzerland, it’s bound to have a ton of fun things to see and do.
Explore the Altstadt (Old Town). Cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares make up this historic town. Visit Fraumünster Church, famous for its stunning stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. While you’re there, look out for the Grossmünster Church, another iconic landmark that offers city views from its tower.
Hop on a boat and explore Lake Zurich, where you can channel your inner peace as you enjoy the beautiful and serene views. During summer, take a dip in the refreshing waters or rent a paddleboard for some fun on the water.
Art lovers should make their way to Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland’s most prominent art museums. Explore a vast collection of masterpieces, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Chagall, from contemporary art to classic pieces. Simply put, the museum offers a diverse artistic experience.
Immerse yourself in the trendy side of the Zurich West district. What was once a former industrial area is now a hub of creativity, home to art galleries, trendy boutiques, and innovative architecture. Stroll along the Limmat River and visit the Viadukt, a bridge converted into a shopping and dining complex.
Pro Tip: Make sure you visit the Lindt Chocolate Museum. Not only is it educational, but also delicious with its multiple chocolate-tasting stations.
Lucerne
Known as one of the most charming cities in Switzerland, Lucerne is not to be missed. The pretty town sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, vibrant cultural scene and learn about the city’s rich history.
Begin your journey in Lucerne’s picturesque Old Town. Stroll the cobblestone streets while admiring the preserved medieval architecture. Look out for the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), a city symbol, and wander through the town squares lined with colorful buildings. Don’t forget to visit the Town Hall and marvel at the medieval city walls.
Next, delve into the world of transportation at the Swiss Museum of Transport. Explore interactive exhibits, vintage vehicles, and even ride a thrilling flight simulator.
Finally, take a scenic cable car or cogwheel train ride to the summit of Mount Pilatus. Here you’ll find fantastic views of Lucerne and its surrounding region. Get your foodie on, as Switzerland is one of the best European food destinations, and visit one of the many restaurants on the summit.
For the adventurous, participate in the summer toboggan run or test your skills at the rope park.
Jungfraujoch
Vist the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch. You’ll find this magnificent town in the Swiss Alps which is located at 11,332 feet (3,454 meters). This is truly a stop that you must add to your list.
Hop on the Jungfrau Railway, the world’s highest railway station. As you make your way up the mountain, keep your eyes out the window for a scenic ride you won’t forget. Admire the snowy mountains and enjoy the breathtaking view from the top.
Once at the top, look out for the Sphinx Observatory. Be sure to take the elevator to the observation deck for magnificent views of the surroundings, where you will be able to spot the Aletsch Glacier, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Another must-see is the Ice Palace. This amazing underground attraction is an absolute winter wonderland brimming with ice sculptures and tunnels that you can make your way through as you discover this frozen realm.
Zermatt
This mountain resort sits in the Swiss Alps. Zermatt is located below the iconic Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains.
Zermatt is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With its extensive ski area, including the interconnected slopes of Switzerland and Italy, it offers endless opportunities for those who enjoy the snow. Skiing or snowboarding? Choose how you make your way down these pristine slopes.
Hop aboard the Gornergrat Railway, a historic cogwheel train that takes you to the Gornergrat summit. Enjoy a scenic journey through picturesque landscapes, passing by glaciers, alpine meadows, and hamlets.
No visit to Zermatt, however, is complete without a visit to the iconic Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains. Marvel at its majestic peak, hike its surrounding trails or capture its beauty from various viewpoints. The Matterhorn is a symbol of Zermatt’s allure and offers breathtaking vistas that might actually take your breath away.
Fun Fact: The tip of the Matterhorn features on Toblerone’s logo.
Geneva
Take a trip to the vibrant cosmopolitan city of Geneva. Spend your days chilling by the famous Lake Geneva or learn more about the international influence of this city.
Start your adventure by visiting the Jet d’Eau, one of Geneva’s most recognizable landmarks. This magnificent fountain shoots water 459 feet (140 meters) into the air. Walk along the lakeside promenade to get a closer look, and be sure to snap some pics.
After exploring Jet d’Eau, soak up the history and charm of Geneva by exploring the Old Town. Take your time strolling down the narrow streets, and be sure to stop at St. Peter’s Cathedral. When you’re there, climb the tower for some fantastic city views.
Learn all about international affairs at the European headquarters of the United Nations. Explore the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber, and don’t forget to view the iconic Broken Chair Sculpture, a symbol of peace and opposition to landmines.
Visit one of the largest lakes in Europe. Lake Geneva is a great place to just chill and enjoy the outdoors as you take a boat cruise for great views of the city from the water and the Alps. Soak up the sun along the lakeside promenades, take a dip in the water, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the lake.
Bern
You can’t visit Switzerland without a visit to its capital. Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its preserved medieval architecture, charming old town, and cultural heritage.
Take a trip to the enchanting Old Town, famous for its cobbled streets that are lined with sandstone buildings. Stop and admire the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, stroll along the Nydeggasse, and visit the impressive Bern Cathedral.
Spend a bit of money at the charming markets and boutique shops, and when you’re done, relax at one of the cozy cafés that bring the old-world charm to life.
Pay a visit to the famous Bear Park near the Old Town, home to Bern’s symbol, the bears. This natural habitat provides a sanctuary for these majestic creatures where you can observe the bears as they roam, play, and swim in their spacious enclosure.
Embark on a guided tour of the Federal Palace, Switzerland’s seat of government. Marvel at the neo-Renaissance architecture and explore its magnificent halls and chambers. Learn about the country’s political system and history as you delve into the heart of Swiss democracy.
Visit the Rosengarten, a beautiful rose garden perched on a hill overlooking the city. Admire the vibrant colors and blooms while enjoying views of Bern’s skyline, the Aare River, and the distant Alps.
Interlaken
This beautiful town sits between two lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Interlaken is a great place if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or an adrenaline junkie.
Enjoy the outdoors while doing some extreme sports. How about paragliding over the town? You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the landscape from above, but if that’s not enough, you can also go skydiving, bungee jumping, or canyoning.
If that’s a bit too extreme, you can also rent a kayak, paddleboard, or rowboat. Explore the city from the crystal water and enjoy the stunning scenery. Take a relaxing boat cruise and soak up the serene surroundings.
Ride up to Harder Kulm for views of Interlaken and beyond. While you’re here, be sure to visit the restaurant and enjoy your meal on the terrace that overlooks the stunning landscape. Snap some pics, and be sure to watch the sunset.
Best Places to Visit in Switzerland | Final Thoughts
Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and charming cities, which guarantees a fun-filled trip. For those that enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of beautiful lakes and mountains to explore. If you prefer to spend your time inside, learn about Swiss history, explore its museums, or shop up a storm at one of the many boutiques.
Whether you’re exploring the medieval old towns or indulging in outdoor adventures, there’s out there for you to enjoy. Perhaps it’s immersing yourself in art and culture? Or savoring Swiss chocolate and cheese. No matter the case, Switzerland promises a journey of a lifetime.
Quick Tip: Before you start packing, don’t forget to check when is the best time to visit Switzerland.
