Thanks to its stunning scenery, historic attractions, adventurous sports and cultural diversity, Switzerland has been a top tourist destination for decades. Whether you are a first-time vistor, an adventure seeker, nature lover or cultural enthusiast, we’ve got all the top things you should do and see on your trip to Switzerland
1. Explore the Swiss Alps

It may seem obvious, but you can’t miss the Alps in Switzerland. Take a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch-The Top of Europe, for one of the most stunning views in Europe. Take either the Eiger Express gondola or the traditional railway from Interlaken Ost. Adventurers will love paragliding, skydiving, bungee jumping, or canyon swinging. Looking to hike or ski? Head to Matterhorn. Nearly 250 miles of hiking trails and paths range from easy family-friendly walks to more challenging alpine passages. You will need a Peak Pass for hiking. Skiers and snowboarders will be delighted that the slopes are open 365 days a year. You can book ski passes online in advance.
2. Discover Switzerland’s Stunning Lakes

While the Alps may take center stage as Switzerland’s most stunning landscape, the country is also filled with breathtaking lakes. Head to Lake Geneva for boat cruises and exploring lakeside towns like Montreux and Lausanne. Take in the lake’s beauty on the Montreaux Promenade, or do paddle yoga for a unique experience. Lake Lucerne offers stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities. Get a birdseye view of the lake on the cogwheel train or cable car, or explore the lake by boat. Lake Zurich is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and exploring the lakeside towns. Beaches like Strandbad Mythenquai, Seebad Utoquai, and Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen
- Lake Lucerne: Scenic boat rides and nearby mountain excursions (Mt. Pilatus & Mt. Rigi).
- Lake Zurich: Relax by the lake, swim, or take a ferry ride.
3. Zurich

Chances are, you will fly in and out of Zurich if coming from the US, and you should plan on staying a night or two to experience all the city has to offer. Get lost in Old Town, where you can see a tombstone dating back from 180 AD in the Lindenhof, the site of a Roman fort. Get inspired in old churches, abbeys, and modern galleries. Book a walking tour to get a close-up look of the area’s history. Get your credit card ready for when you visit Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most expensive and exclusive shopping streets in the world. While in Zurich, you must check out the vibrant nightlife – you can enjoy the ambiance at the Splendid Piano Bar, the legendary Olé Olé, or the cult favorite Kon-Tiki.
4. Geneva

Geneva is a must when in Switzerland. Impress your Instagram followers with photos of the Jet d’Eau, an impressive fountain that shoots water out 460 feet high into the air. Stroll along old town and explore the 12th century St. Pierre Cathedral. Geneva is also home to several museums, like the Patek Philippe Museum, which gives a fascinating insight into watchmaking. Tour the United Nations headquarters and International Committee of the Red Cross for insight on historic organizations. The Jura Mountains are nearby, perfect for skiing and hiking.
5. Lucerne

Lucerne is the perfect combination of a city, mountains and a lake, combined with historic landmarks and impressive medieval architecture. Visit the iconic 14th-century structures Chapel Bridge, which is considered Europe’s oldest covered bridge, and octagonal water tower. Be awe-inspired by the Lion Monument, a sculpture carved into rock face in the early 19th century to honor the soldiers killed during the French Revolution. Take the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus for stunning views of the city below.
6. Bern

Switzerland’s capital city, Bern has a UNESCO-listed Old Town, filled with historic sandstone buildings and structures like the Zytglogge Clock Tower. Visit Bear Park, home to the iconic Bernese Bears. Art lovers will love poking around Paul Klee Center, dedicated to the works of the Swiss-German artist, or visit the Kunstmuseum, Switzerland’s oldest fine arts museum. Bern’s nearby mountain is Gurten, for hiking and the Gurten Funicular.
7. Indulge in Swiss Culture & Traditions
Visit watch museums and chocolate factories to see how two of Switzerland’s most famous exports are made. Chocolate factory must-sees are Lindt in Kilchberg and Maison Cailler in Broc. For watches, head to Musée international d’Horlogerie or the Patek Philippe Museum. Switzerland is also abound with traditional festivals to give tourists a look at Swiss culture, like the Basel Fasnacht (Basel, March), Fête de l’Escalade (Geneva, December) Sechseläuten (Zurich, April), and annual Alpine festivals throughout the year and in various locations.
8. Experience Unforgettable Train Journeys
Switzerland is home to some of the most iconic train journeys in the world. Take a panoramic ride through the Alps on the Glacier Express. Enjoy breathtaking scenery from Switzerland to Italy on the Bernina Express. Or enjoy picturesque Swiss landscapes as you travel on the GoldenPass Line from Lucerne to Montreux.
9. Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Switzerland has several hidden gems and off the beaten path spots with less tourists than other attractions, perfect for a quiet getaway. Check out Aare Gorge, a spectacular hidden canyon in Aareschlucht. You may not know that Switzerland has a UNESCO-listed wine region on Lake Geneva, Lavaux Vineyards, where you can visit and see winemaking at its finest. Fan of the Aliens movies? Head to Gruyères Castle & HR Giger Museum, which offers a mix of history and surreal art featured in the movies.
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