Switzerland — a country full of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating cities and majestic mountains. Whether you're a nature lover, looking for historical sights, or just want a bit of relaxation, Switzerland has something for everyone. We've put together a list of 16 amazing destinations that you should definitely visit when exploring this dreamy country.
Zermatt is probably one of Switzerland's most famous travel destinations — and rightly so! The majestic backdrop of the Matterhorn, considered one of the world's most iconic mountains, is simply unforgettable. Here you can hike, ski or simply enjoy the breathtaking view. The Gornergrat also offers one of the best views of the Matterhorn and is accessible by cogwheel train.
Tip: Take the opportunity to stay overnight in one of the many alpine hotels and watch the sunrise over the snowy peaks.
Interlaken, idyllically situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is a true paradise for outdoor fans. The city is the perfect starting point for numerous adventures, from paragliding and hiking to boat trips on the two lakes. In particular, the view of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks is breathtaking.
Lauterbrunnen is straight out of a storybook: 72 waterfalls fall impressively into the valley, surrounded by steep rocks and green meadows. The famous Staubbach Falls and the Trümmelbach Falls are just two highlights that you shouldn't miss out on.
Tip: Take a trip to Mürren, a car-free mountain village that can be reached by cable car.
Lake Oeschinen, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. Here you can go hiking, boating or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. The lake is close to Kandersteg and can be reached via a well-developed hiking trail or by cable car. In particular, you can get the most beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains if you take the path on the left after reaching the lake. Lake Oeschinen also offers several cozy mountain huts where you can stop off, as well as free barbecue stations, which are a perfect place for a picnic or a break.
Glacier 3000 is a high plateau in the Valais Alps and offers a variety of activities both in winter and summer. The view is particularly spectacular from the “Peak Walk” bridge, which connects two peaks and offers you a 360-degree view of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.
The Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen are an absolute highlight in Switzerland. With a width of 150 meters and a drop height of 23 meters, it is the largest waterfall in Europe. You can experience the Rhine Falls up close from various viewing platforms or even with a boat trip.
Lucerne impresses with its picturesque old town, characteristic wooden bridges and the impressive Pilatus Mountain. In particular, the Chapel Bridge, the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe, is a highlight. A steamboat trip across Lake Lucerne offers unforgettable views of the mountains and surrounding villages. If you want to go even higher, you can climb Pilatus with the highest mountain railway in Switzerland and enjoy the breathtaking view.
Tip: Don't miss the Swiss Museum of Transport, a great museum that deals with the history of transportation.
St. Moritz is synonymous with luxury, exclusive resorts and breathtaking nature. The town is world-famous for its winter sports opportunities, in particular skiing on the first-class slopes of Corviglia and Corvatsch. But St. Moritz also offers numerous activities in the summer months, such as hiking, mountain biking and golfing on spectacular courses. A walk around Lake St. Moritz is just as much a must as a trip on the famous Bernina Railway, which offers an incomparable view of the Alps. St. Moritz is the perfect place to enjoy luxury, sport and nature all year round.
The medieval old town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe. With its well-preserved buildings and narrow streets, it gives a unique impression of past times. The Zytglogge Tower, the Federal Palace and the Rose Garden not only offer fascinating historical sights, but also wonderful views of the city. The small shops and cafés in the arcades are particularly charming, inviting you to relax and stroll around. Walking through the old town is like taking a trip back in time while enjoying the lively atmosphere of a modern capital.
Jungfraujoch is the highest train station in Europe and a true highlight for anyone who wants to experience the Alps in their full splendor. The view of the eternal ice of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding peaks is simply breathtaking. But the Jungfraujoch offers much more than just wonderful views — it has much more to offer than you might think. In addition to restaurants and shops, there are also impressive ice caves and a visual journey through time, which gives an exciting insight into the history of the Jungfraujoch. Tickets for the visit can easily be booked directly via GetYourGuide, making access even easier.
Chillon Castle, located right on the shores of Lake Geneva, is one of Switzerland's most famous sights. With its picturesque backdrop and fascinating history, it is a must for those interested in history and architecture. The well-preserved medieval fortress offers a fascinating insight into the past and invites you to travel back in time through its magnificent rooms and well-preserved towers. Tickets for the visit can easily be booked directly via GetYourGuide.
The Bernina Railway connects St. Moritz with the Italian Tirano and takes you across the famous Bernina Pass. This spectacular train journey is one of the most beautiful in the world and offers magnificent views of glaciers, mountains and valleys. The journey through the Albula and Bernina Mountains is particularly impressive, where the panorama changes with every turn of the curve and offers you new, breathtaking views of untouched nature and imposing peaks.
The Furka Pass, one of the most spectacular alpine roads, takes you to an altitude of over 2,400 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A stop at the Rhone Glacier is a must. Here you can marvel at the glacier up close and enjoy the impressive glacier landscape. The opportunity to go into a real ice cave is particularly fascinating — an unforgettable experience. Another highlight is the Hotel Belvédère, which not only offers wonderful views, but also serves as a filming location for parts of James Bond became famous.
Rheinschlucht, also known as the 'Grand Canyon of Switzerland, 'is an impressive natural spectacle. Hiking trails allow you to explore the breathtaking landscape and marvel at the river from various viewing platforms. A particularly beautiful viewpoint is”Il Spir“, from which you have a spectacular view of the gorge and the Rhine — a true highlight for photographers and nature lovers.
Lake Maggiore is Switzerland's southernmost point and connects Switzerland with Italy. The region offers a mix of Mediterranean flair and alpine landscape. A visit to the Borromean Islands and the city of Locarno is particularly worthwhile.
Appenzell, nestled in the rolling hills and majestic peaks of the Alpstein, is a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers. With its charming architecture and impressive landscape, it attracts visitors every year. Anyone traveling to Switzerland should definitely not miss Appenzell.
that Berggasthaus Aescher is one of the most beautiful places in the world and was celebrated by National Geographic. Located in the cliffs of the Alpstein massif, it offers an incomparable view and a very special atmosphere. The hike there rewards you with magnificent views and a unique backdrop. Right nearby are the Wildkirchlihöhlen, which were formed millions of years ago by the power of water. Formerly used as hunting quarters by Neanderthals, they now offer a fascinating glimpse into history.
that Berggasthaus Schäfler At an altitude of around 1,800 meters, it offers a magnificent view of the Appenzell region. It is the ideal place for a well-earned break after a hike. From here, you can Schaefler Ridge Trail Start one of our favorite bikes in Switzerland. The trail takes you to fantastic viewpoints and offers spectacular views of the Alpstein massif and the Säntis. The trail is easy to do and rewards you with breathtaking panoramas — a real highlight for hiking enthusiasts.
Lake Cauma is a real secret tip in Switzerland. The turquoise lake with Caribbean-like water is located in the Flims region and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. Here you can swim, relax and enjoy nature — with fewer crowds than in the more well-known locations.
Lake Limmerensee in the canton of Graubünden is a dream destination for wild campers. The 3-hour hike takes you through alpine meadows and rugged mountain landscapes to the viewpoint, from which you have a spectacular view of the lake and the surrounding peaks. The hike is moderately difficult but easy to do — sturdy shoes and sufficient water are recommended. Whether for an overnight stay or a break, Lake Limmerensee offers you the perfect opportunity to relax in the pristine nature of the Swiss Alps and enjoy the freedom of wild camping.
In Switzerland, wild camping is generally above the Baumgrenze allowed. In the Alps, this is often between 1,800 and 2,000 meters, depending on the region. Camping below the tree line is often prohibited, particularly near settlements and protected natural areas. It is important to treat nature with respect and not to leave any traces behind. If you follow these rules, you can spend unforgettable nights in Switzerland's pristine nature.
