We’ve come a great distance since our first go to to Switzerland. Back in 2003, we by no means left the ski hill when snowboarding at Chateau d’Oex and Gstaad, however since then, we’ve visited Switzerland three extra occasions and have had an opportunity to expertise almost the entire greatest issues to do in Switzerland.
From the cities of Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne to the mountain areas of Zermatt Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, and St. Moritz we’ve crisscrossed the nation experiencing all the pieces we ever had on our Switzerland bucket checklist. Our newest travels lastly took us to the Italian area of Ticino. If you need to be blown away by the proper journey vacation spot, select Switzerland on your subsequent trip. And right here’s why!
The Very Best Things to do in Switzerland
From its medieval outdated cities to refined cities, there’s something for everybody in Switzerland. The Swiss love exploring the outside and you will notice among the greatest landscapes in all the world. Many locations really feel as if you’re strolling via a portray. So with out additional adieu, let’s discover all the very best issues to do in Switzerland from our 4 totally different journeys across the nation.
1. Gornergrat
I don’t suppose I’ve ever been anyplace as breathtaking as Gornergrat. Standing at 3089 meters above sea degree, Gornergrat is our no 1 decide for the very best place to go to in Switzerland. We didn’t know what to anticipate as we rode the cogwheel prepare up from Valley Station in Zermatt, however with every flip, we knew we had been in for one thing particular.
The views of the Matterhorn in all its glory is one factor, however it’s the sea of glaciers is out of this world. The hike down from Gornergrat treats hikers to essentially the most gorgeous views on earth. You are surrounded by 29 mountains reaching greater than 4000 meters and seven huge glaciers. With each flip, it’s one dazzling view after one other. Read all about it at The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland
2. Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
One of ur favourite issues to do in Switzerland was to go to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe in the Swiss Alps. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is house to the very best prepare station in Europe, the biggest glacier in the Alps, and unimaginable mountain views.
Located in the Bernese Oberland area of Switzerland, Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is an tour that’s not to be missed. It is actually one of many most lovely locations to go to in Switzerland. When the climate is evident, Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is spectacular. See why right here. Spectacular Switzerland, a Visit to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
3. Go Mountain Biking in Zermatt
Seeing the Matterhorn is on many an individual’s bucket checklist and no journey to Switzerland is full till you go to Zermatt. Trust me, we all know. It took us three visits to Switzerland earlier than seeing the Matterhorn with our personal eyes, and never solely is that this mountain putting, however the area is likely one of the most lovely locations in Switzerland, (if not on earth). If you don’t need to go mountain biking, there are many mountaineering trails across the Matterhorn area. Hiking the 5 Lakes Hike allows you to get pleasure from essentially the most gorgeous surroundings in Switzerland at a leisurely tempo all downhill. Read extra: 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Incredible Matterhorn Views
4. Grindelwald-First
Going to the highest of Grindelwald-First is one in every of our favourite locations in Switzerland. Not solely does it have a hike to Bachalpsee to see the mountain peaks of Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn reflecting in Lake Bachalp, however there are many adventures. From the First Cliffwalk dangling from the mountain the the First adventures of the First Flyer, First Glider, First Mountain Bike, and our private favourite, the Trotti Bike. Read all about it right here.
5. Harder Kulm Lookout – Interlaken
Visiting the Harder Kulm in Interlaken is a should. As the city’s native mountain, it stands at 1,321 meters above sea degree and is definitely accessible through a funicular railway that dates again to 1908.
The journey up the Harder Kulm is an journey in itself, offering a steep and exhilarating ascent. Once you attain the highest, you’re greeted by the spectacular Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, resembling a citadel, and a viewing platform that boasts a wide ranging panoramic outlook.
From this vantage level, you may feast your eyes on the gorgeous vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains — the long-lasting trio in the Swiss Alps. The sweeping views additionally embrace Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, shimmering under with their deep azure hues. Read extra: Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4 Day Itinerary
6. Marvel on the Matterhorn at Lake Stellisee
When visiting Zermatt, the very best view of the Matterhorn is from Stellisee. The iconic mountain peak reflecting in the waters of Lake Stellisee is magical. It takes a bit of labor to expertise this with an early morning wakeup name to catch pre-sunrise funicular at Sunnegga Valley Station to switch to a gondola up to Blauherd Mountain Station. It’s then a 20 minute hike to the lake to look forward to views. Read extra: 23 Incredible Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland
7. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
We’re spending loads of time in the mountains and Zermatt in explicit. The cause is that the mountains round Zermatt are simply too darn lovely. From the highest of Glacier Paradise, you’re handled to views of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks (13,000 ft) and 14 glaciers!
At the highest of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you may go snowboarding on the highest ski resort in the world, there’s an underground tunnel system beneath the glacier and you’ll even hike to Breithorn Mountain, the best of all of the 4000-meter peaks in the Alps. Read extra: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do
8. Take a Weidling Tour in Basel
One of essentially the most distinctive issues to do in Switzerland is to get on the Rhine River and do some conventional paddling. Weidling is a standard wood boat that dates again to the Middle Ages in Basel. They had been used to paddle upriver utilizing a method known as spiking. 20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland
Basel is an unimaginable metropolis in Switzerland that deserves a minimum of 3 days to go to. Besides wielding on the Rhine, you may swim in the Rhine. It is likely one of the hottest issues to do in the town. Want to know extra about Basel? Read on: 24 Fantastic Things to do in Basel, Switzerland
9. Tour The Lindt Chocolate Factory in Zurich
Zurich is commonly on the prime of any Switzerland itinerary. As the monetary capital of the nation, Switzerland’s largest metropolis and a picturesque setting on Lake Zurich. There are so many issues to do in Zurich that it’s best to spend three to 4 days there, however one of the iconic locations to go to is The Lindt Home of Chocolate. No journey to Switzerland can be full with out indulging in Swiss chocolate and that is the place to do it.
This isn’t your abnormal manufacturing unit tour. Upon getting into guests come face to face with an enormous chocolate fountain standing tall in the huge corridor. It is then onto a tour to be taught concerning the historical past of chocolate and to eat loads of chocolate: Read extra at The 17 Best Things to Do in Zurich, Switzerland
10. Bask in the Sun in Lake Lugano
Nestled between Lake Como in Italy and Lake Maggiore in Switzerland, Lake Lugano has prime billing as the most effective issues to do in the Ticino area of Switzerland. Strolling alongside the Lugano waterfront allows you to take in all its magnificence. While strolling alongside the lake, it’s going to remind you of Rio de Janeiro as Monte San Salvatore and Mount Bre body the town. Read extra about Ticino at: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland.
11. Hike in Lavertezzo – the Verzasca Valley
The Verzasca Valley is situated in the gorgeous area of Ticino. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters, Valle Verzasca boasts a vibrant turquoise river of dashing waters flowing via a sequence of cliffs, rocks, and historic bridges. It’s a well-liked swimming and mountaineering spot.
12. Go to the Spa in Bad Ragaz
The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is the granddaddy of spas in Switzerland. Located simply 1 hour from Zurich, that is the last word luxurious spa retreat. The sizzling springs had been found in the 1200s and folks have been in search of their therapeutic properties for hundreds of years. The lodge opened in 1869 and in 1872 it housed the primary thermal water indoor pool in Europe. Today it’s a five-star lodge that sits in the Rhine Valley. Visit Tamina Therme for extra data on visiting the spa.
13. Take a Spa Day in Leukerbad
Switzerland is thought for its spa experiences and one of the lovely spa retreats is in Leukerbad. The thermal baths date again to Roman occasions. This wellness retreat attracts vacationers to its 65 pure springs containing 3.9 million liters of sizzling water to loosen up in the therapeutic swimming pools of Valais valley. It is likely one of the largest and hottest spa resorts in Switzerland. For extra data on touring to Leukerbad, go to the tourism web site.
14. Indulge in St. Moritz
If there’s one place to add to your Swiss bucket checklist, make it St. Moritz. St. Moritz was the birthplace of winter journey and for good cause. This fairytale city in the Swiss Alps is the playground of the wealthy and well-known. The Muottas Muragle to Alp Languard hike is certainly the most effective issues to do in St. Moritz and has the everyday unimaginable views that each one hikes in Switzerland have.
The hike begins on the Punt Muragl prepare station the place we took the funicular railway up to Muottas Muagl for a shocking hike with views of St. Moritz, the St. Moritz Lake, and the panoramic views of Upper Engadin from 2,456m (8,057ft). Wow! Read all about it Stunning St. Moritz – Summer Fun in Switzerland
15. Hike The Eiger Trail
If you occur to make your means to the highest of our quantity 2 decide for the very best issues to do in Switzerland (Jungfraoujoch). Instead of taking the prepare again down, hike the Eiger Trail as an alternative. It is all downhill with a close-up view of the breathtaking north wall of the Eiger, together with jaw-dropping vistas of the valley under, the Eiger Trail is likely one of the most rewarding hikes in Switzerland. Read extra: Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4 Day Itinerary
16. See the Castles of Bellinzona
The Bellinzona Castles are a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the capital of Ticino, Bellinzona. Castle Grande is situated close to the primary sq. and from there you may hike to all of the castles. They are related by trails that weave via vineyards and rolling hills. The return journey is just a few hours’ stroll. Read extra: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland
16. Pay Tribute to Freddie Mercury – Montreux
Freddie Mercury spent his remaining days in Montreux and this lovely city on the shores of Lake Geneva is a must-visit in Switzerland. With Queen having a re-emergence since Bohemian Rhapsody persons are turning into extra in the rock band’s frontman.
There is an iconic statue standing on the waterfront which you have to take a look at if you’re a rock and roll fan. Montreux has all the time been a musical city internet hosting the annual music competition, the Montreux Jazz Festival on the shores of Lake Geneva. Read extra: Montreux and its Musical Legacy
17. Château de Chillon
While in Montreux, be sure that to go to Chillon Castle. Located immediately on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps in the background, this medieval citadel is likely one of the most lovely locations to go to in Switzerland.
This medieval fortress, which dates again to the eleventh century, stands as a testomony to the strategic significance of its location on a rocky inlet in opposition to a backdrop of mountains, traditionally controlling the passage between northern and southern Europe.
The citadel consists of 25 separate buildings with 3 courtyards that had been regularly related and now kind a single unit. Its structure is designed to observe the pure contour of the rocky island it was constructed on, making it each an exquisite and defensive construction.
Visiting Chillon Castle is like stepping again in time, providing an immersive expertise into medieval historical past, structure, and the great thing about the Swiss Riviera. It stays one in every of Switzerland’s most visited historic websites and is a must-see for anybody in the medieval period or in search of the romance of a fairy-tale citadel set in opposition to one in every of Switzerland’s most lovely landscapes.
18. Walk the Bridge of Lucerne
Lucerne was the primary metropolis we visited in Switzerland the place we truly spent a while. It is a beautiful city with its essential most iconic landmark, the Chapel Bridge on Lake Lucerne. It is the oldest coated wood bridge in Europe, having been constructed in the 14th century. Today, it homes a small museum that shows artifacts from Lucerne’s historical past. Read extra: 15 Beautiful Cities in Switzerland from our First-Hand Visits
When visiting Lucern, be sure that to get on Lake Lucerne. One of the very best methods to see it’s by paddle steamer. Lake Lucerne is house to the world’s largest fleet of paddle steamers in common service. The Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees (SGV) operates these historic boats, providing varied routes that enable you to discover the scenic coronary heart of Switzerland, with views of picturesque cities and the Swiss Alps.
19. Mount Pilatus
While in Lucerne, take a day journey up to Mount Pilatus. Mount Pilatus is a mountain situated close to Lucerne that gives panoramic views of the encompassing space. You can make a journey to the highest of the mountain through a sequence of cable automobiles that features a trip on the cogwheel railway which is likely one of the steepest railways in the world.
20. Stop in the Capital of Bern
Visiting Bern, the capital metropolis of Switzerland is commonly listed as one of many prime issues to do in the nation. The Old Town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, distinguished by its well-preserved medieval cityscape, with buildings courting again to the twelfth century. Highlights embrace cobblestone streets, fountains, and the well-known Zytglogge clock tower are a number of of the historic treasures that transport guests again in time.
The metropolis’s structure is a mixture of Gothic and Baroque kinds, epitomized in landmarks such because the Bern Cathedral (Bern Münster) and the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus)
As the de facto capital of Switzerland (formally often called the federal metropolis), Bern homes the Swiss Parliament and Federal Assembly, providing guests an opportunity to witness the center of Swiss democracy.
21. Get Sporty in Lausanne
Lausanne, gracing the shores of Lake Geneva, is house to the International Olympic Committee headquarters and is proudly often called the Olympic Capital. The metropolis hosts the Olympic Museum, which is likely one of the most visited websites in Switzerland, offering an interactive journey via the historical past of the Games.
With a wealthy cultural tapestry, Lausanne is bustling with artwork galleries, museums, and theaters, together with the Collection de l’Art Brut and the Lausanne Opera. The metropolis additionally steadily hosts festivals, music live shows and worldwide occasions.
Being on the doorstep of one in every of Europe’s largest lakes, Lausanne grants entry to a wide range of water sports activities, cruises, and rest on the seashores alongside Lake Geneva’s shore. Plus, the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces (a UNESCO World Heritage web site) stretch for about 30 km alongside the lake from Lausanne to Montreux, providing lovely strolling trails and wine-tasting experiences.
22. Rhine Falls
A go to to the Rhine Falls is a journey to one in every of Europe’s strongest and mesmerizing pure wonders. Situated close to the city of Schaffhausen, these falls are the biggest waterfalls in Europe.
From the various viewing platforms, you may witness the sheer quantity of water that tumbles over the rocks each second, an awe-inspiring sight, particularly in the course of the peak circulate in summer season.
Taking a ship journey supplies an up-close encounter with the falls, permitting for the possibility to contact the frothy waters and even attain the rock in the midst of the falls.
23. See the Swiss Grand Canyon
Rhine Gorge, which is commonly referred to because the Swiss Grand Canyon is situated in the southeast of the nation, in the canton of Graubünden. Formed by the river Rhine chopping via the excessive limestone cliffs over hundreds of thousands of years, it’s well-known for its gorgeous landscapes and distinctive geological formations. On the opposite hand, the Rhine Falls is a strong waterfall created by the river Rhine because it pours over a rocky ledge close to Schaffhausen.
Both are outstanding pure points of interest in Switzerland, every providing distinctive experiences: the Rhine Falls for witnessing the ability of Europe’s largest waterfall, and the Rhine Gorge for its breathtaking scenic views that may be loved whereas mountaineering, biking, and even taking a leisurely prepare trip via the area.
24. Eat Fondue in Gruyere
Eating genuine Swiss fondue in Switzerland was on the prime of my Switzerland bucket checklist. We’ve had it each time we visited the nation, however nothing fairly in contrast to our first time making an attempt it in the winter in Gruyere.
Renowned for giving the world the delectable Gruyère cheese, the city invitations you to indulge in culinary delights, from cheese tasting to beautiful chocolate on the close by Maison Cailler in Broc. The medieval city, topped by the majestic Château de Gruyères, gives a journey via historical past the place cobblestone streets lead to artwork galleries, conventional retailers, and the HR Giger Museum, showcasing the surreal work of the artist behind the long-lasting “Alien” creature.
Surrounded by rolling inexperienced hills and the pre-Alpine landscapes, Gruyères captivates with a mixture of gastronomic heritage, cultural richness, and outdated Swiss Charm, making it a singular and must-visit location on any Swiss itinerary.
Gruyere cheese is the popular cheese for a cheese fondue and to have this scrumptious Swiss dish in the precise medieval city of Gruyére was a dream come true. Read extra: 15 Swiss Foods to Try in Switzerland or at Home
25. Interlaken
When you end up in Switzerland visiting locations just like the Eiger Trail, Jungfraujoch, or Grindelwad First, chances are high you can be spending a while in Interlaken. Interlaken is the biggest city in the Bernese Oberland area and one in every of our favourite issues to do is to take the cogwheel prepare up to Harder Klum. Located at 1322 m above sea degree, Harder Kulm is the towering mountain over Interlaken. The 100-year-old funicular railway is a deal with to trip up the mountain.
26. Glacier Canyon Grindelwald
Glacier Canyon or Gletscherschlucht is likely one of the coolest points of interest in Grindelwald and also you don’t need to miss seeing it. Take a stroll via a sequence of tunnels, walkways, and rocky outcrops because the Lütschine River roars via the 250 million-year-old canyon. This 870-meter-long path is a unprecedented stroll via excessive cliffs stretching up from the canyon flooring. It is situated simply 5 minutes from downtown Grindelwald.
27. Visit Swiss National Park
As Switzerland’s solely nationwide park and the primary in the Alps, Including a cease on the Swiss National Park in your Switzerland itinerary is very really useful. It gives a sanctuary of biodiversity. Encompassing over 170 sq. kilometers of mountains and woodlands it has been a nationwide park since 1914.
There are over 80 kilometers of mountaineering trails, that are well-marked and cater to varied health ranges. These trails supply breathtaking views and the possibility to observe the park’s wildlife. Swiss National Park is the biggest nature reserve in Switzerland. You can see crimson deer, lynx, eagles, and a few 300 ibex that reside in the park.
It’s a major spot for nature fanatics year-round showcasing every season in the park in a unique face of nature, from the blooming edelweiss of spring to the snow-covered silence of winter.
FAQs
What are 3 Popular Things in Switzerland?
Exploring the Swiss Alps, for actions like snowboarding, snowboarding, and mountaineering. Visiting historic websites reminiscent of Chillon Castle, the Zytglogge in Bern, or the Abbey of Saint Gall. Enjoying Swiss lakes and scenic prepare rides just like the Glacier Express or boat cruises on Lake Geneva.
What is the #1 Thing Switzerland is Known For?
Switzerland is thought for the Swiss Alps. The Swiss Alps are synonymous with the nation’s identification and are house to famend peaks just like the Matterhorn and Jungfrau.
What You Should Do in Switzerland?
Engage in outside sports activities, together with mountaineering in the summer season and snowboarding in the winter. Taste Swiss candies and cheeses, presumably with an area culinary tour. Discover cultural variety by visiting the distinct areas with totally different languages and traditions.
Is It Cheap to Travel in Switzerland?
No, Switzerland is usually thought of an costly nation to journey in, with larger prices for lodging, eating, and transportation in contrast to many different nations. Read extra: Is Switzerland Expensive?
What are 3 Things Switzerland is Famous For?
High-quality watchmaking, with manufacturers like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega. Financial companies, being a worldwide banking hub with a popularity for safety and privateness. Scenic landscapes and pure magnificence, from the snow-capped Alps to the picturesque lakes and well-preserved forests.
Switzerland is a small nation and it’s simple to get round. The Swiss rail system is simple and environment friendly or you may lease a automobile to have the liberty of being by yourself schedule. You can discover all this stuff to do all through the nation, so begin planning your Switzerland journey at the moment!