We’ve come a good distance since our first go to to Switzerland. Again 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 practically 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 things we ever had on our Switzerland bucket checklist. Our newest travels lastly took us to the Italian area of Ticino. If you wish to be blown away by the proper journey vacation spot, select Switzerland to your subsequent trip. And right here’s why!
The Very Finest Issues to do in Switzerland
From its medieval previous cities to classy cities, there’s something for everyone in Switzerland. The Swiss love exploring the outside and you will notice a few of the greatest landscapes in your complete world. Many locations really feel as in case you are strolling by way of a portray. So with out additional adieu, let’s discover all the perfect issues to do in Switzerland from our 4 completely different journeys across the nation.
1. Gornergrat
I don’t suppose I’ve ever been wherever as breathtaking as Gornergrat. Standing at 3089 meters above sea degree, Gornergrat is our number one decide for the perfect place to go to in Switzerland. We didn’t know what to anticipate as we rode the cogwheel practice up from Valley Station in Zermatt, however with every flip, we knew we have 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 probably the most beautiful views on earth. You’re surrounded by 29 mountains reaching greater than 4000 meters and seven huge glaciers. With each flip, it’s one dazzling view after one other. Learn all about it at The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland
2. Jungfraujoch – High of Europe
One in all ur favourite issues to do in Switzerland was to go to Jungfraujoch – High of Europe within the Swiss Alps. This UNESCO World Heritage Website is dwelling to the best practice station in Europe, the biggest glacier within the Alps, and unbelievable mountain views.
Positioned within the Bernese Oberland area of Switzerland, Jungfraujoch – High of Europe is an tour that’s not to be missed. It’s actually one of many most stunning locations to go to in Switzerland. When the climate is obvious, Jungfraujoch – High 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. Belief 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 among the most stunning locations in Switzerland, (if not on earth). If you happen to don’t wish to go mountain biking, there are many mountain climbing trails across the Matterhorn area. Climbing the 5 Lakes Hike allows you to get pleasure from probably the most beautiful surroundings in Switzerland at a leisurely tempo all downhill. Learn extra: 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Incredible Matterhorn Views
4. Grindelwald-First
Going to the highest of Grindelwald-First is considered one 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 here.
5. More durable Kulm Lookout – Interlaken
Visiting the More durable Kulm in Interlaken is a should. Because 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 More durable Kulm is an journey in itself, offering a steep and exhilarating ascent. When you attain the highest, you’re greeted by the spectacular More durable Kulm Panorama Restaurant, resembling a fort, and a viewing platform that boasts a panoramic panoramic outlook.
From this vantage level, you possibly can feast your eyes on the beautiful vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains — the enduring trio within the Swiss Alps. The sweeping views additionally embody Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, shimmering beneath with their deep azure hues. Learn extra: Things to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Complete 4 Day Itinerary
6. Marvel on the Matterhorn at Lake Stellisee
When visiting Zermatt, the perfect view of the Matterhorn is from Stellisee. The enduring mountain peak reflecting within 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 as much as Blauherd Mountain Station. It’s then a 20 minute hike to the lake to attend for views. Learn extra: 23 Incredible Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland
7. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
We’re spending numerous time within the mountains and Zermatt specifically. The reason being that the mountains round Zermatt are simply too darn stunning. From the highest of Glacier Paradise, you’re handled to views of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks (13,000 ft) and 14 glaciers!
On the prime of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you possibly can go snowboarding on the highest ski resort on the earth, there’s an underground tunnel system underneath the glacier and you’ll even hike to Breithorn Mountain, the best of all of the 4000-meter peaks within the Alps. Learn extra: Incredible Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Exciting Things to See and Do
8. Take a Weidling Tour in Basel
Some of the distinctive issues to do in Switzerland is to get on the Rhine River and do some conventional paddling. Weidling is a conventional wood boat that dates again to the Center Ages in Basel. They have been used to paddle upriver utilizing a way known as spiking. 20 Reasons to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland
Basel is an unbelievable metropolis in Switzerland that deserves a minimum of 3 days to go to. In addition to wielding on the Rhine, you possibly can swim within the Rhine. It is among the hottest issues to do within the metropolis. Wish to know extra about Basel? Learn on: 24 Fantastic Things to do in Basel, Switzerland
9. Tour The Lindt Chocolate Manufacturing facility in Zurich
Zurich is usually on the prime of any Switzerland itinerary. Because the monetary capital of the nation, Switzerland’s largest metropolis and a picturesque setting on Lake Zurich. There are such a lot of issues to do in Zurich that you need to spend three to 4 days there, however one of the iconic locations to go to is The Lindt Dwelling of Chocolate. No journey to Switzerland could be full with out indulging in Swiss chocolate and that is the place to do it.
This isn’t your unusual manufacturing unit tour. Upon getting into guests come head to head with a large chocolate fountain standing tall within the huge corridor. It’s then onto a tour to be taught in regards to the historical past of chocolate and to eat numerous chocolate: Learn extra at The 17 Best Things to Do in Zurich, Switzerland
10. Bask within the Solar in Lake Lugano
Nestled between Lake Como in Italy and Lake Maggiore in Switzerland, Lake Lugano has prime billing as among the finest issues to do within the Ticino area of Switzerland. Strolling alongside the Lugano waterfront allows you to absorb all its magnificence. Whereas strolling alongside the lake, it’ll remind you of Rio de Janeiro as Monte San Salvatore and Mount Bre body town. Learn 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 positioned within the stunning area of Ticino. Identified for its vibrant turquoise waters, Valle Verzasca boasts a vibrant turquoise river of speeding waters flowing by way of a collection of cliffs, rocks, and historic bridges. It’s a well-liked swimming and mountain climbing spot.
12. Go to the Spa in Unhealthy Ragaz
The Grand Resort Unhealthy Ragaz is the granddaddy of spas in Switzerland. Positioned simply 1 hour from Zurich, that is the last word luxurious spa retreat. The recent springs have been found within 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. At the moment it’s a five-star lodge that sits within the Rhine Valley. Go to 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 stunning 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 scorching water to calm down within the therapeutic swimming pools of Valais valley. It is among the largest and hottest spa resorts in Switzerland. For extra data on touring to Leukerbad, visit the tourism website.
14. Take pleasure in St. Moritz
If there’s one place so as to add to your Swiss bucket checklist, make it St. Moritz. St. Moritz was the birthplace of winter journey and for good purpose. This fairytale city within the Swiss Alps is the playground of the wealthy and well-known. The Muottas Muragle to Alp Languard hike is certainly among the finest issues to do in St. Moritz and has the everyday unbelievable views that each one hikes in Switzerland have.
The hike begins on the Punt Muragl practice station the place we took the funicular railway as much as Muottas Muagl for a surprising hike with views of St. Moritz, the St. Moritz Lake, and the panoramic views of Higher Engadin from 2,456m (8,057ft). Wow! Learn all about it Stunning St. Moritz – Summer Fun in Switzerland
15. Hike The Eiger Path
If you happen to occur to make your method to the highest of our quantity 2 decide for the perfect issues to do in Switzerland (Jungfraoujoch). As a substitute of taking the practice again down, hike the Eiger Path as an alternative. It’s all downhill with a close-up view of the breathtaking north wall of the Eiger, together with jaw-dropping vistas of the valley beneath, the Eiger Path is among the most rewarding hikes in Switzerland. Learn 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 Website positioned within the capital of Ticino, Bellinzona. Fortress Grande is positioned close to the primary sq. and from there you possibly can hike to all of the castles. They’re related by trails that weave by way of vineyards and rolling hills. The return journey is barely a few hours’ stroll. Learn extra: Things to do in Lugano and the Ticino Region of Switzerland
16. Pay Tribute to Freddie Mercury – Montreux
Freddie Mercury spent his last days in Montreux and this stunning city on the shores of Lake Geneva is a must-visit in Switzerland. With Queen having a re-emergence since Bohemian Rhapsody individuals are changing into extra within the rock band’s frontman.
There’s an iconic statue standing on the waterfront which you could take a look at in case you are a rock and roll fan. Montreux has at all times been a musical city internet hosting the annual music pageant, the Montreux Jazz Pageant on the shores of Lake Geneva. Learn extra: Montreux and its Musical Legacy
17. Château de Chillon
Whereas in Montreux, be sure that to go to Chillon Fortress. Positioned instantly on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps within the background, this medieval fort is among the most stunning 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 towards a backdrop of mountains, traditionally controlling the passage between northern and southern Europe.
The fort consists of 25 separate buildings with 3 courtyards that have been progressively related and now kind a single unit. Its format is designed to observe the pure contour of the rocky island it was constructed on, making it each a fantastic and defensive construction.
Visiting Chillon Fortress 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 considered one of Switzerland’s most visited historic websites and is a must-see for anybody within the medieval period or in search of the romance of a fairy-tale fort set towards considered one of Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes.
18. Stroll the Bridge of Lucerne
Lucerne was the primary metropolis we visited in Switzerland the place we truly spent a while. It’s a beautiful city with its important most iconic landmark, the Chapel Bridge on Lake Lucerne. It’s the oldest lined wood bridge in Europe, having been constructed within the 14th century. At the moment, it homes a small museum that shows artifacts from Lucerne’s historical past. Learn extra: 15 Beautiful Cities in Switzerland from our First-Hand Visits
When visiting Lucern, be sure that to get on Lake Lucerne. The most effective methods to see it’s by paddle steamer. Lake Lucerne is dwelling to the world’s largest fleet of paddle steamers in common service. The Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees (SGV) operates these historic boats, providing numerous routes that let you discover the scenic coronary heart of Switzerland, with views of picturesque cities and the Swiss Alps.
19. Mount Pilatus
Whereas in Lucerne, take a day journey as much as Mount Pilatus. Mount Pilatus is a mountain positioned close to Lucerne that provides panoramic views of the encircling space. You possibly can make a journey to the highest of the mountain through a collection of cable vehicles that features a journey on the cogwheel railway which is among the steepest railways on the earth.
20. Cease within the Capital of Bern
Visiting Bern, the capital metropolis of Switzerland is usually listed as one of many prime issues to do within the nation. The Previous City 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 embody cobblestone streets, fountains, and the well-known Zytglogge clock tower are just a few of the historic treasures that transport guests again in time.
The town’s structure is a mixture of Gothic and Baroque types, epitomized in landmarks such because the Bern Cathedral (Bern Münster) and the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus)
Because the de facto capital of Switzerland (formally generally known as the federal metropolis), Bern homes the Swiss Parliament and Federal Meeting, providing guests an opportunity to witness the center of Swiss democracy.
21. Get Sporty in Lausanne
Lausanne, gracing the shores of Lake Geneva, is dwelling to the Worldwide Olympic Committee headquarters and is proudly generally known as the Olympic Capital. The town hosts the Olympic Museum, which is among the most visited websites in Switzerland, offering an interactive journey by way of the historical past of the Video games.
With a wealthy cultural tapestry, Lausanne is bustling with artwork galleries, museums, and theaters, together with the Assortment de l’Artwork Brut and the Lausanne Opera. The town additionally regularly hosts festivals, music concert events and worldwide occasions.
Being on the doorstep of considered one of Europe’s largest lakes, Lausanne grants entry to quite a lot of water sports activities, cruises, and rest on the seashores alongside Lake Geneva’s shore. Plus, the Lavaux Winery Terraces (a UNESCO World Heritage web site) stretch for about 30 km alongside the lake from Lausanne to Montreux, providing stunning strolling trails and wine-tasting experiences.
22. Rhine Falls
A go to to the Rhine Falls is a journey to considered one of Europe’s strongest and mesmerizing pure wonders. Located close to the city of Schaffhausen, these falls are the biggest waterfalls in Europe.
From the numerous viewing platforms, you possibly can witness the sheer quantity of water that tumbles over the rocks each second, an awe-inspiring sight, particularly in the course of the peak stream in summer season.
Taking a ship journey supplies an up-close encounter with the falls, permitting for the possibility to the touch the frothy waters and even attain the rock within the midst of the falls.
23. See the Swiss Grand Canyon
Rhine Gorge, which is also known as the Swiss Grand Canyon is positioned within the southeast of the nation, within the canton of Graubünden. Fashioned by the river Rhine slicing by way of the excessive limestone cliffs over thousands and thousands of years, it’s well-known for its beautiful landscapes and distinctive geological formations. Then again, the Rhine Falls is a robust waterfall created by the river Rhine because it pours over a rocky ledge close to Schaffhausen.
Each are exceptional pure points of interest in Switzerland, every providing distinctive experiences: the Rhine Falls for witnessing the facility of Europe’s largest waterfall, and the Rhine Gorge for its breathtaking scenic views that may be loved whereas mountain climbing, biking, and even taking a leisurely practice journey by way of the area.
24. Eat Fondue in Gruyere
Consuming 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 comparison with our first time attempting it within the winter in Gruyere.
Famend for giving the world the delectable Gruyère cheese, the city invitations you to take pleasure 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 by way of historical past the place cobblestone streets result in artwork galleries, conventional outlets, and the HR Giger Museum, showcasing the surreal work of the artist behind the enduring “Alien” creature.
Surrounded by rolling inexperienced hills and the pre-Alpine landscapes, Gruyères captivates with a mixture of gastronomic heritage, cultural richness, and previous Swiss Allure, 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 within the precise medieval city of Gruyére was a dream come true. Learn extra: 15 Swiss Meals to Attempt in Switzerland or at Home
25. Interlaken
When you end up in Switzerland visiting locations just like the Eiger Path, Jungfraujoch, or Grindelwad First, likelihood is you can be spending a while in Interlaken. Interlaken is the biggest city within the Bernese Oberland area and considered one of our favourite issues to do is to take the cogwheel practice as much as More durable Klum. Positioned at 1322 m above sea degree, More durable Kulm is the towering mountain over Interlaken. The 100-year-old funicular railway is a deal with to journey up the mountain.
26. Glacier Canyon Grindelwald
Glacier Canyon or Gletscherschlucht is among the coolest points of interest in Grindelwald and also you don’t wish to miss seeing it. Take a stroll by way of a collection of tunnels, walkways, and rocky outcrops because the Lütschine River roars by way of the 250 million-year-old canyon. This 870-meter-long path is a unprecedented stroll by way of excessive cliffs stretching up from the canyon ground. It’s positioned simply 5 minutes from downtown Grindelwald.
27. Go to Swiss Nationwide Park
As Switzerland’s solely nationwide park and the primary within the Alps, Together with a cease on the Swiss Nationwide Park in your Switzerland itinerary is extremely advisable. 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 mountain climbing trails, that are well-marked and cater to varied health ranges. These trails supply breathtaking views and the possibility to watch the park’s natural world. Swiss Nationwide Park is the biggest nature reserve in Switzerland. You possibly can see crimson deer, lynx, eagles, and a few 300 ibex that reside within the park.
It’s a main spot for nature lovers year-round showcasing every season within 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 In style Issues in Switzerland?
- Exploring the Swiss Alps, for actions like snowboarding, snowboarding, and mountaineering.
- Visiting historic websites akin to Chillon Fortress, the Zytglogge in Bern, or the Abbey of Saint Gall.
- Having fun with Swiss lakes and scenic practice rides just like the Glacier Categorical or boat cruises on Lake Geneva.
What’s the #1 Factor Switzerland is Identified For?
Switzerland is thought for the Swiss Alps. The Swiss Alps are synonymous with the nation’s id and are dwelling to famend peaks just like the Matterhorn and Jungfrau.
What You Ought to Do in Switzerland?
- Interact in out of doors sports activities, together with mountain climbing in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.
- Style Swiss candies and cheeses, presumably with a neighborhood culinary tour.
- Uncover cultural variety by visiting the distinct areas with completely different languages and traditions.
Is It Low-cost to Journey in Switzerland?
No, Switzerland is usually thought of an costly nation to journey in, with greater prices for lodging, eating, and transportation in comparison with many different international locations. Learn extra: Is Switzerland Costly?
What are 3 Issues Switzerland is Well-known For?
- Excessive-quality watchmaking, with manufacturers like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega.
- Monetary 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 straightforward to get round. The Swiss rail system is simple and environment friendly or you possibly can hire a automotive to have the liberty of being by yourself schedule. You’ll find all this stuff to do all through the nation, so begin planning your Switzerland journey at the moment!
