Switzerland is one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, known for its snow-covered mountains, peaceful lakes, charming villages and scenic train journeys. From vibrant cities and historic old towns to dramatic Alpine landscapes, there are plenty of places to visit in Switzerland for every kind of traveller.
Whether you are planning your first Switzerland holiday, a romantic getaway or a family vacation, choosing the right destinations can make your trip even more memorable. Here are 11 of the best cities and destinations to include in your Switzerland itinerary.
11 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
1. Zurich
Zurich is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for travellers who want a combination of city life, culture and beautiful surroundings.
Explore the charming Old Town, walk along the Limmat River and enjoy views of Lake Zurich. The city is also a convenient starting point for exploring other parts of Switzerland.
Best for: City sightseeing, shopping, culture and first-time visitors.
2. Lucerne
Lucerne is famous for its picturesque setting beside Lake Lucerne and its surrounding mountains. Its beautiful Old Town, historic buildings and waterfront make it one of the most scenic Switzerland tourist places.
Don’t miss Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and a relaxing walk around the lake. Lucerne is also a popular base for mountain excursions.
Best for: Families, couples, sightseeing and lake views.
3. Interlaken
Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a favourite destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
It offers easy access to the spectacular Jungfrau region and is known for activities such as paragliding, hiking and scenic mountain excursions. Its central location also makes it convenient for exploring nearby Alpine destinations.
Best for: Adventure, mountains, couples and outdoor activities.
4. Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a beautiful Alpine valley surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. The peaceful scenery makes it one of the most memorable places to visit in Switzerland.
The valley is particularly famous for its spectacular waterfalls and traditional Swiss landscape. It is also a great base for visiting nearby mountain villages and attractions.
Best for: Nature lovers, photography and peaceful escapes.
5. Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a charming mountain destination surrounded by impressive Alpine scenery. It is particularly popular among travellers looking for beautiful landscapes and outdoor experiences.
The Grindelwald-First area offers spectacular views and activities, while the village itself provides a classic Swiss mountain-town experience.
Best for: Mountains, adventure, photography and scenic experiences.
6. Zermatt
Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain destinations, largely because of its iconic views of the Matterhorn.
The car-free village has a unique Alpine atmosphere, with traditional buildings, mountain restaurants and access to spectacular viewpoints. It is an excellent destination for both winter and summer holidays.
Best for: Matterhorn views, skiing, hiking and romantic holidays.
7. Geneva
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Geneva combines beautiful scenery with a sophisticated international atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the lakeside area, enjoy views of the Jet d’Eau and discover the city’s historic centre. Geneva is also a useful gateway for exploring the surrounding region.
Best for: City breaks, lakeside experiences, culture and luxury travel.
8. Bern
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, offers a very different experience from the country’s Alpine destinations.
Its UNESCO-listed Old Town features historic streets, fountains, medieval buildings and charming arcades. The city is ideal for travellers interested in Swiss history, architecture and culture.
Best for: History, architecture, culture and relaxed sightseeing.
9. Montreux
Montreux is a beautiful lakeside destination on the shores of Lake Geneva, surrounded by vineyards and mountains.
The town is known for its scenic waterfront and relaxed atmosphere. Nearby attractions, including Château de Chillon, make Montreux a worthwhile addition to a Switzerland itinerary.
Best for: Couples, lakeside views, culture and scenic drives.
10. St. Moritz
St. Moritz is one of Switzerland’s most famous luxury mountain resorts. Located in the Engadin Valley, it offers stunning Alpine scenery throughout the year.
Winter visitors can enjoy snow and mountain activities, while summer brings opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscapes.
Best for: Luxury holidays, skiing, mountains and premium experiences.
11. Lausanne
Lausanne is another beautiful destination on Lake Geneva and is known for its hillside setting, historic centre and cultural attractions.
Take a walk through the Old Town, explore its cathedral and enjoy views over Lake Geneva. Its location also makes it easy to combine with other destinations around the lake.
Best for: Culture, history, lake views and relaxed city breaks.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on the type of holiday you want.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for sightseeing, hiking, lakes and outdoor activities. The weather is generally pleasant, making it a popular period for exploring cities and mountain destinations.
Winter (December to February) is perfect for travellers interested in snow, skiing and Alpine scenery.
Spring and autumn can be good options for travellers looking for a quieter experience and changing seasonal landscapes.
How Many Days Are Enough for Switzerland?
For a first trip, 7 days in Switzerland can provide a good introduction to the country’s major destinations.
A longer 10-day Switzerland itinerary gives you more time to explore destinations such as Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Grindelwald and Zermatt without rushing.
The ideal duration ultimately depends on your interests, budget and the number of cities you want to include.
Travel Tips for Visiting Switzerland
Keep these tips in mind when planning your Switzerland holiday:
- Plan your route before booking hotels so you don’t spend unnecessary time travelling.
- Switzerland has an excellent public transportation network, making trains a convenient way to explore.
- Mountain weather can change quickly, so carry suitable clothing.
- Book popular attractions and accommodation in advance during peak travel periods.
- Keep some flexibility in your itinerary for weather-dependent mountain activities.
- Compare different transport passes if you plan to travel extensively by train.
Plan Your Switzerland Holiday
From the lakeside beauty of Lucerne and Montreux to the dramatic landscapes of Zermatt and Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland offers an incredible variety of experiences.
If you are looking for a convenient way to plan your trip, explore Switzerland tour packages by Makemore Holidays and create an itinerary based on your travel preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in Switzerland?
Some of the best places to visit in Switzerland include Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Zermatt, Geneva, Bern, Montreux, St. Moritz and Lausanne.
Which city is best for first-time visitors to Switzerland?
Lucerne and Interlaken are excellent choices for first-time visitors because they offer easy access to scenic lakes, mountains and popular attractions.
How many days are enough for Switzerland?
A 7-day trip is a good starting point for exploring several popular destinations, while 10 days or more allows for a more relaxed itinerary.
Is Switzerland good for a family holiday?
Yes. Switzerland offers scenic train journeys, lakes, mountain excursions and attractions suitable for families, making it a popular European family holiday destination.
