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 instances and have had an opportunity to expertise almost all the finest 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 the whole lot we ever had on our Switzerland bucket listing. Our newest travels lastly took us to the Italian area of Ticino. If you wish to be blown away by the right journey vacation spot, select Switzerland in your subsequent trip. And right here’s why!
The Very Greatest Issues to do in Switzerland
From its medieval outdated cities to classy cities, there’s one thing for everybody in Switzerland. The Swiss love exploring the outside and you will note a few of the finest landscapes in your complete world. Many locations really feel as in case you are strolling by a portray. So with out additional adieu, let’s discover all one of the best issues to do in Switzerland from our 4 completely different journeys across the nation.
1. Gornergrat
I don’t assume I’ve ever been anyplace as breathtaking as Gornergrat. Standing at 3089 meters above sea stage, Gornergrat is our #1 choose for one of the 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 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 Greatest 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 Web site is dwelling to the best prepare station in Europe, the biggest glacier within the Alps, and unimaginable 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 evident, Jungfraujoch – High of Europe is spectacular. See why right here. Spectacular Switzerland, a Go to to Jungfraujoch – High of Europe
3. Go Mountain Biking in Zermatt
Seeing the Matterhorn is on many an individual’s bucket listing 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 hanging, however the area is without doubt one of the most stunning locations in Switzerland, (if not on earth). Should you don’t need to go mountain biking, there are many mountaineering trails across the Matterhorn area. Mountain climbing the 5 Lakes Hike allows you to take pleasure in probably the most beautiful surroundings in Switzerland at a leisurely tempo all downhill. Learn extra: 5 Lakes Hike Zermatt – Unbelievable Matterhorn Views
4. Grindelwald-First
Going to the highest of Grindelwald-First is certainly 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. Learn all about it right here.
5. Tougher Kulm Lookout – Interlaken
Visiting the Tougher Kulm in Interlaken is a should. Because the city’s native mountain, it stands at 1,321 meters above sea stage and is well accessible by way of a funicular railway that dates again to 1908.
The journey up the Tougher Kulm is an journey in itself, offering a steep and exhilarating ascent. When you attain the highest, you’re greeted by the spectacular Tougher Kulm Panorama Restaurant, resembling a fort, and a viewing platform that boasts a panoramic panoramic outlook.
From this vantage level, you may 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 embrace Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, shimmering beneath with their deep azure hues. Learn extra: Issues to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Full 4 Day Itinerary
6. Marvel on the Matterhorn at Lake Stellisee
When visiting Zermatt, one of the best view of the Matterhorn is from Stellisee. The long-lasting 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 Unbelievable Issues to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland
7. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
We’re spending numerous time within the mountains and Zermatt particularly. 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 toes) and 14 glaciers!
On the high of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you may go snowboarding on the highest ski resort on the earth, there’s an underground tunnel system below the glacier and you may even hike to Breithorn Mountain, the simplest of all of the 4000-meter peaks within the Alps. Learn extra: Unbelievable Zermatt, Switzerland – 23 Thrilling Issues to See and Do
8. Take a Weidling Tour in Basel
Probably the most distinctive issues to do in Switzerland is to get on the Rhine River and do some conventional paddling. Weidling is a standard picket boat that dates again to the Center Ages in Basel. They had been used to paddle upriver utilizing a method referred to as spiking. 20 Causes to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland
Basel is an unimaginable metropolis in Switzerland that deserves at the least 3 days to go to. Moreover wielding on the Rhine, you may swim within the Rhine. It is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do within the metropolis. Need to know extra about Basel? Learn on: 24 Unbelievable Issues to do in Basel, Switzerland
9. Tour The Lindt Chocolate Manufacturing facility in Zurich
Zurich is commonly on the high 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 vital iconic locations to go to is The Lindt Residence 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 odd manufacturing facility tour. Upon coming into guests come nose to nose with a large chocolate fountain standing tall within the huge corridor. It’s then onto a tour to study concerning the historical past of chocolate and to eat numerous chocolate: Learn extra at The 17 Greatest Issues 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 high billing as the most effective issues to do within the Ticino area of Switzerland. Strolling alongside the Lugano waterfront allows you to soak up all its magnificence. Whereas strolling alongside the lake, it is going to remind you of Rio de Janeiro as Monte San Salvatore and Mount Bre body town. Learn extra about Ticino at: Issues to do in Lugano and the Ticino Area 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 a sequence of cliffs, rocks, and historic bridges. It’s a well-liked swimming and mountaineering spot.
12. Go to the Spa in Dangerous Ragaz
The Grand Resort Dangerous Ragaz is the granddaddy of spas in Switzerland. Positioned simply 1 hour from Zurich, that is the final word luxurious spa retreat. The recent springs had been found within the 1200s and other people have been looking for 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 info on visiting the spa.
13. Take a Spa Day in Leukerbad
Switzerland is understood for its spa experiences and one of the vital stunning spa retreats is in Leukerbad. The thermal baths date again to Roman instances. This wellness retreat attracts vacationers to its 65 pure springs containing 3.9 million liters of scorching water to chill out within the therapeutic swimming pools of Valais valley. It is without doubt one of the largest and hottest spa resorts in Switzerland. For extra info on touring to Leukerbad, go to the tourism web site.
14. Take pleasure in St. Moritz
If there’s one place so as to add to your Swiss bucket listing, make it St. Moritz. St. Moritz was the birthplace of winter journey and for good cause. 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 the most effective issues to do in St. Moritz and has the everyday unimaginable views that every one hikes in Switzerland have.
The hike begins on the Punt Muragl prepare 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 Gorgeous St. Moritz – Summer season Enjoyable in Switzerland
15. Hike The Eiger Path
Should you occur to make your approach to the highest of our quantity 2 choose for one of the best issues to do in Switzerland (Jungfraoujoch). As an alternative of taking the prepare again down, hike the Eiger Path as a substitute. 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 without doubt one of the most rewarding hikes in Switzerland. Learn extra: Issues to do in Grindelwald, Switzerland – Full 4 Day Itinerary
16. See the Castles of Bellinzona
The Bellinzona Castles are a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Web site positioned within the capital of Ticino, Bellinzona. Citadel Grande is positioned close to the primary sq. and from there you may hike to all of the castles. They’re related by trails that weave by vineyards and rolling hills. The return journey is simply a few hours’ stroll. Learn extra: Issues to do in Lugano and the Ticino Area of Switzerland
16. Pay Tribute to Freddie Mercury – Montreux
Freddie Mercury spent his ultimate 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 persons are changing into extra within the rock band’s frontman.
There may be 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 all the time been a musical city internet hosting the annual music pageant, the Montreux Jazz Competition on the shores of Lake Geneva. Learn extra: Montreux and its Musical Legacy
17. Château de Chillon
Whereas in Montreux, be certain to go to Chillon Citadel. Positioned straight on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps within the background, this medieval fort is without doubt one of 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 in opposition to a backdrop of mountains, traditionally controlling the passage between northern and southern Europe.
The fort consists of 25 separate buildings with 3 courtyards that had been steadily 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 an attractive and defensive construction.
Visiting Chillon Citadel 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 certainly one of Switzerland’s most visited historic websites and is a must-see for anybody within the medieval period or looking for the romance of a fairy-tale fort set in opposition to certainly 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 really spent a while. It’s a pretty city with its most important most iconic landmark, the Chapel Bridge on Lake Lucerne. It’s the oldest lined picket 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 Lovely Cities in Switzerland from our First-Hand Visits
When visiting Lucern, be certain 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 varied routes that assist you to 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 encompassing space. You possibly can make a journey to the highest of the mountain by way of a sequence of cable vehicles that features a journey on the cogwheel railway which is without doubt one of the steepest railways on the earth.
20. Cease within the Capital of Bern
Visiting Bern, the capital metropolis of Switzerland is commonly listed as one of many high issues to do within the nation. The Outdated City of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, distinguished by its well-preserved medieval cityscape, with constructions relationship 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 town’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)
Because the de facto capital of Switzerland (formally often called 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 often called the Olympic Capital. The town hosts the Olympic Museum, which is without doubt one of the most visited websites in Switzerland, offering an interactive journey by 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 steadily hosts festivals, music live shows and worldwide occasions.
Being on the doorstep of certainly one of Europe’s largest lakes, Lausanne grants entry to a wide range of water sports activities, cruises, and leisure 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 certainly 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 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 move in summer season.
Taking a ship journey offers an up-close encounter with the falls, permitting for the prospect 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 sometimes called the Swiss Grand Canyon is positioned within the southeast of the nation, within the canton of Graubünden. Fashioned by the river Rhine slicing by the excessive limestone cliffs over thousands and thousands of years, it’s well-known for its beautiful landscapes and distinctive geological formations. Alternatively, the Rhine Falls is a strong waterfall created by the river Rhine because it pours over a rocky ledge close to Schaffhausen.
Each are outstanding pure sights 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 mountaineering, biking, and even taking a leisurely prepare journey by the area.
24. Eat Fondue in Gruyere
Consuming genuine Swiss fondue in Switzerland was on the high of my Switzerland bucket listing. 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 bask 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, provides a journey by 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 mix of gastronomic heritage, cultural richness, and outdated Swiss Allure, making it a novel 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 Residence
25. Interlaken
When you end up in Switzerland visiting locations just like the Eiger Path, Jungfraujoch, or Grindelwad First, chances are high you may be spending a while in Interlaken. Interlaken is the biggest city within the Bernese Oberland area and certainly one of our favourite issues to do is to take the cogwheel prepare as much as Tougher Klum. Positioned at 1322 m above sea stage, Tougher 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 without doubt one of the coolest sights in Grindelwald and also you don’t need to miss seeing it. Take a stroll by a sequence of tunnels, walkways, and rocky outcrops because the Lütschine River roars by the 250 million-year-old canyon. This 870-meter-long path is a rare stroll by 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 really useful. It provides 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 provide breathtaking views and the prospect to watch the park’s wildlife. Swiss Nationwide Park is the biggest nature reserve in Switzerland. You possibly can see purple deer, lynx, eagles, and a few 300 ibex that reside within the park.
It’s a primary spot for nature lovers year-round showcasing every season within the park in a special face of nature, from the blooming edelweiss of spring to the snow-covered silence of winter.
FAQs
What are 3 Common Issues in Switzerland?
- Exploring the Swiss Alps, for actions like snowboarding, snowboarding, and mountaineering.
- Visiting historic websites equivalent to Chillon Citadel, the Zytglogge in Bern, or the Abbey of Saint Gall.
- Having fun with Swiss lakes and scenic prepare rides just like the Glacier Specific or boat cruises on Lake Geneva.
What’s the #1 Factor Switzerland is Identified For?
Switzerland is understood for the Swiss Alps. The Swiss Alps are synonymous with the nation’s identification and are dwelling to famend peaks just like the Matterhorn and Jungfrau.
What You Ought to Do in Switzerland?
- Interact in outside sports activities, together with mountaineering in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.
- Style Swiss goodies and cheeses, presumably with an area 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 mostly thought-about an costly nation to journey in, with increased 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 providers, being a world banking hub with a status 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 straightforward and environment friendly or you may lease a automobile 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 right now!
