Switzerland comes close to perfection with its stunning landscapes, from glacier-capped peaks to fairytale castles and turquoise lakes. Even its cities boast magnificent backdrops of vineyards and mountains. Traveling around, whether by train, bus, or car, is a joy, with natural beauty that's off the charts.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Winter brings prime conditions for skiing and winter walks, while summer offers hot weather and alpine hikes; Spring and autumn have their charms, with cheaper flights, mild temperatures, unique festivals, and changing landscapes, allowing you to plan your trip to your preferred activities and budget.

December to April is ideal for snow enthusiasts. Winter in Switzerland caters to skiers and snowboarders with extensive slopes and off-piste options. Additionally, there are dedicated trails for winter walking, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing.

July to August is prime time for hiking and festivals in Switzerland. Enjoy the sunny weather in the high mountains, explore hiking trails, and experience more traditional events.

October and November offer vibrant autumn hues and culinary delights. It is the cheapest time to visit Switzerland as mountain lifts are closed, and many hotels too, and the weather is unpredictable.

Best Places to Visit Switzerland

1. Matterhorn 4,478 m

One of the highest peaks in the Alps, it sits on the border with Italy. The first sight of the Matterhorn, Switzerland's iconic peak, is unforgettable, whether it's on a clear day in Zermatt or emerging from the clouds, leaving a lasting impression.

2. Zermatt

At the foot of the Matterhorn, it is accessible only by train (via the towns of Visp or Brig. If you drive to the region, you'll need to park your car down the valley in the town of Tasch, and then continue by bus) or helicopter (very expensive), as the town prohibits motorised vehicles, preserving its tranquil atmosphere.

3. Oeschinensee Panorama Hike

A 8.5-kilometer loop around the turquoise Oeschinensee Lake. The trail, starting from Kandersteg, offers stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and meadows, with adorable cows along the way. It's well-marked and leads to the lakeshore, where you can relax before returning to the cable car in Kandersteg.

4. Lake Geneva

Europe's largest Alpine lake, Swiss/French border, and borders some of Switzerland's most popular cities, including Geneva, where the Rhône flows into the lake amidst snowcapped peaks.

5. Lauterbrunnen

The "valley with the 12 waterfalls," offers stunning views on easy hikes with gentle slopes and comfortable terrain. Start your hike from the train station, follow the signs south, and enjoy the picturesque waterfalls, rivers, and grazing cows along the way. Opt for the path towards Gimmelwald, and savour the mountain vistas before reaching the quaint village. From Gimmelwald, you can either return to Lauterbrunnen or continue to Murren.

6. Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 boasts stunning views of over two dozen peaks above 4000 meters, including iconic names like Eiger and Matterhorn. The Peak Walk by Tissot, a suspension footbridge, provides an exhilarating experience. You can also enjoy the Alpine Coaster and meet sled dogs for a thrilling glacier adventure. Easily accessible from nearby towns like Gstaad and Montreux.

7. Schilthorn 2,970 m

Stands tall in the Bernese Alps, offering stunning views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, as well as Titlis, Mont Blanc, and the Vosges Mountains in France on clear days.

Breathtaking view of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau from the summit of Schilthorn

8. Jungfraujoch 3,454 m

Tourists have flocked to Grindelwald since 1912 for a journey to the Top of Europe, offering stunning views of the UNESCO-recognised Jungfrau region from the highest train station in Europe.

9. Grindelwald-First 2,184 m

Its renowned for its stunning scenery and iconic attractions. Bachalpsee, an alpine lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, is a must-see spot. First boasts a range of unique adventures, including Trottibiking and mountain carting, making it an ideal destination for some fun and action.

The First Cliffwalk offers a dramatic view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below

10. Interlaken

Located between two serene lakes, offers stunning views of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch peaks and is renowned as the "Adventure Capital of Europe," with activities ranging from hiking to paragliding. Additionally, visitors can enjoy water sports on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, as well as tranquil experiences like leisurely strolls.

Travel Tip: Hop aboard the Interlaken Harderbahn, an over-century-old funicular railway, for a brief 10-minute journey to Harder Kulm, the nearest mountain to Interlaken.

11. Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)

In the heart of the Bernese Oberland, the lake offers unforgettable experiences on its mesmerizing turquoise waters year-round.

Explore picturesque villages or enjoy water activities. The lake reflects the surrounding Alps in the calm morning, with its intense turquoise color attributed to glacial sediment.

12. Grindelwald

Located in the Swiss Bernese Alps, Grindelwald offers stunning views of the Eiger and Wetterhorn peaks. Known as 'the lively village beneath the Eiger', it's a popular spot with plenty of activities. Just a short train ride from Interlaken, it's perfect for adventurers exploring the Jungfrau region. And for those aiming high, the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe, is within reach.

13. Eigergletscher 2,320 m

The journey to Eigergletscher starts in the Eiger village of Grindelwald

The Eigergletscher station serves as the transit hub for reaching the Jungfraujoch. Here, you'll board the state of the art Eiger Express cable car. Additionally, it's a glacier located on the northwest side of the Eiger.

The perspective of the mountain scape undergoes a dramatic transformation as you ascend

14. Swiss National Park

Part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it is the country's only national park, with the Val Trupchun trail being one of its most popular paths. Starting from the Prasüras car park, accessible by local and tourist buses, the 14-kilometer hike offers moderate terrain and stunning views, with opportunities to encounter wildlife such as red deer, ibex, and Swiss bearded vultures along the way.

15. Ruinaulta (Rheinschlucht)

Also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon," is a deep gorge in Eastern Switzerland, formed over 10,000 years ago by a massive rockslide caused by the retreat of the Ice Age Rhine Glacier. Today, it's a popular destination for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for rafting, canoeing, and kayaking amidst breathtaking scenery.

16. Lake Lungern

Lungern Lake, with clear drinking water, offers a sandy beach, water slide, and a small swimming pool area. Popular for pedalo rides, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and cycling, it features a scenic circular path around the lake, with bikes available for rent from Lungern station.

17. Gruyères

Known for its famous yellow hard cheese, offers attractions like the Castle of Gruyères, regional museums, Saint-Germain Castle housing a museum dedicated to H. R. Giger's work, and the Tibet Museum. Nearby landscapes include the Gorges de la Jogne for hikers and Mont Moléson for climbers and winter sports enthusiasts.

18. Eggerstanden

View of mount Säntis from Eggerstanden meadow

Enjoy the romantic scenery, especially during sunset in the vast meadow with views of the snow-covered Säntis mountain.

19. Staubern

This scenic hike leads to Saxer Lücke (1649m), an alpine crossing in the Alpstein massif, Appenzell Alps, Canton of St. Gallen. From the pass with stunning views, it descends to Fählensee lake where hikers can relax at Berggasthaus Bollenwees hut. The return can be via the same route or as a loop hike through Furgglenalp.

View of Hundstein mountain and 2 lakes—Sämtirsersee & Fälensee (lakes not visible in the picture) from Staubern

20. Bern

Situated on a peninsula of the River Aare, Bern captivates with its UNESCO-listed medieval old town, featuring the tallest Swiss cathedral, 16th-century fountains, the Zytglogge medieval clock tower, and charming shopping arcades. Don't miss the markets in Bundesplatz, overlooked by the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building.

21. Rhine Falls

Located in Schaffhausen, it is Europe's most powerful waterfall and also the largest at 150 meters wide, cascading over a 21 meter high ledge of Jurassic limestone. Best seen during June and July when melted mountain snow increases its volume.

Travel Tips: You can enjoy excellent views of the falls by taking a boat trip.

21 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Switzerland