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.
It’s 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 or the Swiss Riviera. And, of course, no trip to Switzerland would be complete without visiting the capital city of Bern or Switzerland's largest city, Zürich.
Whether you're looking for history, culture, or beauty, your Switzerland itinerary will definitely be packed with fun things to do and more during your visit.
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.
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:
- Spring: April to June
- 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:
- Winter: December to March
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
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 go, Switzerland is sure to have something to offer everyone.
Things to do in Switzerland
If you’re looking for more freedom while traveling in Switzerland, get this Swiss Travel Pass and enjoy unlimited rides on trains, panorama trains, boats, and buses, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, villages, and mountain scenery.
Now check out the best things to do in Switzerland on your first visit:
1. Ride a cable car over the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn earned its iconic 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
Indeed, one of the best things to do in Switzerland for any traveler is to explore its many picturesque mountains, such as Jungfrau, Pilatus, Schilthorn, and more. Good thing we have this handy Mt. Titlis snow experience and Lucerne tour, which will allow you to take in the stunning views of the Swiss landscape!
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 comprising alpine forests, jagged mountain sides, 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
Located in central Switzerland, Zurich is definitely a destination that you can’t miss, with its cobblestone streets lined with quaint establishments like cafés and galleries. One of the best things to do in Zurich, Switzerland is to go on walking tours and join city tours to uncover its hidden gems and best stops.
And hey, if you’re planning to spend a few more days in Zurich, we’ve got you covered with a list of some of the best Zurich hotels that you can choose from:
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!
5. Visit the 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.
To elevate your experience even more, get the Swiss Half Fare Card for a budget-friendly yet fun-filled trip!
6. Feel like royalty at Chateau de Chillon, Lake Geneva
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! Indeed, this is one of the best things to see and do in Geneva, Switzerland.
7. Admire the medieval aesthetics of the Abbey Library of Saint Gall
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.
And hey, if you’re looking for a mode of transport around Switzerland, we recommend renting a car so you’ll have your own space and the freedom to travel on your own time and at your own pace.
8. Try out the Big Blue tandem paragliding experience in Interlaken
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 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.
9. Venture into the Swiss Museum of Transport 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 Film Theatre 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.
10. 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.
For those looking for more options, check out this list of scenic Switzerland train rides offering epic views!
11. 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-meter-high chocolate fountain and indulge in unlimited samples of exquisite Swiss chocolate. Also, you get to eat as much chocolate as you want!
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 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 Switzerland. So, during your trip, be sure to try a bowl of Alplermagronen. It's pasta perfection!
Swiss Cheese
You can’t leave without trying Swiss cheese! This cheese and chocolate tasting tour in Gruyères will take you on a private trip to witness the traditional cheese-making process. Sample delicious Swiss cheeses and learn about the region's rich cheesemaking heritage. This tour will also take you to Gruyères, Maison Cailler, and Gruyères Castle.
What is Klook?
Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 2,700 destinations globally. Klook’s mission is to empower travelers around the world to discover, book, and experience the best things to do anywhere, anytime - including attractions, activities, car rental, tours, local transfers, wifi, and SIM cards.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
Written by: Zulqarnain Yusoff
