If you’re wondering about the top spots to visit in Switzerland, you’re in the right place. Switzerland is a dream destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. This landlocked nation is surrounded by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Everyone seems to know how pricey it can be, but it’s equally important to note just how stunning Switzerland is.
Switzerland boasts world-class hiking trails, incredible ski resorts, and some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. Intrigued? Ready to explore it all?
Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit places in Switzerland to help you plan your trip.
One of the top spots is Zermatt, a famous resort for skiing and mountaineering situated at an altitude of 1608 meters. It’s nestled at the top of the Matter Valley, right at the base of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the Alps. Zermatt is also encircled by other towering peaks of the Pennine Alps, including Switzerland’s highest peak, the Dufour Peak, standing at 4634 meters in the Monte Rosa mountain group.
In Zermatt, you can take a gondola ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on the Klein Matterhorn, which is the highest cable car station in Europe at 3883 meters. Don’t miss Gornergrat, offering breathtaking views of the Matterhorn from a platform at 3131 meters above sea level. If you’re up for a hike, the Hornlihutte Trail offers close-up views of the Matterhorn. For a scenic train journey, hop on the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This eight-hour ride treats you to spectacular views of mountains, forests, and meadows, crossing 291 bridges and 91 tunnels in cozy panorama cars.
Interlaken is another standout destination. This resort town serves as the main gateway to the surrounding mountains and lakes, making it a hit among hikers, mountaineers, skiers, and outdoor lovers. You’ll find numerous trails with lush, green mountain views. Interlaken has two funiculars: one goes to the summit of Heimwehfluh at 680 meters, and the other, longer route takes you to Harder Kulm top station at 1305 meters, which offers a viewing platform with marvelous mountain and lake views. Don’t miss out on Jungfraujoch, known as the ‘Top of Europe,’ nestled between the Jungfrau and Monch mountains. At 3454 meters, its railway station is the highest in Europe, requiring two train changes from Interlaken. Highlights here include the Glacier Plateau, Sphinx Observation Deck, Aletsch Glacier, Ice Palace, and Alpine Sensation.
Lucerne, or Luzern, is a charming city in central Switzerland by the lake of the same name. Often referred to as a ‘Miniature version of Switzerland,’ it’s rich in history and culture. Lucerne is home to two unique wooden pedestrian bridges, Kapellbrücke and Spreuerbrücke. This compact city is easily explored on foot. Cross the medieval Kapellbrücke into Lucerne Old Town for a fantastic view of the city from the towers in the medieval fortifications. While in Lucerne, make sure to visit Mount Pilatus. You can reach the summit by the steepest cogwheel railway in the world from Alpnachstad, or by panoramic gondolas from Kriens. Several hiking routes also lead from Lucerne to the top of Mount Pilatus.
Bern, Switzerland’s capital, is a beautiful city set along the River Aare. It’s compact and perfect for exploring on foot. The historic old town, with its well-preserved architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most picturesque historic towns in Switzerland.
Lake Geneva, a crescent-shaped lake shared by France and Switzerland, is Europe’s largest Alpine lake at 581 square kilometers. This area is packed with must-see places, making it one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations.
Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is often mistaken for the capital. It’s a major hub for railways and air traffic, with both the busiest airport and railway station in the country. Zurich is steeped in history and culture, making it a top place to visit. Check out the Swiss National Museum and the Kunsthaus art museum. Wander through Zurich Old Town, a charming contrast to the modern city. For the best city and lake views, hike up Uetliberg at 869 meters. On clear days, you might even see the Alps.
The Swiss National Park, located in the Western Rhaetian Alps in eastern Switzerland, is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Founded in 1914, it was one of Europe’s first national parks and remains the only one in Switzerland. With over 100 kilometers of hiking trails and 21 routes, this park is a paradise for nature lovers. The trails vary in altitude, ranging from 1400 to 3200 meters. For a guided experience, download the iWebpark app, which provides a digital hiking guide.
This wraps up the highlights of some of the best places to visit in Switzerland, each offering unique experiences and mesmerizing landscapes.