Switzerland, with its breathtaking scenery, diverse cultures, and world-famous tourist attractions, is a dream destination for travelers from around the globe. Dominated by the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps, the country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that is hard to match.
At the top of every traveler’s list is the Matterhorn, the most iconic and photographed mountain in the world, drawing adventurers and photographers alike to its majestic slopes. But Switzerland is not just about its stunning landscapes; it is also a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions.
With four official languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh—the country offers a mosaic of cultural experiences, from the cosmopolitan cities to the picturesque villages nestled in its valleys. Whether you are exploring the cobbled streets of Zurich, savoring Swiss chocolate in Geneva, or hiking through the lush meadows of the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland’s charm is in its diversity.
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on your interests—whether it's skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the country promises an unforgettable experience year-round. Moreover, Switzerland is known for being incredibly tourist-friendly, with excellent public transport, welcoming locals, and top-notch amenities ensuring that your visit is as comfortable as it is memorable.
Before you set off on your Swiss adventure, make sure to pack for all weather conditions and be ready to immerse yourself in a land where every corner holds a new discovery. Here is a list of 16 popular tourist attractions in Switzerland that might be on your list of tourist destinations when visiting Switzerland.
Matterhorn
Photo by Young Shih
The Matterhorn is located in the Pennine Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy. The closest town is Zermatt, in the canton of Valais. The Matterhorn’s distinctive pyramid shape makes it one of the most photographed mountains in the world.
The area is well-equipped with high-quality accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy mountain lodges. Remember that Zermatt is car-free, so you’ll need to park in Täsch and take a shuttle train into the village.
The best time to visit the Matterhorn is during the summer months (June to September) for hiking and climbing, and winter (December to February) for skiing and snowboarding.
Things to Do at the Matterhorn
Hiking and Mountaineering: The Matterhorn is a bucket-list destination for mountaineers. The Hörnli Route is the most popular ascent path. For non-climbers, the area offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views.
Skiing: The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest summer skiing area in Europe, offering skiing and snowboarding all year round.
Gornergrat Railway: Take the Gornergrat Bahn, a cogwheel train that climbs to 3,089 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks.
Zermatt Village: Explore Zermatt, a car-free village known for its charming chalets, gourmet restaurants, and luxury shops. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Matterhorn.
Château de Chillon
Photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel
Château de Chillon or Chillon Castle is located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, near the town of Montreux in the canton of Vaud. The castle is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer (April to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the surrounding gardens are in full bloom.
Château de Chillon has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It was originally built as a fortress to control the trade routes through the Alpine passes.
The castle inspired many artists and writers, including Lord Byron, who wrote "The Prisoner of Chillon" after visiting. The castle’s strategic location offers stunning views over Lake Geneva, making it a must-visit historical site.
Things to do in Château de Chillon
Castle Tour: Explore the castle's well-preserved medieval rooms, including the Great Halls, dungeons, and the chapel. Audio guides and guided tours are available in multiple languages.
Photography: The castle’s picturesque location on Lake Geneva makes it a perfect spot for photography. Capture views of the castle with the backdrop of the lake and the Alps.
Cultural Events: Château de Chillon hosts various events, including medieval festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. Check the castle’s event calendar when planning your visit.
Lake Geneva
Photo by Michał Ludwiczak
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is located on the border between Switzerland and France, with the Swiss cities of Geneva and Lausanne on its shores. Lake Geneva is the largest Alpine lake in Europe, and its shores are dotted with vineyards, castles, and charming towns.
The region is famous for its wine production, particularly the UNESCO-listed Lavaux Vineyard Terraces. The lake's mild climate makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities, including sailing, swimming, and cycling.
The best time to visit Lake Geneva is during late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
Things to do in Lake Geneva
Cruise the Lake: Take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lakeside towns. Paddle steamers and modern boats operate regular services between towns like Geneva, Montreux, and Lausanne.
Visit Geneva: Explore the city of Geneva, home to the United Nations headquarters and numerous museums, such as the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. The Jet d'Eau fountain, one of Geneva’s most famous landmarks, is a must-see.
Visit Lausanne: Lausanne, known for its Olympic Museum, the medieval Lausanne Cathedral, and its vibrant cultural scene. The lakeside area, Ouchy, is perfect for a stroll or a bike ride.
Montreux: Enjoy Montreux’s famous lakeside promenade, especially during the Montreux Jazz Festival in July. The town is also close to the Rochers-de-Naye mountain, offering great hiking opportunities and panoramic views.
Jungfraujoch
Photo by Fuyu Yeo
Jungfraujoch is located in the Bernese Alps, between the peaks of Jungfrau and Mönch. It is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
At an elevation of 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe. It is a popular destination for both tourists and adventurers.
Be prepared for the altitude, as some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness. The region is well-connected by train, with the journey offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
Jungfraujoch is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer (June to September) for clear views and during winter (December to February) for snow activities.
Things to do at Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch Railway: The journey to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," is an experience in itself. The cogwheel train from Kleine Scheidegg takes you through tunnels inside the mountains, with stops at viewing windows.
Sphinx Observatory: Visit the Sphinx Observatory, which offers one of the highest observation decks in Europe, providing stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.
Ice Palace: Explore the Ice Palace, a series of tunnels carved into the glacier, featuring ice sculptures and a surreal, icy environment.
Snow Activities: Engage in snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, or sledding. During the summer, snow tubing and zip-lining are popular activities.
Hiking: Several hiking trails start from Jungfraujoch, including routes to the nearby Eiger Glacier or the Mönchsjoch Hut.
Kapellbrücke
Photo by Flora Hon
Located in the city of Lucerne, in the central part of Switzerland, Kapellbrücke or Chapel Bridge is the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, originally built in 1333.
It’s named after the nearby St. Peter’s Chapel. In 1993, a significant portion of the bridge was destroyed by fire, but it was quickly restored to its former glory. Kapellbrücke is a symbol of Lucerne and one of Switzerland’s most photographed landmarks.
Kapellbrücke can be visited year-round, but spring to early autumn (April to October) is ideal for walking along the bridge and exploring the surrounding area in pleasant weather.
Things to do at Kapellbrücke
Walk the Bridge: Take a leisurely walk across Kapellbrücke, which stretches over the Reuss River. The bridge is adorned with 17th-century paintings depicting scenes from Lucerne’s history.
Visit the Water Tower: Adjacent to the bridge is the octagonal Water Tower, a historic structure that has served as a prison, archive, and treasury. Although the tower is not always open to the public, it’s a key part of the bridge’s charm.
Explore Lucerne: After crossing the bridge, explore Lucerne’s Old Town, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, colorful facades, and bustling squares.
Boat Tours on Lake Lucerne: Combine your visit with a boat tour on Lake Lucerne, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and surrounding mountains.
Musegg Wall: Visit the nearby Musegg Wall, a part of the old city fortifications, which offers panoramic views of Lucerne.
Lake Lucerne
Photo by Alina Rossoshanska
Located in central Switzerland, surrounded by the city of Lucerne and several picturesque mountain ranges. Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) is the fourth-largest lake in Switzerland and is known for its complex shape, with several arms and bays.
The lake is surrounded by popular tourist destinations, including the Rigi, Pilatus, and Bürgenstock mountains. The area has a mild climate, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities.
The region is steeped in history, with the nearby Rütli Meadow being the traditional site where the Swiss Confederation was founded. The best time to visit Lake Lucerne is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities.
Things to do in Lake Lucerne
Boat Cruises: Take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne to explore its many bays, inlets, and surrounding mountains. Paddle steamers and modern boats operate regularly, offering scenic and relaxing journeys.
Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails around the lake, such as the Swiss Path, which traces the historic route of the founding of the Swiss Confederation. The Rigi and Pilatus mountains offer stunning views and well-marked trails.
Visit Lucerne: Spend time in the city of Lucerne, known for its medieval architecture, including the Kapellbrücke and the Lion Monument. The city is also home to the Swiss Museum of Transport.
Explore Villages: Visit the charming villages around the lake, such as Weggis and Vitznau, known for their relaxed atmosphere and beautiful lakefronts.
Rhine Falls
Photo by Christopher Politano
Located in northern Switzerland, near the town of Schaffhausen, close to the German border, Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe, with a width of 150 meters and a height of 23 meters.
The volume of water can reach up to 600,000 liters per second during peak flow. The falls have been a tourist attraction since the 19th century and continue to draw visitors with their powerful beauty.
Schaffhausen, the nearest town, is also worth a visit for its charming old town and the Munot Fortress. The best time to visit Rhine Falls is during late spring and early summer (May to July), when the water flow is at its strongest due to melting snow in the Alps.
Things to do at Rhine Falls
Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls. Some boats take you to the rock in the middle of the falls, where you can climb up for a thrilling view.
Viewing Platforms: Visit the viewing platforms on both sides of the river. The platforms at Laufen Castle offer some of the best views of the falls.
Visit Laufen Castle: Explore Laufen Castle (Schloss Laufen), which houses a visitor center, a museum, and a restaurant. The castle grounds offer great vantage points for viewing the falls.
Hiking: There are several hiking trails around Rhine Falls, including the Panorama Trail, which offers scenic views of the river and the falls.
Adventure Park: The nearby Adventure Park Rheinfall offers zip-lining and climbing activities with views of the falls.
Zytglogge
Photo by Louis
Located in the city of Bern, the capital of Switzerland, in the heart of its medieval old town, Zytglogge is a medieval clock tower that dates back to the 13th century.
Originally part of Bern’s western fortifications, it has served various roles, including that of a guard tower, prison, and clock tower. The astronomical clock, added in the 15th century, is a masterpiece of medieval engineering and remains one of Bern’s most iconic landmarks.
Bern’s old town is easily walkable, making it convenient to explore the Zytglogge and other nearby attractions. Zytglogge can be visited year-round, but it’s particularly enjoyable in spring and summer (April to September) when the weather is pleasant for walking around Bern’s old town.
Things to do near Zytglogge
Watch the Clock Show: Every hour, on the hour, the Zytglogge clock performs a show with mechanical figures, including a crowing rooster and a parade of bears. It’s one of Bern’s most popular attractions.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour of the Zytglogge to learn about its history and inner workings. Tours often include access to the clock tower, where you can see the mechanisms up close and enjoy views of Bern.
Explore Bern’s Old Town: Wander through Bern’s UNESCO-listed old town, characterized by its well-preserved medieval architecture, arcades, and fountains. Key sites include the Bern Minster, the Federal Palace, and the Bern Historical Museum.
Shopping and Dining: The old town is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy local Swiss cuisine and purchase souvenirs.
Swiss National Park
Photo by Dach Fink
Swiss National Park is located in the eastern part of Switzerland, in the canton of Graubünden, near the Italian border. Established in 1914, Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s only national park and one of the oldest in Europe.
The park is strictly protected, with visitors required to stay on marked trails and no picking of plants, making fires, or camping allowed. This strict conservation approach ensures that the park’s ecosystems remain largely undisturbed.
The park’s remote location and lack of infrastructure make it a true wilderness experience, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is open to visitors from late May to early October, making summer the best time to visit when the hiking trails are accessible and the wildlife is most active.
Things to do in Swiss National Park
Hiking: Explore over 80 kilometers of marked trails that wind through the park’s varied landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and rocky outcrops. Popular trails include those to the Fuorcla Val dal Botsch and the Val Trupchun.
Wildlife Watching: Swiss National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, red deer, and golden eagles. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot animals.
Nature Photography: The park’s dramatic landscapes, including rugged mountains and serene valleys, provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Visitor Center: Start your visit at the Zernez Visitor Center, which offers exhibitions on the park’s ecology, geology, and history. The center also provides information on hiking trails and guided tours.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour led by park rangers to learn more about the flora, fauna, and geology of the park. These tours often include insights into conservation efforts.
Château de Gruyères
Photo by Christopher Politano
Located in the medieval town of Gruyères, in the canton of Fribourg, in western Switzerland, Château de Gruyères or Gruyères Castle was built in the 13th century and served as the seat of the Counts of Gruyères for several centuries.
The castle is a fine example of medieval military architecture, with thick walls, towers, and a moat. The surrounding region is famous for its dairy products, particularly Gruyère cheese, which is still made in the traditional way.
The castle is open year-round, but spring and summer (April to September) are the best times to visit when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding gardens are in bloom.
Things to do in Château de Gruyères
Castle Tour: Explore the interior of the Château de Gruyères, which includes rooms furnished with period furniture, tapestries, and artworks. The castle also features exhibits on the region’s history and culture.
Gardens: Stroll through the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountains.
Gruyères Village: Wander through the picturesque village of Gruyères, known for its cobbled streets, traditional Swiss architecture, and artisanal shops.
Gruyère Cheese Factory: Visit La Maison du Gruyère, a cheese factory located at the foot of the castle hill, where you can learn about the production of Gruyère cheese and taste fresh samples.
HR Giger Museum: Art enthusiasts may also enjoy the nearby HR Giger Museum, dedicated to the works of the Swiss surrealist artist best known for designing the creature in the film "Alien."
Lake Thun
Photo by Stephen H
Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, near the town of Thun and the city of Interlaken, Lake Thun (Thunersee) is a glacial lake with a surface area of about 48 square kilometers.
It is fed by the Aare River and is known for its deep blue waters. The lake is surrounded by several castles and picturesque villages, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The nearby town of Interlaken is a hub for adventure sports, including paragliding, skydiving, and canyoning, adding to the appeal of the region. The best time to visit Lake Thun is during the summer (June to September) when the weather is warm, and the lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking.
Things to do at Lake Thun
Boat Cruises: Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Thun, with stops at charming lakeside towns like Spiez, Oberhofen, and Thun. The boats offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and castles.
Visit Thun: Explore the town of Thun, known for its historic old town, the Thun Castle, and the Schadau Park. The town’s vibrant atmosphere and riverside cafes make it a great place to relax.
Oberhofen Castle: Visit Oberhofen Castle, located directly on the shores of Lake Thun. The castle features beautifully furnished rooms, a medieval keep, and a lakeside garden.
Spiez Castle: Another must-see is Spiez Castle, surrounded by vineyards and offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains. The castle houses a museum and a church dating back to the 10th century.
Outdoor Activities: The area around Lake Thun is perfect for hiking, cycling, and swimming. The Thun-Panoramaweg is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the lake and the Alps.
Mount Pilatus
Photo by Anna Du
Located near the city of Lucerne in central Switzerland, forming part of the Emmental Alps, Mount Pilatus stands at 2,128 meters and is a symbol of the Lucerne region. It offers some of the most accessible and breathtaking alpine views in Switzerland.
The "Golden Round Trip" is a popular way to experience Mount Pilatus, combining a boat trip on Lake Lucerne, the cogwheel railway, and the cable car. The mountain is also home to diverse wildlife, including ibex and marmots, and the views from the top are among the best in the country.
The best time to visit Mount Pilatus is during the summer months (June to September) for hiking and sightseeing. Winter (December to February) is ideal for snow activities.
Things to do in Mount Pilatus
Cogwheel Railway: Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, which climbs from Alpnachstad to the summit of Mount Pilatus, offering breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps.
Cable Car Ride: Alternatively, take the cable car from Kriens to the summit. The ride provides stunning aerial views of the alpine landscape.
Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails around Mount Pilatus. The Flower Trail, Dragon Path, and Tomlishorn Ridge offer varying levels of difficulty and spectacular scenery.
Paragliding: For adventure seekers, paragliding from Mount Pilatus offers a thrilling way to experience the Swiss Alps.
Pilatus Kulm: At the summit, visit Pilatus Kulm, which features a hotel, restaurants, and a viewing terrace with 360-degree views of the Alps.
Dragon Legend: Learn about the local legend of the Pilatus dragon, a mythical creature said to inhabit the mountain, adding an element of mystery and folklore to your visit.
Ballenberg
Photo by Fred Clery
Located near the town of Brienz in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, Ballenberg is an Open Air Museum founded in 1978 and covers an area of 66 hectares.
It aims to preserve and showcase traditional Swiss architecture, rural life, and craftsmanship. The museum is divided into regions, each representing a different part of Switzerland, giving visitors a comprehensive view of the country’s cultural diversity.
Ballenberg is easily accessible by train and bus from Brienz or Interlaken, making it a great day trip for those exploring the Bernese Oberland. The best time to visit Ballenberg is during the summer months (April to October) when the open-air museum is fully operational and the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration.
Things to do in Ballenberg
Explore Traditional Swiss Buildings: Wander through over 100 historic buildings, including farmhouses, barns, and workshops, which have been relocated from different regions of Switzerland to create a living museum.
Craft Demonstrations: Watch traditional craftsmen and women at work, including blacksmiths, bakers, and weavers. These demonstrations provide insight into Swiss rural life and traditional skills.
Farm Animals: Visit the museum’s farm animals, including cows, goats, and chickens, which are an integral part of the rural setting. Children especially enjoy the interaction with the animals.
Gardens and Fields: Stroll through the gardens and fields where traditional crops are grown. You can learn about Swiss agricultural practices and the importance of biodiversity.
Workshops and Events: Participate in hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at traditional crafts or cooking. The museum also hosts seasonal events, including festivals and markets.
Kunsthaus Zürich
Roland zh
Kunsthaus Zürich is located in the city of Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, in the central part of the city near the Old Town. Kunsthaus Zürich is one of the most important art museums in Switzerland, known for its impressive collection of fine art spanning centuries.
The museum was founded in 1910 and has since grown into a major cultural institution, with plans for further expansion in the coming years. Kunsthaus Zürich is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing activities in Zurich, such as a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse or a visit to the Old Town.
Kunsthaus Zürich is open year-round, making it a great destination at any time. The museum is particularly enjoyable in the colder months (October to March) when indoor activities are preferred.
Things to do at Kunsthaus Zürich
Art Collections: Explore the museum’s extensive art collections, which range from medieval art to contemporary works. Highlights include pieces by Swiss artists like Alberto Giacometti and Ferdinand Hodler, as well as international masters such as Picasso, Monet, and Chagall.
Temporary Exhibitions: Kunsthaus Zürich regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works by renowned artists from around the world. These exhibitions often focus on specific themes or periods, offering new perspectives on art.
Sculpture Garden: Visit the museum’s sculpture garden, which features works by notable sculptors and provides a tranquil outdoor space to enjoy art in a natural setting.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and the artists behind them. The museum offers tours in multiple languages, catering to international visitors.
Engadine Valley
Photo by Falko Burghausen
Located in the eastern part of Switzerland, in the canton of Graubünden, stretching from the Maloja Pass to the border with Austria, The Engadine Valley is one of the highest inhabited valleys in Europe, renowned for its stunning landscapes, crisp air, and sunny climate.
The valley is divided into the Upper Engadine, which is more famous and developed, and the Lower Engadine, which is more rustic and less touristy. The region has a long history as a health retreat, thanks to its mineral springs and clean mountain air.
The Engadine Valley is a year-round destination. Winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing and snow sports, while summer (June to September) is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Things to do in the Engadine Valley
Skiing and Snowboarding: The Upper Engadine, particularly the resort town of St. Moritz, is a world-renowned destination for skiing and snowboarding. The region offers over 350 kilometers of pistes, with options for all skill levels.
Hiking and Biking: In the summer, the valley offers numerous hiking and biking trails with spectacular alpine views. The trails range from easy walks along lakes to challenging mountain treks.
Engadine Lakes: Explore the chain of lakes in the Upper Engadine, including Lake Sils, Lake Silvaplana, and Lake St. Moritz. These lakes are ideal for water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding.
Visit St. Moritz: Spend time in St. Moritz, a glamorous resort town known for its luxury hotels, upscale shopping, and international events like the St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow.
Cultural Experiences: Discover the local culture by visiting traditional Engadine villages such as Samedan, Zuoz, and Guarda, which are known for their picturesque architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Bernina Express Railway
Photo by Oleksandr Lutsenko
The Bernina Express Railway runs from the town of Chur in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland, to Tirano in Italy, crossing the Swiss Alps. The Bernina Express is part of the Rhaetian Railway, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The train journey takes approximately four hours, covering a distance of about 144 kilometers. The Bernina Express features panoramic windows, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the stunning alpine scenery.
This journey is often described as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of the Swiss Alps. The train operates year-round, with each season providing a different but equally spectacular experience. Summer (June to September) provides lush green landscapes, while winter (December to March) offers snowy vistas and a true winter wonderland experience.
Things to Do
Scenic Train Ride: Experience one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The Bernina Express crosses the Alps, passing through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and picturesque villages.
Landwasser Viaduct: Marvel at the engineering feat of the Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the train dramatically curves over a 65-meter high bridge.
Alp Grüm: Stop at Alp Grüm, a scenic viewpoint where you can take in the views of the Palü Glacier and the surrounding mountains. This is a popular spot for photos.
Ospizio Bernina: The highest point on the route, at 2,253 meters above sea level, offers stunning views of the snow-covered Alps. The station itself is a great place to step out and take in the crisp mountain air.
Visit Tirano: Once you arrive in Tirano, explore this charming Italian town, known for its Renaissance architecture and delicious Italian cuisine.