Switzerland, a captivating country nestled in the heart of Europe, offers an abundance of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultures.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting destination. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland to make your trip unforgettable.
Don’t forget that in the near future, you may need a travel authorization to visit Switzerland as part of a new border security program for numerous countries in Europe.
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Marvel at the Matterhorn
Standing at a staggering 4,478 meters, the Matterhorn is one of the highest peaks in the Alps and an emblem of Switzerland. It famously also appears on Toblerone bars!
Visit the car-free village of Zermatt, where you can admire this iconic mountain up close, embark on a thrilling cable car ride to the summit, or explore the numerous hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Matterhorn and its surrounding peaks.
If you’re into skiing, you’ve come to the right place — the area is well-known for having snow on the slopes all year round. There are 4 main ski zones around Zermatt: Sunnegga, Gornergrat, Klein Matterhorn, and Schwarzsee.
Explore the Charming City of Lucerne
Lucerne, with its picturesque lakeside setting and stunning mountain backdrop, is a must-visit Swiss city.
Stroll across the famous Chapel Bridge, or Kapellbrücke, a wooden footbridge adorned with centuries-old paintings. You should also explore the well-preserved Old Town. Its colorful buildings, with half-timbre structures and quaint streets, make it a beautiful and atmospheric place to visit.
Don’t miss the poignant Lion Monument, a rock relief that commemorates Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
There is also a fascinating museum about the famous composer Richard Wagner, who once lived in Lucerne. The museum is located at his former villa.
Sail Out onto Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Central Europe, offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Take a leisurely boat cruise on the lake, admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps, vineyards, and charming towns.
There are many places around the lake well worth visiting. There’s the pretty town of Montreux, home to the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival; Chillon Castle, which looks like it could have sprung straight from the pages of a fairytale; and of course, the city of Geneva itself.
Switzerland’s second-biggest city is a global hub and plays host to many international organizations, including the UN. It boasts some of the country’s most revered monuments, churches, colleges, and museums, all set against the stunning background of the lake.
Discover the Swiss Capital, Bern
The Swiss capital, Bern, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town.
Wander through its cobbled streets, marvel at the ornate fountains, and visit the famous Zytglogge clock tower.
Don’t miss the Einstein House, where the renowned physicist developed his Theory of Relativity, and the enchanting Rose Garden, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Indulge in Swiss Chocolate and Cheese
Switzerland is synonymous with delicious chocolate and cheese, and a visit to this country would be incomplete without indulging in these culinary delights.
Visit a local chocolate factory, such as Maison Cailler in Broc or Lindt’s Home of Chocolate in Zurich, for a tantalizing tour and tasting.
For cheese aficionados, head to a traditional cheese dairy to witness the art of cheese-making and sample some delectable Swiss cheese.
Ride the Glacier Express
Experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express, a scenic train journey that takes you through breathtaking alpine landscapes, deep gorges, and charming villages.
This eight-hour journey between the major mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz offers panoramic views from the comfort of a luxurious train car, making it an unforgettable experience.
This unique railway essentially connects 2 of Switzerland’s most famous and iconic peaks — Piz Bernina and the Matterhorn. The epic journey between the 2 mountains makes no stops along the way.
Visit the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe
Often referred to as “the Top of Europe”, the Jungfraujoch is a section of rock, ice, and snow connecting 2 peaks of the Bernese Alps: the Jungfrau and the Mönch.
It is home to the Sphinx Observatory — one of the highest in the world at 3,571 meters. Amazingly, you can reach it by train! The highest railway station in Europe sits just below at 3,454 meters.
Travel on the Jungfrau Railway through the heart of the Eiger and Mönch mountains, and enjoy the spectacular views from the Sphinx. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Ice Palace, a fascinating labyrinth of ice sculptures carved into the glacier.
This truly is an awe-inspiring alpine adventure.