30+ Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland

Switzerland isn’t just about cheese and chocolate (though those are reason enough to visit). It’s about trains that cut through valleys so dramatic they look unreal, medieval towns that seem paused in time, and villages so picture-perfect they could have stepped out of a storybook.

Over three years of living here, I found beauty in the obvious places — the Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, the Jungfrau — but also in the smaller details: fondue shared in a village square, autumn leaves in the Engadin, or locals floating down the Rhine on a hot summer’s day.

This guide pulls together 30+ of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, mixing the must-sees with a few hidden gems that might just become your favourites too.

Beautiful Cities in Switzerland

Geneva

I lived in Geneva for three years, and it’s a city that grew on me in all the best ways. It’s home to the UN and international organisations, but beyond the polished exterior, there’s plenty of warmth and charm. My daily life was full of small Geneva moments: watching the Jet d’Eau catch the light, grabbing coffee at a lakeside café, or wandering through the Old Town’s winding lanes past cosy wine bars and chocolate shops.

Food was always at the centre of things. Of course there’s fondue and raclette in winter, best paired with a glass of crisp Chasselas from the nearby Lavaux Vineyards. But the real Geneva speciality is filets de perche — golden, buttery perch fillets from the lake itself, usually served with frites and a splash of lemon. Sitting at a lakeside restaurant with a plate of perch and a glass of white wine was one of those “this is why I live here” moments.

Geneva isn’t loud about its beauty, but that’s the point — it’s elegant, multicultural, and full of small details that make you want to stay.

Zurich

Zurich might be Switzerland’s financial centre, but don’t write it off entirely. The Altstadt (old town) is a maze of cobbled streets and colourful guild houses, and the café culture is stronger than you’d expect from a “serious” city. Summers are all about Lake Zurich — locals treat it as their playground, with lidos for swimming and plenty of lakeside bars for sunset drinks. For foodies, Sprüngli’s Luxemburgerli macarons and the hearty Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in creamy mushroom sauce) are worth the detour.

Bern

Bern doesn’t really feel like a capital city — and that’s exactly why I like it. The old town is gorgeous, with arcades that stretch for miles, quirky fountains on every corner, and the Zytglogge clock tower doing its hourly puppet show. But what really makes Bern special is the Aare. On hot days, everyone — office workers, students, families — jump in and floats along the turquoise current. The first time I saw it, I thought they were mad.

Then there’s the Onion Festival (Zibelemärit) every November. It’s basically a giant street party dedicated to onions — braids of them in every shape and colour, onion soup, onion tarts, even onion-themed confetti. It’s chaotic, a bit silly, and one of the most unexpectedly brilliant festivals I’ve ever been to. The onion tarts are heavenly, of course!

Bern is laid-back, pretty without trying too hard, and full of those little surprises that make you want to stay longer.

Lausanne

Lausanne is one of those cities that makes you work for your views — literally. It’s built on steep hills above Lake Geneva, so you’ll be huffing up and down staircases all day. The payoff? Epic panoramas at every turn. The old town has a Gothic cathedral, colourful markets, and enough cafés to keep you fuelled, but the real fun is down by the lake at Ouchy. Picture rollerbladers zipping past, families picnicking on the grass, and sailboats bobbing in the harbour.

What I love most is how quickly you can escape the city. Ten minutes on a train and you’re in the Lavaux Vineyards, glass of chilled Chasselas in hand, staring out at rows of vines tumbling towards the water. Add in the Olympic Museum and you’ve got a city that feels lively, youthful, and just the right side of indulgent.

Basel

Basel isn’t your typical Swiss city. Sure, it has cobbled streets and a handsome old town, but it also features modern art, bold architecture, and a bit of edge. That mix is what makes it fun.

In summer, life moves outside to the Rhine. People sprawl along the riverbanks with beers, sausages sizzling on little grills, and music floating over from the bars. It feels casual and sociable, the kind of place where you can just turn up and join in. And if you want something sweet, grab a bag of Basler Läckerli — chewy, spiced honey biscuits that taste like Christmas but are eaten all year round.

Lakes & Scenic Spots in Switzerland

Lake Geneva & Montreux

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is one of those places that doesn’t need a filter. The water glitters against the backdrop of the Alps, and the lakeside promenade in Montreux is lined with palm trees and Belle Époque hotels. Every July, the town transforms for the Montreux Jazz Festival — I once sat by the lake with a glass of Chasselas wine listening to live music drift across the water, and it felt like the whole lake was in on the concert.

➡️ Sail Lake Geneva – Hop on a classic Belle Époque steamboat for unbeatable views of the Alps, vineyards, and Chillon Castle. Check prices / availability / book it!

Lake Zurich

I’ll admit Zurich isn’t my favourite Swiss city, but the lake is another story. On sunny days, it feels like half the city is out sailing, paddleboarding, or just lounging by the water. There are plenty of public lidos where you can dive straight in, and lakeside villages make easy day trips. The restaurants around the lake serve great freshwater fish, with perch and trout cooked simply but perfectly.

Oeschinensee

Oeschinensee is the alpine lake of your dreams: turquoise water, cliffs rising on all sides, and rowboats drifting quietly across the surface. You can hike up if you’re feeling active or hop on the gondola for an easier ride. I once went in autumn when the larches were turning gold, and it was one of those pinch-me moments.

Lake Lugano

Down in Ticino, Lake Lugano brings the best of Switzerland and Italy together. You get piazzas, palm trees, gelato by the water, and mountain trails that lead to knockout views over the lake. It feels almost Mediterranean, and the food proves it — risotto, polenta, and lake fish are staples on local menus.

Lake Maggiore

Part Swiss, part Italian, Lake Maggiore has a subtropical vibe with camellias, palms, and lush gardens. The Swiss towns of Locarno and Ascona are sun-drenched and lively, with piazzas full of cafés. I always loved the contrast here: you can be sipping an Aperol by the lake while snow-capped peaks glint in the distance.

Lake Brienz

If you’ve seen photos of that turquoise jetty at Iseltwald, you already know about Lake Brienz. But even away from the Instagram hotspots, this lake is stunning. Boat trips are an easy way to take it all in, and the surrounding hills are crisscrossed with hiking trails that give you fresh perspectives on the colour-shifting water.

Lake Thun

Lake Brienz’s neighbour, Lake Thun, feels a bit more refined. Its shoreline is dotted with castles like Oberhofen and Spiez, which look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. The backdrop is pure Bernese Oberland drama, with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau looming above.

Caumasee

In a forest near Flims, Caumasee feels like a local secret. The water glows blue-green, warm enough for swimming in summer, and the vibe is more laid-back than the big-name lakes. Wander around the trails to find your own quiet corner — it’s the kind of place where you lose track of time.

The Alps & Mountains in Switzerland

Zermatt & the Matterhorn

I’ve been to Zermatt in both winter and summer, and it’s almost hard to believe it’s the same place. In winter it feels like a snow globe — cosy chalets, horse-drawn carriages, and skiers gliding through town. In summer, it’s all green meadows and alpine trails, with hikers stopping for coffee at mountain huts. The Matterhorn is the star, of course — that jagged peak that looks too perfect to be real. Catching its reflection in Stellisee lake is one of those moments you don’t forget.

Gornergrat Railway

The Gornergrat train from Zermatt is one of those rides that feels more like an event than transport. It climbs up past pine forests and glaciers until suddenly you’re surrounded by peaks — 29 of them over 4,000 metres. The Matterhorn is right there, front and centre, looking smug as ever. It’s expensive, but worth it.

➡️ Take the Gornergrat Railway – Switzerland’s most scenic train ride winds past forests and glaciers all the way to jaw-dropping Matterhorn views. Check prices / availability / book it!

Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau region in spring is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. The meadows are dotted with wildflowers, the peaks still have a dusting of snow, and everything feels freshly washed after winter. I once took the train from Lauterbrunnen up to Kleine Scheidegg, and it’s one of those rides where you keep leaning over strangers just to get a better look. Waterfalls tumble down sheer cliffs, chalets perch on impossible slopes, and cows graze like they’ve been hired to complete the postcard scene.

Interlaken

Interlaken has a reputation for being the adrenaline capital of Switzerland, and it definitely lives up to it. You’ll see paragliders spiralling through the sky, skydivers dropping out of planes, and boat trips zigzagging between the two lakes below. I’m not the thrill-seeking type, but I loved watching all the action from the park in the middle of town, coffee in hand, with the Jungfrau gleaming in the distance.

It’s one of those places that’s touristy but still manages to charm you. There’s always something going on — markets, buskers, people heading off on hikes — and plenty of easy ways to explore the surrounding scenery without dangling from a parachute. Hop on a boat across Lake Brienz or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for the best sunset view in town.

Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 sounds like a theme park, and in a way, it kind of is — but with better views. The highlight is the Peak Walk, a suspension bridge connecting two summits with nothing but sky beneath your feet. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mont Blanc, and if you visit in winter, the snow crunches under your boots like you’re walking on icing sugar.

After all that adrenaline, duck into the panoramic restaurant for fondue or a glass of something warming while you stare out at the sea of white peaks. It’s touristy, sure, but the combination of mountains, silence, and altitude does something to you. Nature at its best!

➡️ Head up to Glacier 3000 – Ride the cable car, cross the Peak Walk suspension bridge, and take in those jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Check prices / availability / book it!

Schilthorn

Schilthorn is famous for its cameo in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and the mountain hasn’t let anyone forget it. The revolving restaurant at the top still plays the theme tune, and you can sip a martini (shaken, obviously) while taking in views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Even if you’re not into Bond, the scenery is spectacular. The cable car ride passes through a string of tiny alpine villages where flower boxes spill over balconies and cows wander lazily through meadows. Stop in one of the huts for a plate of rösti or a beer before heading up — the slower you take it, the better it gets.

➡️ Visit Schilthorn – Ride the cable car to the 007-famous summit, have brunch in the revolving restaurant, and soak up epic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Check prices / availability / book it!

Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus looms over Lucerne like a gentle giant. You can take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the top or glide up in a cable car from Kriens — both routes are spectacular. I went up once on a clear summer morning, and the view hit me the moment I stepped out: lakes, forests, and layers of mountains fading into blue.

There’s a terrace café at the summit that does excellent rösti, and if you hang around for sunset, you’ll see the whole sky turn rose-gold. Pilatus has a bit of everything — easy trails, mountain air, and just enough drama to make you feel small in the best possible way.

Mount Rigi

They call Rigi the “Queen of the Mountains,” and she’s earned it. It’s one of the easiest peaks to reach — just a short trip from Lucerne — but it still feels unspoilt once you’re up there. I went for sunrise one summer morning, wrapped in a jumper and clutching coffee from a thermos, and watched the mist lift off the lakes below. It was quiet except for the faint sound of cowbells somewhere down the slope.

You can hike down through wildflower meadows or take the cogwheel train back to Vitznau and catch the boat across the lake. Either way, Rigi is the kind of mountain that makes you exhale — calm, green, and effortlessly beautiful.

Storybook Villages & Towns in Switzerland

Gruyères

Gruyères is the Switzerland everyone imagines — cobbled streets, medieval walls, and a castle that looks straight out of a storybook. The smell of melted cheese hits you before you even reach the main square. I spent an afternoon eating fondue moitié-moitié (half Gruyère, half Vacherin) before heading over to Maison Cailler, the nearby chocolate factory that smells like happiness itself. Watching molten chocolate pour into moulds, then getting to taste it straight off the line — let’s just say I didn’t leave hungry.

Back in town, the HR Giger Museum adds a wonderfully weird twist, full of alien sculptures and dark art. Cheese, chocolate, and sci-fi — somehow, it all fits together in Gruyères.

Lauterbrunnen

If Switzerland had to pick one valley to show off with, it would be Lauterbrunnen. Picture this — 72 waterfalls tumbling off cliffs, wooden chalets, and cowbells echoing through the valley. I took the train through once in spring and honestly couldn’t stop gawking. When the day-trippers disappear, you can sit on your balcony with a glass of wine, listen to the falls, and feel like you’ve got the whole valley to yourself.

Mürren

Mürren is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped inside a snow globe. It’s perched high above Lauterbrunnen Valley, completely car-free, and feels worlds away from the crowds below. The views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are so close it’s like they’re leaning in to say hello.

I stayed here once and woke up to cowbells and mountain air so crisp it felt bottled. The best way to start the day? A slow breakfast on a sunny terrace — flaky croissant, strong coffee, and that ridiculous panorama. From here, you can take the cable car up to Schilthorn or wander along mountain paths lined with wildflowers in summer. Mürren is small, quiet, and exactly the kind of place that makes you want to stay forever.

Appenzell

Appenzell is small, colourful, and proudly traditional. Every house looks like it’s been hand-painted, and locals still vote by raising their hands in the main square. It’s also home to one of my favourite Swiss traditions — the Alpine cattle drive, when the cows are led down from the mountain pastures in autumn, decked out in flowers and giant bells. It’s noisy, joyful, and about as Swiss as it gets.

This is also serious cheese country, and you’ll smell it before you see it. Appenzeller is famously strong and perfectly salty, best enjoyed with a cold local beer from the Locher brewery. You can even visit a dairy to see how it’s made before tucking into a platter of cheese and cured meats. Finish with a slice of Biberli, a spiced almond cake that’s perfect with coffee.

Stein am Rhein

Stein am Rhein feels like a film set someone forgot to pack away. Every house in the old town is covered in frescoes, and the Rhine glides past like it’s posing for photos. It’s small enough to explore in an hour, but give it longer — this little town rewards a slow wander.

There are two castles to look out for, though most people only know about Hohenklingen Castle, perched above town with sweeping views over the river. You can walk up via the paved path to the Känzeli viewpoint — it’s a short climb and the view back across the rooftops is totally worth it. On the way down, grab lunch at a riverside terrace: schnitzel, a glass of crisp white wine, and the sound of the water drifting past.

UNESCO Sites & Landmarks in Switzerland

Lavaux Vineyards

Every time I take the train between Lausanne and Montreux, I end up glued to the window — the Lavaux Vineyards are just that beautiful. The terraces cascade towards Lake Geneva in perfect rows, catching the light as the train winds past. I once spent an afternoon walking the vineyard trail between Cully and Rivaz, stopping at a family-run cellar where the owner poured generous glasses of chilled Chasselas and insisted I try a slice of Gruyère with it. It’s one of those rare UNESCO sites where you can sip the landscape.

Château de Chillon

I’ve been to Chillon Castle more times than I can count, and it still gets me every single visit — mostly because it’s always freezing inside. The thick stone walls keep out the heat even on the hottest summer days, so pack a jumper if you’re planning to explore properly. The castle is right on the edge of Lake Geneva, with its reflection shimmering in the water, and it’s easy to see why Byron fell in love with it enough to write The Prisoner of Chillon.

Inside, you can wander through echoing halls and up winding staircases before emerging onto the ramparts for incredible lake views. When you’re done, warm up with a coffee or an ice cream at one of the lakeside stands — it’s the perfect spot to thaw out and take in the view.

Abbey of St. Gall

I’ll admit it — I went to the Abbey of St. Gall mainly for the library, and it completely blew me away. The polished wood, painted ceiling, and centuries-old books make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a film set. You have to wear soft slippers to protect the floors, which just adds to the sense that you’ve wandered somewhere sacred.

When you’ve had your fill of history, head outside for something much less serious: a St. Galler Bratwurst from a local stall. They serve them with a crusty roll and a dollop of mustard — simple, perfect, and exactly what you need after all that quiet reverence.

Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls aren’t graceful — they’re pure power. You can hear them long before you see them, a constant roar that shakes the ground. I’ve stood on the viewing platform more than once and still found myself gripping the rail every time a gust of mist hit. The boat trip takes you right into the spray, and it’s as thrilling as it sounds — just keep your camera covered.

When you’ve had enough of the drama, grab a seat at the café above the falls with a cold drink and watch the chaos from a safe distance. It’s hypnotic.

Aletsch Glacier

The Aletsch Glacier is one of those landscapes that leaves you speechless. It stretches for what feels like forever — a massive ribbon of ice winding between rugged peaks. I went up early once via the Eggishorn cable car, and it was so quiet that the only sounds were the wind and the crunch of snow under my boots.

You can hike along the ridge for different views, but honestly, even standing still feels enough here. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how small you are — and how beautiful the world can be when you stop to look.

➡️ Ride the Eggishorn Cable Car – It’s the easiest way to reach the best view of the Aletsch Glacier (and totally worth it for the photos). Check prices / availability / book it!

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Spots in Switzerland

Creux du Van

If Switzerland had its own version of the Grand Canyon, it would be Creux du Van — a huge natural amphitheatre carved out of the Jura mountains. I hiked up one bright morning (about 6 hours) and stood at the edge feeling very small (and slightly wobbly). The view drops away into a perfect semicircle of cliffs where eagles sometimes glide below you. It’s wild, dramatic, and blissfully free of tour buses. Bring snacks — and nerve.

Blausee

Hidden away in a forest near Kandersteg, Blausee looks almost unreal. The water is so clear and blue it feels like someone’s added a filter, and you can still see the fish gliding under the surface. It’s small, peaceful, and feels like one of those hidden gems in Switzerland everyone whispers about but never quite tells you how to find. I went early one morning when the mist was still hanging over the lake, and it was pure magic.

Val Verzasca

Down in Ticino, the Val Verzasca feels like stepping into another world — all green rivers, smooth granite rocks, and stone bridges. The water looks inviting, but it’s freezing even in summer (I found out the hard way). The Ponte dei Salti bridge is the most famous spot, but walk a little further and you’ll find quiet corners where locals sunbathe on warm rocks and picnic by the river.

If you’re hungry, stop in Lavertezzo for a plate of polenta with mushrooms — hearty, local, and perfect after a swim you’ll regret for about ten minutes.

Emmental Valley

Yes, the cheese is real — and yes, it actually comes from here. The Emmental Valley is a patchwork of rolling hills, red-roofed barns, and cows that look straight out of a postcard. You can visit tiny dairies to see how the holes are made (it’s all about the bubbles) and taste cheese that never leaves the region. I drove through one autumn weekend and ended up at a farmhouse café where the owner served cheese pie and apple cider like it was a family lunch.

Zernez & Swiss National Park

If you ever want to feel truly off the beaten path in Switzerland, head to Zernez in the Engadin. It’s the gateway to the Swiss National Park, where you can hike for hours without seeing another soul. The trails wind through larch forests and alpine meadows where marmots whistle from the rocks. No restaurants, no cars, no noise — just mountains doing their thing. It’s the quiet side of Switzerland that most visitors never see.

Interactive Map: Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland

Use this map to explore all 38 of Switzerland’s most beautiful places — from storybook villages to glacier peaks. Tap the coloured pins to see each location, read a quick note, and get directions straight from your phone.

How to use this map

• Zoom in or out to focus on a specific region.
• Tap the coloured pins for names, one-line descriptions, and travel notes.
• Toggle layers on the left-hand side to view categories (Cities, Lakes, Alps, Villages, UNESCO Sites, Hidden Gems).
• Click “View larger map” in the corner to open it directly in Google Maps for navigation or trip planning.

Practical Tips for Visiting Switzerland

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland doesn’t really do “off-season” — it just swaps one kind of magic for another.

• Spring (April–June): Wildflowers, waterfalls, and fewer crowds. I love the Jungfrau region at this time — the air smells like grass and snowmelt.
• Summer (July–September): Perfect for hiking, swimming, and lakeside wine. It’s the busiest season, but also the most photogenic.
• Autumn (October): My favourite — vineyards turn gold in Lavaux, larches glow in Engadin, and everything feels calm again.
• Winter (December–March): Ski season in full swing. Even if you don’t ski, the Christmas markets and mountain villages under snow are pure magic.

If you’re wondering when to visit Switzerland for the best weather, summer and early autumn win. For fewer people? Go just before or after.

Getting Around Switzerland

Public transport in Switzerland is ridiculously good — punctual, spotless, and scenic. Trains, boats, and buses all link up perfectly, so you can glide from lake to mountain without a single hiccup.

• Swiss Travel Pass: Worth it if you’re doing lots of train travel — it covers trains, boats, and many mountain cable cars.
• Scenic routes: The GoldenPass, Bernina Express, and Glacier Express are experiences in themselves — like watching a postcard unfold outside your window.
• Driving: Totally doable, but parking can be tricky in cities and mountain roads can get hairy in winter.

For how to travel around Switzerland without a car, stick to the trains — they’re an attraction all on their own.

Is Switzerland Expensive?

Let’s be honest — yes, it can be. But there are ways to soften the blow.

• Picnic lunches from Coop or Migros supermarkets are good quality and much cheaper than cafés.
• Tap water is fresh from the Alps — don’t waste money on bottles.
• Choose smaller towns or villages for overnights — you’ll pay less and wake up to better views.

If you plan ahead, Switzerland doesn’t have to wreck your budget — it just rewards you for being organised.

What to Eat in Switzerland

Forget the clichés — Swiss food is so much more than fondue and chocolate (though both are mandatory at least once).

• Cheese lovers: Fondue, raclette, and rösti in mountain huts.
• Sweet tooths: Cailler chocolate, Engadin nut tart, and Basler Läckerli.
• Regional gems: Ticino’s risotto, Bernese Rösti, and Appenzeller cheese platters.

If you’re short on time, make a detour to Gruyères or Appenzell — both combine scenery and snacks in the best possible way.

How Many Days Do You Need in Switzerland?

If you’re trying to decide how many days to spend in Switzerland, a week gives you a nice balance. You can explore a couple of cities, one lake, and one mountain region without feeling rushed.

• 3–4 days: Pick one base like Lucerne, Interlaken, or Montreux.
• 7–10 days: Add a second region — Zermatt, Ticino, or the Engadin Valley.
• 2 weeks or more: You’ll see the country’s rhythm shift with the seasons — and probably start planning your return before you leave.

FAQs About Visiting Switzerland

Do I need a Swiss Travel Pass?

If you’re hopping between cities and mountain regions, the Swiss Travel Pass is a lifesaver. It covers trains, boats, buses, and even a few mountain cable cars. I’ve used it on multiple trips and loved how effortless it makes everything — no ticket queues, no confusion, just show your pass and go.

What language do they speak in Switzerland?

Switzerland has four national languages — German, French, Italian, and Romansh — and you’ll hear a mix depending on where you are. Around Geneva and Lausanne it’s French, Zurich and Lucerne speak Swiss-German, Ticino is Italian, and Romansh pops up in the Engadin Valley. Most people switch to English without missing a beat, though locals always appreciate a cheerful “Grüezi” or “Bonjour.”

Is Switzerland worth visiting if I don’t ski?

Absolutely. I’ve been more times than I can count and never touched a pair of skis. The scenery alone is worth the trip — lakes, mountains, vineyards, and storybook villages. There’s world-class hiking, amazing food, and some of Europe’s most beautiful train rides. You can easily fill a week without setting foot on a slope.

What’s the currency in Switzerland?

Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF), not the euro. Most places accept cards, but it’s worth carrying a bit of cash for small cafés, mountain huts, or local markets.

What’s the best way to see the Alps?

The scenic trains are unbeatable. The Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and GoldenPass Line all wind through valleys, past waterfalls, and over viaducts that look impossible. Sit by the window, grab a snack, and just enjoy the show.

Is Switzerland good for foodies?

Yes! Between the fondue pots of Gruyères, wine terraces of Lavaux, chocolate at Maison Cailler, and Ticino’s risotto, you’ll be in heaven. Even train-station bakeries serve pastries that would make most cafés jealous.

Is it safe to travel alone in Switzerland?

Yes — it’s one of the safest countries in Europe. Trains run late into the night, towns are well lit, and people are helpful. The only real danger is missing your stop because you were too busy staring out the window.

Final Tip

Switzerland is one of those countries that rewards slowing down. Trains run on time, cows still wear bells, and life moves at the pace of the mountains. You don’t need to tick everything off a list — just pick a few places that make you curious, and let the rest unfold.