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 occasions and have had an opportunity to expertise practically the entire 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 all the pieces we ever had on our Switzerland bucket record. 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From its medieval outdated cities to classy cities, there may be one thing for everybody in Switzerland. The Swiss love exploring the outside and you will note a few of the finest landscapes in your entire world. Many locations really feel as in case you are strolling by way of a portray. So with out additional adieu, let’s discover all the most effective issues to do in Switzerland from our 4 totally different journeys across the nation.
1. Gornergrat
I don’t assume I’ve ever been wherever as breathtaking as Gornergrat. Standing at 3089 meters above sea stage, Gornergrat is our no 1 choose for the most effective 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 essentially the most gorgeous 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
Certainly one of 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 house to the very best prepare station in Europe, the most important glacier within the Alps, and unimaginable mountain views.
Positioned within the Bernese Oberland area of Switzerland, Jungfraujoch – High of Europe is an tour that isn’t to be missed. It’s actually one of many most stunning locations to go to in Switzerland. When the climate is obvious, 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 record 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). If you happen to don’t wish to go mountain biking, there are many climbing trails across the Matterhorn area. Mountaineering the 5 Lakes Hike enables you to get pleasure from essentially the most gorgeous 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 one among 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. More durable Kulm Lookout – Interlaken
Visiting the More durable 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 More durable Kulm is an journey in itself, offering a steep and exhilarating ascent. When you attain the highest, you might be greeted by the spectacular More durable Kulm Panorama Restaurant, resembling a fortress, and a viewing platform that boasts a wide ranging panoramic outlook.
From this vantage level, you’ll be able to feast your eyes on the gorgeous vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains — the long-lasting trio within the Swiss Alps. The sweeping views additionally embrace Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, shimmering under 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, the most effective 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 a variety of time within the mountains and Zermatt specifically. The reason being that the mountains round Zermatt are simply too darn stunning. From the highest of Glacier Paradise, you might be handled to views of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks (13,000 toes) and 14 glaciers!
On the prime of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you’ll be able to go snowboarding on the highest ski resort on the earth, there may be an underground tunnel system underneath the glacier and you’ll 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
One of the crucial 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 way known as spiking. 20 Causes to Fall in Love with Basel, Switzerland
Basel is an unimaginable metropolis in Switzerland that deserves no less than 3 days to go to. Apart from wielding on the Rhine, you’ll be able to 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 Improbable Issues to do in Basel, Switzerland
9. Tour The Lindt Chocolate Manufacturing facility in Zurich
Zurich is usually on the prime 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 it is best to spend three to 4 days there, however one of the crucial iconic locations to go to is The Lindt House of Chocolate. No journey to Switzerland can be full with out indulging in Swiss chocolate and that is the place to do it.
This isn’t your atypical manufacturing unit tour. Upon coming into guests come head to head with an enormous chocolate fountain standing tall within the huge corridor. It’s then onto a tour to be taught in regards to the historical past of chocolate and to eat a variety of 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 prime billing as among the best issues to do within the Ticino area of Switzerland. Strolling alongside the Lugano waterfront enables you to absorb all its magnificence. Whereas strolling alongside the lake, it should remind you of Rio de Janeiro as Monte San Salvatore and Mount Bre body the 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 situated within the stunning area of Ticino. Recognized for its vibrant turquoise waters, Valle Verzasca boasts a vibrant turquoise river of speeding waters flowing by way of a collection of cliffs, rocks, and historic bridges. It’s a preferred swimming and climbing 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 searching for their therapeutic properties for hundreds of years. The resort opened in 1869 and in 1872 it housed the primary thermal water indoor pool in Europe. At the moment it’s a five-star resort that sits within the Rhine Valley. Go to Tamina Therme for extra data on visiting the spa.
13. Take a Spa Day in Leukerbad
Switzerland is understood for its spa experiences and one of the crucial stunning spa retreats is in Leukerbad. The thermal baths date again to Roman occasions. This wellness retreat attracts vacationers to its 65 pure springs containing 3.9 million liters of sizzling water to calm down within the therapeutic swimming pools of Valais valley. It is without doubt one of the largest and hottest spa resorts in Switzerland. For extra data on touring to Leukerbad, go to the tourism web site.
14. Take pleasure in St. Moritz
If there may be one place so as to add to your Swiss bucket record, make it St. Moritz. St. Moritz was the birthplace of winter journey and for good motive. This fairytale city within the Swiss Alps is the playground of the wealthy and well-known. The Muottas Muragle to Alp Languard hike is unquestionably among the best issues to do in St. Moritz and has the standard 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 shocking 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 Beautiful St. Moritz – Summer time Enjoyable in Switzerland
15. Hike The Eiger Path
If you happen to occur to make your technique to the highest of our quantity 2 choose for the most effective issues to do in Switzerland (Jungfraoujoch). As an alternative of taking the prepare again down, hike the Eiger Path as an alternative. 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 under, 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 situated within the capital of Ticino, Bellinzona. Fortress Grande is situated close to the primary sq. and from there you’ll be able to hike to all of the castles. They’re related by trails that weave by way of vineyards and rolling hills. The return journey is barely 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 remaining 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 individuals are changing into extra within the rock band’s frontman.
There’s an iconic statue standing on the waterfront which you will need to try in case you are a rock and roll fan. Montreux has all the time been a musical city internet hosting the annual music competition, 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 Fortress. Positioned straight on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps within the background, this medieval fortress 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 towards a backdrop of mountains, traditionally controlling the passage between northern and southern Europe.
The fortress consists of 25 separate buildings with 3 courtyards that had been step by step related and now kind a single unit. Its structure is designed to observe the pure contour of the rocky island it was constructed on, making it each a lovely and defensive construction.
Visiting Chillon Fortress 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 one among Switzerland’s most visited historic websites and is a must-see for anybody within the medieval period or searching for the romance of a fairy-tale fortress set towards one among Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes.
18. Stroll the Bridge of Lucerne
Lucerne was the primary metropolis we visited in Switzerland the place we truly spent a while. It’s a beautiful city with its important most iconic landmark, the Chapel Bridge on Lake Lucerne. It’s the oldest coated 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 Stunning Cities in Switzerland from our First-Hand Visits
When visiting Lucern, be certain to get on Lake Lucerne. Probably the greatest methods to see it’s by paddle steamer. Lake Lucerne is house 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 can help you 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 situated close to Lucerne that gives panoramic views of the encompassing space. You may make a journey to the highest of the mountain by way of a collection of cable vehicles that features a trip 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 usually listed as one of many prime 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 known as 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 house to the Worldwide Olympic Committee headquarters and is proudly often known as 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 way of 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 regularly hosts festivals, music live shows and worldwide occasions.
Being on the doorstep of one among 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 one among Europe’s strongest and mesmerizing pure wonders. Located close to the city of Schaffhausen, these falls are the most important waterfalls in Europe.
From the numerous viewing platforms, you’ll be able to witness the sheer quantity of water that tumbles over the rocks each second, an awe-inspiring sight, particularly through the peak circulation in summer time.
Taking a ship journey supplies 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 situated within the southeast of the nation, within the canton of Graubünden. Fashioned by the river Rhine slicing by way of the excessive limestone cliffs over tens of millions of years, it’s well-known for its gorgeous landscapes and distinctive geological formations. Then again, the Rhine Falls is a robust waterfall created by the river Rhine because it pours over a rocky ledge close to Schaffhausen.
Each are exceptional 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 climbing, biking, and even taking a leisurely prepare trip by way of the area.
24. Eat Fondue in Gruyere
Consuming genuine Swiss fondue in Switzerland was on the prime of my Switzerland bucket record. 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, gives a journey by way of 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 long-lasting “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 singular 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 Strive in Switzerland or at House
25. Interlaken
When you end up in Switzerland visiting locations just like the Eiger Path, Jungfraujoch, or Grindelwad First, likelihood is you may be spending a while in Interlaken. Interlaken is the most important city within the Bernese Oberland area and one among our favourite issues to do is to take the cogwheel prepare as much as More durable Klum. Positioned at 1322 m above sea stage, More durable Kulm is the towering mountain over Interlaken. The 100-year-old funicular railway is a deal with to trip 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 wish to miss seeing it. Take a stroll by way of a collection of tunnels, walkways, and rocky outcrops because the Lütschine River roars by way of the 250 million-year-old canyon. This 870-meter-long path is a rare stroll by way of excessive cliffs stretching up from the canyon flooring. It’s situated 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 very really useful. It gives 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 climbing 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 most important nature reserve in Switzerland. You may see purple deer, lynx, eagles, and a few 300 ibex that reside within the park.
It’s a chief spot for nature fans 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 Standard Issues in Switzerland?
- Exploring the Swiss Alps, for actions like snowboarding, snowboarding, and mountaineering.
- Visiting historic websites comparable to Chillon Fortress, 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 Recognized For?
Switzerland is understood for the Swiss Alps. The Swiss Alps are synonymous with the nation’s id and are house to famend peaks just like the Matterhorn and Jungfrau.
What You Ought to Do in Switzerland?
- Interact in out of doors sports activities, together with climbing in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.
- Style Swiss candies and cheeses, probably with a neighborhood culinary tour.
- Uncover cultural variety by visiting the distinct areas with totally different languages and traditions.
Is It Low cost to Journey in Switzerland?
No, Switzerland is usually thought of 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 companies, 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 simple and environment friendly or you’ll be able to hire a automobile to have the liberty of being by yourself schedule. Yow will discover all these items to do all through the nation, so begin planning your Switzerland journey in the present day!