10 of the best places to visit in Switzerland
From majestic snow-capped peaks to mirror-like lakes and charming medieval towns, Switzerland is a country that never stops impressing. Tucked in the heart of Europe, here natural beauty and precision-crafted cities blend seamlessly. Whether you’re after snow-dusted peaks, vibrant city life, or peaceful vineyard strolls, there’s something magical waiting around every corner.
Thanks to its efficient public transport systems, you could be gazing at glaciers in the morning, sampling cheese in a vineyard by lunch, and enjoying world-class art in the evening. To help you plan your perfect itinerary, here are 10 of the best places to visit in Switzerland - each offering its own unique slice of Swiss magic.
Best places to visit in Switzerland:
1. Zermattt and the Matterhorn
Of course, first on our list had to be Switzerland's most iconic sight. You can see its unique symmetrical pyramid shape, from the charming town of Zermatt. Located in Matter Valley, this storybook village punctuates the base of the mighty mountain with quaint chalets. It’s a paradise for skiers, hikers, and photographers alike. Take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic alpine views or ride the Glacier Express - one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. Year-round snow and fresh mountain air make this an unforgettable stop.
2. Lucerne
Known for its medieval architecture, shimmering lake views and surrounding mountains, Lucerne is the kind of city that immediately charms you. Here, antique cobblestone streets, spill out into small squares anchored by trickling fountains and hand-painted facades on pastel buildings. The symbol of the city is the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), one of Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridges. It spans the Reuss River in the heart of town and is adorned with historical paintings. From the city, you can also explore various mountain destinations like Mount Pilatus, Mount Titlis, and Mount Rigi, along with scenic lake cruises. You can also board the Golden Pass railway from Lucerne o Interlaken and onwards to Spiez or Montreux, offering wonderful views as you travel.
3. Bern
Often overlooked for flashier cities, Switzerland’s capital is a quiet gem full of medieval charm. Its UNESCO-listed old town curves along the Aare River, with cobbled lanes, sandstone buildings, and six km of covered arcades. Don’t miss the Zytglogge clock tower, where an animated display delights on the hour. Bern is also home to a lively food scene and a surprisingly relaxed vibe for a capital city.
4. Geneva
Set on the western tip of Lake Geneva, this cosmopolitan city is the beating heart of international diplomacy. Home to the United Nations and the Red Cross, Geneva offers cultural depth alongside natural beauty. Stroll the lakeside promenade, admire the famous Jet d’Eau fountain, and explore world-class museums. For a peaceful break, head to the nearby Parc des Bastions or take a boat ride across the lake.
5. Lausanne
Just 40 minutes from Geneva by train, Lausanne is built on three hills and offers postcard-worthy views over Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond. This vibrant city is both historic and youthful - home to the Olympic Museum, Gothic Lausanne Cathedral, and a buzzing nightlife fuelled by its student population. It also serves as the perfect gateway to the enchanting Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, waiting to be explored.
6. Zurich
In Zurich, old-world charm meets cutting-edge modernity. Spend your mornings exploring the winding cobbled Altstadt (Old Town) filled with houses from medieval times - see the towering trio of churches, Fraumünster’s curiously green steeple and the St. Peter church that has the largest clock face in Europe. Then spend your afternoons browsing art galleries or luxury boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse. Nestled between Zürichsee (Lake Zurich) and the Limmat River, there's plenty of opportunity for boat rides, lakeside picnic lunches and - if temperatures allow - even a quick swim.
7. Montreux
Montreux boasts a magnificent Alpine backdrop on the shores of Lake Geneva. It's known globally for its annual Jazz festival and has attracted artists, writers and musicians since the age of the Grand Tour. While you're here, walk the flower-lined promenade, take a paddle streamer cruise or visit the nearby Château de Chillon—a stunning medieval castle that appears to float on the water.
8. Grindelwald
Grindelwald can be found in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, in the Jungfrau region of the Bernese Oberland. Its location at the foot of the Eiger, its proximity to the glaciers and its quaint wooden houses make it one of the prettiest alpine villages in the Bernese Oberland. It offers plenty of outdoor activities year-round - from summer hikes to winter ski slopes. Don’t miss the First Cliff Walk or a cable car ride to the breathtaking Bachalpsee Lake.
9. St Mortiz
If you're looking for luxury, look no further than St Mortiz. This glamorous mountain resort is the original winter wonderland, luring royals, celebrities and moneyed wannabes since 1864. In winter, it’s a hub for skiing, snow polo, and gourmet dining - it's hosted the Winter Olympics, twice. In summer, the scenery transforms into a paradise of hiking trails, alpine lakes, fresh mountain air and boundless sunny days.
10. Lugano
The capital of the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino was seized by the Swiss in 1512 and has steadfastly refused any opportunity to revert to Italy ever since. Here there's an eclectic mix of traditional Swiss values are laid-back Latin influences - the trains may run with Swiss precision but as you wander its tiny alleyways, you'll stumble onto unmistakable Italian piazzas, palm trees, and gelato shops. While you're here, visit Parco Ciani for lakeside tranquillity, explore the charming old town, or take the funicular up Monte Brè for spectacular views.
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