12 Best Places to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland is a country of breathtaking natural beauty, with glittering lakes, towering mountains, picturesque villages, and world-class cities. From the majestic Matterhorn to the cosmopolitan Zurich, Switzerland has something to offer every traveler.

Here are 12 of the best places to visit in Switzerland:

1. Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau region in the Bernese Alps is home to some of Switzerland’s most spectacular mountain scenery. The area features the towering Jungfrau peak as well as two glaciers – the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest in Europe, and the smaller Grindelwald Glacier.

Base yourself in the charming mountain town of Interlaken to access activities like hiking, paragliding, and skiing in winter. Don’t miss riding the cogwheel train up to the Jungfraujoch mountain station for views over the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.

2. Lucerne

With a beautiful lakeside setting below Mount Pilatus, Lucerne has long been a popular tourist destination. Wander through the lively Old Town and across the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge before taking a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne. Nearby excursions include riding the world’s steepest cog railway up Mt Pilatus for panoramic views.

3. Geneva

Sophisticated Geneva sits on the shores of Europe’s largest Alpine lake, against a dramatic backdrop of snowy Mont Blanc. Explore top attractions like the Jet d’Eau fountain, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Old Town before enjoying Lake Geneva’s scenic vistas. Don’t miss the city’s fine dining scene and high-end shopping on Rue du Rhône.

4. Zermatt

Zermatt is the gateway for exploring perhaps Switzerland’s most iconic peak, the Matterhorn. Ride cable cars high above town for amazing views over the mountain and hike in the surrounding valleys during summer. And as a prime ski resort, Zermatt offers exceptional winter sports with access to Europe’s highest ski slopes.

5. Bern

Switzerland’s capital, Bern, charms visitors with its beautifully preserved Old Town and arcaded shopping streets lined with 15th-century buildings. Climb the tower of Bern Cathedral for panoramas across red-tiled roofs to the Alps beyond. Don’t miss seeing the Bear Park, with its resident brown bears, or the famous Zytglogge clock tower.

6. Lake Geneva Region

Stretching between the cities of Geneva and Lausanne, the shores of Lake Geneva boast terraced vineyards, elegant chateaux, and pretty lakeside villages like Montreux. Spend time in the Lavaux Wine Region, cruise the lake by steamboat, or take the GoldenPass train along the northern shore for superb lake views.

7. Swiss National Park

As Switzerland’s oldest nature reserve, the Swiss National Park offers visitors the chance to experience pristine alpine landscapes and wildlife. With over 170 km of hiking trails to explore, the park is home to deer, ibex, chamois, marmots, and eagles. Visit during spring to see fields of vibrant wildflowers.

8. Lugano

Nestled on the shores of glacial Lake Lugano and surrounded by mountains, Lugano has a delightful Mediterranean feel that makes it unique in Switzerland. Wander through the traffic-free Old Town to see its piazzas and cafes, or take the funicular up to Monte Brè for spectacular lake views.

9. Zürich

Despite being the country’s largest and wealthiest city, Zürich retains a small-town charm with its cobbled Old Town streets lined with medieval architecture. For fantastic views over the city, lake and Alps, head to Lindenhof hill or take the funicular up to Uetliberg mountain. Don’t miss visiting the historic Grossmünster church.

10. Swiss Alps

No trip to Switzerland is complete without spending time in the magnificent Swiss Alps. Take the scenic GoldenPass train to the mountain resorts of Gstaad and Interlaken, ride cable cars high up to peaks like Schilthorn and Niesen, go hiking in the mountain valleys, and sample delicious cheese fondue.

11. Basel

Straddling the Rhine River near the borders with France and Germany, Basel dazzles visitors with its rich history and culture. Wander through the large Old Town to see sights like the red sandstone Town Hall and ornate cathedral, then visit world-class art galleries and museums. Don’t miss taking a Rhine boat tour for great city views.

12. Ticino

The Ticino region enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate that infuses its palm-lined lakeshores and hillside villages with an Italian ambience. Base yourself in the elegant city of Locarno to explore highlights like the scenic Maggiore lakefront, Ascona’s boutique shops and restaurants, and the picturesque hamlets of the Valle Verzasca.

FAQ about Switzerland

So there you have it – 12 places that highlight the incredible diversity of landscapes, cities, culture, and activities you’ll find across Switzerland. With so many beautiful destinations, it’s easy to see why Switzerland remains one of Europe’s most popular countries to visit.