Most Beautiful Places Visit in Switzerland

The most beautiful places in Switzerland range from mountain resort towns and villages to vibrant cities nestled on lakes and rivers. But which Switzerland destinations are the prettiest? Read on to find out! Tucked in the heart of Central Europe, Switzerland is packed with some of the continent’s most beautiful places and epic landscapes. Its name evokes thoughts of luxury watches, big banks, and delicate chocolates, but there’s much more than meets the eye in Switzerland. So much more. From fairytale cities and towns circled by snowcapped mountains to some of the world’s purest rivers and lakes, Switzerland is a country where a quick taste simply isn’t enough. Its dramatic alpine scenery, delicious food, and cute cities and towns are meant to be salivated over slowly, and will always leave you returning for more. Sure, it will cost you a pretty penny to satiate your Switzerland wanderlust, but it’s totally worth it to experience all this breathtaking country has to offer. So bring a camera and an appetite, and let’s explore the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, delighting avid travellers and ski enthusiasts. The name, Switzerland, evokes Heidi’s green pastures, the Alps, bewitching hamlets nestled in stunning territories, as well as vibrant city life. Planning a visit? Here are the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland. Keep reading below to get ideas and inspiration to help plan your trip.

1. Zermatt

Whether you’re after skiing or mountaineering, Zermatt has it all. This isn’t a place for the lazy, as gasoline-operated vehicles are prohibited here. If you don’t mind walking then travel here or go on a guided tour and enjoy the stunning scenery in its unique territory. Zermatt is also home to the most famous Alpine peak in Switzerland, the Matterhorn, and this place offers summer and winter activities to visitors of all ages.

2. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is one of those typical postcard Swiss towns. It’s nestled in a breathtaking valley and famed for its imposing rocky cliffs and 72 roaring waterfalls, two of which are casually located in the heart of the settlement. Discovering its traditional architecture and colourful flower boxes is a must, and a holiday here is perfect for the outdoorsy type. Lauterbrunnen proposes countless hiking opportunities, as well as all sorts of adventure activities for those who want to feel adrenaline pumping. Youngsters can also have their share of fun, whether it’s enjoying a train ride to nearby Interlaken or spotting alpine flowers up the Flower Trail.

3. Lucerne

The lakeside Lucerne is another postcard-perfect Swiss town with impressive medieval fortified towers, timeworn churches, and charming wooden bridges flanked by a mountainous panorama – it’s truly a place where history comes to life. Perhaps it wouldn’t be too different from other Swiss municipalities if it wasn’t for its antique frescoes that embellish almost every edifice. If you’d like to know more about Lucerne’s art and culture, consider taking this tour. The unique townscape attracts thousands of curious visitors each year, making Lucerne one of the most fascinating, fairy-tale like towns for people of all ages. Beautiful green spaces and an array of restaurants invite you to take a break and relax on the lakeshore, or you could simply get lost among the charming medieval streets. Whichever your choice, this is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

4. Montreux

Known for its mild microclimate and Jazz Festival held in July, Montreux is one of the best summer destinations in the world. It sits in the heart of the Swiss Riviera and impresses with grand Belle Époque buildings and stunning promenade. Strolling along it can make you forget all worries, but Montreux’s true gem is Chateau de Chillon, nestled on the narrow shore between Montreux and Villeneuve. Its Romanesque architecture has preserved a medieval charm over the years. Expect ramparts, formal halls, and a 14th-century chapel. Everything in the castle has been kept in its original form, and a visit here can make you dream of charming princes and princesses regardless of your age.

5. Mürren

You don’t have to be a James Bond enthusiast to visit Mürren. This astonishing village is one of the cosiest places to see in Switzerland. Scenic views over surrounding mountains and endless hiking possibilities are just some of the reasons to come. It’s charming in summer and winter alike, and it’s one of the few places from where you can access both Mont Blanc and the Black Forrest. As far as Bond’s concerned, dinner at Piz Gloria means more than simply walking on the footsteps of 007. The 360° Panorama-Revolving-Restaurant promises a unique perspective over the landscape. Just perfect for those moments when you feel the world is not enough.

6. Bern

Switzerland’s capital is such an underrated destination that only a few know how stunning it truly is. Expect narrow cobblestoned streets, medieval buildings, archaic towers, and sandstone facades, which you can learn more about on this tour. The Old Town is so magical it’s even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the best-preserved historical centres in the country and offers one-of-a-kind experiences to all sorts of travellers. Nature lovers will fall for the stunning botanical garden, while the colourful weekly market can melt even the toughest soul. Hidden within vaulted cellars and narrow streets, the city shows off a whole different side. If you’re after nightlife, luscious bars, cafes, boutiques, and cabaret stages, Bern is undoubtedly worth a visit.

7. St. Moritz

Think of impressive glaciers, jagged peaks, and lush forests. That’s what you’ll get in St. Moritz, one of the most famous winter destinations in the world. This small town has hosted two winter Olympics and is a must-go for ski enthusiasts. St. Moritz is all about winter sports. If you’re not into skiing, know that you can also enjoy pretty much anything else, from bobsledding to skating. Sweet little chalets, the deliciousness of mulled wine, and tasty Swiss dishes are just some of the other reasons to visit this place at least once. If you’re more of a summer lover, water sports, hiking, and glacier skiing are some alternative reasons to come.

8. Gruyeres

Does the name of this town make you hungry? The resemblance between the town’s and the cheese’s name is not accidental. This is the home of Gruyere cheese, as well as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland. A perfect destination for foodies, outdoorsy, and those looking for unexpected cultural experiences. From St. Germain Castle to the Tibet Museum, this place intertwines European and Asian culture in the most unexpected ways.

9. Zürich

Another Swiss city to cross off your bucket list while visiting is Zürich. Famous for its rave spirit and more frenetic rhythms, this city blends culture with business and a pulsating nightlife. Emblematic guild houses, repurpose cultural spaces, as well as modern architecture, define the spirit of this fantastic place. It offers everything, from urban landscapes to quaint rural towns, not to mention it’s one of the most livable cities in the world.

10. Geneva

Switzerland’s main hub for international travellers, cosmopolitan Geneva is the second-largest city in the country and also one of the liveliest. It’s home to over 200 international organisations, United Nations included, and caters to a sophisticated crowd. Geneva enchants with elegant green spaces, stylish restaurants, and captivating museums. It has all, from culture to vibrant nightlife. On those days when you crave for slower rhythms of life, Lake Geneva overtures a different atmosphere. Aptly called by the Celts Lem an, it’s now referred to as simply lake Léman by the French-speaking locals. Its vast shores are dotted with luxurious chateaus, hillside vineyards, and charming spa towns. All you need to recharge your batteries in either summer or winter.

11. Ticino

One of the most unique Switzerland destinations is Ticino. Located in Southern Switzerland, this is an Italian-speaking region that is totally different from the rest of the country. It’s known for its incredible architecture, palm-tree lined lakes, and delicious food. Ticino is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking lakes, iconic castles, and so much more. It feels more Mediterranean than the rest of Switzerland, and the food is just like what you’ll find next door in Italy. During my visit to Ticino last summer, I was blown away by the traditional stone houses in the mountains. Some of my favorite towns and villages include Corippo, Lavartezzo, Sonogno, and Foroglio. Take a drive north from Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, and you’ll be amazed by what you see.

12. Sion

Located in the Swiss canton of Valais, Sion is a city known for its two hilltop fortifications. It’s home to the 13th-century Tourbillon Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the world, and Valère Basilica, a castle church with one of the world’s oldest playable organs. Sion is a great launchpad for exploring the region’s thermal spa resorts. It’s also a popular place for shopping and museum hopping, which you’ll find aplenty throughout the Old Town. Sion is situated in the center of one of Switzerland’s most notable wine regions. It’s especially known for its Fendant, a dry white wine that embodies the sunny and dry valley where it’s grown. Beyond Sion’s rustic scenery and medieval center, it also has a modern and industrial side to it, making the city the best of both worlds.

13. Appenzell

Located in the northeast corner of Switzerland, Appenzell is a must-see on your Switzerland travel bucket list. This is the smallest Swiss canton by population, but it has no shortage of breathtaking sights that make it worthy of a visit. Appenzell is best known for its verdant rolling hills, alpine folk traditions, and like the rest of Switzerland – its cows! This is where Appenzeller cheese comes from. This world-famous cheese dates back more than 700 years! Explore the Alpstein mountains, which offer some of the best hiking, climbing, camping, and mountaineering in the country. It’s also home to amazing postcard-worthy lakes and villages, and perhaps the most iconic sight of all – Saxer Lücke. In between lots of hiking, don’t forget to eat you way through the little villages and towns that dot the region. Appenzell is just under 2 hours by train from Zurich, but it’s truly worlds apart with its serene nature and charming mountain villages. As such, it’s no wonder that it’s among the best places to see in Switzerland.