switzerland cities to visit in summer

15 Best Places To Visit In Switzerland In Summer in 2024

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Switzerland in the Summer is stunning. The snowcapped mountains become lush and bright green inviting you for amazing outdoor hikes.

This European country has so many amazing places to visit in the summer.

But with so many places to explore, it can be daunting to narrow down your options.

That’s why we asked 15 different travel bloggers to share their top picks for the best summer destinations in Switzerland.

They’ve written about their own personal experiences and described why these places should definitely be on your must-visit list this summer.

These Switzerland summer destinations offer a whole range of outdoor activities, from hiking, to enjoying the lakes or swimming in some rivers.

So if you’re not sure which places you should check out while in Switzerland, you can trust the advice of the thousands of travelers who’ve been there and done that!

If you are looking for a European summer vacation, then be sure to have a look at this list of 15 must-see places in Switzerland in summer.

15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

This travel guide listing the best places to visit in Switzerland for the summer will help you plan the most amazing summer vacation to this European destination due to the warm climate in Switzerland in August .

From the best places to visit in Switzerland during summer where you can enjoy and sample some of Switzerland’s finest food and wine to the most scenic city in Switzerland or the best things to do in Switzerland in the summer – this list covers all of them!

1. Montreux

Contributed by Bulgarian On The Go

The first destination on our list of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer is Montreux.

Montreux is one of the most exciting places to visit in the summer.

The main reason is very simple – the Montreux Jazz Festival . This is the second-largest jazz festival in the world and it takes place annually in early July on the Lake Geneva shoreline.

It’s become so popular that around 200,000 people visit it every year.  

The summer in Montreux also allows for many water sports in Lake Geneva , such as paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and even water skiing.

Even if you’re not a fan of water sports, you can still take advantage of the beautiful Lake Geneva shore and enjoy a day at the beach . 

For all hiking lovers, there are quite a few hiking routes near Montreux which are worth exploring. Some ideas for hikes include the Gorge du Chauderon, Via Alpina, and Rochers de Naye. 

Do not forget to add the Chillon Castle (make your life easier and grab your entrance ticket online here ), the statue of Freddy Mercury , and the Queen’s Studio to your itinerary of things to do in Montreux .

The town is incredible to visit in any season, but it’s additionally special in summer due to the wide variety of activities provided during this time of the year. 

Popular Summer Montreaux Tours To Book

Here are some of our top picks for tours that will make your time in Montreux extra special!

1. Full-day tour to Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000

Experience the beauty of Les Diablerets in Switzerland!

Admire the majestic glacier, standing 3000 meters tall, and the Peak Walk – the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks.

Have fun sledding down a slope or enjoy a thrilling descent on Europe’s highest Alpine Coaster.

This is a must-do tour.

2. Relax on This 2-Hour Riviera Cruise

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Swiss Riviera with a 2-hour paddle steamer boat cruise.

Admire striking views of Lake Geneva, the Swiss and French Alps, and Chillon Castle.

This unforgettable experience promises to leave you breathless and awestruck.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Montreux

Montreux is a charming little city that deserves more than a day trip (although it is totally doable as a day trip).

We suggest staying for 2-3 nights to make the most of the tours and truly enjoy its allure.

For your stay, we recommend you stay at the super popular Eurotel Montreux .

Conveniently located in the heart of the city (close to sights, restaurants, and a train station) and with a magnificent view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, Eurotel Montreux offers guests luxury 4-star accommodation.

With its remarkable location on the lake, Eurotel Montreux provides an ideal setting for those who wish to enjoy all that Montreux has to offer during their summer escape.

Contributed by Dymabroad

Is Zurich worth visiting in the summer? Absolutely!

Zurich is one of the best Swiss cities to visit in summer.

This is the largest city in the country and there are a lot of things that you can do in the city during summer. 

One of the best summer activities in Zurich is to check out the outdoor pools in the city .

There are several pools on or next to Lake Zurich. For example, a nice one is Flussbad Oberer Letten . 

Furthermore, you can go to Film am See, which is an open-air movie theater. 

Besides that, hiking is a great activity to do in Zurich during summer. There are beautiful hills with nature that surround the city.

Also, it can be great to go to the Uetliberg Lookout Tower when you do this. This is an observation tower from where you can get a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding. 

Also, the Zürcher Theater Spektakel takes place during summer.

This is a performing arts festival during which you can see all kinds of performances at various venues in the city. For example, there are live theater shows at this festival.

Zurich is definitely one of the best cities in Switzerland and one of the best places to go in Switzerland in summer.

Popular Summer Zurich Tours To Book

Discover Zurich’s hidden gems with these top-rated tours! Elevate your experience with our hand-picked selection of unique and unforgettable adventures.

• City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit – Enjoy a 5.5-hour city tour with a cruise. See the top sights and enjoy some yummy tastings at the Lindt Home of Chocolate. Book your tour here .
• Lindt Home of Chocolate Entry Ticket – Enjoy this skip-the-line ticket where you can enjoy unlimited chocolate tasting whilst learning all about chocolate. Grab your skip-the-line entrance ticket here .

Popular Day Trips From Zurich Worth Booking

Looking to add to your trip and explore some of the beautiful surrounding locations?

Here are our favorite day trips that are 100% worth booking.

• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch – Take a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps on the cogwheel railway. Enjoy a panorama from Europe’s highest railway station and explore a glacier in the Ice Palace. Book your spot here .
• Mount Titlis Day Tour – Discover the city of Lucerne before heading up Mount Titlis. Get panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from the Rotair cable car and visit the ice grotto. Book this tour here .
• Day Trip to Grindelwald & Interlaken – Includes a scenic train ride, free time in both towns, a cable car to Mt. First plus more! Book this tour here (for spectacular scenery!)
• Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls Half-Day Trip – Visit Europe’s largest waterfall, enjoy a guided stroll through the medieval village of Stein am Rhein and visit the Laufen Castle. See if there are spots free on this tour .

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Zurich

We suggest staying for a minimum of two days, but we encourage you to extend your stay if you’d like to explore the beautiful places mentioned earlier with a day trip.

Book your stay at H+ Hotel Zürich . It is a very popular hotel is located 2 min away from a tram stop.

If you’re looking for an enjoyable summer vacation in Zurich, then look no further than the 4-star H+ Hotel Zurich.

With comfortable rooms ideally designed for 2-3 people, a convenient location, and an amazing breakfast every morning, it’s easy to see why H+ is the perfect choice!

Contributed by Travels In Poland

Lucerne is one of the most beautiful and popular summer destinations in Switzerland. 

With the base of the Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne offers amazing water and mountain-based activities for visitors. 

Lucerne, located in central Switzerland, is the largest city on the lake and is located at the northern tip of the lake is a great city to visit when visiting the lake. 

The city offers a range of amenities, a beautiful old wooden walking bridge , a small city feel, and numerous amenities.

The quaint villages and small cities sprinkled around the lake can be accessed by boats that make numerous daily crossings across the lake. 

One of the towns, Weggis, has high-end luxury hotels and spas, though this is also true for other cities on the lake. 

Viztnau is also a great destination as it offers a cogwheel train up to Rigi Mountain ( here is a great tour to book for Mt Rigi ), a popular destination for hiking . 

Campgrounds can be found in the cities along the lake, and visitors should not be surprised to see RVs lining up at each site.

The lake has hundreds of offerings of water-based activities , such as boating, swimming, fishing, canoeing, paddle boats, kayaking, and much more. 

There is access to public beaches in many areas, which allows visitors to spend the day at the lake however they wish. 

One of the best parts of Lake Lucerne is the hundreds of lakeside cafes, restaurants , hotels, spas, and much more. 

Travelers can simply pick and choose a beautiful city to visit along the lake, and they can easily find fine Swiss dining and beautiful views.

Besides visiting the lake, you can also head for the mountains.

Mount Pilatus is only a 15-minute bus ride away ( or book this super popular tour ) and the summit is easily reached via cable cars and a gondola.

The mountain has snow-capped peaks even during the summer season. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views over the Alpine peaks and lakes.

Lucerne is called the heart of Switzerland, and in my opinion, might just be the best city to visit in Switzerland in summer, and is well worth a visit if you haven’t been.

Popular Summer Lucerne Tours To Book

Unearth the hidden gems of Lucerne with these carefully curated, top-rated tours!

• Relax on This 1-Hour Cruise on a Panoramic Yacht – Relax and enjoy the cruise to Meggenhorn Castle. Take in the views of villas, hills, and the deep blue lake. Book your spot here .
• Join a Combined Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour – Experience the highlights of Lucerne in just one day! Join a small group for a leisurely 5.5-hour walking and sightseeing boat tour. Grab a spot here .

Popular Day Trips From Lucerne Worth Booking

Explore stunning nearby locations! Here are our top day trips worth booking.

• Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip – Experience Mt. Pilatus on a 5.5-hour journey! Take a gondola to Fräkmüntegg, then ascend to the peak by cableway. Descend on the steepest cogwheel to Alpnachstad & catch a boat for a scenic Lake Lucerne cruise. Book your spot on this tour (it is the most popular one).
• Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip – Such a spectacular day tour with all of these stops included: Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch, Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, cogwheel train down to Eigergletscher and V-Cableway Eiger Express. Don’t miss this one! Secure your spot on this tour here.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Lucerne

To make the most of your visit, we suggest staying for a minimum of two days . Lucerne is also the starting point for our 4 days in Switzerland itinerary .

You can spend one day exploring the city’s offerings and use the other day to embark on a day trip to one of the nearby mountains.

The 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is the perfect place to stay during a summer vacation in Lucerne.

This family-owned hotel in downtown Lucerne’s Old Town is perfect for couples and families, footsteps from the lake.

The elegantly decorated rooms come with modern amenities, and there’s an onsite spa area.

Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation you’re after, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern is ready to welcome you!

4. Gruyères

So if I asked you: what is Switzerland known for ? I bet some of you might think about chocolate and Swiss cheese. And this little town is about both, making it the best village in Switzerland .

Gruyères is a beautiful walled Medieval town packed with tons of charm. Whilst there are many things to do in Gruyères during the day, you’ll love walking along the cobblestone streets.

This quaint town has few shops and homes which makes the experience of visiting this town one of the must-see places to see in Switzerland in summer.

Gruyères is known for its cheese which is used in a number of gourmet dishes around the world.

As an avid traveler, I adore experiencing local delicacies. Recently, I tried the fondue. Although the dish tasted lovely, the richness of the cheese was overwhelming. My recommendation to fellow foodies would be to order fondue as a shared platter to relish its flavor without it dominating your meal.

Be sure to try the village specialty dish, known as Moitie-Moitie , which is a dish made with the popular Gruyères and another locally sourced cheese named Vacherin from the Fribourg area.

It is also known for the HR Giger Museum where you can see paintings and sculptures of many alien movies that have been made.

There is also the Medieval Gruyères Castle that you can explore and visit – the views from up on that level are spectacular!

For all those chocolate lovers, the Cailler Chocolate Factory is accessible with a short 5-minute walk from the Broc train stop and well worth a visit.

Enjoy a tour of the factory, relax at the café, and grab some delicious souvenirs from the chocolate shop on the way out.

We recommend you visit Gruyères on a day trip from Geneva . The town is small and I wouldn’t stay overnight in the area.

This Gruyères Day Trip from Geneva includes a panorama train ride, and chocolate and cheese tasting.

Contributed by The World In My Pocket

Lugano is a fantastic summer destination in Switzerland.

The Swiss city, located on the shores of the lake with the same name, has a certain Mediterranean feel that is best enjoyed during the summer months when the days are long and terraces open until late in the evening. 

There are plenty of things to do in Lugano in summer. The city has a wonderful lido , as well as a public beach where you can cool off from the heat, by swimming in the lake .

For nature enthusiasts, going up Mont Bre to hike and admire the panorama of the Swiss and Italian mountains is a must. You can book this tour to Mont Bre .

At the top of Mont Bre you can enjoy a drink with a view from the outdoor terrace of the restaurant there, which has a 360 panorama of the lakes and mountains below.

There are plenty of trails here as well that can take you all the way to Italy. 

In summer in Lugano, you can also enjoy a relaxing time by hiring a pedalo boat to explore more of the lake at your own pace. The boats are very cute, in the shape of old race cars. 

Even if you are  going to Lugano on a day trip , this city is so worth visiting in summer.

On a side note, did you know that you could easily reach Italy for a day trip from Italy?

• Lugano is the closest Swiss city to Milan and you can easily reach it on a train – which will only take 1 hour 15 minutes.
• If you want to visit Lugano on a day trip from Como , a train journey will take only 45 minutes.

You can easily explore all of Lugano’s highlights in one single day so we recommend visiting Lugano on a day trip from Zurich, Milan, or Lake Como.

Popular Summer Lugano Tours To Book

Explore Lugano’s hidden summer treasures with these highest-rated tours!

• Monte Brè Tour from Lugano by Funicular – Uncover the treasures of Monte Brè on this delightful full-day tour. The itinerary features a lake cruise as well as a funicular train ride to the peak. Book this tour here .
• Skip the Line Falconeria Locarno Ticket – Escape bustling Lugano with a visit to Locarno’s Falconry! Get up-close with birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles in an awe-inspiring traditional show! Grab your skip-the-line tickets here.

6. Interlaken

Contributed by Megan Starr

Interlaken is a fantastic summer destination with a plethora of activities to choose from. You’ll never be bored!

There are many great hiking trails to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Try the easier Rugen trail or the more challenging Harder Kulm trail (or take the funicular up to Harder Kulm ) for breathtaking views over the lake, mountains, and town.

Grindelwald , just a short train ride away, is a paradise for hikers with many gorgeous mountain trails.

For less strenuous options, stroll on the lakeside of beautiful Lake Brienz or Lake Thun . You can also jump in the water for a refreshing swim.

Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on these blue lakes are fun activities to take advantage of the beautiful weather.

If you are a thrill-seeker, Interlaken is one of the most stunning places to go paragliding ( here is the most popular paragliding tour ), an activity  offered both in winter  and summer!

And don’t miss out on visiting the enchanting Oberhofen Castle and strolling through its colorful gardens, with unhindered views of lovely Lake Thun.

Interlaken also hosts some great summer music festivals .

Check out the Greenfield rock festival, and the International Trucker and Country Music Festival, or head to nearby Spiez for the Seaside Festival, featuring different genres of music from both Swiss and international music stars.

For all these reasons and more Interlaken is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland !

Popular Summer Interlaken Tours To Book

Explore Interlaken’s summer wonders with these highly-rated tours!

• Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken – Soar above Swiss Alp peaks on a tandem paragliding flight with transportation from Interlaken. Marvel at views of Lake Thun and the snowy summits of Jungfrau! Book this popular experience here .
• Grab Your Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz . Enjoy a summer trip to witness St. Beatus Caves, Giessbach Falls & castles around the lake. The lake offers glorious views of the Bernese Oberland mountains.
• Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz – Kayak across River Lütschine exploring cliffs, Ringgenberg Castle & hidden beaches on this fun kayak tour! Book the Lake Brienz kayak tour .

Popular Day Trip From Interlaken Worth Booking

Looking to add to your trip and explore some of the beautiful surrounding locations? Here are our favorite day trips that are 100% worth booking.

• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch Mountain – Explore Jungfraujoch on a full-day guided tour from Interlaken. Take a cable car ride, witness sweeping views of Europe from the Sphinx Observation Terrace, and venture through the Ice Palace tunnels. Book this awesome day trip here.

We recommend staying 2-4 days to truly relish the town, lakes, and mountain hikes, with a day trip to Jungfaujoch .

The best hotel to book for your stay is The HEY Hotel .

The hotel is in the center of the town, has comfortable rooms and it’s only 400 meters from the Interlaken-West train station.

7. Lavertezzo

Contributed by Together In Switzerland

Switzerland in Summer can be truly magical, such as when visiting the mountains in combination with a lake or river for swimming.

A recommendation of one of the best places to visit in Summer is Lavertezzo, a dreamy little location in the Ticino Canton. 

Pack your sun cream, sunglasses, and your swimwear as you will want to dip into the stunning  crystal clear waters at Lavertezzo .

The river flows through the Verzasca Valley, a popular spot with locals and a few tourists who make the visit.

You can visit by car, but the easiest is with the local public bus that stops right in the area. 

As well as swimming in the waters at Lavertezzo, you can hike along the river’s edge either North or South through the forestry area and past the local houses.

During Summer it is very idyllic to relax and take your time in the area, so bring yourself a picnic full of delicious treats. 

It’s very rural in the area, but the Ponte dei Salti double arch stone bridge is a top highlight even for locals.

If you’re a daredevil, join the locals by jumping off this bridge directly into the deep but clear waters below. It’s about a 4-meter drop so it’s not for those scared of heights! 

From Lavertezzo, you can also consider adding to the day with a visit to either Ascona or Locarno.

Both are located at Lake Maggiore where the Verzasca valley and river end. 

8. Lausanne

Contributed by Passion for Hospitality

Lausanne , Switzerland’s fourth largest city is not only considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the country but has also enjoyed global recognition as the Olympic capital since 1994.

You can visit the Olympic Museum – grab your ticket online here .

This important title makes Lausanne one of the most reputable and significant locations in the sports world and the summer months are a perfect time of year to enjoy several sporting events .

From Cyclotour du Léman,  a popular cycling race that runs along the Swiss and French shores of Lake Geneva to the Ladies Open Lausanne , and of course Lausanne Triathlon , one of the most anticipated sports events not to be missed!

Apart from being a sporting capital, Lausanne is located in a widely popular wine-growing region which is a UNESCO World Heritage site as well.

Wine lovers are guaranteed to enjoy some of the most prized wine varieties paired with a highly relished local cuisine.

Lausanne boasts a myriad of wonderful experiences throughout the year and the summertime is a perfect season to enjoy its rich cultural program which combines exciting theatre performances with dance, music, and circus. 

We love visiting Lausanne on a day trip from Geneva or Montreux.

Popular Summer Lausanne Tours To Book

Explore Lausanne’s summer wonders with these highly-rated tours!

• 2-Hour Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards – Set sail on a serene cruise from Lausanne to Vevey and witness the beauty of the Lavaux vineyards. Marvel at the views along Lake Geneva. Grab your tickets here.

9. Maggia Valley

Contributed by G-Extreme Travel

Switzerland is known for its majestic mountains, stunning lakes, and pristine valleys.

While the country offers a wide range of outdoor activities year-round, nothing beats exploring Switzerland in the summertime.

One of the best places to experience the best of what Switzerland has to offer is Maggia Valley. It is located in the southwest corner of the country, close to the Italian border .

Maggia Valley is best known for its awe-inspiring waterfalls and lush green mountain valleys .

The best way to experience this paradise of nature is to go on a hike. You can explore hiking trails along the river or venture out onto one of the many peaks in the region .

You’ll be rewarded with views of the valley, beautiful streams, and waterfalls cascading down the mountains.

Switzerland is well known for its traditional dishes such as fondue, raclette, and rosti… but in this majesty valley, you’ll encounter the Grottini Ticinesi, a place made of traditional rustic stone huts, that serve delicious regional dishes like pizzoccheri, polenta, and other deliciousness!

Here you can sample some of the best local food while enjoying an amazing view of the mountains.

Besides spectacular views and delicious food, Maggia Valley has something for everyone in terms of activities.

Many of the trails are suitable for families , while others are more challenging and best suited for experienced hikers.

Maggia Valley is a true gem for visitors looking to experience Switzerland’s best in the summertime.

From its stunning waterfalls and lush green mountains to its delicious restaurants and wide range of activities, there is something for everyone in this valley.

So if you’re looking for a summer getaway that offers something special, then Maggia Valley should definitely be on your list.

Contributed by Life Part 2 And Beyond

The lovely town of Vevey lies on Lake Geneva’s north coast. It’s a beautiful place to visit during the summer months. 

You can take a swim in the lake, a boat trip, a pedalo, or a kayak, or simply relax by the water’s edge. And don’t forget to take that Instagram photo of Vevey’s iconic giant fork that sticks out of the water. 

Then explore the old town and lose yourself in its cobbled streets. If you’re there on a Tuesday or Saturday, be sure to visit the farmers market in the Grand Place. 

Visit Vevey in August and enjoy the entertainment from the Street Artists Festival . 

And did you know that Charlie Chaplin lived in Vevey for the last 20+ years of his life?

His old house is now a fascinating museum about Chaplin’s life , and there’s an interactive movie studio showing his movies too. A trip to Chaplin’s World is a must on any visit to Vevey. 

Just on the edge of town is a funicular that takes you up to Mont Pelerin .

From the mountain top, there are great views of Vevey, the lake and the mountains and some great summer hiking options . All trails are clearly marked. 

Vevey is best visited on a day trip. You can easily reach it from Geneva, Lausanne , or Montreux.

Contributed by Global Travel Escapades

Is Geneva worth visiting in the summer? One of the best places in Switzerland to visit during the summer is the gorgeous city of Geneva .

During the summer, the city experiences a pleasantly mild climate , with temperatures usually around 77-78F (25-26C) – ideal for soaking up the sun!

You can find plenty of activities to enjoy around Geneva during the summer. For example, you can cool off by swimming in the refreshing and clear waters of the Rhône River at Plage de Rhône.

Alternatively, if you prefer to lounge around and indulge in some of the region’s famous fondue, head on over to the Bains des Pâquis !

Here, you will find several areas of Lake Geneva that have been sectioned off, water structures that kids can play on, a restaurant, and even a few diving boards!

Lastly, you won’t want to miss seeing the iconic Jet d’eau Geneve . This giant water jet propels water a whooping 140m into the air!

Afterward, you can stroll along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in Jardin Anglais which is believed to be created out of over 6,500 flowers!

So, if you’ve dreamt of swimming in Switzerland’s clear blue waters, then consider a visit to Geneva! Here is a fun 5-day itinerary in Switzerland that starts in Geneva for you to follow.

Popular Summer Geneva Tours To Book

Discover Geneva’s summer gems with these top-rated tours!

• 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit – Experience the allure of Geneva through a tour that combines the city’s sights with the indulgence of Swiss chocolate. Book this tour here .
• 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise – Experience the beauty of Lake Geneva’s shores on a sightseeing cruise. Enjoy views of the Swiss Alps while learning about local landmarks with an audio guide. Book your tickets here .

Popular Day Trips From Geneva Worth Booking

• Guided Day Trip to Chamonix and Mont-Blanc (in France) – Take a day tour from Geneva to Chamonix, a mountain resort at Mont Blanc’s base. Experience breathtaking views atop Aiguille du Midi via cable car. Book this awesome tour here !
• Annecy Half-Day Trip (in France) – Discover Annecy, the Venice of the Alps! This charming city boasts vibrant markets, colorful pedestrian streets, and an enchanting old town area. Book this tour .
• Gruyères Tour With Train Ride, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting – If you ever wanted to visit Gruyeres, this is the best tour to do so. Book your tour here .

If you want to visit a country near Geneva , Switzerland, France is easy to reach, however, I would suggest adding on at least an additional day to your travel itinerary to fit it in.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Geneva

We suggest staying for a minimum of three days, so that you can fit in some of the day trips to explore surrounding places.

For one of the best places to stay, look no further than CitizenM Geneva .

CitizenM Geneva is the perfect place for any traveler looking to get a four-star experience in an amazing location.

Not only is it super innovative, but the incredible breakfast and modern amenities make it perfect for younger modern couples.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or for a base to explore surrounding areas in Switzerland, CitizenM Geneva has everything you need.

12. Zermatt

Contributed by Destination Checkoff

Zermatt is a year-round destination and has plenty of activities and sights to enjoy in the summer.

The biggest draw of Zermatt is the Matterhorn mountain at 4478 meters towering above the town ( grab your cable car tickets here ). 

During the summer, take the 30-minute cog railway to Gornergrat for some epic views of the Matterhorn mountain from the Gornergrat observation deck at 3089 meters.

Zermatt is a popular summer destination for hiking and mountain biking . There are several trails here for all levels of hikers and mountain bikers.

Hike the Five Lakes Walk Trail for some stunning scenic lakes and reflection of the Matterhorn in the lake waters. 

Zermatt town is a nice place to walk around and explore the shops and restaurants.

To learn about the history of Zermatt make sure to visit the Matterhorn Museum . The Findeln Chapel and the English Church are sacred places to admire in Zermatt.

Every summer in August, the Folklore Festival celebrates the Swiss culture with a huge parade that features a variety of traditional Swiss music, dance, and costumes. 

In Zermatt town, you will find charming boutique hotels with spas offering great relaxation after a day of hiking or summer adventures.

There are several restaurants offering delicious Swiss cuisine as well as international cuisine.  

Popular Summer Zermatt Tours To Book

Discover Zermatt’s summer gems with these top-rated tours!

• Pre-book your Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket here.
• Purchase your Skip-the-line Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket online before you go.
• Why not book something unique? This paragliding tandem flight in Zermatt has with spectacular views of the Matterhorn and its surrounding peaks.
• Never been skiing before? You can enjoy skiing even in the summer here. Book this private 3-hour private ski lesson so you can get out on the fun slopes as soon as possible.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Zermatt

To make the most of your time in Zermatt, I recommend spending at least 2-3 nights.

This will give you a couple of full days to explore the area, or more if you’re interested in experiencing some of the amazing skiing opportunities available.

We recommend you stay at Hotel Ambassador Zermatt .

This property has it all! Boasting an unbeatable location, the rooms are ultra cozy, featuring breathtaking views and there’s a pool and sauna for your indulgence.

Contributed by The Discovery Nut

Located along the shores of Lake Maggiore in Southern Switzerland, Ascona is a perfect summer destination if you are looking to enjoy the Mediterranean flair, enjoy boat rides , and take a couple of hikes in the nearby Valley Maggia . 

This cute town sits near the Italian border in the Canton of Ticino , the only Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland that’s located less than 2 hours away from Milan. 

Ascona boasts a colorful old town with a prominent clock tower, small stores, and gelato shops along the cobblestone streets.

If you spend a couple of days here, you might think that you have just stepped into Italy: the cobblestone streets of Old Town Ascona are lined with boutique shops and gelato stores where you can buy a tasty treat on a hot summer day. 

Ascona makes a perfect stop on your Switzerland itinerary and the best part is that it’s less discovered than some of the most popular destinations in the region like Lugano and Lake Como which receives the majority of visitors. 

Whether you want to go hiking, explore the medieval architecture of Old Town Ascona, or spend a few days enjoying the lake, you will have a great time here.

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Ascona

We suggest staying for two to three days in order to be able to enjoy some of the summer activities.

The 4-star Charme Hotel al Torchio is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a luxurious stay in Ascona. Its prime location in the old city puts you just steps away from the lake, and within easy reach of all the historical sites.

The hotel was recently renovated to offer modern amenities such as comfortable beds and fantastic bathrooms with showers.

But that’s not all: Hotel al Torchio also offers a wonderful buffet breakfast every morning that is sure to put a smile on your face!

So if you’re looking for the best hotel in Ascona, look no further than Charme Hotel al Torchio. You won’t be disappointed!

Contributed by Paul from Paul Marina

Bern, the capital of Switzerland , is located at the heart of the country. The medieval city was founded more than 800 years ago at the bend of the Aare River. 

The turquoise blue waters, and cute houses with clay-colored roofs as a backdrop, enthrall most visitors with their unique beauty.

Architectural marvels and the  top attractions of Bern  can be explored on a stroll through the well-preserved old town ( here is a great walking tour that you can book ). 

A popular summer activity is swimming in the crystal clear Aare River . Locals and visitors from all over the world just tuck their belongings into a dry bag and jump into the refreshing waters.

Floating down the river is a relaxing unique experience, and you get to see the city from a different angle.

Families with kids will appreciate the free public pools in Bern to beat the hot summer heat. 

The open-air grocery market at the Bärenplatz has seasonal local fruits in the summer and the adjoining flea market is a treasure trove worth exploring.

For those looking to get active, the cycle trails along the Aare River are popular and a great way to explore the green areas of Bern. 

The funicular to the Gurten mountain peak takes one closer to various hiking trails . Exceptional views of the city and of the Bernese Oberland Alps can be expected here!

Popular Summer Bern Tours To Book

Here are some of our top picks for tours that will make your time in Bern special!

• Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower – Tour the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, witness its inner workings & enjoy a charming puppet show. Don’t miss this memorable experience! Book this popular tour .
• 90-Minute Walking Tour Through the Old Town – Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern, and marvel at its fountains, towers, winding streets, & more with an expert guide. Experience 800 years of local history condensed into one unforgettable walk! Book your walking tour here .

How Long To Stay For + Where To Stay in Bern

We suggest staying for a minimum of two days or three if you prefer exploring at a more relaxed pace.

Book your stay at the Swissôtel Kursaal Bern . This 4-star hotel exceeds all your expectations: close to the city center & attractions, and with stunning views of medieval Old Town & breathtaking Alps.

Swissôtel Kursaal Bern guarantees a luxurious experience with a 24-hour gym, casino, 2 restaurants, a bar, and a garden lounge.

This contemporary hotel has all you need for an amazing time.

Visiting Lavaux, the wine region of Switzerland , make this one of the best places to visit in Switzerland during the summer months for any wine lover.

The region of Lavaux is known for its terraced vineyards that stretch along the northern shores of Lake Geneva for over 30 km.

Lavaux is not just for wine lovers though. Lavaux has some of the best things to do in Switzerland in the summer.

You can explore the 800 hectares of magnificent terraced vineyards on foot or by bicycle .

And if wine is your thing, be sure to take part in a wine tasting in the many wine cellars and sample the best wines that Switzerland has to offer.

When you travel through the region of Lavaux, there are many charming pintes (mini-restaurants) that you can stop at to enjoy the local produce and food.

Exploring Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , should be at the top of anyone’s list when visiting Switzerland.

Our favorite tour departs from Geneva and lasts 8-10 hours. It takes you through the picturesque streets of Vevey, as well as giving you the opportunity to take a cruise on an old steamboat (if selected).

You will also visit the famous Montreux, with its beautiful walks, and notable castle of Chillon.

To top it off, enjoy a glass of wine in Lavaux itself – a truly unique experience!

How to Get Around Switzerland

Before we hop into our post of the best places to visit in summer in Switzerland, let’s just quickly cover how to get around Switzerland.

1. Public Transport

Public transport in Switzerland is an easy and economical way to explore the country.

The “ Swiss Travel Pass ” offered by SBB provides discounted and unlimited access to public transport by train, bus, and boat to explore over 41 cities, scale mountain peaks, and cruise on breathtaking lakes in Switzerland.

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Save money and make life a lot easier with a Swiss Travel Pass. Allowing you to simply hop on trains, busses, and boats in most destinations.

Allowing travelers to go wherever they want without worrying about booking individual tickets or spending too much money on transportation costs. Grab your Swiss Travel Pass online with ease here .

2. Rent a Car

We are a family of 5 and we have young kids. When we visited Switzerland our youngest was only 1 year old, so we just found it so much easier to rent a car.

That way we can come and go when we wanted rather than waiting around for trains or buses to arrive.

Discover Cars is our go-to for car rental in Switzerland .

As a comparison site, it fetches the most competitive prices from all the leading car rental companies in the country.

It’s easy to use and makes car rentals a breeze!

BEST RENTAL COMPANY IN SWITZERLAND: DISCOVER CARS

I recommend  and use   Discover Cars . They search through all rental companies to find and offer only the best deals.

With transport cover, let’s talk about which summer destinations in Switzerland you should include on your list of places to visit.

When is Summer in Switzerland?

From June to mid-September, Switzerland is a perfect place for a warm getaway. With plenty of daylight hours, travelers will be able to enjoy the stunning views that this country has to offer.

The attractions are open for longer periods during this time and visitors can take advantage of the extended hours.

Plus, with the higher temperatures, sightseeing and outdoor activities become even more enjoyable.

Hiking trails are in full bloom and mountaintops offer refreshing breezes for those looking for a break from the summer heat.

You will also find a range of watersports activities, from kayaking and sailing to fishing, all of which can be experienced on the crystal-clear waters of the lakes in this country.

Switzerland in Summer Weather: What to Expect?

In the summer, beautiful days and pleasant temperatures await travelers looking to book a warm summer vacation in Switzerland.

You can expect mild temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in June and September, and up to 25°C (77°F) in July and August.

The weather will vary depending on where you are. In the Alps, temperatures tend to be cooler than those experienced at lower altitudes.

Let’s have a quick look at the average temperatures you can expect in popular destinations in Switzerland.

What to Wear in Switzerland in Summer

Pack clothing that can be easily layered. Light, breathable fabrics such as loose-fitting shirts, shorts, and dresses are ideal for warmer days in Switzerland during the summer months.

For cooler evenings or high-altitude areas, pack a lightweight sweater or jacket to keep you warm and comfortable.

Bring sandals for easy slip-on shoes along with some comfortable hiking shoes for when you explore the great outdoors of Switzerland.

Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses along with sunscreen and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

FAQ About Switzerland Summer Destinations

Find below answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about summertime and weather in Switzerland as well as answers to the best Switzerland summer destinations.

1. Is it worth visiting Switzerland in Summer?

Yes. Europe is wonderful in the summer and with many Switzerland places to visit in summer, it is definitely worth visiting.

2. When is summer in Switzerland

Summer is from the months of mid-June to late September.

The temperature range during the summer months ranges between 65° – 82° F (18 to 28 °C) making it a very comfortable temperature to enjoy the many activities and places Switzerland has to offer.

3. What is Switzerland like in the summer?

Switzerland in the summer is really beautiful. The sun is out, hiking trails are open, and the many lakes around Switzerland are warm enough for swimming.

The summer weather is great for exploring the lush green hills and mountainsides by foot or bicycle.

4. Is Switzerland crowded in summer?

As you can imagine, summer in Switzerland will be one of the busiest times next to the Swiss ski season so be prepared for crowds if you travel during the high season of June through to the end of August.

If you still want great weather but want to avoid the crowds, visit during the months of April – May or September – October.

5. Should you visit Geneva or Zurich in Summer?

Geneva and Zurich are two of the best cities to visit in Switzerland in summer. Both cities have warm climates during the summer months with hot and sunny weather.

Geneva tends to be drier than Zurich, although it is a little more humid, so if you want to try and avoid summer showers, Geneva may be best.

Final Thoughts on Where to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and it is a true dream to visit if you love nature, outdoor activities, and gorgeous towns and villages.

We hope that this list of where to go in Switzerland in summer is a great guide to help you put together your list of Switzerland summer destinations.

If you want more ideas for the best places in Switzerland in summer be sure to read our Switzerland Travel Blog Posts for more inspiration.

Tip: Check out our blog posts on Switzerland:

• Best times to visit Switzerland
• Why is Switzerland so beautiful?
• 7-day Switzerland itinerary
• Reasons to visit Switzerland
• Travel Insurance Switzerland
• Switzerland in June

Jolene Ejmont

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The Best of Switzerland in Summer: 17 Amazing Highlights

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Think of Switzerland and chances are you think of majestic mountains, snowy landscapes, and winter sports. But think again! Switzerland in summer still has the Alps, but instead of snow and ice, you’ll find lush landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and gorgeous weather.

A Switzerland summer vacation offers exciting Alpine hiking, lake-based water sports, trips on mountain trains and cable cars, epic visitor attractions, and some of the cutest villages in Europe to visit.

We much prefer the summer season in Switzerland and think it’s the perfect time to explore the country’s outdoor beauty and adventurous activities. In our guide, we share all the top things to do and places to visit in Switzerland in summer to help you plan the perfect trip.

When is Summer in Switzerland?

Summer in the northern hemisphere, including Switzerland, starts on the 1st of June and ends on the 31st of August.

When is the Best Time to Go to Switzerland?

The Swiss summer tourist season starts in early May and continues until late September.

In late May and June, and September until mid-October, Switzerland offers mild weather and some sunny days, fewer crowds, and better value for money on accommodation, car hire, and day trips and tours.

In both spring and fall, make sure to experience almentrieb , the celebration of transhumance , when decorated cattle are herded through Alpine villages as they move between high to low pastures. In fall, there are also plenty of food festivals celebrating the bounty of the land.

For mountain hiking and lake swimming, things don’t really warm up until late June, but once you’re past that point, you’re good until mid-September.

The summer months of July and August can be busy with families on school holidays, but you will experience the best weather and warm temperatures, and the longest days. On 1st August, you’ll get to celebrate Swiss National Day, a country-wide party to commemorate the founding of the Swiss Confederation and usually involves carnivals, street parties, and lots of fireworks!

During the between time, or zwischen zeit , from April to early May and from late October through November, the cities are quiet, but mountain resort towns like Zermatt are mostly closed and the weather can be unpleasantly cold and wet.

RELATED POST: Fall in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Autumn

The most cost-effective and best way to get around is with the Swiss Travel Pass . This ticket allows free use of the well-developed and punctual public transport network including trains, buses, and boats. Although it may look expensive when you add up the cost of hiring a car, fuel, and parking you’ll realize it offers really good value for money, and just adds to the beautiful Switzerland experience!

Best Places to Visit for an Incredible Switzerland Summer

Explore the city of lucerne.

Under the shadow of Mount Pilatus, Lucerne is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. Nestled between the Emmental Mountains and the shoreline of Lake Lucerne, the medieval town can trace its history back to the 8th century and was originally a small fishing town.

Take the time to walk over the oldest footbridge in Europe. The Chapel Bridge was built in 1365, covering close to 700 feet of the Reuss River. During your walk, you will encounter artwork on the interior walls, and street musicians playing music for tips. All provide an eclectic tone to your visit.

Lake Lucerne’s, also known as the  Vierwaldstättersee  or ‘Lake of the Four Forest Cantons,’ is a great place for boat trips, or you can hire paddle boats and kayaks to explore the crystal-clear water. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can trek the lake’s shoreline as there are several trails to follow.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when planning your  Switzerland summer trip . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Hike the Swiss Alps

One of the top attractions in Switzerland is hiking the Swiss Alps during the summer, and there are 14 mountain ranges in Switzerland to choose from! 

In early summer, the warm weather melts the snow and the Alpine peaks burst into life with wildflower meadows blooming. Herds of goats and cows are moved to higher pastures and all around you will be the sound of cow bells as the animals munch on the sweet grass.

The summer temperature average in the Swiss Alps is in the low 70s, and it is pleasant to hike in shorts and a t-shirt. You can always cool down by dipping in a mountain lake or stopping to take in the spectacular mountain scenery whilst unwinding and recharging your batteries.

There are well over 2,500 hiking trails in Switzerland ranging from long-distance multi-day hikes to shorter distances suitable for all levels of fitness. Use an app like All Trails to find the best.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Switzerland.

Spend a Day in Zurich

Located on the northwest tip of Lake Zurich with the River Limmat running through it, and set against a dramatic Alpine backdrop, is the beautiful city of Zurich.

A relatively small and compact city by European standards, its quaint winding lanes show off its pre-medieval history, and the waterfront offers many open-air public baths, where people swim in summer months before the baths become impromptu bars as the sun sets.

One side of the River Limmat has a modern look and is home to the world’s largest financial district with banking and stock market houses lining the boulevards.

The other side is home to the Old Town area. Here is time well spent wandering the cobblestone streets and marveling at the historic medieval architecture. The Romanesque Graumunster and Fraumunster churches in Zurich’s Old Town are two of the most recognizable building landmarks.

Zurich is also home to over 1,200 fountains, some dating as far back as 1430. They are dotted every few meters all over the city and offer fresh drinking water, so make sure you have a drinking bottle with you when you start exploring. There is an Old Town walking tour called Water in Zurich which will teach you all about the importance of these fountains in Zurich.

RELATED POST: One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Discover the Mighty Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch, also known as the ‘Top of Europe’, is a saddle connecting two major 4000m peaks of the Bernese Alps: the Jungfrau and the Mönch. Located at an altitude of 3,450 meters above sea level in the Bernese Alps, the Jungfraujoch offers spectacular views on a clear day of the seemingly endless snowy mountains.

The starting point for a day trip to the Jungfraujoch can be either the pretty little town of Grindelwald or the lively city of Interlaken, and the Jungfrau Railway takes you right into the heart of the first natural heritage site in the Alps.

Try and avoid the weekends when visiting this popular destination and take the first early morning train if you can – this will help avoid the inevitable crowds.

Once at the highest train station in Europe, an incredible world of eternal ice and snow opens up. The Sphinx Observatory viewing platform offers spectacular panoramas of the surrounding mountain peaks: on one side the view of the Swiss Mittelland all the way to the French Vosges, on the other the impressive Aletsch Glacier, lined with four-thousand-meter peaks. 

You can take a short hike to the Mönchsjoch hut through the glaciers surrounding the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest-altitude serviced hut in Switzerland can be reached on foot from the Jungfraujoch on a high Alpine path in 45 minutes with around 200m of elevation gain. You need to be reasonably fit and wear good hiking shoes or boots to attempt this – but it’s so worth it!

Jungfraujoch is undoubtedly a highlight in this fascinating country and a place you should not miss from your Switzerland itinerary.

Sample Switzerland’s Wines

While Switzerland is surrounded by renowned wine-producing nations like France , Italy , and Germany , did you know that Switzerland cultivates around 15,000 hectares of vineyards? Us neither, at least not until we went wine tasting!

Located mostly at lower altitudes in cantons near its wine-making neighbors, Switzerland’s vineyards produce over a million hectoliters of wine every year. Yet only 2% of this volume is exported, which accounts for why you may not know much about Swiss wine.

Swiss wines, like the culture and history of the country, reflect the influence of surrounding nations. The Valais and Lake Geneva wine-growing regions border France and feature grapes such as Gamay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, and Vaud is known for the Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring miles of vineyards along the hillsides of Lake Geneva.

Ticino sits at the top of Italy and emphasizes reds akin to northern Italian styles. Schaffhausen, on the edge of Lake Constance, specializes in crisper whites using Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer.

There are plenty of opportunities to stop by a winery, wander through the grape vines, enjoy a tasting, and learn about the traditional art of viticulture.

Fall in Love with Lake Lugano

Lugano is in an Italian-speaking region and has a distinctive Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures which are reflected in its architecture and cuisine.

The city of Lugano stands on the shore of beautiful Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains, including Monte San Salvatore, and is full of lively squares, lakeside walks, fun shopping streets, and colorful parks. Spending time around and on Lake Lugano is at the top of the list when visiting Switzerland in summer.

The best route to Lake Lugano from the city is through Parco Ciani, a former private villa transformed into a public park. The locals love relaxing in the shade or participating in water activities near the lake’s shoreline. The sparkling blue water is inviting for a mid-afternoon swim.

During your stay, visit Cattedale di San Lorenzo, a Catholic Church cathedral that offers a stunning view of the lake. The structure was built in the Middle Ages and was renovated in the 15th century.

To tick another country off your list, hop on a boat from the downtown pier of Lugano Centrale to either Porlezza or Ponte Tresa, both of which are in Italy.

Discover Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is so perfectly beautiful that it could be mistaken for a film set, which it has actually been! Both Lauterbrunnen and nearby Mürren served as filming locations for the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969.

The valley town is known for its 72 waterfalls, including the famous 300-meter-high Staubbach Falls, and the nearby Trümmelbach Falls, which cascade through mountain crevices past viewing platforms in the spring and summer.

Hiking, rock climbing, paragliding, and canyoning are all popular ways to experience Lauterbrunnen’s stunning location in the Interlaken-Oberhasli region. For a truly unique and special experience, consider viewing the breathtaking Bernese Alps landscape from a hot air balloon.

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland That You Must Visit!

Get Your Adrenaline Rush in Interlaken

Sandwiched between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a small city known as the adventure capital of Switzerland and one of the best summer destinations in Switzerland for high-risk activities. 

There is an endless list of  things to do in Interlaken  in summer, including boat riding, skydiving, paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, river rafting, and bungee jumping, so it’s well worth a stop.

At 1,322 meters above sea level, Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s ‘house mountain’, delivers breathtaking views of the city and the mighty peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It’s an easy climb as the Harder funicular railway, which is over 100 years old, does the hard work!

If you have a head for heights, check out the overhanging  Zwei Seen Steg , or Two Lakes Bridge, for even more panoramic views of the two blue lakes that Interlaken is named for.

Discover Zermatt

Zermatt is a photogenic town at the foot of the impressive Matterhorn and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. This car-free mountain village deep in the Swiss Alps is known for its horse-drawn carriage rides, luxury hotels, and variety of activities like hiking, mountaineering, and mountain biking.

In fact, you can even ski in summer in Zermatt as a few of the highest slopes offer a year-round ski season! Take the gondola to Klein Matterhorn at 3,883m via Furi and Trockener Steg. Once there, you’ll have a great time enjoying snow sports along 21 km of pistes.

The Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world, dominates Zermatt. Viewpoints in the surrounding Alpine meadows and smaller summits offer breathtaking panoramic views of the distinctive snow-capped peak which is 4,478 meters high!

The highest cogwheel railway in Europe reaches the panoramic Gornergra t , and the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, which opened in July 2023, means you can travel in less than 1.5 hours by cable car over the Italian border to Breuil Cervinia in the Aosta Valley, the perfect place to have a coffee!

RELATED POST: Europe Winter Destinations: 22 Amazing Wintry Places

Visit the Perfect Summer Location of Grindelwald

Winter tourists regard Grindelwald as the perfect location for skiing and snowboarding, but do not discount this small town for your summer holidays.

Grindelwald is a small village sandwiched by mountains in the Bernese Oberland of Central Switzerland. Impossibly picturesque and with a lot of things to do and see, Grindelwald is becoming a must-visit summer destination in Switzerland.

Top of the list of activities is the First Cliff Walk at the summit of the First Mountain at 2,200m above sea level, a quick ride from the village on the Grindelwald Firstbahn cable car .

The walk itself is along a metal walkway and a single-rope suspension bridge constructed along a cliff. At the end of the walkway, there is a spectacular observation platform that stretches out 45 meters above the mountains below.

We also suggest experiencing the Grindelwald-Männlichen Cableway which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the famous peaks of the Eiger and Wetterhorn, and the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon , an underground labyrinth carved out by the 250 million-year-old Grindelwald Glacier.

RELATED POST: Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips

Spend Time in Bern

Always in the shadow of rivals Zurich and Geneva, Bern is a gorgeous city, with its historic Old Town and scenic location on the Aare River, popular for swimming in summer.

The Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rich with characteristic arcades and well-preserved medieval buildings, as well as the Gothic Bern Cathedral and the Zytglogge, an impressive astronomical clock and architectural masterpiece.

Bern combines history, culture, world-class museums, and natural beauty and is definitely one of the most eclectic places in Switzerland, which you should not miss during your visit.

Get Off-the-Beaten-Path at Schynige Platte

Located in the heart of the Jungfrau region, Schynige Platte, known as the ‘top of Swiss tradition’ is lesser visited than many of the surrounding big hitters and is a great excursion for families.

The best way to reach the hidden gem of Schynige Platte is on the nostalgic 126-year-old cog railway, the Schynige-Platte-Bahn from Wilderswil near Interlaken. Only running in summer, the 7km journey takes 52 minutes, as the train slowly pulls its way up the ascent.

Once you get there, the incredible views of the mountains take your breath away. The easy Naturkino circular trail connects picturesque vantage points, and in the Botanical Alpine Garden, you can admire over 750 species of Alpine plants.

Schynige Platte also has plenty of outdoor fun for kids, who will discover Lily the cow as she accompanies visitors on a treasure hunt around the Alpine landscape.

Spend a Day at Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, in the far north of Switzerland, is a spectacular natural spectacle and one of the most popular places to visit in Switzerland. This huge waterfall, between the towns of Schaffhausen and Neuhausen on the German border, attracts visitors from all over the world.

Rhine Falls day trips from Zurich are one of the easiest ways to see the mighty waterfall along with the medieval town of Stein am Rhein.

The Rhine Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Europe and the huge amount of water that falls over the rocks is truly impressive. At 23 meters, the falls are not particularly high but are an imposing 150 meters wide as they stretch out along the River Rhine.

One of the best ways to experience the Rhine Falls is to take a boat ride. The excursion boats take the visitors on a small rock, in the middle of the water forces, so that the mighty power of the fall can be felt up close. 

But if you are not keen on a boat ride, you can see the Rhine Falls from afar. Head over to the Northern Banks promenade deck where the waterfall is visible from the different terraces.

Ride Switzerland’s Famous Trains

Traveling on the Bernina Express is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. This railway runs along the highest tracks in Europe and boasts the steepest inclines worldwide!

You’ll embark on a fantastic journey through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges as the Bernina Express makes its way through romantic gorges, past vast glaciers and manmade structures such as the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, and charming Swiss towns.

The Bernina Express leaves on its 4.5 hour journey from Chur, and terminates in Tirano in the Italian Alps, via the resort town of St Moritz and the spectacular Bernina Pass and Albula Pass. 

The Glacier Express connects Zermatt in the west of Switzerland to St Moritz in the east and takes 7.5 hours to wind its way between the snow-capped mountains. The Glacier Express is described as the slowest train in the world but with incredible scenery and mountain views to photograph, you won’t want to go any faster!

Once you leave Zermatt, the first sight is the Matterhorn, a majestic snow-capped mountain peak and one of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks. Along the route you’ll travel through 91 tunnels and across 291 bridges, passing icy-blue glaciers, pretty mountain villages, and stunning Alpine scenery.

Summer Fun & Music at Lake Geneva

The Lake Geneva area is one of the top summer attractions in Switzerland. The guests come to golf at the local PGA course, stroll through the parks, or boat on Lake Geneva. The different outdoor activities keep everyone active during their stay.

Lake Geneva is also home to one of the world’s best-known music festivals, the Montreux Jazz Festival, held annually for two weeks in July. Over the years, the music has diversified, and popular artists like Prince, Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder have all played the stage at Montreux.

Geneva has a thriving culinary scene, with specialties like Longeole and Boutefas sausages, Fondue Genevoise, Café de Paris sauce (perfect with steak-frites), and Raclette high on the menu. Choose from fine dining to casual suppers and everything in between!

Hike the Alpine Cheese Trail

The Alpine Cheese Trail is our idea of heaven! The Alpkäse-Trail offers hikers a unique experience to learn and sample delicious Swiss cheese as you pass seven different Alpine dairy farms nestled in the mountains south of Lucerne.

Set amid Engelberg’s beautiful mountain setting, the circular route is 46.9km long and reaches 1,853 meters above sea level at the highest point. The scenic route makes a good multi-day hike with plenty of places to spend the night along the way.

At every dairy farm, you’ll be invited to learn everything about traditionally produced Alpine cheeses and the craft and lifestyle of the cheesemakers. Of course, you’ll have the opportunity to try various cheeses and cheese dishes, but that’s OK as you’ll hike it all off the next day!

Drive the Furka Pass

To reach the awe-inspiring Furka Pass, you’ll first have to cross the Grimsel Pass, meaning you’ll bag two of Switzerland’s best driving roads in a day. These high-altitude mountain passes in the Swiss Alps are famous for their incredible scenic drives, but they’re not for the faint-hearted.

Best known for its star appearance in Goldfinger, the Furka Pass was the backdrop to an Alpine car chase. Today, it is considered one of Europe’s greatest driving roads and is a firm favorite with petrolheads everywhere.

Remember, you will need to time your travel dates correctly to experience this world-renowned drive! The Grimsel and Furka Pass are only open between June and October due to travel conditions and snow on the roads.

RELATED POST: Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

Switzerland Travel Resources

Here are the services we use and recommend for traveling in Switzerland;

• Search for affordable flights with Skyscanner
• Book your airport transfers with Intui Travel
• Find hotel and accommodation deals with Booking.com
• Book the best value car rentals with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Find the best activities and tours with Get Your Guide
• Get highly rated travel insurance with True Traveller
• Get your convenient travel esim from Airalo and Holafly .

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Switzerland in the Summer: Things To Do

Switzerland, a country synonymous with picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, transforms into a veritable paradise during the summer months. The term Switzerland in the summer conjures images of lush green meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic Alpine peaks bathed in golden sunlight.

With a delightful blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and culinary indulgences, Switzerland in the summer offers an unparalleled experience that captivates the hearts of travelers from across the globe.

Whether you are an adventurer seeking thrilling escapades in the mountains or a leisure traveler looking for serene beauty and relaxation, Switzerland in the summer caters to every inclination. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey that promises to be nothing short of magical.

When Is Summer in Switzerland?

Summer in Switzerland officially spans from June 21 to September 23. This period ushers in the warmest and brightest days of the year, allowing locals and tourists to fully enjoy the country’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

The highest temperatures in Switzerland are usually recorded between June and August, with July being the warmest month. During these summer months, daily average temperatures can reach or exceed 25°C at lower altitudes, providing the perfect weather for a plethora of outdoor activities, be it hiking, swimming in the lakes, or simply strolling through the vibrant Swiss cities.

This generous stretch of warm weather and extended daylight hours make the Swiss summer a perfect time to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from the serene lakes to the lofty Alpine peaks, all while enjoying the delightful gastronomy Switzerland has to offer.

What To Wear in Switzerland During the Summer?

When packing for a summer trip to Switzerland, keep in mind that the weather can vary significantly between different regions and altitudes. Despite the warm temperatures, it’s a good idea to prepare for occasional rain showers and cooler evenings.

Here are some clothing essentials for a Swiss summer:

• Lightweight Clothing: The days can get quite warm, so pack breathable, lightweight clothing like short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and summer dresses.
• Swimwear: With numerous pristine lakes and public swimming pools, you’ll definitely want to bring along a swimsuit or trunks.
• Comfortable Footwear: Whether you’re strolling through city streets or hiking up the trails, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider packing a pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots along with more casual options.
• Layered Clothing: As temperatures can drop in the evening, especially in mountainous areas, it’s wise to bring some layers. Pack a lightweight jacket, a sweater, or a fleece for those cooler moments.
• Rain Gear: Summer in Switzerland can also mean occasional showers, so don’t forget your rain jacket or umbrella.
• Sun Protection: The sun can be strong, especially in the mountains. So pack a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.

Remember, the key to packing for a Swiss summer is versatility. Be prepared for a range of weather conditions and activities, and you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy everything Switzerland has to offer in the summer.

Things To Do in Switzerland in the Summer

Switzerland in the summer is a playground for a multitude of activities. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Switzerland offers a diverse array of experiences to make your summer unforgettable. Here are some things you can do:

• Hiking: With the snow melted, summer unveils numerous hiking trails across the country. From easy walks along flower-filled meadows to challenging treks in the Swiss Alps, hiking is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes.
• Cycling and Mountain Biking: Switzerland boasts an extensive network of cycling routes. From leisurely rides around tranquil lakes to thrilling mountain biking on Alpine trails, there’s something for cyclists of all skill levels.
• Boating and Swimming: The country’s pristine lakes offer various water activities, including swimming, boating, and paddleboarding. Or you can simply relax on a lakeside beach and enjoy the sun.
• Attend Summer Festivals: Swiss cities come alive with cultural festivals in summer. From music concerts to food festivals, these events provide an opportunity to mingle with locals and experience Swiss culture firsthand.
• Paragliding: For adrenaline junkies, paragliding over the Swiss Alps can be an exhilarating experience. Soar like a bird and enjoy panoramic views of the spectacular landscapes below.
• Visit Museums and Castles: Switzerland is home to numerous museums and historic castles. Summer is an ideal time to explore these cultural treasures and learn about the country’s rich history.
• Alpine Train Rides: Enjoy scenic train rides, like the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express, that traverse spectacular mountain landscapes and quaint towns.
• Try Swiss Cuisine: Don’t forget to try the delicious Swiss cuisine. Summer brings fresh, local ingredients to Swiss tables, and there are countless food festivals and farmers’ markets to explore.

These activities offer just a glimpse into the multitude of experiences that Switzerland in the summer has in store. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

10 Best Places To Visit in Switzerland During the Summer

Switzerland in the summer is a treasure trove of mesmerizing beauty and exhilarating activities, and choosing the top places to visit can be quite a task. This list of the 10 best summer destinations in Switzerland serves as your guide to experiencing the country’s diverse and captivating charm. From the sun-kissed peaks of the Swiss Alps to the culturally vibrant cities and the tranquil lakeside towns, each destination offers its own unique blend of experiences that truly epitomize the Swiss summer. So, let’s embark on this journey and explore the stunning destinations that make Switzerland a quintessential summer paradise.

The city with the best quality of life in Europe is our top recommendation if you want to visit Switzerland during the summer. On this season, Zurich buzzes with life while its citizens enjoy Lake Zurich’s promenades, in town squares, or garden terraces.

Things to do in Zurich

• Strolling along the blue waters of Zürichsee

If not doing these activities, visitors (and natives alike) will probably be sitting in the numerous park spaces and having picnics on a summer day. On the other hand, if you’re searching for quiet and relaxing mornings, you can make that happen on the east side of the lake – all this while still having a fantastic view of the Alps from Bürkliplatz or Zürihorn.

This quaint historic city located in the northern part of Switzerland is indulged in art. Basel is a city of vibrant history, countless exhibits events, and the home of several festivals that amaze tourists all over the world. In the art world, it is best known as the home of Art Basel – an international art fair.

Things to do in Basel

• Explore the unique architecture of the old town
• Enjoy the stunning views of the Rhine river
• Visit the open-air cinema, cool bars, and annual dances by the river

You may know Verbier as one of the most famous Swiss winter playgrounds, but this beautiful location in the Alps has so much more to offer than just that. It is also a top destination to visit during the summer season as the perfect spot for a break or retreat. This beautiful Swiss Alps village is located in the south of Switzerland and perched on a south-facing plateau 1500m above sea level.

Things to do in Verbier

• Canyoneering
• Rock climbing
• Biking along the trails of  Verbier Bike Park, which has a vertical drop of around 700 meters.
• Dine in the village at Namaste or La Marmotte
• This Swiss canton is the largest wine-producing region in Switzerland, so if you enjoy fine wine, do not forget to grab some while you’re there.

Located in the heart of Europe, Lugano is the largest town in the holiday region of Ticino which joins together the best of both Switzerland and Italy. The reason why this city is mostly visited during the summer is because of its micro-climate, which makes Lugano one of the sunniest places in Switzerland.

This town is a world-class city, combined with flowers, sacred buildings, and villas. Lake Lugano makes certainly the largest summer attraction for many people (especially well-known celebrities), because of its views and refreshing waters. Considering the Italian influence in this region, you’ll bet that there will be plenty of food and shopping choices to seek.

Things to do in Lugano

• Visit the Hermann Hesse Museum
• Visit the Alprose Chocolate Museum
• Windsurfing
• Enjoy the climate in Switzerland’s Sonnenstube which stands for “sunny room”
• Eat at the Restaurant Gallery Arté al Lago – a restaurant in an art gallery
• Go shopping at Via Nassa

The mountain town of Lungern is located between Luzern and Interlaken. This place is more than worthy of our top 10 list of the best places to visit in Switzerland during the summer, because of the amazing turquoise lakes and rolling green pastures.

This natural paradise, surrounded by mountain trails, is the perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers. And just like almost every valley in Switzerland – Lungern also has its own beautiful lake known as Lungernsee. You can take advantage of the town’s perfect climate and go into the lake for a memorable summer bath.

Benefiting from the town’s pleasant climate, the lake is perfect for swimming in summer.

Things to do in Lungern

• Swimming in Lungern Lake
• Mountain biking
• Experience the magical Butterfly Trail through lush flowery meadows

The city of Geneva offers visitors some must-experience cosmopolitan feels. There is a variety of things you can do in this beautiful city, and one of them is enjoying the famous boat excursions at Lake Geneva. There are countless daily cruises that offer you the chance to discover the most beautiful shores of Lake Geneva.

The boats date from the early twentieth century, and while you’re cruising, you’ll notice that vintage and nostalgic feel. And of course, you cannot go by not visiting the Geneva Water Fountain (Jet d’eau de Genève). The fountain is a historic and symbolic icon of the city.

Things to do in Geneva

• See Geneva’s Italian side
• Explore the Old Town
• Paragliding
• Summer tobogganing
• Paddleboard on Lake Geneva
• Visit the Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Bern is undoubtedly a beautiful capital and possibly one of the most beautiful ones in the world. And if there’s one reason you should visit Bern in summer, then that should be the atmosphere of the Aare river. During this season, it’s like Aare river becomes the soul of the city.

With temperatures rising and the sun showing its face, that’s where you’ll find so much joy and spirit. Summer in Bern is all about the Aare, and if you want to get to know this relaxed city, that’s where you should turn to.

What to do in Bern

8. the rhine falls.

Europe’s largest waterfall – the Rhine Falls is mostly recommended to visit during May, June, and July. That is the time when the water density peaks, and you’ll surely get a spectacular view from any standpoint nearby.

It is known as an incredible experience from tourists worldwide, who say to feel the roar and the vibration of the water flowing over their entire bodies. The falls lie in the northernmost part of Switzerland near the town of Schaffhausen. By ship one can reach castles, the Rhine Falls Basin and the mighty rock right in the middle of the waterfall.

What to do in the Rhine Falls

• Sightseeing
• Picture taking

9. Interlaken

Interlaken is a beautiful town in the heart of Switzerland attracting thousands of tourists from all around the world that want to see the wonderful Jungfrau region with their own eyes. Interlaken is utterly magnificent in both seasons, winter and summer, so in this case, it depends on what type of person you are and what you prefer to do while traveling.

What to do in Interlaken

• Enjoy the fresh air
• Outdoor sports
• Enjoy the crystal clear blue water lakes surrounded by majestic mountains

10. Furka Pass

Furka Pass is the legendary Swiss mountain pass that gained fame after it was featured in a car chase scene in the James Bond movie “Goldfinger” from 1964. An Aston Martin DB5 and a Ford Mustang climbed this scenic driving road, located in the Uri/Valais region of Switzerland.

More than 50 years later the landscapes have remained almost the same, and this is most certainly a road in the Alps that those in search of the best driving roads in Europe should experience. Furka Pass provides a truly scenic ride – panoramic views with its height, twists, and turns – so it’s definitely worth paying a visit.

Things to do in Furka Pass

• Drive in a panoramic view

How To Visit Switzerland in the Summer?

Planning a summer trip to Switzerland involves several key considerations, from choosing the right travel dates to planning your itinerary and booking accommodations. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Swiss summer holiday:

• Choose the Right Dates: As we’ve established, summer in Switzerland runs from June 21 to September 23. July and August are generally the warmest months and attract a lot of tourists. If you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in June or September.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Switzerland offers a plethora of attractions and activities in summer. Identify your interests, be it hiking, city tours, cultural festivals, or culinary exploration, and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Book in Advance: Summer is a popular time for tourism in Switzerland, and accommodations can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book your hotels and any specific activities or tours in advance.
• Pack Appropriately: Pack lightweight clothing for warm days, but remember to include some layers and rain gear for cooler temperatures and unexpected showers. Don’t forget your comfortable footwear for exploring cities and hiking trails.
• Get a Swiss Travel Pass: The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, which covers trains, buses, and boats. This pass can be a cost-effective and convenient way to travel within Switzerland.
• Learn Some Local Customs: While English is widely spoken in Switzerland, learning a few words in the local language (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) can enhance your experience.
• Prepare for the Altitude: If you’re planning to visit higher altitudes, remember to stay hydrated and take time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness.
• Respect the Environment: Switzerland is known for its pristine natural beauty. Wherever you go, remember to respect nature, dispose of your trash properly, and adhere to marked trails when hiking.

Planning ahead will ensure that your visit to Switzerland in the summer is as enjoyable and memorable as you’ve dreamt it to be. Happy travels!

There’s no denying the allure of Switzerland in the summer. The stunning landscapes come alive under the warm sun, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re navigating the picturesque hiking trails, immersing in the festive summer events, or simply marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps, a summer trip to Switzerland promises an unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, plan your journey, and get ready to create lifelong memories in the heart of Europe’s enchanting summer haven – Switzerland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should i pack for a summer trip to switzerland.

For a summer trip, pack lightweight and breathable clothing for the warm days. Include swimwear, comfortable footwear for walking or hiking, and layered clothing for cooler evenings. Also, pack a rain jacket or umbrella for occasional showers and sun protection items like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What activities can I do in Switzerland in the summer?

Summer in Switzerland offers a range of activities like hiking, cycling, boating, swimming, attending summer festivals, paragliding, exploring museums and castles, taking scenic train rides, and trying Swiss cuisine at food festivals and farmers’ markets.

How can I travel within Switzerland?

Switzerland has an extensive public transport network, including trains, buses, and boats. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, making it a convenient option for tourists.

Can I visit the Swiss Alps in the summer?

Yes, summer is a great time to visit the Swiss Alps. The snow melts away to reveal green meadows, and the hiking trails become accessible. You can also partake in mountain biking, paragliding, and other outdoor activities.

Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance for a summer trip to Switzerland?

Yes, summer is a popular time for tourism in Switzerland, and accommodations can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book your hotels and any specific activities or tours in advance to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

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University of Central Florida

Founded as a public institution in 1785, UGA boasts an illustrious history in higher education. Today, Georgia's flagship university offers online programs to make a UGA degree more accessible. The online courses limit class sizes and use the same high academic standards as on-campus classes. UGA offers an online bachelor's degree in special education and multiple online graduate programs in education. Degree-seekers can also earn master's degrees in community nutrition, international biomedical regulatory sciences, emerging media, and avian health and medicine. Other available online master's programs include business, technology, and social work.

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Switzerland in Summer: What to Do & Where to Go

In Switzerland , summer and winter couldn’t be more different. You probably already know that the frozen peaks of the Swiss Alps are a sought-after snowsports destination. But what happens when the seasons change?

Read on and discover what to do in Switzerland in summer.

Breathtaking road trips and thrilling outdoor activities are just the beginning. You could also immerse yourself in the local culture and take your pick from art, music and food festivals.

As well as warmer weather, the summer months usher in longer days, perfect for soaking up the scenery. And what scenery!

In the Swiss Alps, lofty mountains, glittering glaciers and idyllic wildflower meadows are waiting for you. Elsewhere, you’ll find turquoise lakes, historic chateaus and celebrated vineyards. Not to mention cities, towns and villages brimming with old-world Swiss charm. 

• Get inspired by these Switzerland self-drive tours and start planning your next adventure

When is summer in Switzerland?

Summertime in Switzerland spans June through mid-September. At this time of year, attractions tend to have the longest opening hours. Plus, you’ll have plenty of daylight, ideal for making the most of the spectacular views.

June is early summer and tends to be a little milder. Whereas July and August – peak summer season – are best for enjoying the year’s warmest temperatures.

Alternatively, travel in May or from mid-September to October – the shoulder season – to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around. It’s worth remembering that the temperatures will be cooler and the weather could be more changeable in spring and autumn.

• Whisk yourself off on a Swiss getaway this summer

What’s the weather like in Switzerland in summer?

Switzerland has a continental climate, which means it has cold winters and warm summers.

That said, the weather will vary depending on where you are. This is because mountain ranges affect the way weather systems move through the country. And of course, conditions in the Alps will be different to what you’d experience at lower altitudes.

Visit in summer – June to mid-September – and you’ll often get pleasantly warm temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). June and September tend to be the cooler of the summer months, while July and August are the hottest.

This is the range of average temperatures you could experience in some popular Swiss destinations between June and September: 

What to wear in Switzerland in summer

No summer trip to Switzerland would be complete without time outdoors. For instance, you could go hiking, ride cable cars up to jaw-dropping mountain viewpoints, or swim in inviting lakes.

This means you’ll want to be prepared for a variety of activities and weather conditions, even if you are travelling in summer. Wearing layers is often the best way to dress for this.

For example, you could start with a light baselayer top and comfortable bottoms. Just make sure to pack a day bag with a warm fleece, waterproof jacket and cosy hat, in case the weather changes unexpectedly.

To get you started, here’s a basic packing list for Switzerland:

• Walking boots or shoes with good grip
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Insulated jacket
• Warm fleece or woollen jumper
• Light baselayers
• Hiking socks
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sunglasses and suncream
• Swimwear and travel towel
• Reusable water bottle
• European plug adapter (type C or J)

If you plan on dining out in the evening, it’s also worth bringing some smarter outfits to change into.

Things to do in Switzerland in summer

One of the best ways to explore Switzerland in summertime is by taking the wheel on a road trip. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and take detours.

Spontaneous moments often make for memorable travel experiences. But having an idea of what you want to do before you go will help make sure you have an unforgettable trip overall.

So coming up are some suggestions for amazing activities you can try on your summer getaway to Switzerland. 

1. Ride iconic Swiss railways

Swiss trains are world-famous for running like clockwork. So travelling on Switzerland’s railways is a chance to combine two things that the country is known for: awe-inspiring scenery and meticulous timekeeping.

Hop aboard and you could ride sleek intercity trains or take traditional cogwheel railways up mountains. Either way, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view on a day trip to remember.

These are just some of the most beautiful short train journeys in Switzerland:

Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch

Perched at 3,454 metres (11,330 feet) above sea level, Jungfraujoch (or the “Top of Europe”) is the highest train station in Switzerland. With year-round glacier access and an ice sculpture hall, along with a restaurant, café and chocolate shop, it’s a destination in its own right.

Zermatt to Gornergrat

Board this open-air mountain rack railway in the Alpine village of Zermatt and in 35 minutes you’ll arrive on the Gorner ridge. Throughout your journey, marvel at jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn.

Lausanne to Montreux

Expect tranquil lakeside scenes and sprawling vineyards dotted with chateaus on this trip along the shores of Lake Geneva. In just 25 minutes you’ll be transported from the pretty university city of Lausanne to the medieval heart of Montreux.

2. Experience Switzerland’s lakes

Switzerland is landlocked, so it’s probably not the first place that comes to mind when you think about relaxing by the water. But did you know that Switzerland is home to around 1,500 lakes ?

Of course, some of these are small bodies of water tucked away in the remote mountains. Others, meanwhile, are easy to get to and ideal for activities like swimming and paddle boarding.

That said, you don’t need to dip a toe to appreciate Switzerland’s beautiful blue lakes. You can also enjoy them from lakeshore promenades or from the decks of passenger ferries and vintage paddle steamers. 

Come summertime, these are just a few of the top lakes you could check out in Switzerland:

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz

Sitting at the gateway to the Bernese Alps, you’ll find these neighbours on either side of a town called Interlaken. From the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun (“Thunersee”) and Lake Brienz (“Brienzersee”), you can see iconic peaks, such as the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Lake Geneva

Straddling the Swiss-French border, Lake Geneva (“Lac Léman”) is the largest of Switzerland’s lakes. As well as sightseeing in the cosmopolitan cities of Geneva and Lausanne, you could visit one of the many vineyards surrounding the lake.

Lake Constance

Located on the border with Germany, Lake Constance (“Bodensee”) is another of Switzerland’s largest lakes. Take a trip to the town of Stein am Rhein, where you’ll see fine examples of half-timbered houses with intricately painted facades. Then check out the nearby Rhine Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe.

Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano

Head to these dreamy lakes on Switzerland’s southern border and you’ll be treated to a slice of Italy. The shores of Lake Maggiore (“Lago Maggiore”) and Lake Lugano (“Lago di Lugano”) are studded with towns and villages that exude Mediterranean charm. Just picture yourself enjoying fresh gelato in a piazza surrounded by pastel-coloured buildings. 

• You could explore these destinations on a Switzerland road trip package

3. Try outdoor activities

Throughout summer, the warmer temperatures and longer days transform Switzerland into a paradise for nature lovers.

In fact, there are over 65,000 kilometres (40,390 miles) of way-marked hiking trails crisscrossing the countryside. Thanks to this extensive offering, you’ll find something to suit you, whatever your abilities.

With Switzerland’s unspoiled scenery beckoning, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic and hit the trail. Soon you could be strolling through wildflower meadows, relishing shady forest paths and soaking up views of snow-capped peaks.  

It’s not just about hiking though. Here are more ideas for your next adventure:

Hop into the saddle, whether it’s a road, mountain or town bike, and get ready to experience Switzerland on two wheels. There’s a country-wide network of signposted routes for you to enjoy.

Watersports

Switzerland’s lakes are the perfect playground for activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking. The most popular lakes will have places for you to rent gear for a leisurely outing.

Year-round snow on some of Switzerland’s glaciers means that you can ski or snowboard, even in summer. So while it’s not possible to sweep downhill at the likes of St Moritz, head for the Theodul glacier above Zermatt to get your fix.

The Swiss Alps are home to marmots, chamois, ibex and plenty of birdlife. So whatever you end up doing, make sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife.

Good to know: It’s worth mentioning that, compared to going for a hike, summiting one of Switzerland’s Alpine peaks is a different undertaking. In this case, you’ll find that a high level of fitness, mountaineering and climbing skills, as well as experience moving at altitude, are essential. Hiring a professional mountain guide is highly recommended.

• Why not add some of these activities to a Switzerland at leisure trip over 2 weeks?
• Check out the 10 best Scottish walks to find out why Scotland is another top hiking destination

4. Visit fairytale castles

Although you can explore Switzerland’s castles (or “chateaus”) year-round, summer is one of the best times to visit. This is because many of them have beautiful gardens that’ll be in full bloom.

Plus, most of these grand castles and palaces have their longest opening hours between June and September.

Switzerland’s rich heritage means that you’ll be able to see castles of different ages and styles. For instance, you could tour 1,000-year-old fortresses as well as turreted manor houses from the 19th century.

Head for Lake Thun, at the foot of the Bernese Alps, and you’ll be able to visit several castles in a small area. Spiez Castle, Hünegg Castle and Schadau Park are all good places to begin.

These are even more top Swiss castles for you to check out:

Château de Chillon

Thanks to its role in The Little Mermaid , Château de Chillon is one of the most popular castles in Switzerland. You’ll find this stronghold in Montreux on the shore of Lake Geneva.

Beyond inspiring Disney movie backdrops , the castle’s location was key for the Counts of Savoy between the 12-16th centuries. During this time, they became powerful by controlling the movement of boats on the lake from here. 

Neuchâtel Castle

Neuchâtel was once part of the Kingdom of Burgundy, and the castle has had many roles over its 1,000 years of heritage. Today, it’s home to the Canton of Neuchâtel’s parliament, the Grand Council. But the gardens and views over the town are reason enough for a visit.

Château de Gruyères

Perched on a hilltop in the Pre-Alps, this 13th-century castle in Gruyères is well worth your time. Here you can glimpse medieval stained-glass windows and capes that once belonged to knights.

Palais de Rumine & Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts

Built in the 1800s, this Florentine Renaissance palace in Lausanne used to be a university. Now, there are 5 museums and galleries for you to browse.

• Delve into Swiss history and culture on a classic tour of Switzerland
• Related: Best castles to visit in Ireland and Scotland

5. Wine and dine the Swiss way

When you think about Swiss food, chocolate and cheese fondue are probably the first things that come to mind. And while these are local (and world-renowned) favourites, there’s plenty more to discover when it comes to the national cuisine.

For instance, did you know that Switzerland has one of the highest densities of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world?

What’s more, summertime is perfect for dining al fresco. Just imagine having a cocktail at a sophisticated lakefront bar or a hearty dish at an Alpine restaurant. This is also a great time of year for getting your hands on fresh produce at Swiss farmers’ markets.

If you love good food, there’s a chance you appreciate fine wine too. In this case, you won’t want to miss a visit to one of Switzerland’s wineries.

The UNESCO-protected vineyards of Lavaux, near Lausanne, are an excellent place to start. Why, you ask? Picture the scene: you’re sipping a glass of wine in the same vineyard the grapes were grown in, with the Alps as your backdrop.

Or for a dining experience with a difference, try the revolving mountaintop restaurant on the Schilthorn. A cable car will take you up to Piz Gloria station where you can savour a meal with unforgettable 360-degree views.

Where to go in Switzerland in summer

Switzerland might be a small country, but you can have a wide range of experiences here, depending on where you decide to go.

For instance, the Swiss Alps are a feast for the eyes, not to mention a playground for adventurers. Alternatively, head for the likes of Lake Maggiore, on the Italian border, for Mediterranean vibes. Or enjoy a cosmopolitan getaway in cities such as Bern, Geneva and Lausanne.

Read on to uncover some of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer.

The Swiss capital is a must-see stop on your trip. With a population of less than half a million people, Bern isn’t the country’s largest city. But it does pack a punch!

Explore the UNESCO-listed old town (or “Aldstadt”) and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Here you can drink from ornate fountains and roam winding cobbled streets dating from the 12th century.

The jewel of the city’s medieval heart is the clock tower. In German, it’s called the “Zytglogge”, and it’s well worth making a beeline here for the clock’s famous show. On the hour, you’ll be treated to a mechanical display of bears, roosters and other creatures that parade below the clock face.

The capital is also home to numerous museums and galleries, so you’re sure to find something that interests you. You could start with the Einstein House or the city’s museum of fine arts.

Meandering through the centre of Bern is the Aare river. In summer, join locals taking a refreshing dip in its riverside pools. And keep an eye out for people rafting down the river while you’re discovering the city. 

2. Lausanne

The elegant university city of Lausanne makes for an excellent base on a trip to Switzerland. You’ll find it on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, located between the city of Geneva and the medieval town of Montreux.

Breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps aside, the city has pretty lakeside promenades and a rich cultural heritage. Not only is Lausanne home to an impressive 12th-century cathedral, but you’ll also find the Olympic Museum here. In fact, this is where the International Olympic Committee is based.

You might also want to take a boat trip on Lake Geneva, perhaps cruising past Château de Chillon in nearby Montreux. And if you’re a foodie, keep an eye out for farmers’ markets and events run by Lausanne à Table .

This Alpine village is nestled near the base of the Matterhorn’s iconic pyramidal peak. Standing over 4,000 metres (13,125 feet) tall, its jagged summit will draw your eye no matter where you are in the village.

For the best views of the Matterhorn though, you’ll want to gain some height. And thankfully hiking isn’t the only way to do this. You can even head up to an altitude of 3,100 metres (10,170 feet) on the classic Gornergrat railway.

Alternatively, take a funicular to Sunnegga station and in less than 5 minutes from Zermatt you could be exploring a picturesque Alpine meadow.

Just a stone's throw from Sunnegga is Leisee lake. It’s the perfect place for taking a dip with the Matterhorn as your backdrop. You could also go on a short hike, looking out for marmots as you go. Or simply drink in the views from one of the mountainside restaurants.

There’s also the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car. Hop in and you’ll be transported up to a viewing platform at 3,883 metres (12,740 feet) above sea level. From here, on a clear day, you can spot 38 mountains over 4,000 metres (13,125 feet).

Back down in Zermatt, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to places to eat. You can dine out in upscale restaurants, relax in casual bars and fuel up in cosy cafés. There’s also an underground museum, called Zermatlantis, to check out, along with plenty of shops for picking up souvenirs.

4. Bernese Alps

The Bernese Alps, or Bernese Oberland, are a region of the wider Swiss Alps. One of the stand-out places you’ll want to see here is the Jungfrau region. It spans two valleys that connect the town of Interlaken with the mountain villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.

What’s more, the area is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. These three peaks are steeped in mountaineering heritage. But thanks to excellent infrastructure, you could experience them for yourself with relative ease.

For instance, you could take a train up the slopes of the Jungfrau. Or stand at the bottom of the Eiger’s north face, just a short hike from Kleine Scheidegg rail station.

Meanwhile, in the valleys and Alpine meadows, you’ll spy charming villages of timber chalets. And the soundtrack to your days will likely be the soft ringing of Swiss cowbells. 

When you’re travelling between Bern and Zürich, make sure you get to spend some time in the city of Lucerne. It’s best known locally for its medieval architecture and the wooden Chapel Bridge, which dates from the 1300s.

The city is also renowned as a hub for classical music. The annual Lucerne Festival has been held here since 1938. Depending on when you travel, you could catch a performance over the summer.

Better still, the city sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne. This means you can take boat trips on the lake – an excellent way to see Lucerne from a different angle. You could even take to the water on a vintage paddle steamer.

There’s lots more to see and do in Lucerne, including visiting the Swiss Transport Museum or nearby Meggenhorn Castle. You could also take a cable car up Pilatus mountain for unrivalled views over the lake. Or simply relax at one of the city’s lakeside parks.

Nestled at the northern end of Lake Maggiore, you’ll find the town of Locarno. And being just a 30-kilometre (19-mile) drive from the border with Italy, this is an Italian-speaking region of Switzerland.

For unmatched views over Lake Maggiore, head for Madonna del Sasso, an ancient pilgrimage spot. Use the funicular to get to the sanctuary’s viewpoint perched high on the hillside. Once you’re here, you could take some time to tour the museum’s artefacts.

Fun fact: Locarno is one of the sunniest places in Switzerland.

Just imagine soaking up summer rays from the town’s Piazza Grande – gelato in hand, of course! In the piazza, you’ll be surrounded by buildings painted in those characteristic Italian shades of pistachio green, lemon yellow and terracotta red. Dreamy.

• You could visit these exciting destinations on a complete Swiss road trip
• Related: Fun facts about the Alps

How to visit Switzerland in summer

Now you know what you could experience in Switzerland, what are you waiting for? Whisk yourself off on a self-drive tour of Switzerland this summer.

Book with Nordic Visitor and you’ll have your own dedicated travel consultant, based in Lucerne, to take care of the planning for you.

This includes arranging your accommodation and rental car, along with giving you insider insights to make your road trip extra special. You’ll also get a hand-marked map with personalised recommendations for attractions and restaurants.

Contact our Swiss team , and get ready to discover the joy of summer in Switzerland. 

Born and raised in Scotland, Catherine has a background in trip organisation and design. When not travelling, or writing about travels, you can find her rock climbing and exploring remote corners of Scotland. Her top travel experiences include cycling along India’s Brahmaputra River, wandering the souks of Marrakech, and mountaineering in the Alps.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The 11 most incredible places to visit in Switzerland: be inspired

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Switzerland, it really is this stunningly beautiful © scaliger / Getty Images

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it,  Switzerland gets pretty darned close. 

The Alps ripple across 60% of the country, and the landscapes and towns look like they have been dreamed up by a particularly imaginative child. We’re talking glacier-capped peaks, crash-bang waterfalls, turreted castles of the fairy-tale kind and lakes in the most surreal shade of turquoise blue. Red trains curl up mountains to improbable heights and clanging cowbells ring out across hilly meadows that you can skip down with Heidi-like glee.

Even the culture-filled cities have magnificent backdrops of vineyards, lakes or rivers, and the mountains are never more than a whisper away. As natural beauty goes, Switzerland is off the charts. That makes it a joy to travel around , whether by train, bus or car. Here are the 11 best places to visit in Switzerland.

1. Jungfrau

Best for outdoor activities

The idyllic Jungfrau region is the icing on the Alpine cake of Switzerland’s  Bernese Oberland . Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. Grazing the 4,000m (13,123ft) mark are Switzerland’s "big three:" Eiger (Ogre), Mönch (Monk) and Jungfrau (Virgin), enshrined in mountaineering legend.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to the everlasting snow at Europe’s highest train station, 3,454m (11,332ft)  Jungfraujoch . Hike, ski, sled and zip-line among mountains of myth in  Grindelwald , enjoy waterfalls galore in  Lauterbrunnen  and tackle every kind of extreme sport imaginable in  Interlaken (skydiving, ice climbing, glacial bungee jumping – you name it). The Jungfrau region is the great outdoors on a blockbuster scale.

Planning tip:  Rush this region and you’ll regret it. Allow a week or more to dive in deep if you have the time. It's worth it. 

Best for stepping back in time

Bern often pops up in those I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital trivia questions, but frankly, Switzerland’s first city deserves more love. The cobbled, flag-bedecked medieval  Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treat, with 6km (3.7 miles) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, fantastical folk figures topping 16th-century fountains and the eye-grabbing  Zytglogge . Framed by wooded hills and split in two by the turquoise Aare River, this red-roofed city looks good from pretty much every angle. It’s pure storybook stuff for kids, too, with its giant who snacks on children (the  Kindlifresserbrunnen ) and  resident bears .

Sights-wise, you’ll be drawn to big-hitters like the  Einstein-Haus  (where the genius and Nobel laureate developed his theory of relativity), the  Kunsthaus  (with its outstanding fine arts collection) and Renzo Piano’s wavy Zentrum Paul Klee (Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim).

In summer, the action’s on the water with swimming, tubing, rafting and paddleboarding along the Aare River.

3. Geneva and Lake Geneva

Best for a cosmopolitan city experience

In Switzerland’s western crook, crescent-shaped Lake Geneva  (Lac Léman to Francophones) is a joy to behold with its mountain backdrop, spirit-lifting views, vineyards and shoreline necklaced with handsome cities and castle-crowned towns.

Marked by its rainbow-kissed  Jet d’Eau fountain and Mont Blanc peeping up on the horizon, Geneva wraps around the lake’s southern shore. The worldly city makes an excellent launchpad for exploring with big-hitting museums and galleries to absorb, botanical gardens to stroll, lidos to swim at, Old Town cafes to hang out in and bright-yellow mouettes  ferrying locals across the water – surely one of the world’s most scenic commutes.

Planning tip: It’s a quick boat or train hop to  Lausanne , which can culturally give Geneva a run for its money, especially with its  Plateforme 10 arts district , the lovely terraced vineyards of the  Lavaux  wine region (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and flower-draped  Montreux , host to one of the world’s most famous jazz festivals, with the picture-perfect  Château de Chillon right on its doorstep.

Best for hiking, skiing and rock-climbing

No peak has more pulling power than the 4,478m (14,692ft) Matterhorn, a terrific, gnarled fang of rock that flings up above the seductive, timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt . It's Switzerland’s mountain icon, so beloved by the nation that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is more than a one-mountain wonder. Climbers have been rocking up here since the mid-19th-century, and it’s still a magnet for challenging summit ascents today. Otherwise, come to hike, ski and gaze over a sea of glaciers and 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise . 

5. Swiss National Park 

Best for wildlife (and wildflowers) spotting

Switzerland has just one national park? Yes, we know it’s a shock, but trust us it’s a good one. Snuggled away in a remote corner of the country’s southeast on the border with Italy, the 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile)  Swiss National Park is the Alps in overdrive: a nature-gone-wild spectacle of high moors, forests, wildflower-freckled pastures, waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and mountains as high as the sky, where ibex, chamois, marmots, deer and golden eagles roam and fly free.

Planning tip: Start off on the right foot with the inside scoop on walking trails and ranger-led guided hikes at the visitor center in Zernez.

6. Bellinzona

Best for piazza dining

With medieval castles rising high and the Alps rearing beyond, good-looking Bellinzona in Ticino is a taste of the best of Italy's best food and culture in Switzerland. You’ll find a generous splash of Italian flair in its historic center, woven with flower-draped alleys, Renaissance churches and cafe-rimmed piazzas that brim with life, laughter, clinking glasses and the out-of-tune toll of countless campaniles. 

Planning tip:  Top of any wish list is seeing the castles, among them hilltop Castelgrande , which can be drawn out into a full day’s activity (bring water and comfortable shoes). 

7. Jura Mountains and Lac de Neuchâtel 

Best for road tripping

In the dark forested hills along the French-Swiss border, the Jura Mountains are a natural wonder. This peaceful region has a beauty all its own: meadows of green, ancient forests, rocky outcrops overlooking a trio of lakes against an Alpine backdrop and slow-paced villages and valleys little changed in centuries. 

Begin with a road trip . Kick off at the Jura Vaudois Nature Park for hikes with dress-circle views of Lake Geneva and Gruyère cheese tastings at rustic Alpine huts. Swing north to Lac de Joux, the watchmaking village of Le Sentier, and Vallorbe, honeycombed with Switzerland’s biggest (and most impressive) limestone caves.

Tag on a trip to Lac de Neuchâtel and you can bathe in the thermal waters of Yverdon-les-Bains, tiptoe off the map in the lushly rolling Val-de-Travers (birthplace of absinthe) and the crescent-moon canyon of Creux du Van . Cultured Neuchâtel is a fitting climax with its fantasy of a lavishly turreted château.

8. Lake Lucerne

Best for sunset promenades

Reclining on the shores of its glittering namesake  lake ,  Lucerne  is a walkable, medieval dream of a city that has a magic you can’t quite put your finger on. It will grab you when you are strolling along the promenade as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and pinks or as you cruise across its waters to mountains of myth: 2,132m (6,995ft) Mt Pilatus, where Wagner raved about the Alpine panorama and Queen Victoria trotted on horseback, and 1,797m (5,896ft) Rigi, with a light so sublime Turner painted it in three different moods.

The little city punches far above its weight culturally with its iconic medieval Kapellbrücke  bridge leaping across the Reuss River and the Jean Nouvel–designed  KKL arts center and  Sammlung Rosengart  harboring a prized private collection of Picassos. Ambling past the belle époque hotels lining its shores, the same views that captivated Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner in the 19th century will hold you in their thrall.

Planning tip: With more time on your hands, you can really get out on the lake. Cruise across fjord-like, mountain-rimmed Lake Uri for a taste of Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heartland. Boats ply the glassy turquoise waters to  Rütli , birthplace of the Swiss nation.

9. Appenzell and northeastern Switzerland

Best for a bucolic Swiss experience

Northeastern Switzerland might not have the in-your-face drama of higher realms of the Alps, but it nevertheless delights in its own serene, deeply rural way with dairy country unraveling to meet the mountains and half-timbered, gaily muralled towns all fit for a postcard. This pocket-sized region is perfect for a family vacation with a hit of culture and gentle adventure.

Begin in St Gallen, with a spin round its World Heritage  Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), a literary marvel and a feast of rococo art and architecture. Move on to folksy, ridiculously pretty Appenzell, popping into the  Schaukäserei to sample regional cheeses.

Muscling further south into the Alps, head on up to Säntis at 2,501m (8,205ft) for views embracing six countries and then go to  Werdenberg , a tiny speck of a medieval hamlet home to Switzerland’s oldest timber chalets.

Planning Tip: Close by is  Vaduz ,  Liechtenstein ’s princely, castle-topped capital on the banks of the Rhine.

Best under-the-radar city experience

Popularity-wise, poor old  Basel barely gets a look. But that’s a mistake. Straddling the Rhine, this city has everything going for it: world-class art in some of the country’s best galleries, a hot food scene, avant-garde buildings bearing the hallmark of Pritzker Prize–winning architects and an upbeat cafe culture.

Allow several days for a satisfying romp of the center, where must-sees include the  Kunstmuseum and its fine arts collection, the Renzo Piano-designed  Fondation Beyeler and the Frank Gehry-designed  Vitra Design Museum .

Planning tip: Basel endears itself most to those who look beyond the trophy sights, with sundown drinks by the river or a wild swim in the Rhine. Rent a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag) at the tourist office, strip to your swimming suit and go with the flow, floating downstream past the city’s landmarks.

Best place to live

Regularly landing at the top in quality-of-living surveys, urban dynamo Zürich never seems to miss a beat: from cool waterside bars on the banks of the Limmat River to its alley-woven Old Town, where the twin-spired Romanesque Grossmünster shines with Augusto Giacometti’s rainbow of stained glass. Le Corbusier’s boldly colored architectural creations and the edgily post-industrial Züri-West neighborhood notch Zürich's culture cred up even further.

Planning tip: In mid-August, Zürich throws one of Switzerland’s wildest parties: the techno-pumping Street Parade. 

This article was first published Sep 20, 2021 and updated Nov 24, 2023.

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Switzerland in Summer | Best Places to Visit & Things To Do

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Thinking of visiting Switzerland in summer? Discover the ultimate guide to Switzerland in its most magical season.

Switzerland is hands down one of the most beautiful countries in Europe . In summer, Switzerland transforms into a vibrant paradise, with lush green landscapes and crystal-clear lakes. It’s the perfect time to experience Switzerland’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

My husband is from Switzerland so we visit multiple times every year and every season. I have seen it all and I think summer is an incredible time to visit Switzerland if you want to experience the vivid blue lakes, lush greenery, and ample hiking opportunities, all paired with a warm sunny climate.

Keep reading for the complete guide to Switzerland in summer and how you can enjoy this stunning European gem to the max.

You also might be interested in:

• 4 Days in Switzerland Itinerary
• Switzerland in Winter
• Most Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland
• Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland
• Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland
• 25 Best Things to do in Switzerland

(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See  disclosure  for more information.)

In This Post

Switzerland in Summer Overview

Switzerland in summer is the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The season is the ideal time to experience Switzerland in full bloom where bright green valleys and vibrant blue lakes are calling you to enjoy hiking, swimming, and boating.

Cities and towns are all alive with outdoor cafes and festivals, while the longer, sunny days offer more time to explore historic sites and scenic countryside.

From hiking mountain trails in the Alps to walking through vineyards, Switzerland’s summer presents a diverse array of experiences, perfect for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK this TOP RATED Day Trip from ZURICH to make the most of your time in SWITZERLAND!

Weather in Switzerland in Summer

The weather in Switzerland during summer (June to August) varies by region but it is generally warm and sunny making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Here’s a breakdown by month:

June : ➡️ Temperature : Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), though it can be cooler in mountainous regions. ➡️ Rain : ~11 rainy days.

July : ➡️ Temperature : It’s the warmest month, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), but higher altitudes remain cooler. ➡️ Rain : ~10 rainy days.

August : ➡️ Temperature : Similar to July, August has average temperatures between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Nights can be cooler, especially in the mountains. ➡️ Rain : ~10 rainy days.

What to Wear in Switzerland in Summer

Dressing for summer in Switzerland involves being prepared for a range of activities and varying weather conditions. Here’s a guide on what to wear:

➡️ Layered Clothing : Swiss weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Wear layers that you can easily put on or take off. Include a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, and a lightweight fleece or sweater.

➡️ Waterproof Jacket : Even in summer, rain showers are possible. A lightweight, waterproof jacket or a raincoat is essential.

➡️ Comfortable Footwear : If you plan on exploring cities or hiking, comfortable shoes are a must. For city walking, sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are ideal. For hiking, good quality hiking boots or trail shoes are recommended.

➡️ Sun Protection : The sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes. Bring sunglasses, a sun hat or cap, and sunscreen.

➡️ Trousers and Shorts : Include both trousers and shorts in your packing list. Trousers are versatile for cooler days or when hiking, while shorts are perfect for warmer days.

➡️ Swimwear : If you’re visiting lakes or pools, don’t forget your swimwear.

➡️ Dressy Outfit : For evenings out or dining in upscale restaurants, a dressy outfit like a nice dress or a shirt and trousers might be appropriate.

➡️ Accessories : Consider a small backpack for day trips, a water bottle, and perhaps a compact umbrella.

💡 INSIDER TIP: The weather will vary quite a bit depending on where you go! If you plan to go to the top of some mountains you can even expect some snow.

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Summer

Interlaken, located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is a must-visit in Switzerland during summer. Famous as an adventure sports hub, it offers activities like paragliding (top rated tour listed below), skydiving, and hiking.

The town also serves as a gateway to the Jungfrau region, where the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau moutnains offer one of the most stunning backdrops in the country. In summer, the vibrant green landscapes and clear blue lakes come alive, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor experiences.

This unique setting makes Interlaken a special summer destination, combining the tranquility of Swiss lakes and moutains with the exhilaration of outdoor adventures.

➡️ Going Paragliding is one of the TOP things to do in Interlaken. CLICK HERE TO BOOK this Top Rated EXPERIENCE!

Lucerne is best known for its picturesque blend of medieval architecture and stunning natural landscapes and is top place to visit in Switzerland in the summer season. The city is famous for its well-preserved old town, Chapel Bridge, and the Lion Monument.

Summer brings Lucerne’s surroundings to life, with boat tours on Lake Lucerne and excursions to nearby Mount Pilatus and Rigi offering the ultimate Swiss adventure.

The warm weather and clear skies only amplify the city’s charm, making it ideal for exploring its historic streets, and vibrant cultural scene, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Swiss countryside.

Lucerne is one of my favourite cities in Switzerland that has just about everything – small town feeling, beautiful lakes, and nearby mountain adventures!

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK the Top Rated Boat and Walking Tour of LUCERNE!

Zermatt, renowned for its dramatic views of the iconic Matterhorn, is a standout destination in Switzerland, especially in summer. During summer, this town transforms into a hiker’s paradise, offering a ton of different hikes in a range of difficulty – all with a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

➡️ Read More: Best Places to Visit in Europe in November

Summer in Zermatt also offers some unique experiences like skiing on the Theodul Glacier (YES you can ski here in summer!). The warm weather and clear skies provide the perfect conditions for outdoor activities like paragliding – a Swiss must do experience!

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK the Top Rated Boat Paragliding Experience in Zermatt.

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is easily one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland and a personal favourite of mine! Known for its 72 waterfalls, including the spectacular Staubbach Falls, the valley of Lauterbrunnen is like something from a movie with its vibrant green grass, huge cliffs and traditional houses.

Summer in Lauterbrunnen is perfect for hiking through its lush landscapes and exploring the charming villages. The longer daylight hours and warmers temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities like paragliding and cable car rides to breathtaking viewpoints.

💡 INSIDER TIP: Visit Lauterbrunnen in the morning / early afternoon since this is when the sunlight hits the main waterfalls and the look the most impressive!

Saint-Saphorin

Saint-Saphorin is a hidden gem in the heart of the Lavaux vineyard terraces and an amazing place to visit in Switzerland in summer. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a local secret that offers a bit of French vineyard culture while in Switzlernad

➡️ Click here to book a guided Lavaux wine walk!

This charming village is renowned for its narrow, cobbled streets and traditional winegrowers’ houses. In summer, the vineyards are lush and green, offering beautiful walks and wine tastings with stunning views over Lake Geneva.

The warm weather and clear skies make it perfect for exploring the terraces, enjoying local wine, and immersing in the tranquil beauty of the Swiss Riviera.

💡 INSIDER TIP: Parking is pretty difficult to find here. Look on the street but don’t get too far into the village as its pretty tight!

Geneva shines in summer with its unique mix of natural beauty and city flair. Located alongside the picturesque Lake Geneva, the city comes alive with vibrant outdoor cafes, lush parks, and a bustling waterfront.

Summer is perfect for boat tours on the lake, exploring the Jet d’Eau, and relaxing in the iconic Bain des Pâquis. This is also a great time to sample some world famous Swiss Chocolate with a chocolate tasting tour !

The season’s warm weather and clear skies enhance outdoor festivals and markets, making Geneva a special and lively summer destination, where international charm meets stunning natural landscapes.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK the Top Rated Chocolate Tasting Tour in GENEVA!

Lausanne is a beautiful cityi known for its hilly old town and the Olympic Museum. In the summer it comes alive with outdoor festivals, lively markets, and street performances.

Summer is perfect for lakeside strolls, swimming, and boat trips. The warm weather enhances visits to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, offering wine tastings with spectacular views.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK an AMAZING self-guided walking tour and scavenger hunt of the city!

Montreux, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, is a highlight of the Swiss Riviera, especially in summer. Famous for the Montreux Jazz Festival, the city buzzes with music and cultural vitality during this season.

Stroll along the flower-lined promenade, visit the medieval Chillon Castle , and enjoy boat trips on the lake. Summer brings the best out of Montreux’s mild climate, making it perfect for outdoor dining and exploring the nearby vineyards.

The combination of its cultural events, stunning lake views, and the backdrop of the Alps makes Montreux a captivating and lively summer destination.

➡️ Click here for entrance tickets to Montreus most famous attraction: Chillon Castle!

Appenzell , with its picturesque landscapes and traditional Swiss charm, is a delightful summer destination. Known for its colorful houses and rural customs, the town offers a glimpse into authentic Swiss culture.

Summer is ideal for exploring the rolling green hills and hiking the Alpstein range. The warmer months bring the region to life, with alpine meadows in full bloom and traditional festivals showcasing local folklore and music.

Lake Lugano and Ticino

Lugano and the Ticino region, known as the Swiss Mediterranean, offer a unique blend of Swiss and Italian cultures, making them enticing summer destinations. The area is famed for its lush landscapes, palm-lined lakes, and mild climate.

Summer in Lugano is perfect for enjoying Lake Lugano’s activities, exploring charming towns like Bellinzona and Ascona, and hiking in the nearby mountains. The region’s vibrant festivals, outdoor markets, and exquisite Italian-inspired cuisine add to its allure.

Ticino’s blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and relaxed ambiance makes it a distinct and captivating place to visit during the Swiss summer.

➡️ Click here to book the BEST private guided tour of Lugano & Morcote, Lake Lugano.

Things to do in Switzerland in the Summer

Summer experiences.

➡️ Boat Tours : Enjoy boat cruises on lakes like Geneva, Lucerne, and Zurich, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cities.

➡️ Swimming in Alpine Lakes : Experience the crystal-clear waters of lakes such as Lake Thun or Lake Brienz for a refreshing swim.

➡️ City Exploration : Cities like Bern, Geneva, and Zurich come alive in summer with outdoor cafes, street festivals, and vibrant nightlife.

➡️ Cheese and Chocolate Tasting Tours : Indulge in Switzerland’s famous cheeses and chocolates through guided tours that offer insights into their production.

➡️ Wine Tasting in Lavaux Vineyards : Explore the terraced vineyards of Lavaux on the shores of Lake Geneva, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and taste some of Switzerland’s finest wines.

➡️ The Eiger Trail : Offering close-up views of the North Face of the Eiger, this trail is both thrilling and scenic.

➡️ The Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt : This hike provides stunning views of the Matterhorn and leads you past five beautiful alpine lakes.

➡️ Lauterbrunnen Valley : Hike through this valley, known for its 72 waterfalls, lush meadows, and towering cliff faces.

➡️ Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee : A relatively easy hike that rewards with breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps and the Bachalpsee lake.

➡️ The Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail : Experience awe-inspiring views of the largest glacier in the Alps.

Cultural Activities

➡️ Attend Local Festivals : Summer is the season for festivals in Switzerland. Don’t miss events like the Montreux Jazz Festival or Fête de la Musique.

➡️ Visit Swiss Museums : Explore the Swiss National Museum in Zurich or the Olympic Museum in Lausanne for a cultural treat.

➡️ Castle Tours : Switzerland is dotted with historic castles; Chillon Castle and Thun Castle are must-visits.

Adventure Activities

➡️ Mountain Biking : Try the trails in Verbier or Davos for some of the best mountain biking experiences.

➡️ Paragliding : For a bird’s-eye view of the Swiss Alps, paragliding in Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen is a must.

➡️ Canyoning and River Rafting : The rivers and canyons of the Swiss Alps offer thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth visiting switzerland in summer.

Absolutely, visiting Switzerland in summer is AMAZING. Honestly, I love Switzerland in all seasons but summer is amazing because everything is open and available to enjoy! All hikes are open and in good conditions, boat tours are running, and in some places you can even ski!

The pleasant climate, vibrant cultural festivals, and scenic beauty offer a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing a different, yet equally charming side of this typically winter-associated country.

Is July a good month to visit Switzerland?

Yes, July is an excellent month to visit Switzerland. It’s the peak of summer, offering warm temperatures and long, sunny days ideal for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes.

From hiking in the Alps to enjoying lakeside activities and attending vibrant cultural festivals, July provides the perfect conditions to experience the best of Switzerland’s outdoor and cultural offerings.

Is Switzerland cheaper in summer or winter?

The cost of visiting Switzerland doesn’t vary significantly between summer and winter. However, winter can be slightly more expensive, especially in ski resort areas due to high demand for skiing and winter sports.

Summer offers a wider range of affordable outdoor activities and accommodation options outside premium ski resorts, potentially making it a more budget-friendly choice.

Which Month is the Most Beautiful in Switzerland?

The “most beautiful” month in Switzerland can vary depending on personal preferences and what you want to experience. However, many find September to be particularly stunning.

During this time, the summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still pleasant, and the landscapes begin their magnificent transformation. The forests start displaying vibrant autumn colors, and the mountains remain majestically snow-capped, offering breathtaking views.

The mild temperatures are ideal for hiking and exploring both the cities and the countryside. Additionally, the early autumn harvest brings a bounty of local food experiences. September in Switzerland strikes a beautiful balance between the lushness of summer and the golden hues of fall.

Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance before you travel is a MUST. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before travelling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress.

With how crazy travel has gotten recently you need that peace of mind that no matter what happens there is something protecting you from losing out. I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should.

I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should. Below is my favorite travel insurer Safety Wings , enter your details to get a free quote!

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Samantha Karen is the owner and author of the travel blog Sam Sees World, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the world's most beautiful and unique travel destinations. As a full time traveler she has visited over 50 countries with more on the way.

Top Things to Do in Switzerland

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One Week Itinerary

Most Scenic Train Routes

Switzerland's Nature Parks

How to Go Skiing

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Matterhorn Complete Guide

The Most Beautiful Lakes

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Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

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The Best 17 Places to Visit in Switzerland

It's no secret that Switzerland has scenery in spades. The small European country is big on towering, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, storybook villages, and vibrant cities. For active vacationers, Switzerland offers virtually every winter sport, including, of course, some of the world's best skiing, plus hiking, biking, climbing, hang-gliding, and other temptations for adrenaline junkies. There's also plenty to fill a more leisurely vacation, with hearty cuisine, including what some say is the world's finest chocolate, high-end shopping, first-rate museums, and, at every turn, another gobsmacking panorama.

Switzerland is a year-round destination, and it would take many, many trips to see all that it has to offer. But assuming you don't have a lifetime to explore the country, here's our list of the top 17 places to see in Switzerland.

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Switzerland's largest city is a stunner—at once historic and modern, cosmopolitan and bohemian. Divided by the Limmat River and wrapping around Lake Zurich's shores, Zurich offers some of Switzerland's best museums, Swiss and international dining , and Bahnhofstrasse—rightfully called the world's most expensive shopping street. Plan to spend much of your time in the Altstadt, or Old Town, and enjoy at least one traditional meal in a restaurant housed in a former medieval guildhall. Many a tour of Switzerland begins or ends here, as the city is seamlessly connected to the rest of the country and Europe, thanks to the ultra-efficient Swiss Rail System .

©GenèveTourisme; ©www.geneve.com 

Switzerland's second-largest city, French-speaking Geneva sits at the southwestern end of Lake Geneva and has a long lakefront promenade on two shores offering views of the famous Jet d'Eau fountain. Geneva is one of Europe's most expensive cities in which to live; that prosperity is felt in its elegant streets and parks, high-end shopping avenues, and five-star hotels with luxury sedans parked out front. But the city is also rich in history, as the center of the Swiss Reformation and, today, the home of the International Red Cross and the United Nations.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Swiss capital of Bern sits on a sharp bend in the River Aare in the western part of the country. Its Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to so many well-preserved medieval buildings. But the undisputed star of the show is the Zytglogge, the fascinating astronomical clock that Einstein is said to have studied when developing his Theory of Relativity. Bern Minster has the tallest church spire in Switzerland and a stunning main portal. Those with more modern tastes can head to Zentrum Paul Klee, a museum dedicated to the country's most famous artist.

Like so many Swiss cities, pretty, walkable Lucerne occupies a magnificent setting—this time on Lake Lucerne with the Alps as a backdrop. The 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of the most photographed sights in Switzerland, and Lucern's medieval Altstadt (Old Town) looks much the same as it did hundreds of years ago. The innovative Swiss Museum of Transport  is the most visited museum in Switzerland.

Lake Geneva

 MontreuxRiviera.com

With one shore in Switzerland and one shore in France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is a sparkling, half-moon shaped international playground. On the Swiss side, it offers the elegant city of Geneva; relaxed Montreux , famous for its jazz festival; and Lausanne, home of the International Olympic Committee. The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux wine region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—some date back to the 11th-century. Last but definitely not least, 12th-century Chillon Castle is everything a castle should be—complete with a (partial) moat, dungeons, and a keep.

David Hanson/GettyImages 

The smallest Swiss canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden is set in the rolling hills south of Lake Constance. This is storybook Switzerland, complete with villages of brightly painted houses, folk traditions, and residents in traditional costume. In the fall, the cows literally come home, as herdsmen bring their cattle—decked out in bells and flower garlands—down from the mountains for the winter. Appenzell's car-free village is a center for folk-art, traditional festivals, baked goods, and yes—yodeling.

St. Moritz & the Engadine

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St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set, and its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and tony apres-ski scene are fun to dip into. Non-one-percenters might prefer some of the smaller, more down-to-earth towns and villages of the sunny Engadine Valley, known for its glaciers, snowy peaks, glacial lakes, forest, and folk culture. Listen closely, and you may hear Romansch being spoken—the ancient Latin-based language is still taught in the Engadine schools. The area is also a summer paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and windsurfers.

Interlaken & Jungfrau

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Set between lakes Thun and Brienz, the pleasant town of Interlaken is the most convenient base for exploring the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland—the region of glaciers, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes that offer postcard views at every turn. From Interlaken, a system of trains, cable cars, and cogwheel rails connect to the region's major ski areas and the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. For more than a century, it’s been the highest railway station in Europe. There, a high altitude playground awaits, with observatory platforms offering multi-peak views, the Eispalast (Ice Palace) walk inside a glacier, plus restaurants, and, of course, more skiing.

Lugano and Ticino

You'd be excused for thinking you've crossed over into Italy once you reach Ticino, the region wedged between the Alps and the Italian border. There's a distinctly Mediterranean vibe here, and Italian, not Swiss, is the first language. Lakes Lugano and Maggiore shares shores with Italy and offers a summertime playground for hiking, sailing, and swimming, with a touch of la dolce vita thrown in. Lugano's lakefront city is the bustling regional hub, but climb—or take a cable car—up any mountain to discover sleepy, rustic villages, clean air, and traditional country inns and restaurants.

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Something looms large over the car-free, stylish-yet-traditional mountain town of Zermatt—the Matterhorn. Europe's most famous mountain peak draws hordes of visitors to this otherwise sleepy town in the valley for skiing, ice-climbing, and arduous summer hikes and mountain biking. There's plenty of passive sightseeing to do here as well, and the views never disappoint. A mountaineering museum, traditional restaurants, luxe spas, and cozy—if not cheap—hotels can keep you pleasantly occupied here for a few days.

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Near Lake Constance and the border with Liechtenstein, historic St. Gallen has a car-free center, a UNESCO-listed abbey and cathedral, and a textile-making tradition more than a thousand years old. The Rococo-style abbey library, stocked with 170,000 priceless volumes and documents, is a must-see here. There's a full cultural program in this important university town, as well as easy access to biking, hiking, boat rides on Lake Constance, and jaunts into Germany, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

Andrew Bain / GettyImages 

Pass the cheese, please. Though there's more to this charming medieval town than its namesake cheese, it would be a shame to leave Gruyères without sampling traditional raclette or fondue and visiting the Maison du Gruyère, where they make—you guessed it. In-between bites of cheese, visit the imposing 13th-century Gruyères Castle and take in the pastoral countryside. Oh, and did we mention there's a chocolate factory here, too?

Great St. Bernard Pass

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Connecting Italy to Switzerland, the Great St. Bernard Pass has been a strategic gateway for the continent—long before the Romans first laid claim to it. The St. Bernard Hospice is still here, as are the iconic St. Bernard dogs—though they perform fewer mountain rescues than they once did. You can drive over the scenic pass or spend the day crossing it on foot, stopping at cozy village inns for hearty sustenance along the way.

Rhaetian Railway

 Dirk von Mallinckrodt / GettyImages

It's all about the journey rather than the destination when you climb aboard one of the Rhaetian Railway trains, the network of scenic Alpine train rides that includes the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express . Panoramic train cars allow for sweeping views of passing glaciers, glacial lakes, mountain passes, and dense forests. The astonishing engineering feats of these high-altitude train tracks are reason enough to make the trip on at least one leg.

Trümmelbach Falls

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If you're visiting the Jungfrau, be sure to stop and see where all that spring snowmelt goes. Trümmelbach Falls are a series of falls that crash through a scenic gorge, carrying waters of the Jungfrau as they roar through underground caverns and pools. A series of elevators, bridges, and pathways puts visitors right in the spray of the mighty falls, which are closed in the wintertime.

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Palm and lemon trees give Locarno a nearly tropical feel. Switzerland's warmest city sits on Lake Maggiore and is the relaxed alternative to busy Lugano. Wandering the narrow streets of the town, strolling along the lake, and having a coffee or aperitivo on Piazza Grande—these are the simple pleasures of Locarno. A hike or funicular ride up to the Madonna del Sasso pilgrimage church rewards with breathtaking views of the lake, the town, and the surrounding mountains. From there, explore the villages and streams and waterfalls of the surrounding Valle Verzasca.

 Alexander Spatari / GettyImages

Literary Lausanne has inspired writers and artists through the ages, no doubt inspired by Lake Geneva's views, the city's pedestrian-only medieval center, and, perhaps, its mighty Gothic cathedral. Divided between upper and lower towns connected by a subway, Lausanne the smallest city in Europe with a metro system. It's the International Olympic Committee's home and a sporty vibe pervades—as evidenced by all the bikers, walkers, swimmers, and sailors.

Switzerland Travel Guide

One Week in Switzerland: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

The Top 9 Scenic and Novelty Train Rides in Switzerland

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Switzerland

The Most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

The Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Getting Around Switzerland: Guide to Public Transportation

Best Lakes to Visit in Europe

11 Great Day Trips From Zurich

The 5 Best Day Hikes in the Swiss Alps

The Complete Guide to Switzerland's Nature Parks

Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Hikes in Switzerland

The Top 15 Things to Do in Geneva, Switzerland

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

Janoka82/Getty Images

Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

Related Articles

15 Best Swiss Cities To Visit (Not Just The Popular Ones)

Switzerland is a land of impeccable beauty. Once you have been there, you can’t get going back off your mind. Believe me, it’s true, I always long for the mountain views, swims in lakes, and the stunning scenery you discover while hiking and skiing. 

But, there is more to Switzerland than amazing landscapes to immerse yourself in, it is also full of beautiful cities that are worth spending some time in too. 

Whether you are looking for culture, a cosmopolitan vibe, or a fun place to base yourself while you explore the mountains, there is a picturesque city that will give you just that.

Join me as I run through the best cities in Switzerland in detail so you can learn all about them and choose the best cities to visit while you are there.  

Table of Contents

Geneva is a very international city and one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Sitting on the shores of Lake Geneva, the views across beautiful Lake Geneva are stunning, and you can see the alps in the background too. 

Being home to the United Nations Headquarters, the World Bank, and countless other international organizations, a large part of Geneva’s population are ex-pats. It is also the second largest city in Switzerland so there is a lot to do. 

From museums to great restaurants, bars, art galleries, fun water activities, and exploring the surrounding mountains, you will never be bored in Geneva. 

Some of the top sights in Geneva include the CERN collider , the observatory, and the Patek Philippe Museum which teaches you all about luxury Swiss watches.

Be sure to explore the Old Town of this charming city with its narrow passageways, and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum are a must too. 

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is nestled in the heart of the country, between Geneva and Zurich . Bern’s location is great for exploring the rest of the country as it is a short train ride to the mountain resorts of the Swiss Alps and all the great cities in Switzerland too. 

It is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland with its charming Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), many beautiful fountains, and the crystal clear waters of the Aare River running through it. 

There is a lot to do in Bern. You can swim in the River Aare in the warmer months, explore the Old Town, visit the Einstein Museum , art galleries and lots more. Einstein actually lived in Bern when he formed his theory of relativity. 

A view not to be missed is at the top of the St. Vincent Cathedral, a Gothic-style masterpiece with two towers. At the top of one of the towers, you can see across the city and into the snow-capped mountains.   

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with a population of 1.42 million people. It is also the economic hub of Switzerland and as the other capital city, and is thus the richest city in Switzerland too. 

Located on the northern side of Switzerland, Zurich is also a beautiful city. Sitting on the shores of Lake Zurich with the Limmat River running through it and surrounded by small mountains, it is very picturesque. 

Being such an affluent and large city, it is great for fine dining and luxurious shopping along the high-end retail stores and small boutiques of Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich is also a bit of a cultural hub in Switzerland and is home to hundreds of art galleries and world-class museums . 

Do not miss a visit to the Swiss National Museum, a stroll around the beautiful Old Town, and be sure to see the Grossmunster Cathedral too. 

In the summer, there are lots of great hiking trails in the surrounding hills and the lake is a buzz with outdoor bars. Swimming and sunbathing in the lake and river are a must in the warmer months. 

Interlaken is more of a big town than a city, but it might just be the most beautiful city in Switzerland in my eyes. Nestled in the middle of Switzerland, not far from Bern, it sits between two alpine lakes on the banks of the river that connects them, with the Alps just down the road. 

You couldn’t ask for more incredible scenery and the beautiful lakes are different colors too, one turquoise and one deep blue. 

You will find a lively music scene in Interlaken as well as great restaurants and a few cultural sights. But, this place is more about having fun in the mountains and lakes. Take a boat cruise around the lakes, swim, fish, paddleboard, and swim in the warmer months. 

In winter, mountain resorts are just down the road and you can access the stunning Jungfrau region from here in just 30 minutes. The likes of Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch are just a stone’s throw away. 

Basel is the third largest city in Switzerland and is located on the banks of the Rhine River, right on the border with Germany and France in north Switzerland. It is known for being very artsy and is home to a lot of galleries and museums you can spend your time exploring. 

The museums not to miss include the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you are traveling with kids, the toy museum Welten is a lot of fun. 

In the summer, life revolves around the River Rhine and with 300 days of sun a year, it is no surprise why. The bars and restaurants lining the banks of the river are a great place to spend an evening. 

You can spend your days swimming in the river, sunbathing on the beaches, canoeing, paddle boarding, or on a river cruise. 

Lugano is in the southern part of Switzerland in the Italian-speaking part of the country and is just across from the Italian border. It is very different from the major Swiss cities to the north as it has a big Italian influence both architecturally and in its food. 

The beautiful architecture is only beaten by the beautiful scenery. Sitting on Lake Lugano, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it is hard to beat. It is, without a doubt, one of the best cities in Switzerland and is very popular with tourists. 

There is a lot to do in and outside of the city. Take to the pre-alps for hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter. Swim in the lakes, explore the valleys, go on boat tours, or just chill on the beaches of Lake Lugano. 

While in town, sample the amazing Italian cuisine, see the architectural sites of the San Lorenzo Cathedral, the amazing library (Biblioteca), explore the Hermann Hesse Museum, Museo Cantonale di Storia Naturale di Lugano, and more. 

Lausanne is also on Lake Geneva, another international city home to the International Olympic Committee. It is filled with people from across the globe who love to be active in nature and it couldn’t be better located for it.

In the winter months, winter activities are available just down the road in the mountains. The lake offers great swimming, rowing, sailing, fishing, canoeing, and more. 

I spend every evening in Lausanne on the beach in the summer and there is nothing quite like swimming in clear waters with the alps as your view. 

There are also a lot of cultural sites in Lausanne as well as great chocolate, cheese, and Swiss wine. The famous Lavaux Vineyards are just down the lake in Lutry so tasting some of the local wine is a must. 

Other things not to miss are the Olympic Museum, the Old Town , the City Hall, and all the great restaurants too. 

Lucerne is another of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Between its location on Lake Lucerne and the banks of the Reuss river and being surrounded by mountains, its natural beauty is mind-blowing, 

Throw in the well-preserved medieval Old Town, and architectural sites like Chapel Bridge , and you have one of the best cities in Switzerland. 

In the summer, the lake shores are dotted with beach bars, there is a great music scene, you can be on the top of Mt Rigi and Mt Pilatus within an hour, and anything from hiking, boat tours, swimming, canoeing, paddle boarding, skiing, paragliding, and more are all on offer.

Things not to be missed are Chapel Bridge, Sammlung Rosengart Picasso Museum, Swiss Museum Of Transport, the Lion Monument, Glacier Garden, and the Jesuit Church, plus a stroll around the Old Town is magical. 

Chur sits in eastern Switzerland amongst the Alps and is the oldest city in Switzerland at over 5,000 years old. It is a small city surrounded by meadows and mountains on the upper Rhine River. 

Being so old, it is draped in history and is home to a car-free Old Town that you have to explore when you visit. 

Other great things to see are the Bishop’s Palace and the Saint Mary Cathedral of Assumption and there are a few museums too which are all about the history of the city and the area. 

Access to the mountains is excellent from Chur. You can ride the cable car from town to go skiing in winter or for great hikes and views in summer. 

Fribourg lies between Bern and Lausanne on the banks of the Sarine River and is more of a small town than a city, but is a city nonetheless. 

Like most of the cities in Switzerland, it has a medieval Old Town packed full of history featuring great architecture in the form of the Baroque Loreto Chapel, Hauterive Abbey, and the St. Nicholas Cathedral. 

In the summer, life is all about being near the river and its numerous beaches. You might even find musical performances on the beach while you are there, and being a university town, they are packed full of energy. Open-air cinemas are also a lot of fun to attend in the summer. 

In winter, you can explore the numerous museums and even catch a festival or two. The St. Nicholas Parade before Christmas is very festive and in February, the Fribourg Carnival takes over the streets.  

Montreux sits on the eastern end of Lake Geneva, down from Lausanne. Famous for the Montreux Jazz Festival, Chillon Castle, and Charlie Chaplin Museum, and being where Queen recorded a lot of records, it is an awesome city. 

The Alps are right behind Montreux creating an amazing view from everywhere in the city, especially along the lake. Between spending time on the water in summer or hiking, and being in the mountains in winter, it is hard to beat. 

Be sure to hike along the lake to nearby villages, see the Chillon Castle , and if you are there before Christmas, experience one of the coolest Christmas markets in Switzerland. 

Neuchâtel is another stunning city to visit in Switzerland. Sitting on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel in northern Switzerland with the Jura mountains to the west, it offers a lot of activities from hiking to swimming and exploring the Old Town Center and Swiss Heritage Sites. 

The delightful medieval quarter is lovely to stroll around. You’ll see the 12th Century Château de Neuchâtel and Collégiale and a visit to the Natural History Museum is also recommended. 

If you love to hike, the Jura mountains aren’t far away, and nearby is the amphitheater canyon of Creux du Van. In the winter, you can be on the slopes in less than an hour enjoying the local ski resorts. 

Sitting close to the shores of Lake Constance in northern Switzerland is the little city of St Gallen. Known for its beautiful Old Town with cobblestone streets, small alleyways, and beautiful architecture. 

The Abbey of St. Gall is something not to miss with its huge baroque library full of books, some of which are hundreds of years old. There is also a beautiful cathedral with two towers which is part of the Abbey that is a must-see also. 

Just north of Zurich is the little city of Winterthur it is packed full of history and is a great place to visit in Switzerland if you are looking for art, architecture, and museums. 

There are many things to do in the city of Winterthur . Strolling around the Old Town you will see houses from hundreds of years ago in various architectural styles. 

The Fotomuseum Winterthur is an awesome exhibition of some of the best photographers in the world and the two art museums of the Oskar Reinhart Collection have works by the likes of Cezanne and Monet. 

A tour around the old ​​Kyburg Castle is a must too as you explore every part of this well-preserved castle from the dungeons to the kitchen.  

La Chaux-de-Fonds

La Chaux-de-Fonds is a little city on the French border north of Neuchâtel in the Jura Mountains at 1,000 meters above sea level. It is the highest city you can visit in Switzerland and it is beautiful. 

The city combines architecture with nature seamlessly thanks to the famous architect Le Corbusier who was born there. There are 23 Swiss Heritage sites in the city to visit along with valleys, mountains, and meadows with hundreds of hiking trails.  

It is also the home of Swiss watches and a visit to the International Museum of Watchmaking is very much worth it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best swiss city to visit during winter.

This is a hard question to answer as it comes down to your personal preference. I would say Lucerne is one of the best cities in Switzerland to visit in winter. 

Not only is it packed full of cultural sights, but it is also beautiful, and you can access great skiing on the many mountains close by. If you happen to be there before and/or over Christmas, the city will be decorated with lights, and trees, and be filled with markets and a ton of festive cheer. 

Lucerne is also more affordable to visit in winter as accommodation costs go down, and the crowds will be to a minimum too! 

What is the best Swiss city for young adults?

One of the best cities in Switzerland for young adults is Lausanne in my eyes, but Geneva, which is just down the lake, is also a great bet. 

What I love about Lausanne is that it is not too big, but there is a fun young international crowd who love to be active in nature. This has a lot to do with the International Olympic Committee being based there as they employ sporty people from all over the world.

Lausanne’s location on Lake Geneva is also great. In the summer you are a short walk away from beaches, a swim, and lots of water sports. In winter, the ski slopes aren’t far away either. 

Geneva is similar to Lausanne but a lot bigger. If you prefer big cities, then Geneva might suit you a little better. 

Interlaken is also a great city in Switzerland for young adults, particularly if you love adventure sports. The compact city is built around young people having fun. Accommodation is more affordable, and you can access the Alps, lakes, rivers, and more within just a few minutes on a train.    

Which Swiss City is the best to live in?

The best Swiss city in Switzerland to live in would either be Geneva or Zurich. 

Geneva is full of ex-pats and therefore has a very international crowd which makes finding friends very easy. It also has excellent schools, it is easy to find work there as tons of international organizations are based there, and its lakeside location is stunning.  

Access to rivers, lakes, and mountains is very easy, you can be in France in minutes, and the international airport connects you to anywhere in the world. 

Zurich is a little different from Geneva, still quite similar but it is a much bigger city than Geneva, so if you are used to London or New York, it might suit you better. There are lots of International Organizations there as it is the economic hub and the largest city in Switzerland.

Zurich is well placed to explore Switzerland from, it is also lakeside and riverside for summer fun, and its airport is the main international hub too. 

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17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

Nestled in central Europe and dominated by the Alps, the best places to visit in Switzerland are downright sublime.

When it comes to jaw-dropping landscapes, quaint small towns, and enchanting cities that perfectly blend the past, present, and future, nowhere does it quite like Switzerland.

Many people (us included) put off planning trips to Switzerland’s beautiful corners for years because of its deserved reputation for high prices–but the best Swiss travel destinations are so incredible that, while expensive, you never doubt that you’re getting your money’s worth.

To help get you excited about planning your bucket list Switzerland vacation, we’ve worked with several other travel bloggers to round up the most magnificent places in Switzerland to visit!

Whether your dream Swiss trip involves Alpine hiking, lake swimming, skiing, or simply eating lots of fondue while overlooking the mountains, there’s an incredible getaway in Switzerland here for you.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland!

Table of Contents

Stunning Cities to Visit in Switzerland

Beautiful small villages + mountain towns in switzerland, more of the best places to visit in switzerland, map of the most beautiful places in switzerland to visit.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From Rachel of Rachel’s Ruminations

Basel is a lovely little city with a historical core that is just perfect for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere.

The houses are simple and charming, some dating to the Middle Ages.

Art dots the streets: fountains, decorative sculpture, and painting on the centuries-old buildings as well as amusing modern art, like the dragon sculpture that breathes actual smoke!

“Reaction ferries” – no motor or sails – carry passengers across the Rhine between the two halves of the city.

If you like to see historical sights, the Romanesque and Gothic Basel Cathedral is one of the best sights in Basel , and climbing the spire to see the view is also worth the effort.

Three of the original city gates still stand, restored to their medieval glory, and the bright red Rathaus (city hall) is quite a sight too.

The more modern Tinguely fountain is an amusing cross between a fountain and a kinetic sculpture.

The Foundation Beyeler, on the edge of town, houses a truly exceptional collection of modern masterpieces by major artists such as Rothko, Picasso, Monet, and Mondrian. It’s just outside of town but easy to reach.

Basel is a year-round destination, but summer is the best season for enjoying the outdoor attractions and architecture.

However, December brings a different charm: Basel is home to what is widely considered to be the best Christmas market in Switzerland!

From Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Snowcapped mountains, half-timbered houses, and a city that seemingly rolls down a hill right into the most pristine lake, upon which steamboats glide to and back from France: this is the storybook city of Lausanne, in the  Vaud-region .

Built atop three hills, the very first thing you will want to bring with you is a good pair of walking shoes. Start at the Lausanne Cathedral for some of the best views over the entire city, walk down the famous wooden staircase ( Escaliers du marché ) into the heart of the city at the  Place de la Palud , which contains a clutch of restaurants and bars as well as the oldest working fountain of the city.

Meander through the tiny streets until you hit  Palais de Rumine , a Renaissance palace well worth a visit.

The buzzing Flon district is great for a night on the town, or grab a drink at Brasserie Montbenon if you are looking for a more intimate setting.

Make your way to Lake Geneva at the foot of Lausanne, where you’ll find a variety of watersports on offer throughout the year.

Time permitting, hop of a steam peddler to Chillon Castle.

On the way make a brief stop at the UNESCO Lavaux vineyards, to try a glass of locally-produced wine.

From Zoe of Together In Switzerland

For one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, consider booking your next Swiss getaway in Lugano!

Located in the heart of the Italian-speaking Ticino region, Lugano is beautiful to visit all year round.

However, the best time for  Lugano is in the summer , with long warm days and lots of local events in the city.

Since Lugano is well known also for its Lake Lugano, one of the best things to do after exploring and shopping in the city is to get out onto the lake!

You can rent cute red little paddle boats for a minimum of 30 minutes, or else book a larger boat trip that includes sightseeing at some local villages nearby. 

Lugano also is home to two funiculars that you can take up either Mount San Salvatore or Monte Bre.

Both nearby mountains are just above 900 in elevation and both have gorgeous views of the lake and the city of Lugano.

Summer is especially beautiful at each top mountain as they both have a restaurant serving drinks and food late into the night.

From there, you can see the sunset from above as well as watch the city light up in the darkness. 

If you’re visiting Switzerland in the summer, it’s also a must to bring your swimsuit to Lugano as you should not leave without swimming in the lake!

There are a few dedicated swimming areas to choose from, such as at Lido Riva Caccia right in the city center. 

From Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

When looking for the best travel destinations in Switzerland, you won’t want to miss the lakeside city of Geneva.

The city is in the French-speaking region of Switzerland and is located right next to the border of France, not far from Annecy.

In addition to being a beautiful city with lots of French-style architecture, Geneva’s location along Lake Geneva makes it an ideal Swiss city to visit.

The most iconic attraction in Geneva is the Jet d’eau Geneve, a 140m tall water jet in the middle of Lake Geneva.

After seeing the fountain, you can walk along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in the nearby Jardin Anglais.

The flower clock features over 6,500 flowers that create the watch’s face.

No trip to Geneva would be complete without paying a visit to Palais de Nations.

You’ll see the flag of each country that is part of the United Nations!

So if you’re looking for places to visit in Switzerland, consider Geneva, and make sure you visit during the summer months to minimize your chances of rainy weather!

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

One of the best places to visit in Switzerland is the picturesque city of Lucerne.

Whether you are spending  one day in Lucerne  or enjoying a longer trip, this German-speaking city nestled along the River Reuss is a beautiful travel destination.

One of the best things to do in Lucerne is to visit the Kapellbrücke, a covered pedestrian wooden bridge that spans the river in the city that dates back to the 14th century.

The Kapellbrücke has unique architecture and there are historic interior paintings that are very interesting to see.

If you like the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuer Bridge is another must-see!

Other top attractions in central Lucerne include climbing the towers along the Musegg Wall for incredible views of the city and Lake Lucerne and visiting the Swiss Museum of Transport .

Another one of the best things to do in Lucerne is to spend time on Lake Lucerne to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. You can ride the ferry or go swimming in the summer.

While visiting Lucerne, don’t miss the chance to head up to Mount Pilatus , either–not only are the views incredible but getting to the top includes riding the steepest cog railway in the world!

From Sarah of CosmopoliClan

Nestled amidst rolling green hills and hugged by the crystal-clear Aare river, lies the city of Bern.

It’s the political epicenter of Switzerland with the Bundeshaus as the seat of the Swiss Parliament.

Bern’s picturesque Old Town may be compact, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site has a lot offer.

Visiting the Zytglogge, or Clock Tower, is one of the most popular of  things to do in Bern .

This landmark featuring a bear parade, golden rooster and time god Chronos as it strikes the hour, seems to come straight out of a story book.

As you stroll the elegant flag-lined streets of Bern, you’ll notice the many colorfully decorated water fountains.

Other architectural highlights are the stately arcades and the vaulted cellars that guarantee a pleasant shopping or dining experience regardless of the weather.

For a wonderful view over the city, climb the 312 steps to the viewing platform of the Bern Minster. This cathedral has the highest spire in all of Switzerland.

Behind it, you’ll find the Mattelift which will take you to the lower-level Matte district with its artistic flair and half-timbered houses.

From there, you can cross the Aare river to the Bärengraben where you can meet some of the city’s most famous residents: the bears.

The legend goes that the Duke who founded Bern would name the city after the first animal he encountered while hunting and that happened to be a bear.

End your visit at the Rosengarten park and take in the most spectacular panoramic view over the Altstadt and the white mountain peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

From Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland , with no shortage of things to do.

It’s also a beautiful city, with the Limmat River flowing through the old town and Lake Zurich at one end, surrounded by mountain peaks.

Among the best things to do in Zurich is to spend some time in the historic old town.

This has picturesque cobbled streets and squares to wander through, with beautiful churches, wonderful cafes and restaurants, and a 17th-century renaissance town hall.

Boat trips run along the river and around the lake; the ferry stops at Zurichhorn for the chance to walk around the park and visit the small pretty Chinese Garden with its lake and colorful temples.

Zurich also has a number of fascinating museums to visit.

These include the Swiss National Museum, the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum , the Rietberg Art Museum, and the FIFA World Cup Museum dedicated to the history of football.

For visitors looking for some relaxation, there is the rooftop thermal pool at the Thermalbad and Spa that provides views out across the city.

Zurich is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year.

The summer months are perfect for walking around the lake or dipping in the water in one of the city’s lidos.

In the winter, there is skiing in the nearby mountains and ice skating in the city.

The city’s streets are lit up, and there are cozy cafes to pop into to warm up with the local fondue. At Christmas, the city hosts several markets.

Though deservedly famous for being expensive, Zurich has a range of accommodations to suit most Switzerland-friendly budgets.

The Hotel Montana near the main train station is ideal for short city breaks.

For more luxury, The Dolder Grand , with its hilltop setting, complete with an ice rink in winter, is a great option. 

From Megan of Megan & Aram

Interlaken, also known as the “Adventure Capital of Switzerland”, is a gorgeous place that can be visited in any season!

There are so many things you can do regardless of whether  you visit in winter   or summer… you just need to dress appropriately for the weather.

Go kayaking on beautiful Lake Brienz in all seasons, and relax on the beach after a swim session in the summer.

Interlaken has many fantastic hiking trails to choose from, and some of the most popular ones are Oberburghorn or Hardergrat.

You can take the funicular up the mountain to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, where you can enjoy the stunning views and dine at the Panorama Restaurant.

To see the countryside from another perspective, take a hot air balloon ride!

And for even more views, take Europe’s highest railway to Jungfraujoch, where you will get breathtaking views from an elevation of nearly 3,500 m (about 11,500 ft).

You will never get tired of the spectacular scenery no matter how many viewpoints you go to!

Travel back in time by visiting the following fairytale-like places: St. Beatus Caves, a cave system over a kilometer long where legend says St. Beatus ousted a dragon living there in the 6th century; the medieval Thun Castle; or the charming village of Grindelwald.

Interlaken is a must-visit location in Switzerland and should be added to every itinerary!

From Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina.com

Mürren  is a beautiful, small village in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland.

Situated at 5400 feet (ca. 1,646 m) above sea level, this car-free village can only be accessed by cable car or mountain train.

Visitors can get there within 10 minutes from Stechelberg with the Schilthornbahn or take the iconic mountain train via Grütschalp to travel to Mürren within 20 minutes.

The views from Mürren are beyond stunning and will enthrall every nature and mountain-loving traveler.

Mürren and the Schilthorn peak came to fame thanks to a James Bond movie. Take the cable car further up to Birg and Schilthorn to discover Bond World and enjoy brunch in the Piz Gloria rotating restaurant.

From there you can spot the Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger peaks.

Adventure lovers will enjoy the Brig Via Ferrata trail, a rock climbing, zip lining, and tight rope walking trail further down.

Every season is beautiful and has its perks in Mürren, but the warmer months are more suitable to go hiking and paragliding.

Skiing and snowshoe walking are popular winter activities in the area.

A winter wonderland awaits you from December to March with plenty of snow and snow-dusted Swiss mountains.

From Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

Home to the world-famous Matterhorn, Zermatt has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.

So, yes, it can get very busy. But the fabulous mountain scenery more than makes up for that.

While the iconic Matterhorn dominates the skyline, the town is completely surrounded by impressive mountains and fantastic viewpoints, many of which are accessible by cable car .

Truly a year-round destination, Zermatt is one of the top skiing destinations in Switzerland in the winter, while in summer it attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over to enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, white-water rafting, and, of course, hiking.

If you have your heart set on seeing the Matterhorn , try to give yourself a few days in Zermatt in order to increase your odds of clear weather.

Along with a wide variety of gorgeous day hikes, Zermatt serves as the start or end point of the incredible  Walker’s Haute Route , a phenomenal 2-week hut-to-hut trek through the Alps that is arguably the best long-distance hike in Europe.

Secluded at the top of a picturesque valley, Zermatt is closed to vehicles (except for electric hotel and work shuttles), making it a wonderful place to wander on foot.

While long-time visitors to Zermatt lament the ever-growing number of hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, they make it a very easy place to have fun and every new building still conforms to the town’s classic ski town vibe.

Those looking for a luxury stay with amazing Matterhorn views should check out the Europe Hotel & Spa , although there are practically endless Zermatt accommodation options to fit most budgets.

Baden, Switzerland

By Nina of Nina Out and About

Baden is the spa capital of Switzerland, yet most people have never heard of it.

Unlike Bath in the UK, Baden has remained off the beaten paths for tourists, and even most  expats who live in Switzerland .

Baden is a small town located in Aargau, about 20 minutes by train from Zurich.

It’s routinely confused with Baden-Baden in Germany (even when you try to buy a ticket to visit). But don’t be fooled: it does exist!

Baden’s claim to fame is the natural springs that have made it a popular spa destination for centuries.

The most well-known is the Friedensquelle (“Peace Spring”), but there are several others to explore as well.

In addition to its spas, Baden is also home to a beautiful old town with plenty of shops and restaurants. There’s also an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the town’s springs.

You can try out the hot springs for free along the riverside.

There’s a bench with a trough of natural hot water that you can put your feet in while you enjoy a hot chocolate or takeaway pastry.

The spa inside has evening and early morning discounted tickets, which will allow you to enjoy the spa when it’s nearly empty.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Zurich to one of the most underrated places to visit in Switzerland, Baden is the perfect place to head.

The best time to visit Baden is in the spring or summer when the weather is warm and you can enjoy all the town has to offer.

Lauterbrunnen

From Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

Lauterbrunnen is a village at the base of the stunningly beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland region, and it is indisputably one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland!

It is the epicentre of this bucolic area, which boasts of pretty waterfalls, steep snow-capped mountains and quaint wooden chalets, and there are plenty of  things to do in Lauterbrunnen  and the surrounding area.

In the village itself, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to scenery. On either side of the village, there are green hillsides dotted with chalets and sheer cliff faces.

The stunningly delicate and impossibly tall Staubbach Falls seem to be falling on the village – although they are actually just a short walk outside it.

And the best view of all is southward across the village towards Lauterbrunnen Church.

Looking in this direction, you see the pretty church steeple flanked on either side by the steep valley walls and the Staubach Falls, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps behind them.

It is so picture perfect, it almost doesn’t feel real!

To explore the countryside around Lauterbrunnen, there are hiking and cycling trails, and you can also take trains and/or cable cars to the neighbouring car-free alpine villages of Mürren and Wengen.

You can also take a series of trains from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch for an up-close look at one of Switzerland’s remarkable glaciers.

For a reasonably affordable stay, with good food and a chance of gorgeous views from your room, check out the Hotel Oberland .

From Marianne of Pasta, Pretzels & Passports

Located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Lucerne, in the heart of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, lies the picturesque town of Entlebuch.

Covering a 22-square-mile area, the town is home to only 3,300 people.

But don’t let its size fool you! Entlebuch is one of the prettiest towns you will ever see.

And if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, or canoeing, then this town is definitely one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Entlebuch offers more than 60 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails.

You can also choose one of the 13 loop trails that wind through gorgeous forests, along clear rivers, and through mountain meadows.

But if you are looking for something truly unique, head over to  Stillaub Lama  where you can go Lama-Trekking with a guided tour! Enjoy an incredible hike accompanied by llamas.

If canoeing is something that interests you, the Canoe Club in Entlebuch offers canoe rentals or even guided excursions.

Paddle along the scenic Emme (Emmenuferweg) river between Hasle and Entlebuch.

And although summer is an incredible time to visit Entlebuch, if you like winter activities, the town has plenty to offer at that time of the year as well.

From snowshoeing to winter hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, you won’t find a more scenic location.

And after an exhilarating day of exploring this incredible area, head back to town where you will find several excellent restaurants serving local cuisine.

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

On the banks of Lake Geneva stands the charming resort city of Montreux, which happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

The town looks out over the entrancing splendor of the surrounding countryside as it lies peacefully tucked away within the Swiss Alps.

The architecture of the historic cities and the ancient castles of Montreux has made it a place worth exploring.

The ideal months to visit Montreux are from April to October, but you’ll also find a charming Swiss Christmas market here in December!

The French-speaking Vaud region of Switzerland, which stretches from Lausanne to Montreux, is the heart of the Swiss Riviera and has a distinct Mediterranean character.

The lakeside resorts provide a surreal view of the lush green landscape, where you can unwind.

It’s one of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations due to its gorgeous lakeside location, expansive vineyards, and mountains, hills, and valleys.

Take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Geneva to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the lakefront villages.

You can visit the Freddie Mercury statue, wander along the Old Town’s streets, and circle the Montreux Lake.

It is unusual to visit Switzerland without trying  Swiss chocolate , the country’s most well-known delicacy.

The chocolate train on the Montreux-Berner Oberland Railway is devoted to the world’s most delicate temptation.

The famous Château de Chillon, which is about a 30-minute walk from Montreux, is another reason to visit.

This 13th-century fortress comes from the Middle Ages and features a beautiful view of the lake.

From Michelle C. of Intentional Travelers

When it comes to beautiful places in Switzerland to add to your bucket list, nothing compares to the Alps.

Nendaz, a small ski resort town up in the mountains, is popular for both winter and summer activities.

Arrive via train to Sion, in the valley, and then take a Postbus up to town.

The drive up the winding mountain road is a beautiful initiation to the area with spectacular views.

In the summer and fall, there are great hikes leaving from town so be sure to pack  walking shoes !

Several of the trails in the region follow along the “ bisses ,” or old waterways, in and out of small villages and farms, through the hills and forests.

The ski lift to Tracouet’s Black Lake provides another panoramic perspective and more hiking trails.

The vacation rental options in Nendaz are abundant, although many of the hotels close in the shoulder season (fall).

Staying in Haute (“high”) Nendaz not far from the Tourist Office is best for easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, bus stops, and the ski lift.

Nendaz can also be a good base for day trips to other excellent Switzerland travel destinations like Sion, Martigny, Zermatt, and even places a little further like Spiez, Interlaken, and Bern.

Ascona, Switzerland

From Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

The small lakeside town of Ascona is located in Ticino, the sunny, warmest, and most charming place in Switzerland.

Indeed, it boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and its mild climate makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

There are always plenty of delightful things to do in Ascona, regardless of the time of year.

From hiking to discovering the holy Monte Verità, and from soaking in the Maggia or Verzasca Valley surrounded by magical waterfalls to visiting historical museums such as Castello san Materno, Galleria Borgo, and Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna.

And, of course, the Ascona lido is always tempting in the summer.

Don’t forget to walk along the famous lungolago, where there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine.

From this promenade, you can take an electric train around Ascona to discover the local attractions.

Or, you can take a boat to Brissago Island in the middle of Lake Maggiore letting you live an exciting story of only Switzerland’s Botanical Garden on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, this little hidden gem is an incredible Switzerland travel destination to add to your bucket list!

Bernina Express

It’s hard to say whether a train ride counts as a Switzerland travel destination–but then again, trains in Switzerland are a bit more exciting than just about anywhere else.

Famous for being one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, the Bernina Express runs from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, covering truly spectacular scenery along the way!

Featuring nearly 200 bridges and more than 50 tunnels along the way, this 4-hour scenic journey definitely belongs on your Switzerland bucket list.

Dramatic views of the Alps, glaciers, the soaring bridges, and more are waiting to be enjoyed through panoramic windows.

Be sure to book this Swiss travel experience in advance–the train is deservedly popular, and gets booked up quickly!

Schynige Platte

From Amela of Stay Wild Travels

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland, then visiting the summit of  Schynige Platte  is a must.

In order to get there, you’ll need to hop on board the Schynige Platte-Bahn, an old-fashioned, historic railway that leaves from the small village of Wilderswill which is not too far from Interlaken.

It chugs slowly up the mountainside and offers fantastic views, which is an incredible experience in itself.

Once you’ve arrived at the summit, you’ll find a plethora of hiking trails, a restaurant and a botanical alpine garden, to name a few.

The most popular hiking trail is the Panorama Trail. As the name suggests, this offers unmatched views over the Jungfrau Region, including the three major peaks in the area: Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger.

You’ll be able to visit Schynige Platte from the end of May to the end of October.

Those looking for a traditional stay among the mountains are in luck, as the restaurant also offers doubles up as a popular hotel .

The rooms are quaint with Swiss décor and offer picture-perfect mountain views.

It’s worth noting that Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a discount on the trip, and Jungfrau Pass holders have a visit included with their card.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)”

One place that should be a must to visit when in Switzerland is the Rheinfall (Rhinefall) near Schaffhausen which also is a beautiful town. It is less then 1 hour from Zurich. PS: A small typo, the river in Lucerne is called Reuss, not Neuss

Thanks, Thomas, I’ll get that fixed. 🙂

And yes, I hear the falls are supposed to be gorgeous!

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Lenzerheide, hikes: hiking & trekking, advertisement, region schwyz, bischofszell, grindelwald, feldis / veulden, st-gingolph.

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10 Things to do in Switzerland in Summer for 2024 + Bonus Tip!

Switzerland is an all-year-round destination with every season offering a different palette of activities. Having said that, there are certain things to in Switzerland in summer , which can only be enjoyed at to the hilt in the sunny climate.

The summers are stunningly colourful with green valleys full of yellow and white flowers, clear blue skies, emerald lakes and snow-capped peaks (yes, even in summer).

There's influx of tourists in the months of May, June, and July to make the most of their summer travel in Switzerland, as many believe the alpine country is most vibrant in this season.

Keeping in mind that you would love to cover some mountain trips, lakesides, castles and the best choice of towns, here are few must-see-and-do activities that can help you plan your summer holiday in Switzerland.

1. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - Zermatt

One of the main tourist attractions of Switzerland is the Matterhorn. Located in Zermatt, this one mountain has become one of the most recognisable symbols of the country.

There are various points from which one can try to get the best views of this mountain and one such is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise .

Reach Matterhorn Glacier Paradise via cable car. It offers guaranteed snow throughout the year. The view of the pyramid shaped peak of the Matterhorn reveals itself in all its majestic glory and tells you exactly why it is the most photographed mountain in the world.

You can also marvel at a panorama of numerous other 4000-metre high peaks.

If your Switzerland itinerary permits, try to spend at least a couple of nights in Zermatt. This charmingly Swiss village is car free and filled with quaint chalets, a buzzing village centre and numerous hotels and apartments for every budget.

2. Jungfraujoch - Interlaken

No traveller to Switzerland can resist a stay in Interlaken and a trip to the Jungfraujoch-Top of Europe , the most popular excursion in the Bernese Oberland.

The excursion begins with a train journey from Interlaken to the mountain resort of Grindelwald.

Once there, you'll board the cogwheel train for a spectacular ride to the Europe's highest railway station at 3454 metres via Kleine Scheidegg.

The Great Altesch Glacier begins at Jungfraujoch and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once at the peak, take time to check out the attractions like the Ice Palace, Ski & Snowboard Park, the Sphinx observation terrace and the various restaurants.

Like most peaks, you will get a discount on the ticket if you hold a Swiss Pass . Jungfrau is one of the more expensive mountains, so holding the Swiss Travel Pass really helps, especially since your kids under 16 years of age will travel free if you hold the pass.

Junfraujoch is one of the most popular things to do in Switzerland in summer as it guarantees snow at the peak even during this time of the year.

3. Mt. Pilatus - Lake Lucerne Region

Central Switzerland has a lot of tempting peaks but the Dragon Mountain Pilatus is unique.

The peak rests right in the city and besides Lake Lucerne. If you are travelling in summer, you may get to experience the Golden Round Trip of Mt. Pilatus .

This includes a trip by Boat on Lake Lucerne up to Alpnachstad. After the scenic boat ride, you can take the world's steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad to the summit and for your descent, choose the Aeriel Cable way to Kriens.

Spend some time at the peak and have a meal at one the restaurants with an amazing panoramic view of the surrounding Alps.

On your way down, you can also stop at Frakmuntegg to try out the longest toboggan run and then try the Dragon Glider from Frakmuntegg to Drachenalp which will give you an amazing aerial view of the forests below.

If you still have some time, you can spend the evening discovering the lakeside town of Lucerne with its iconic symbols of the Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge.

Zurich is often overlooked in itineraries or used just as an entry or exit point. Zurich is a vibrant city with lots to offer.

Spend a night or two in Zurich and discover its amazing Old Town with narrow cobbled streets, small family run cafes, artisan shops and churches.

Spend time walking along the lake side and the Bahnofstrasse, Zurich's main shopping street, with outlets of every famous watch, jewellery and fashion label that you can think of.

Zurich has amazing museums dedicated to art, natural history, trams, money and even football. Everyone likes a zoo and Zurich's zoo is not to be missed.

In the evening, head for Uetliberg- a local mountain, which will give you panoramic views of the city.

Some of the museums are included in your Swiss Travel Pass cost and some offer reduction with pass.

5. Rhine Falls - Schaffhausen

If you are staying in Zurich or even in Lucerne, you can make a day trip to the Rhine Falls - the biggest waterfalls in Europe.

You can reach the falls within an hour with a train from Zurich (the nearest station to the falls is Schloss laufen am Rheinfall).

It is one of the best things to do in Switzerland in May and July since the glaciers melt during this time and the density of water peaks.

You can also take a boat trip which takes you closer to the falls and feel the icy refreshing splash of the water. The cost of the boat trips vary depending on their duration (from CHF 8 to CHF 20).

One of the many benefits of Swiss Pass is that the ride up to Rhine Falls is included in the pass cost.

6. Jet boat ride - Interlaken

Interlaken, which means between two lakes, is set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. These beautifully serene lakes offer all kinds of cruises.

You can just hop on to a public transport boat and explore various lakeside villages, or take an evening cruise that may also have dinner included.

The best, however, is an adrenaline pumping Jetboat ride on Lake Brienz. This exhilarating ride gives you 45 minutes of full 360-degree spins, twists and turns during which it will cover an approximately 30 km route.

The ride takes you close to the imposing Giessbach Falls, which add a bit of adrenaline to a scenic sightseeing trip.

On the same day, you can also cover an excursion to Harden Kulm . It's just a small walk from Interlaken Ost train station to the Harder Railway Valley Station.

The modern funicular takes you to the summit in just 10 minutes. You may enjoy your lunch/dinner at the viewing platform, which gives you the bird's eye view of the Jungfrau Region and the scenic city of Interlaken!

7. Chateau de Chillon, Montreux

Switzerland has numerous castles but none as famous as the Chateaux De Chillon. This castle, beautifully perched on an outcrop on lake Geneva is Switzerland's most visited historical monument attracting over 4,00,000 guests per year.

Lord Byron was so fascinated by the castle he penned the poem The Prisoner of Chillon. He also carved his name on one of the pillars of the castle! The castle can take almost half a day to cover and can be done either as an independent or a guided tour. Make sure you take the audio guide so that you learn about the 14th century paintings, subterranean vaults and parade halls.

In case you are not staying in Montreux, you can also do this as a day trip from Lausanne or Geneva.

Tip: The entrance to the castle is free for holders of the Swiss Travel Pass holders.

Gstaad is pure paradise. It is a resort that attracts the rich and famous to either holiday or even settle down there.

Gstaad offers a beautiful village centre with numerous boutiques, an amazing range of hotels to suit all budgets and the most stunning Alpine surrounding.

It is a year-round resort famous for skiing in the winter, and many prefer walking/hiking as a thing to do in Switzerland in summer.

One of the main attractions around Gstaad is the Glacier 3000 , a summit covered in snow all year round. You can get to the Glacier 3000 by taking a short bus ride from Gstaad (bus stop just outside the station) to Col Du Pillon and then a cable car from there to the peak.

It is known for the special attractions like Peak Walk by Tissot - the world's first suspension footbridge spanning two summits along with an Alpine Coaster - the highest bobsleigh track, Husky dog sled rides & the snow bus.

Including Gstaad in your Switzerland tour package , will give you an ultimate feel of vacationing in the Swiss country, and of course, because summer is among the best time to visit Switzerland.

9. Glacier express

Switzerland is famous for its trains, which run with clockwork precision just like their watches. The most famous of these trains is the Glacier Express also lovingly called the World's Slowest Express Train.

This train connects the two famous mountain resort towns of Zermatt and St Moritz and traverses the amazing landscape between the two.

The journey from one town to the other takes just under 8 hours passing through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges.

The huge panoramic glass windows ensure that you get the unobstructed views of the beautiful landscapes and make you feel one with nature.

This one is not to be missed.

If your program does not allow you to fit in a full day on the train, you can also do a part of the journey from Zermatt to Chur and then continue to Zurich from there.

Tip: The journey on Glacier express is included in your Swiss Travel Pass but a separate seat reservation is mandatory at an additional cost.

The largest town in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, Lugano offers all the advantages of a world-class city with its Mediterranean flair.

Due to its geographic position at the Southern tip of the country bordering Italy, Lugano offers a completely different look and feel with its warmer climate and palm tree lined lakeside promenade.

Monte Bre and San Salvatore, the two mountains closest to Lugano offer stunning views of the town. Morcote and the fishing village of Gandria can be visited via boat.

The Swiss Miniatur is Melide is a perfect place to spend time with the family.

11. Shopping

Everyone likes a good bargain! After you have had your fill of all that nature has to offer, head off to Foxtown in Mendrisio (20 minutes from Lugano). Foxtown Factory Stores has 160 outlets that offer 30 to 70 percent discounts on branded goods all year round. The complex has bars, restaurants and even a casino so make sure its your lucky day!

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Things to See in Switzerland in Summer

Here is a list of some of the best things to do in switzerland in summer:, quick navigation.

Visit Jungfraujoch

Pay A Visit To Rhine Falls

Witness Views From Harder Kulm

Experience The Paddle Boarding At Lake Geneva

Skydiving In Interlaken

Mountain Biking At Rothorn

Trummelbach Waterfalls

Explore Matterhorn Mountains

Ride The Bernina Express

Wine Tasting at Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces

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The clock is installed in one of the city’s oldest monuments, which was built in 1191 as a tower. The working clock was added in 1530 and was the authoritative clock in Bern from the 16th to 19th century. This popular landmark has played different roles for the city of Bern over the centuries. Know how a devastating fire destroyed the tower in 1405 and how the structure was rebuilt and given a new identity.Till date, the clock is functioning and captivates its visitors who gather five minutes before each and every hour to watch its nearly one-of-a-kind performance. At the strike of each hour, the mechanical figures of bears, a joker, a golden rooster and Chronos, the God of Time, perform and enthral its spectators.

Step into the awe-inspiring world of The Cathedral of Bern, an exquisite Gothic masterpiece in Switzerland. With Thrillophilia Europe packages, Admire its soaring spire, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained glass windows. This historic cathedral holds immense religious and cultural significance, as it serves as the principal church of Bern.The Cathedral of Bern offers a serene and spiritual ambiance, inviting visitors to reflect and marvel at the architectural brilliance that has endured through the centuries. From its sweeping views of the city to its impressive architecture and religious heritage, this landmark promises an unforgettable experience.A visit to The Cathedral of Bern is a journey through time, where spirituality, history, and architectural artistry converge. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, appreciate Gothic architecture, or simply wish to embrace Switzerland's cultural treasures, this cathedral stands as a testament to Bern's enduring charm and religious legacy.

Titlis Cliff Walk in Engelberg, Switzerland, is an exhilarating attraction that promises an unforgettable mountain experience. Perched at an altitude of 3,041 meters (9,944 feet) above sea level, it is Europe's highest suspension bridge and a true engineering marvel. The Cliff Walk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, including the iconic Mount Titlis.Visitors can access the bridge via the Titlis Rotair, the world's first revolving cable car, which adds to the thrill of the journey. With our Europe packages, you'll step onto the suspended pathway, you'll be surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys below.The Cliff Walk is designed with safety in mind, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, the Titlis Cliff Walk provides a unique opportunity to witness the magnificence of the Swiss Alps from a truly breathtaking vantage point. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the enchanting region of Engelberg.

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Discover Switzerland: The 20 Best Places To Visit

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, pristine lakes, charming cities, and Alpine adventures. From vibrant cities to serene mountain villages, Switzerland offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the 20 best places to visit during a trip to Switzerland.

Lauterbrunnen Valley

Jungfraujoch, grindelwald, lake geneva, swiss national park, rhine falls, bernese oberland.

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Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich, is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling streets, cultural attractions, and picturesque Old Town. Take a stroll along the tranquil Lake Zurich, explore the world-class museums, or indulge in shopping along the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets.

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva is a cosmopolitan city renowned for its diplomacy and international organizations. Visit the iconic Jet d'Eau fountain, explore the Old Town’s cobblestone streets, and immerse yourself in art and history at the numerous museums and galleries.

With its medieval architecture, stunning lakeside setting, and proximity to the Swiss Alps, Lucerne is a postcard-perfect destination. Walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, admire the Lion Monument, and take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne, surrounded by towering mountains.

Switzerland’s charming capital, Bern, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved medieval Old Town. Wander through the cobbled streets, marvel at the Zytglogge clock tower, and pay a visit to the impressive Federal Palace.

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Base yourself here for thrilling activities like paragliding, skydiving, and hiking amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Bernese Oberland.

Home to the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a car-free Alpine village that offers unparalleled skiing and mountaineering opportunities. Ride the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, or embark on a glacier adventure.

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Encircled by sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen Valley is a fairytale-like destination in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Hike through the valley, visit the picturesque village of Wengen, or take a cable car to the summit of Schilthorn for sweeping vistas.

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Dubbed the "Top of Europe," Jungfraujoch is a high-altitude wonderland accessible by cogwheel train from Interlaken. Marvel at the Aletsch Glacier, explore the Ice Palace, and soak in the panoramic views from the Sphinx Observatory.

Surrounded by majestic peaks, including the Eiger, Grindelwald is a quintessential Swiss mountain village offering year-round outdoor adventures. Ski in winter, hike in summer, or simply soak in the alpine scenery.

Stretching along the Swiss-French border, Lake Geneva is one of Europe’s largest lakes and a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Cruise the lake, explore charming lakeside towns like Montreux and Vevey, and visit the picturesque Chillon Castle.

Located in the Eastern Alps, the Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s oldest national park and a haven for nature lovers. Hike through pristine wilderness, spot diverse wildlife, and marvel at the untouched beauty of the Alps.

Perched on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a dynamic city known for its Olympic Museum, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful parks. Explore the charming Old Town, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and savor delicious Swiss cuisine at local eateries.

Famous for its annual jazz festival, Montreux is a picturesque town nestled between the lake and the mountains. Visit the Château de Chillon, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, and explore the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux region.

Synonymous with luxury and glamor, St. Moritz is a world-renowned ski resort nestled in the Engadin Valley. In addition to exceptional skiing, St. Moritz offers upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Tucked away in northeastern Switzerland, Appenzell is a charming village known for its traditional Alpine architecture and rustic charm. Explore the quaint streets lined with colorful houses, visit local cheese dairies, and hike through the idyllic countryside.

Europe’s largest waterfall, Rhine Falls, is a breathtaking natural wonder located near the town of Schaffhausen. Take a boat ride to the base of the falls, hike along scenic trails, and marvel at the sheer power of the cascading waters.

Famous for its eponymous cheese, Gruyeres is a picturesque medieval town nestled in the Swiss countryside. Visit the Gruyeres Castle, sample creamy fondue at local restaurants, and explore the charming cobblestone streets.

Situated in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino, Bellinzona is known for its medieval castles and rich history. Explore the well-preserved fortresses of Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

A paradise for skiers and snowboarders, Verbier is an Alpine resort in the Four Valleys ski area. Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hike or mountain bike amidst stunning scenery in summer.

Encompassing some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes, the Bernese Oberland region is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore charming villages like Wengen and Mürren, hike amidst the towering peaks, and soak in the unparalleled beauty of the Swiss Alps.

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Why this Austrian Alpine town makes the ultimate summer weekend break

When it comes to legendary winter destinations, the Austrian resort of Kitzbühel is a firm fixture on most lists. But summer sees this historic town and its surrounding peaks blossom into an Alpine adventure playground, primed for a short three-day getaway.

In skiing circles, there are few destinations more famous than Kitzbühel, best known for the hair-raising Hahnenkamm downhill ski race — a test of speed and courage that draws crowds of around 50,000 each January. But once the snow melts, this picturesque mountain town is arguably more alluring, with a medieval town centre that provides character and culture in spades. Speckled with wildflowers, cloaked in summer greens and punctuated with turquoise lakes, the surrounding slopes also offer plenty to explore, whether you’re a hiker, biker or swimmer. And it's all easy to reach too — the town is served by Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich airports, making it an ideal short break option for visitors from the UK. Here’s how to make the best of a three-day stay.

Day 1: a gentle start

Morning As soon as you set foot on the cobbled Vorderstadt, you’ll realise this is no ordinary mountain resort. Kitzbühel has a long and storied history, most evident in the medieval architecture that dominates its pedestrianised core. The towering, 14th-century church of Katharinenkirche is the most obvious example, but peek around to the handsome white hotel behind it and you’ll find the Goldener Greif , which dates back to 1270. This sophisticated hotel was once a stable, in the days when Kitzbühel was a staging post on the road to Venice. After a cup of coffee, it’s time to browse Kitzbühel’s most eye-catching shops. Frauenschuh is the town’s very own deluxe fashion brand, while Gössl is the place for lederhosen and dirndls. Nearby, you’ll also find several bakeries and delis in which to stock up on lunch.

Afternoon Kitzbühel’s favourite swimming lake is the Schwarzsee , one-and-a-half miles from the heart of the town. Thankfully, this is no normal glacial Alpine dip — the waters here average 21 degrees in summer and have been known to reach up to 27. Head to the Alpenhotel Kitzbühel , which has its own diving platforms on the lake and is easily reached by train or bus from town. Or for a real sense of serenity, take a picnic to the meadows to the north and make the most of the invigorating Alpine air.  

Evening It won’t surprise you to learn that Kitzbühel’s summer nightlife is relatively relaxed, particularly compared to its apres-ski scene. But wander the town’s historic core and you’ll soon find a bar to suit your mood. Try the Reisch Bar for cocktails, or the Leo Hillinger wine bar for a cool, crisp glass of Austrian white.

Day 2: hit the heights

Morning Kitzbühel is home to over 600 miles of hiking trails, many of which make use of the resort’s off-duty ski lifts. A highlight is the six-mile Weisskopfkogel ascent, which rises steadily through fresh summer pastures, before sharpening into a breathtaking ridge walk on the final approach to the summit. If you don’t know where to start, join one of the free guided hikes organised throughout the week by both KitzSki and Kitzbühel Tourismus , or hire a private guide for a more bespoke experience.

Afternoon Kitzbühel offers plenty of opportunities to continue the outdoor adventures after lunch, but this time on two wheels. For road cyclists, the area offers around 750 miles of well-maintained routes, from the Kitzbüheler Horn — Austria’s steepest bike route — to gentler lakeside options. Mountain bikers will be in their element, too, with countless MTB tours and singletracks for all abilities. And summer provides the prime opportunity to tackle the iconic Hahnenkamm on two wheels rather than two skis. The four-and-a-half-mile Hahnenkamm Bike Trail is a local favourite, thanks to its natural terrain features and playful passages. Legs tired from all the activity? Hire an e-bike instead and take on one of the area’s many waymarked circuits, such as the 17-mile Rettenberg Runde , which runs through lush farmland and into neighbouring Reith, where picturesque cafes provide welcome refreshment.

Evening   Kitzbühel’s culinary scene has few rivals in the Austrian Alps and there’s no better time to put it to the test than after a day’s Alpine activity. Berggericht — right in the middle of town — is the prime pick for gastronomes, named one of Austria’s ‘Newcomers of the Year’ in the 2023 edition of the Gault & Millau guide.

Day 3: rest and relax

Morning On Sundays, forgo the lie-in for a one-hour class at Naturlich Yoga , which takes place on a large wooden platform at the Bio Yoga Hof, just outside Kitzbühel. Then, head for a well-earned pampering at one of the town’s many luxurious hotel spas, such as Spa-Rosa at the A-Rosa hotel. A World Spa Award winner among Austrian resorts for 2023, this stunning spot is home to five saunas and a magnificent two-level pool room.

Afternoon There’s no better way to end your stay in Kitzbühel than with a meal on the terrace of a mountain restaurant, with hearty Austrian food on your plate and unparalleled Alpine views rolling out from the edge of your table. If time is short, squeeze in a meal at Hochkitzbühel on the Hahnenkamm — a quick gondola ride from town. Here, dishes such as goulash soup, wiener schnitzel and apple strudel come with an eyeful of the Kitzbüheler Horn or the Grossglockner — Austria’s highest mountain.

Related Topics

• SHORT TRIPS
• CITY GUIDES

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12 Things To Do In The Switzerland Of America

Ouray, Colorado, has a naturally high alpine sitting and is a hotspot for travelers. Here are some epic things to do in 'The Switzerland of America'!

Read update

More Exciting Things To Do in Ouray, CO!

• Ouray, Colorado, is a charming mountain town with a rich history of mining and stunning natural beauty.
• Visitors can explore the town's history at the Ouray County Historical Museum and relax in the warm waters of the Ouray Hot Springs Pool.
• Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the beautiful Ouray Perimeter Trail and experience exhilarating ice climbing at the Ouray Ice Park.

Welcome to Ouray, Colorado! Originally a gold and silver mining community founded in 1875, this beautiful mountain town sits at about 7,800 feet of elevation among the steep and rugged peaks of San Juan. Its location has earned the town the pet name, "The Switzerland of America".

It's the county seat of Ouray County with a population of only 898 as of the 2020 census. Home to small-town charm, Ouray also offers some of Colorado's easy hiking opportunities that lead to surprisingly high-elevation views .

Whether travelers seek a relaxing dip in a hot spring, an exciting hike along the town's beautiful landscape, or simply a peaceful small picnic in a park while watching the world go by, Ouray never disappoints. For those planning a trip to Ouray, here are some of the best things to do in The Switzerland of America!

UPDATE: 2024/05/03 15:09 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

Taking a look at the snow-capped peaks, winding valleys, and ice-blue streams, it's easy to understand why Ouray is known as the "Switzerland of America." This list has been expanded with even more new things to do in Ouray that every type of traveler will love.

Hike Colorado's Most Scenic Park On This 1-Mile Trail

12 go off-roading at yankee boy basin, a spectacular alpine basin in the san juan mountains that offers plenty of outdoor activities.

Ouray, Colorado has no shortage of spectacular scenery! And Yankee Boy Basin is a prime example of this area's European feel.

This literal basin in Ouray is surrounded by several mountain peaks in the San Juan Mountains and is a nature lover's paradise.

No matter which way travelers choose to visit Yankee Boy Basin, it's bound to be adventurous. Visitors can take a long 18-mile hike around the basin, take a group Jeep tour , and even enjoy a beautiful off-roading adventure by themselves.

The roads are fairly easy but can get steep and rocky at times. But it's worth it for the epic views!

• Address: Yankee Boy Basin Road, Ridgway, CO 81432
• Admission Fee: $5 per vehicle
• Best Time to Visit: July to August

11 Take A Road Trip On The Million Dollar Highway

The origin of the name is still speculated to this day, but the million dollar highway is considered the most beautiful road in america.

The Million Dollar Highway serves as one of the most scenic (and affordable) road trips to scenic towns in the United States .

With its winding turns and lookout points to stop at every few miles, driving this highway is by far one of the best things to do in Ouray, Colorado.

Some say that the term "Million Dollar Highway" exists because it took one million dollars to build, or perhaps there is a million dollars worth of gold lying beneath the highway. The origin is still unclear, but the road trip itself is worth it for the stunning vistas.

The Million Dollar Highway can be driven in less than an hour, but it's recommended to spend a day stopping at the viewpoints and small towns along the way.

• Address: Ouray, Colorado, USA
• Admission Fee: Free
• Best Time to Visit: June to July, October

10 Soak In The Warm Waters Of Ouray Hot Springs Pool

A sulfur-free hot spring with five pools and a fitness center.

Tucked away in the San Juan Rocky Mountain Ranges, the mineral-rich waters of Ouray Hot Springs Pool are heated by an underground aquifer close to Ouray Box Canyon Waterfall and an aquifer in Fellin Park.

Its temperatures range between 80 °F and 150 °F but may vary occasionally.

Gorgeous snow-capped peaks surround this historic hot spring. It features five different pools - three are heated geothermally while the other two pools are supplied with cold water from the Weehawken Spring.

Traveling families with kids will enjoy their time at the waterslide, while couples or solo travelers can relax and unwind at the adults-only pool.

• Address: 1220 Main St PO Box 468, Ouray, CO 81427
• Admission Fee: $26
• Best Time to Visit: Year-Round

7 Mountain Towns In Colorado For A Vacation

9 hike the beautiful ouray perimeter trail, a 5.6-mile trail with tons of uphill and downhill and stunning views of ouray.

The Ouray Perimeter Trail is a 5.6-mile loop trail offering unique and remarkable mountain town views and is one of the main reasons why Ouray could quite easily qualify for a place among the numerous scenic Colorado towns with beautiful hiking trails .

On this trail, hikers will pass through the town's historic and natural landscape, including the gorgeous mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls.

Part of the Uncompahgre Wilderness, the trail is just around town, but there are lots of downhills and uphills, which can be a little difficult in the winter when the route is capped with snow.

• Address: Ouray, CO, USA
• Best Time to Visit: May to October

Hikers are advised to wear hiking traction gear, especially in the winter, as the trail is rugged, slippery, and steep.

8 Step Back In Time At Ouray County Historical Museum

Preserves ouray county's history with thousands of documents, artifacts, and old photographs.

The social, cultural, and natural history of Ouray County and the San Juan Mountain region are all lovingly preserved at Ouray County Historical Museum , one of the top attractions in Ouray, Colorado, where history buffs can learn more about the town's past that has shaped Ouray County today.

Travelers can find the museum in the Italianate-style architecture of the 1886 St. Joseph's Miners' Hospital in Ouray, which is also one of the oldest towns in Colorado .

There are walking and guided tours offered for visitors, and exhibits are showcased, featuring the mining, railroading, and ranching history of the county. There are artifacts and thousands of documents that are stored at the museum.

• Address: 420 6th Ave, Ouray, CO 81427, United States
• Admission Fee: $10
• Best Time to Visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

The museum is closed in winter except for special appointments.

7 Taste Locally Brewed Beer At Ouray Brewery

Family-owned brewery and pub with award-winning craft beer.

After a day of playing outside, travelers can enjoy the home-grown craft beer at Ouray Brewery , which uses locally sourced fresh ingredients that are unique to the region. Founded in 2009, the brewery is near the town's most-visited attractions.

The pub also serves a mouthwatering, hearty American classic that hits home. It also features rooftop dining, which offers breathtaking views of Box Canyon and the mountain peaks of the Switzerland of America!

• Address: 607 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427, United States
• Hours: Open 6 days a week between 11 A.M. and 7 P.M.

The pub's bestsellers are Box Canyon Brown and Camp Bird Blonde.

12 Places For A Summer Vacation In Colorado

6 climb the spectacular ice gorge at ouray ice park, awe-inspiring man-made ice climbing adventure in uncompahgre gorge.

With almost two miles of human-made ice climbing in Uncompahgre Gorge, Ouray Ice Park is an ice mecca for travelers who love playing in the snow.

Featuring over 200 ice climbs and mixed routes, the park has been in operation since 1994 and bills itself as the ice-climbing capital of the world.

It blends man-made and natural elements and is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, which are among the magnificent peaks and valleys of Colorado's incredible mountain ranges .

• Address: 280 Co Rd 361, Ouray, CO 81427, United States
• Hours: 8 A.M. to 4 P.M. (mid-December to late-March)
• Best Time to Visit: December to March

Ouray Ice Park is free to the public, but visitors can donate or join its fundraising events to help the volunteers maintain the beauty of the park, especially when it opens in wintertime.

5 Immerse In The Cascading Waters Of Box Cañon Falls Park

A nature park with 285-foot waterfalls and a great spot for birding.

A 500-foot trail will take travelers to the cascading waterfalls of Box Cañon Falls Park , which also provides access to the Ouray Perimeter Trails.

The thundering 285-foot waterfall spills thousands of gallons of water every minute and is the pinnacle of Canyon Creek, and plunges into the towering narrow rock walls.

The park is also home to a colony of Black Swifts that build nests out of mud and grass, and gather in the park in June every year.

The National Audubon Society considers the park an important research spot for the Black Swifts, earning premier birdwatching a spot among the top activities in Ouray, Colorado, to enjoy for nature lovers.

• Address: 30 Box Canyon Rd, Ouray, CO 81427, United States
• Admission Fee: $7
• Hours: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Box Cañon Falls Park is open year-round, but Box Canyon Road is closed in wintertime as it can be icy and slippery. Visitors can park at the OHV Staging area and walk to the park instead.

4 Tuck Into A Picnic At Fellin Park

A family-friendly park perfect for picnics after a relaxing dip at the ouray hot springs pool.

Fellin Park is adjacent to Ouray Hot Springs Pool and is lovingly called "Hot Springs Park" by the locals. It's a namesake for the Fellin Family who donated the land to the town in 1924.

Traveling families will love the park's picnic areas to spend time with loved ones while enjoying delicious meals or snacks.

All this can be done while experiencing the natural beauty of the Switzerland of America, which is also considered one of the underrated towns worth visiting in Colorado .

There's also a playground for the little ones and sports fields where athletics are held. It also hosts the celebration of the 4th of July and summer outdoor concerts.

• Address: 1001 US-550, Ouray, CO 81427, United States
• Hours: Open 24 hours

3 Stroll The Historic Downtown Ouray

Explore historic main street where history, culture, and lifestyle merge.

The historic Downtown Ouray is the heartbeat of the Switzerland of America, where shopping, dining, history, cultural heritage, and entertainment come alive.

On Main Street, travelers will enjoy strolling through the streets dotted with incredible art galleries, local eateries, local photographers, museums, and live entertainment. Many buildings downtown were built in Italianate and Victorian architecture, and most of them are listed on the National Register of Historic Places .

Ouray is also a flourishing destination for digital nomads, thanks to its reliable internet connection, outdoor adventure, and legendary hospitality.

The Ouray Public Library and Basecamp Ouray are two of the famous destinations in Ouray that cater to the needs of remote workers.

• Address: Main St., Ouray, CO, USA

Downtown Ouray is also home to several hotels and lodging houses that offer incredible views of the San Juan Peaks that surround the town.

2 See The Uncompahgre Gorge From The Lookout Point

A marvelous deep mountain canyon in uncompahgre national forest.

One of the amazing things to see on the Million Dollar Highway , the Uncompahgre Gorge can be seen from an overlook as travelers drive the highway, which connects the alpine towns of Silverton and Ouray.

The gorge is formed by Red Mountain Creek and the Uncompahgre River, offering breathtaking views of the waterfalls, the rugged peaks of the San Juans, the valley walls, and the blossoming aspens.

Don't forget to take Instagram-worthy photos of the lookout point and the stunning Uncompahgre Gorge!

• Address: Ouray, CO 81432, USA (South of Ouray)
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

10 Places To Find Stunning Fall Foliage In Colorado

1 attend the ouray ice festival, held annually at ouray ice park with dance parties, movies, and ice climbing.

The Ouray Ice Festival is a three-day and four-night fun-filled festival in January that celebrates the thriving ice climbing sports in the Switzerland of America.

Expert ice climbers compete in the ice fest, which is the park's biggest fundraising event to continue operating the ice park.

Visitors will also learn more about ice climbing with the help of elite athletes. The Vendor Village also features all kinds of climbing gear by different outfitter brands, as well as demo gear.

At night, the historic downtown Ouray hosts movies and dance parties for the Ice Festival.

• Admission Fee: $85 All Access Pass, $25 Demo Gear Cards
• Dates: January of every year

Onlookers can see the competing ice climbers in the Scottish Gullies from the Lower Bridge.