Switzerland is famous for its snow-topped Alpine mountains and dramatic sceneries of glaciers, valleys, lakes, and other masterpieces of nature. You’ll also find postcard-worthy villages plucked straight from a fairytale, lined with chalets the Swiss are known for.
Aside from admiring its captivating beauty, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Switzerland that are one for the history books! If you’re visiting for the first time and don’t want to miss anything, we’ve got you covered.
Is Switzerland expensive?
Yep. It's the second most expensive country in the world.
How much does a meal cost in Switzerland?
It depends on where you eat. A decent meal can cost around 30 CHF (53.24 AUD) per person. But don't be surprised if you need to pay more.
Why is Switzerland so expensive?
Because it's fancy! The standard of living is high, so expect high prices. Plus, everything has to be imported because Switzerland imports most of the things.
If you're on a budget, you can still visit Switzerland, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending. You might want to avoid the appetisers and desserts and stick to the main courses.
But if you're looking for a truly special dining experience, Switzerland is the place to go. Just be prepared to pay for it!
Things to do in Switzerland
Check out the best things to do in Switzerland on your first visit:
- Ride a cable car over the Matterhorn
- Go on Swiss and French Alps Excursions
- Join a few tours around Switzerland
- Check out the FIFA World Football Museum
- Visit Matterhorn Museum
- Feel like royalty at Chateau de Chillon
- Admire the mediaeval aesthetics of the Abbey Library of Saint Gall
- Go paragliding at the Big Blue Tandem Paragliding in Interlaken
- Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport Admission in Lake Lucerne
Looking for more freedom in travelling in Switzerland? Get this pass and enjoy unlimited rides on trains, panorama trains, boats, and buses in Switzerland and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, villages, and mountain scenery.
Things to do in Switzerland
1. Ride a cable car over the Matterhorn
You’ll find the tip of the Matterhorn on the Toblerone’s packaging. Credits: @federicopagiaro on Instagram
The Matterhorn earned its icon status for being one of the highest Alpine mountains. Riding a cable car from Zermatt, the village where the mountain is, to Breuil-Cervinia in Italy is one of the best things to do in Switzerland for first-timers!
2. Go on Swiss and French Alps Excursions
Look at the beautiful views of the Alps! Credit: @davidiazglez on Instagram
Indeed, one of the best things to do in Switzerland for any tourist is to explore its many picturesque mountains, such as Jungfrau, Pilatus, Schilthorn, and more. Explore the hiking trails that lead to beautiful views of Earth!
3. Join a few tours around Switzerland
St. Moritz
As much as it is a melting pot of nature and modernity, it’s also a melting pot of French, Italian, English, German and Romansch cultures. Credit: @prince_off_belvedere on Instagram
St. Moritz is a city that has a dash of everything: stunning nature views comprised of alpine forests, jagged mountainsides, and still, glass-like lakes. It also has plenty of palace-like hotels and buildings that add to its majestic ambience.
Zurich
Zurich is the country’s largest city and often a starting point for travellers. Credit: Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash
Zurich is definitely one of the can’t-miss places to visit in Switzerland, with its cobblestone streets lined with quaint establishments like cafés and galleries. Located in central Switzerland, you can go on walking tours of the city to uncover its gems and best stops.
Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein
A truly beautiful waterfall! Image credits to @lucianpavel86 on Instagram
Experience the beauty of the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visit the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, with its well-preserved historic buildings and charming atmosphere.
Explore Laufen Castle, a medieval castle that offers a glimpse into the lives of past royalty. Take the panoramic lift to the top of the falls for stunning views of the cascading water and surrounding countryside.
4. Check out the FIFA World Football Museum
Have you ever visited the FIFA Museum? Image credits to @spacemagazine_korea on Instagram
If you’re a football fan, visiting the FIFA World Football Museum is one of the best things to do in Switzerland! This museum celebrates the heritage of the sport through exhibits filled with historical trophies, jerseys, and other important artefacts of football. P.S.: You can visit this museum for free with your Swiss Travel Pass!
Imagin seeing the gold throphy for the first time! Image credits to @spacemagazine_korea on Instagram
5. Matterhorn Museum
Include Matterhorn Museum in your Switzerland travel list! Credit: @suicabyme on Instagram
Matterhorn Museum showcases the history of the mountain and the many expeditions to ascend it, including the tragic first ascent in 1865, where four mountaineers lost their lives. It also gives insight into life in the village during the 19th century.
Experience a budget-friendly trip with the Swiss Half Fare Card!
8. Feel like royalty at Chateau de Chillon, Lake Geneva
Chateau de Chillon is a product of years of restoration to preserve its mediaeval beauty. Credit: @nong_noi_ch on Instagram
Chateau de Chillon is one of the most popular and visited mediaeval castles not only in Switzerland but in Europe. It’s nestled on a rocky coast overlooking the scenic Lake Geneva, Europe's largest alpine lake, creating dramatic views that are meant to grace your Instagram feed!
9. Admire the mediaeval aesthetics of the Abbey Library of Saint Gall
This library is home to books printed before 1500. Credit: @jacqueline_straub on Instagram
Abbey Library of Saint Gall is a gallery and monastic library in St. Gallen that you can visit for free with your Swiss Travel Pass. Here you’ll find the oldest library collection in the country as well as striking mediaeval structural designs.
Looking for a transport around Switzerland?
10. The Big Blue Tandem Paragliding Experience in Interlaken
Fly high! Image credits to Helen
Calling all thrill-seekers! Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a tandem paragliding adventure in Interlaken, Switzerland. Soar through the skies like a bird, high above the stunning Jungfrau region. Marvel at the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys.
With the experience guide, you dont have to be worry about a thing. Image credits to Klook
With a professional paragliding pilot by your side, you can relax and enjoy the ride. Simply sit back, take in the scenery, and feel the wind in your hair.
11. Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport Admission in Lake Lucerne
Choo choo.. the kids are having fun here! Image credits to @verkehrshaus on Instagram
Have a blast at the Swiss Museum of Transport, the most popular museum in Switzerland!
Discover the fascinating history of all forms of transportation, from the humble bicycle to the supersonic jet. Take a chocolatey ride on the Swiss Chocolate Adventure and get sweet treats from master chocolatiers.
Catch daily screenings of informative educational films at the Filmtheatre and the Planetarium.
Get a day pass for the Swiss Museum of Transport and experience a fully immersive and interactive journey through the world of transportation.
Hop on the Scenic Train in Switzerland
One thing you’ll realize on Swiss railways is that the journey really is as spectacular as the destination, especially when you take the scenic route.
All aboard the Bernina Express! Image credits to @tieweng on Instagram
All aboard the Bernina Express, the scenic train ride that will take you on a journey through the heart of the Alps! Marvel at the breathtaking Alpine scenery as you wind your way through snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. Learn about the geography and history of the Alps from your knowledgeable tour guide.
Image credits to @valentina_zallu on Instagram
Disembark in St. Moritz, the glamorous ski resort known as the "Top of the World," explore the charming medieval old town here, and stop for a taster at Switzerland's best chocolate house. Be sure to snap some photos of the stunning scenery and capture the memories of this unforgettable experience.
Fun fact: Did you know that the Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? It's one of the most scenic train rides in the world, and it's definitely worth a visit.
Klook tip: If you're traveling during the winter months, be sure to dress warmly! The Alps can be quite cold, especially at the higher elevations.
Taste the must-try food in Switzerland
Swiss Chocolate
Look at the variety of chocolates made in Switzerland. Image credits to @laderach_na on Instagram
Explore the fascinating world of chocolate and discover its rich history, from its humble beginnings in Mesoamerica to its global popularity today. Be awestruck by the magnificent 9-metre-high chocolate fountain and indulge in unlimited samples of exquisite Swiss chocolate. Also, you get to eat as much chocolate as you want!
Swiss Wines
Experience premium Swiss Wine tastings with your small group. Image credits to Klook
Savor the delights of Geneva AOC wines, meticulously chosen by artisanal vintners, showcasing the region's winemaking artistry. With an exclusive wine-tasting experience in Geneva, you'll be treated to a selection of the finest Geneva AOC wines, carefully curated by artisanal vintners. These wines are known for their unique flavors and aromas, reflecting the region's unique terroir.
Basel Flour Soup - Basler Mehlsuppe
Image credits to @zwicky_ag on Instagram
The soup is hot and hearty, and the flavors are amazing. The browned flour gives the soup a rich and nutty flavor, while the onions and red wine add sweetness and complexity. The peppercorns and other spices give the soup a bit of a kick. You take a sip of the soup and close your eyes in bliss. This is the perfect meal for a cold winter day. So, if you're ever in Switzerland, be sure to try a bowl of Mehlsuppe. It's a delicious and authentic taste of Swiss culture.
Alplermagronen
Looks tasty! Image credits to @sabrina_stadelmann_bachmann on Instagram
This hearty and comforting dish is called Alplermagronen, which means "Alpine farmer's macaroni." It's a layered pasta dish with a creamy texture, baked until golden and served with applesauce. Alplermagronen is more than just pasta and cheese; it's a delicious and authentic taste of Swiss culture. So, if you're ever in Switzerland, be sure to try a bowl of Alplermagronen. It's pasta perfection!
Swiss Cheese
Melted Swiss Cheese dipped with crackers! Image credits to @cleanandscentsible on Instagram
Embark on a journey through Switzerland's natural wonders and cultural treasures! Drive through the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, a breathtaking region of lush forests, rolling meadows, and sparkling lakes. Visit the Emmentaler show dairy and witness the traditional cheese-making process. Sample delicious Swiss cheeses and learn about the region's rich cheesemaking heritage.
When is the best time to visit Switzerland?
You can ride the train all the way to Jungfraujoch. Credit: @junnniieeee on Instagram
The best time to visit Switzerland:
- Seasons of spring: April to June
- Seasons of fall: September to October
During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
If you're interested in winter sports and snow sports here, then the best time to visit:
- The winter months: December to March
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
So, if you want to avoid the crowds and still have a good time, then the spring and fall seasons are the best time to visit. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Switzerland is sure to have something to offer everyone.
Switzerland is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the lush valleys and sparkling lakes like Lake Lucerne or Lake Zurich, Switzerland's scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
History lovers will delight in the Middle Ages towns and castles that dot the countryside, while nature enthusiasts can explore the Swiss Grand Canyon, the Swiss Riviera, visit Bern Bear Park, or visit the Elephant Park of Kaeng Krachan Elefantenpark. And, of course, no trip to Switzerland would be complete without visiting the capital city of Bern or Switzerland's largest city, Zürich.
Also, you can check out the Olympic Museum in the town center of Lausanne. For those who want to experience the natural beauty of Switzerland, you can also visit the Swiss National Park, a must-see attraction.
Whether you're looking for history, culture, or beauty, Switzerland has something to offer everyone.
Written by: Zulqarnain Yusoff
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