Switzerland may be small but it has a whole host of great places to visit. From breathtaking mountain peaks to dreamy turquoise lakes and a countryside littered with ancient wonders, Switzerland really does have something for everyone.
In fact, there’s so much packed into Switzerland’s borders that expats and visitors alike will find it difficult to decide where to visit next. But fear not! With our guide to the top 10 places to visit in Switzerland, you’ll soon be exploring the stunning beauty of this unforgettable Alpine gem.
1. Jungfraujoch
The Jungfraujoch, sometimes known as the Top of Europe, is a breathtaking Alpine beauty. The Jungfraujoch, which is technically a glacier saddle between two mountains, is one of the best and tallest tourist destinations in Switzerland. Don’t be scared off by the height however; there are lots of activities for the whole family up there, like tobogganing and mountain climbing. The renowned Jungfrau railway is the most stunning sight, though. The train travels from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, at a height of 3,454 meters above sea level.
2. Lugano
Visit the southern city of Lugano to get a fresh perspective on Switzerland. The city known as the Monte Carlo of Switzerland, located on the beaches of the magnificent Lake Lugano, combines Swiss and Italian cultures to provide an amazing weekend getaway. When you visit this city, which has several museums and is caressed by Mediterranean breezes, you might easily believe that you are in nearby Italy. Impressive mansions are scattered over the verdant hillsides that rise from the lake outside of the city.
3. Lucerne
It doesn’t get much more spectacular than Lucerne in a nation of picture-perfect lakeside cities. On the shores of Lake Lucerne, a little medieval city is encircled by three huge mountains. You’d be excused for believing you were in a painting as you strolled around the charming ancient town. As you take in the architectural wonder of the city, there are numerous boutiques, lively squares, and historic churches to visit. The Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge that connects the heart of Lucerne since 1333, is the attraction, nevertheless.
4. The Matterhorn
One of the most photographed mountains in the world, this enormous pyramid-shaped peak is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. With a height of an impressive 4,478 meters, thrill-seeking mountain climbers arrive in Switzerland to make an ascent. Why not continue with the cable car if you don’t feel quite that motivated? The pinnacle of the mountain and beyond are beautifully seen from the mountain’s highest cable car station in the Alps. A visit to the Matterhorn is about as Swiss as it gets.
5. Château de Chillon
Without visiting the historic Château de Chillon, no journey to the Swiss Riviera is complete. The castle, which is situated on an island in Lake Geneva not far from the well-known town of Montreux, was built in the tenth century and served as a tactical water fort. The affluent Counts of Savoy used it as a lakeside vacation residence at that time, when the castle chambers were decorated with a wide variety of works of art and priceless items that today’s tourists can appreciate. The castle, which is Switzerland’s most popular historical attraction, is unquestionably something you should see if traveling there.
6. Lake Geneva
One of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations is Lake Geneva, which runs from Geneva in the west to Lausanne in the east. There is a lot to do in the area, from the worldwide commotion of Geneva to the numerous wineries that clamber up the adjacent slopes. Additionally, there is a ton of activity on the lake. More athletic visitors to the area can go windsurfing, water skiing, or kayaking. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood to be a little more lazy, you can just relax while admiring the lake from the deck of a paddle steamer as it crosses the water.
7. Bern
The capital of Switzerland and one of its most romantic destinations is the medieval city of Bern. You’ll quickly see why the area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as you navigate the old town’s congested cobblestone streets. Numerous shops, bars, and bears can be found all over Bern’s historic center. The bear family that serves as the city’s emblem resides at the appropriately named Bear Park, which is located just across the river from the old town. Even more exciting markets, including some noteworthy Christmas markets during Advent, are held in the city.
8. Rhine Falls
Rhine Falls is among the top things to do in Switzerland because it is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. There are various viewing platforms from which visitors can admire the waterfall, which is close to the town of Schaffhausen in the north. You might even hire a canoe and explore some of the neighboring castles from the water if you’re feeling particularly daring. The falls hold a magnificent fireworks display as part of Switzerland’s National Day celebrations every August, drawing tourists from all around the nation.
