BRB... booking the next flight to Switzerland ✈️🇨🇭
Majestic mountains, sparkling lakes and charming villages - Switzerland is a literal postcard-perfect destination and we're not kidding when we say it feels like a place plucked out straight from a fairytale. If you’re visiting for the first time and don’t want to miss out on anything, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best places in Switzerland that you must visit during your trip - just add these spots onto your itinerary!
Top 10 best places to visit in Switzerland
1. Jungfraujoch
Truly an Alpine wonderland of its own, Jungfraujoch makes it way to the top of our list (no pun intended). Also known as the Top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located between two mountains - Jungfrau and Monch - and is home to the highest railway station in the world. The scenic train journey up is one you definitely shouldn't miss! At the top, plenty of attractions await you as well - visit the beautiful Ice Palace, go hiking across the glacier or dine at sky-high eateries with panoramic views!
2. Lucerne
If we had to pick only one town to visit, Lucerne would be a clear winner. This beautiful city is the epitome of a picturesque Swiss town, with the sparkling blue Lake Lucerne taking centre stage, flanked by majestic mountains and medieval buildings. From historical churches and waterfront promenades, to famous landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument, one day is simply not enough to explore this old town as it is jam-packed with plenty of exciting things to see and do.
If you have time, we highly recommend going on a day trip up Mount Pilatus. Standing almost 7,000 feet tall, you'll get stunning vistas of Lucerne and the surrounding alpine landscape from up here!
3. Lauterbrunnen
The literal Swiss village of our dreams, Lauterbrunnen Valley has got to be one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Situated in a stunning valley amidst the Swiss Alps, the picturesque village is surrounded by rocky cliffs and 72 beautiful waterfalls, including the famous Trümmelbach Falls and Staubbach Falls. No matter the season, there are many things for you to do here - go chasing waterfalls, or challenge yourself with a hike, go skiing or even paragliding across the alpine meadows!
4. Interlaken
As its name indicates, the traditional resort town of Interlaken is situated between two lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, and looks straight out of a postcard, with the crystal blue lake waters and the mighty Alps surrounding it. This quaint town is also a literal paradise for those who love the great outdoors. Apart from the stunning alpine landscapes, there is a huge variety of adventure sports in this Swiss playground. Imagine paragliding through the skies while taking in views of the Alps!
5. The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn and its iconic pointed peak earned its status for being one of the highest Alpine mountains, but also for being the most photographed one (fun fact: it's the mountain peak on Toblerone chocolates!). We personally love trekking up in the springtime, when the weather is just perfect and you’ll see the meadows in full bloom on your way up.
At the foot of the Matterhorn is the idyllic village of Zermatt, known for its chalets and horse-drawn carriage rides. Riding a cable car from Zermatt to Breuil-Cervinia in Italy is also one of the best things to do in Switzerland for first-timers!
6. Lake Geneva
In a country of picture-perfect lakes, it doesn’t get much more impressive than Lake Geneva. This Alpine lake is one of the largest in Europe and has an enchanting backdrop of the Swiss Alps, reflected on the lake's calm waters as well. Be treated to this stunning view from the lakeside towns of Geneva on the western shores and Montreux on the east.
In Geneva, the famous Jet d'Eau fountain shoots up water at an impressive 140-meter height from the middle of the lake, while the imposing medieval castle, Chateau de Chillon stands tall along the rocky coast nearby Montreux.
7. Rhine Falls
Whether or not chasing waterfalls is your thing, a visit to Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) in Schaffhausen is a must-do. Spanning across 130 metres wide and a 25-metre height, you can admire this spectacular waterfall from several viewing decks. If you're up for a challenge, you can even rent a canoe to brave the waters! In August, the falls also host a spectacular firework display that attracts visitors from around the country as part of Switzerland’s National Day celebrations.
8. Bern
Looking for a spot that’s rich in history and brimming with nature? Bern’s got you covered on both things. Prepare your cameras as you go sightseeing around Bern’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will wow anyone. With traditional houses made out of stone, quaint alleyways, rose gardens, and an impressive Clock Tower to match, Bern looks straight out of a fairytale book! Fun fact: Bern is also called the ice cream capital of Switzerland!
9. Lake Lugano
Hop on a swanky yacht ride across Lake Lugano, a breathtaking lake that lies on the Switzerland-Italy border in Lugano, Ticino. Dubbed the Monte Carlo of Switzerland, this lakeside city is famous for its quasi-Mediterranean landscape, art-deco buildings and Hollywood star spottings. The best way to explore the area is none other than by touring the glacial lake by boat or white steamer, or simply by going on a stroll along the shore.
10. Zurich
We can't make a list of the top places in Switzerland without including the lively town of Zurich. The city is famous for being the cultural and economic centre of Switzerland, and is also the country's largest city! Home to beautiful architecture, rich history and the most luxurious shopping streets in the world, this city is definitely a must visit. If you want to get away from the city for a bit, the nearby Lake Zurich has easy hiking trails which you can embark on, as you stroll around for a breath of fresh air.
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