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Visiting Switzerland in June: Weather & Best Places to Go [2024]

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Have you been wondering about visiting Switzerland in June? I’ve got you covered!

Europe is a continent full of wonders and a place that has captivated minds and imaginations for centuries.

From the warm Mediterranean climates to the frozen tundras of the north, Europe has something to offer every traveler.

Our family embarked on a three-month journey through Europe that included visiting Switzerland. So if you are planning on a trip to Switzerland in June this is the perfect post for you! June in Switzerland is known for its mild weather and beautiful landscape, with the Swiss Alps towering over many of the cities.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure vacation, or some quality time with the family, Switzerland in June is sure to provide plenty of activities and sites to explore.

Keep reading to find out what attractions are popular during this time of year and all about the June weather in Switzerland!

Typical Weather in Switzerland in June

If you are traveling to Switzerland in June you may be wondering if June is the best month to visit Switzerland .

June is the start of summer in Switzerland, and with it comes favorable weather conditions with warmer weather and temperatures and longer days.

Days are usually dry and sunny, making for clear views of the mountain peaks and rolling countryside.

Temperatures range from cool to warm during the day, rarely too hot but perfect for activities like hiking. At night temperatures can cool down quickly so be sure to pack a jacket! Swimming opportunities are plentiful in Switzerland during June as lakes, rivers, and small streams become warm enough to swim in.

If you seek a different kind of adventure, most outdoor pools open their doors around this time as well.

Take a dip or simply relax on one of the many beaches that line the Swiss lake shores with family or friends!

Average temperature in Switzerland in June

Switzerland’s climate and average temperatures in June vary depending on elevation.

In the lowland cities and towns, temperatures are typically moderate, ranging from the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 17°C) during the daytime to the mid-50s (13°C) at night.

Higher up in the mountains, however, temperatures can drop quite a bit lower, as much as 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the lowlands.

Humidity is usually low in both areas thanks to the dry alpine air.

Does it rain a lot in June in Switzerland?

June is typically a wet month in Switzerland, with an average of 11 days of rain across the country.

While this may not sound like much, overall precipitation can be very high. Generally speaking, the eastern part of Switzerland receives more rain than the west.

So yes, it does rain quite a lot in Switzerland in June!

What is the weather like in the Alps in June?

The Alps in June are a sight to behold! For most of the day, the sun is shining and the temperatures are mild, hovering between 8 and 20°C.

Despite the warmth, there may be some rain showers during the afternoons and cool breezes from time to time.

With low humidity levels in the air all around, it’s an ideal climate for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

June therefore is a great time to enjoy your summer vacation in the Alps!

Things To Do in Switzerland in June

Switzerland is a beautiful country with tons of activities to do during the month of June! Here are five top things to do in Switzerland in June: 1. Go on a scenic hike: With its towering Alps and balmy days, June is the perfect time for a long hike through Switzerland.

You’ll be able to take in views of vast meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear blue lakes as you hike along the trails.

There are numerous scenic hiking routes to explore like Gorge du Chauderon, Via Alpina, Mont Bre, Grindelwald, and Rochers de Naye.

2. Have a picnic by Lake Lucerne: There’s no better way to spend an afternoon than by picnicking near Lake Lucerne.

Spend your day lounging around the lake’s edges eating cheese, and baguettes, and sipping on Swiss wine as you watch the sun setting over the lake. You can even take a dip to cool off!

3. Take a tour of Bern: Bern is one of Switzerland’s most charming cities and it has a lot to offer visitors in terms of sights and attractions during the month of June.

From visiting art galleries and museums to strolling through quaint cobblestone streets, there’s always something new to discover in Bern!

4. Visit Jungfrau Mountain: This iconic mountain is one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations for visitors who want to experience stunning views from atop one of Europe’s highest peaks!

On clear days, you can see as far as Germany and France from the Jungfrau summit!

5. Enjoy Swiss festivals: Every year in June, towns across Switzerland come alive with their local festivals which usually involve plenty of traditional music, folk dances, food stalls offering delicious dishes and drinks, crafts markets where you can purchase some unique souvenirs for your friends back home and much more!

No matter what you decide to do when in Switzerland in June, make sure to have the best travel insurance for Switzerland before you travel so you can enjoy the best things to do in Switzerland!

10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in June

We have put together the 10 best Switzerland places to visit in summer to help you when creating your travel itinerary.

For each place, we have included a few activities and ideas for you to do in each destination. From mountain hikes to outdoor pools, city walks, and more!

1. Zurich in June

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the old town, where you can find charming cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich and admire the breathtaking Swiss Alps on the horizon.

There are plenty of hiking opportunities in the area, as well as cultural experiences like museums and galleries to explore.

To explore more of Switzerland from Zurich, our Switzerland 7 day trip is perfect to help you plan and explore more of Switzerland.

Plus, there’s no shortage of lively festivals during this time of year that make Zurich come alive with music and art. With all these options, you’re sure to have a wonderful time!

A top summer activity in Zurich is visiting the outdoor pools, like those on or near Lake Zurich. Flussbad Oberer Letten is a great option.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Uetliberg Lookout Tower where you can see all of the city and its surroundings. 

• 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. 
• Day Trip to Jungfraujoch : Take a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps on a cogwheel rides railway. Enjoy a panorama from Europe’s highest railway station and explore a glacier in the Ice Palace.

2. Montreux in June

Montreux, Switzerland is a picturesque destination filled with stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Geneva.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore nearby trails such as Gorge du Chauderon, Via Alpina, and Rochers de Naye.

During summer in Montreux, you can enjoy various water sports on Lake Geneva, like paddle boats and kayaks. When you are not enjoying the water sports you can simply relax on the beautiful Lake Geneva shore.

Other activities that you can easily fill your days with activities ranging from historical tours to outdoor adventures. Take a boat ride on Lake Geneva or explore the Chateau de Chillon for a glimpse into Montreux’s past.

Enjoy some of the best food and wine in Switzerland as you stroll along the Rue du Simplon Promenade. And don’t miss out on experiencing Montreux’s world-renowned Jazz Festival for an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment!

• Book your tour of the Chillon Castle in advance to guarantee your entry.
• Experience the scenic beauty of the Swiss Riviera on a 2-hour paddle steamer boat cruise . Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, the Swiss and French Alps, and Chillon Castle. This unforgettable journey will leave you in awe.

3. Lugano in June

Lugano, an Italian-speaking city in Switzerland, is a great destination for visitors looking to experience culture and beauty.

In June, the days are long and the sunshine’s warmth makes it a perfect time for outdoor activities. The lakefront promenade of Lugano offers stunning views of the lake and mountains beyond.

Take your time strolling through or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes. The city has a lovely lido and public beach, perfect for cooling off in the lake and beating the heat.

For a thrilling adventure, take cable cars up Monte San Salvatore for spectacular panoramic views.

History buffs can explore churches like Santa Maria degli Angeli or visit the city’s iconic public fountain.

• Monte Brè Tour from Lugano by Funicular : Discover the treasures of Monte Brè on a delightful full-day tour. Enjoy a lake cruise and a funicular train ride to the peak. 

4. Zermatt in June

Zermatt is located in the Swiss Alps and is one of the most beautiful Swiss villages . Visitors are greeted with breathtaking views of majestic mountains, lush meadows, and pristine rivers.

Start your day with a cable car ride to the Klein Matterhorn for stunning panoramic views of the city below.

Then explore the cobblestone streets full of boutiques and restaurants that offer traditional Swiss cuisine.

Visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the town’s history. Admire the Findeln Chapel and the English Church, sacred landmarks in Zermatt.

In the evenings, take a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Riffelsee or head to one of many cozy bars and pubs for an evening of live music and drinks.

Zermatt is also a popular summer destination for hiking and mountain biking with trails suitable for all levels. Don’t miss the Five Lakes Walk Trail, where you can enjoy stunning lakes reflecting the Matterhorn.

• 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 spectacular views of the Matterhorn and its surrounding peaks.

5. Lucerne in June

June in Lucerne is a special time for travelers! The weather is warm but not too hot, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

This charming town is also rated by many travelers as the most beautiful place in Switzerland !

Take advantage of the mild temperatures and explore the city’s charming cobblestone streets and picturesque lakeside views.

Enjoy a boat tour on Lake Lucerne to take in the sights, or bike along the lakefront trail.

Adventurers can hike one of the nearby mountain trails for amazing views!

For a day trip out of Lucerne, head south through the gorgeous countryside to Rapperswil-Jona. If you need to rent a car for your day trip, here is the best car rental in Switzerland .

If you are looking for a slightly longer trip from Lucerne, here is our 4 days in Switzerland itinerary to help you plan.

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.  

• Relax on a 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.
• Mount Pilatus Roundtrip Cable Car Ticket to the Peak : Experience the scenic beauty of Mt. Pilatus on a self-guided trip. Take the cable car to Fräkmüntegg and then ride the Dragon Ride to the summit.
• Classic Rigi Round Trip : Experience a unique blend of boat, rack railway, and cable car travel to Rigi. This diverse tour in central Switzerland is perfect for a half or full-day adventure.

6. Bern in June

June is the perfect time to visit Bern, Switzerland! The days are warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the lakes and countryside.

Plus, the city comes alive with outdoor music festivals and live theater performances.

Take a stroll through Old Town to discover medieval architecture or explore one of the museums tucked away in cobblestone alleys. Here is a great walking tour that you can book . 

In summer, locals and tourists enjoy swimming in the clear Aare River or you can cool off in Bern’s free public pools.

Active individuals can explore Bern’s green areas on the popular Aare River cycle trails. Take the funicular to the Gurten mountain peak for exceptional views of the city and the Bernese Oberland Alps!

• Zytglogge – Tour through the Clock Tower : Tour the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, witness its inner workings, and enjoy a delightful puppet show.
• 90-Minute Walking Tour Through the Old Town : Discover UNESCO-listed Old Town of Bern, with fountains, towers, winding streets, & more. Join an expert guide & be amazed!

7. Geneva in June

June in Geneva is the perfect time to explore its stunning outdoor attractions!

With nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, visitors can look forward to beautiful weather while enjoying some of the city’s most beloved sites like the colorful flower clock in Jardin Anglais, made with over 6,500 flowers!

Don’t miss the iconic Jet d’eau Geneve, a giant water jet that shoots 140m into the air. Afterward, stroll along the harbor and admire the

During summer in Geneva, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can swim in the refreshing waters of the Rhône River at Plage de Rhône.

Head up to the top of Mount Saleve for breathtaking views, or take a leisurely stroll along the banks of Lake Geneva.

If you prefer to relax and indulge in the famous fondue, head to Bains des Pâquis. Here, you’ll find sections of Lake Geneva, water structures for kids, a restaurant, and diving boards.

If you wish to travel out of Geneva, this 5 days in Switzerland itinerary is the perfect starting point for exploring Switzerland in June.

• 50-Minute Lake Geneva Cruise : Explore Lake Geneva’s beauty on a sightseeing cruise. Admire the Swiss Alps, and discover local landmarks with an audio guide. 
• 2-Hour Tour of International Quarters and Old Town : Discover Geneva’s old town and international districts on a 2-hour sightseeing tour. Experience top attractions like Jet d’Eau in Lake Geneva, St. Pierre’s Cathedral, and the Flower Clock.

8. Basel in June

Basel, Switzerland is a vibrant city in the summertime. June is especially lovely, with its mild temperatures and beautiful days perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions.

From taking a stroll through Basel’s Old Town and soaking up the historical sights to enjoying fresh local cuisine in one of its many restaurants.

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure to enjoy the summer climate of Switzerland in June, take a hike up St. Chrischona, or explore the famous Rhine River on a guided boat tour.

• Basel History Tour for Groups : Experience an intriguing tour of Basel. Travel through time and explore the city’s history. Marvel at contemporary architecture and historic buildings while learning about Basel’s development.

9. Interlaken in June

Interlaken, the picturesque Swiss town nestled in the Bernese Oberland, is a great destination for adventurers and tourists alike.

In June, visitors can take advantage of mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Town Interlaken or around the beautiful Lake Brienz or Lake Thun.

Take a refreshing swim or enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on these beautiful blue lakes in the lovely weather.

If you would like to enjoy a hike to take in the stunning views and natural beauty, be sure to discover the numerous hiking trails.

Experience the easier Rugen trail or the more challenging Harder Kulm trail, you can even take the funicular up ! Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake, mountains, and town. Grindelwald, a short train ride away, is a hiker’s paradise with many gorgeous mountain trails.

For an extra special experience make sure to visit nearby Lauterbrunnen Valley for breathtaking waterfalls and some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery!

Do not miss a visit to the enchanting Oberhofen Castle and stroll through its colorful gardens with stunning views of Lake Thun.

• Tandem Paragliding Flight with Pilot : Soar to great heights and enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and lakes. Take a tandem flight with an experienced pilot to see Interlaken from above.

10. Lauterbrunnen in June

Lauterbrunnen is a stunning village in Switzerland surrounded by alpine meadows, dramatic waterfalls, and charming mountain trails.

June is the perfect time to visit Lauterbrunnen because of its great weather and many activities available for travelers.

Visitors can enjoy an array of exciting outdoor activities such as paragliding, horseback riding, and hiking through the lush mountains.

The town also offers unique experiences like rock climbing on sheer cliffs and enjoying local delicacies at quaint restaurants.

• Day in Wengen (Hike & Raclette Cheese) : Explore the charm of Innerwengen on an easy hiking trail through the picturesque Swiss countryside. Enjoy stunning views of Jungfrau, Mürren, and Schilthorn, along with the beautiful Lauterbrunnen valley. After the 2.5-hour walk, savor traditional Swiss Raclette cheese.
• Swiss Cheese Fondue Cooking Class Experience : With the help of a local you will discover delicious flavors of Swiss local cheeses while preparing this unique dish.

Popular Events in Switzerland in June

Every year, Switzerland is host to a variety of popular music events and festivals.

Ascona Jazz Festival: In Ascona, late June the town hosts the lively Ascona Jazz Festival. Fête de la Musique: If you love experiencing a variety of music, every June, musicians from around the world perform in the streets of Lausanne and Geneva under the Fête de la Musique umbrella.

All musical styles, from classical to rock, pop, and world music, are represented.

Eidgenössisches Jodelfest: Every year, Eidgenössisches Jodelfest showcases Switzerland’s top yodellers in a different city during the last week of June. It’s a four-day event you wouldn’t want to miss! 

What to Wear in Switzerland in June

When packing for a trip to Switzerland in June, one of the most important factors is to consider the June weather in Switzerland to help decide what to wear and to ensure you have the best time.

Packing layers is key to staying comfortable throughout your trip due to the warmer temperatures that start in June. For women, it’s best to pack items such as light summer dresses and shorts for days when the weather gets warm; but also bring along jeans and long-sleeved tops for those cooler days.

Don’t forget a cardigan or light jacket for evenings. And, of course – you can never go wrong with a classic raincoat!

If you are visiting during this time of year for hiking or outdoor activities, make sure you have some sporty clothing as well as sturdy shoes. Men should bring along shorts and t-shirts that can be worn in layers in order to adjust easily to changing temperatures. Jeans or pants are also necessary for both warmth and style.

As with women’s fashion, men should definitely not forget a light jacket or jumper along with some comfortable shoes.

For more adventurous activities like hiking, it is important that men have appropriate outdoor wear such as breathable running clothes and sturdy hiking boots. No matter where you plan on going during your stay in Switzerland in June, whether it be city sightseeing, mountain hikes, or lake exploration, by taking these tips into account while packing ahead of time, you will be sure to be prepared no matter the weather!

If you are planning on venturing to the Alps in June, it’s important to pack clothes that are warm and waterproof.

Layer up with items like a lightweight fleece, a waterproof windbreaker, or an insulated vest. Choose breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes for long days of walking.

Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for your trip as you can get sunburned easily at high altitudes or even when out and about in the city or hiking the trails!

Visiting Switzerland in June: FAQs

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Switzerland in June.

June is a great month to visit Switzerland! The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for long hikes in the Swiss Alps or exploring the beautiful Switzerland cities . June is also the start of the tourist season, so prices are relatively low and attractions are open compared to the peak summer season. Plus, it’s usually dry and bright, making it easy to take in all of Switzerland’s beauty without worrying about rain.

Switzerland is known for its cold and snowy winters and is loved by many winter sports enthusiasts, but don’t let that fool you! June in Switzerland is actually quite pleasant, with the average high temperature ranging from the mid 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. There’s a lot of sunshine in June making it an ideal summer vacation spot for those who want to avoid the heat.

Yes, the Swiss Alps do have snow in June. While it’s usually not as plentiful as in winter months, the higher elevations of the Alps may still have a small amount of snow covering.

Switzerland is best visited in June as the temperatures are mild and cooler than in July. This makes it more enjoyable for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. June is not high season, so you can expect fewer crowds and better prices on accommodation.

It doesn’t get extremely hot, but the occasional very warm days can reach up to 28°C (82°F), so if you’re planning a trip, it’s worth remembering to bring shorts and light clothing.

Switzerland enjoys long summer days in June, with the average day seeing roughly 15 daylight hours. Sunrise occurs around 5:30 am and sunset is usually at 8:30 pm, giving plenty of time to explore the many stunning natural wonders that Switzerland has to offer.

Yes, you can swim in Switzerland in June! The lakes and pools reach temperatures of up to 25°C during the summer months, making them perfect for water activities. Plus, there are plenty of picturesque beaches on the banks of Lake Geneva and other beautiful spots for swimming. So don’t forget your swimming gear when you travel to Switzerland in June!

June in Switzerland is the beginning of summer, with temperatures ranging from mild to hot. The days are bright and sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking or biking. Evenings can still be cool so don’t forget a jacket!

June in Switzerland has a moderate humidity, ranging between 50-70%, depending on the region. Regions in northern Switzerland generally have higher humidities than regions in southern Switzerland. This is because of the greater influence of nearby mountains and the Mediterranean climate. Humidity in June usually remains comfortable due to a large number of sunny days and pleasant temperatures.

June is an ideal time to go hiking in Switzerland, with long days and mild temperatures making it perfect for exploring the breathtaking alpine scenery. The hiking trails tend to be quieter than at other times of the year.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Switzerland in June

Switzerland in June is a fantastic time for travelers of all ages – we know this from experience!

Our family thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Switzerland, with visits to the iconic Zermatt, the bustling city of Zurich, and Lugano near the Italian border.

The scenery was breathtaking and we found something interesting around every corner. We’d highly recommend making Switzerland your next June holiday destination; you won’t be disappointed!

And we hope that is post has helped you put together your Switzerland travel plans.

With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and plenty of activities for everyone it’s sure to become one of your favourite memories.

Jolene Ejmont

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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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Switzerland in June: Everything You Need to Know

Visiting Switzerland in June and need the scoop on weather, things to do, places to see, and everything else? We’ve got you covered.

June is the beginning of peak Summer season for Switzerland where crowds start to trickle into the country for vacation. The weather is great this month spreading sunshine across the mountains and valleys, which is perfect for outdoor exploration. Every activity from hiking the Swiss National Park to biking the 72 Waterfalls Valley or even paragliding in Interlaken, June is full of outdoor fun.

This big guide will take care of just about everything you need in order to have the best possible trip during this month.

Switzerland Weather  in June

June is the epitome of Summer and brings some of the best warm weather in the country. It’s not yet too hot to spend a full day in the sun, so many outdoor activities will be a great time no matter the part of day. Days are also longer, giving you extra free time to enjoy the great outdoors. 

Most lower altitude regions will have the warmest weather, like Geneva and Zurich, which will have lows and highs around 52°F to 73˚F (11°C to 23˚C) in June. Higher altitude regions like Zermatt will experience average June temperatures around 41°F to 61˚F (5°C to 16˚C) throughout the day. 

The snow may remain on the mountain peaks, but it won’t continue to fall throughout the month of June. Warm weather dominates this month, however there may be a few rain showers that occur in many cantons around Switzerland, no matter the altitude.

Average June Temperature in Switzerland (By City)

Switzerland affordability & crowds  in june.

June is the start of peak season in Switzerland. Vacationers flock to the country as school lets out and families enjoy Summer break. This will inevitably mean that pricing on travel and hotel reservations begin to rise, making your Swiss vacation a bit more expensive than it was in May. 

On the bright side, all the hotels, restaurants, tours and excursions are open and available this month. On the down side, you’ll want to be sure you’ve booked all your desired activities and accommodations well in advance. Crowd levels will vary by destination, but you can be sure that all forms of travel will be consistently busy this time of year.

Switzerland Snow & Skiing  in June

Most people don’t think of going skiing in the Summertime, but Switzerland actually has a few great places to go if you’re still in the mood for hitting the slopes. Snow in June is pretty much gone all over the country, but will remain in the high altitude glaciers of the Alps.

In contrast to the hiking destinations and Summertime havens all over Switzerland, the ski resorts are remarkably less busy. If your goal is to avoid the crowds and get the benefit of Winter and Summer fun, places like Zermatt and Saas-Fee are going to be your best bet.

Best Switzerland Ski Resorts in June 

By the time June rolls around, the snow is completely gone in most parts of the country. The only exceptions are in the mountains that house the glaciers. Zermatt and Saas-Fee are among the only two ski resorts open in June, which will allow you to experience a ski trip and summer trip wrapped into one vacation. 

Zermatt 

Zermatt claims the highest winter sports area in the Alps with skiing available 365 days a year . This unassuming little town also has one big international draw: the Matterhorn. This is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to ski, since the area you’re confined to sits on the border of Switzerland and Italy. The Klein Matterhorn Ski Paradise has sweeping views of the Matterhorn and other peaks in the Alps, and grants access to both Zermatt, Switzerland and Cervinia, Italy.

Zermatt visitors who don’t come to ski can still access Klein Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by riding the extensive gondola system to the viewing station at the peak of Klein Matterhorn. 

In town, you’ll experience a completely different atmosphere. Summer has overtaken the car-free village and outdoor activities are in abundance. Delicious and eclectic restaurants serve everything from seafood to classic European fare and friendly hospitality is given to every visitor. 

Saas-Fee often serves as the training grounds for Olympic and competitive ski teams, since its high elevation and ice cold glacier areas provide great conditions through the Summer . They have whole training slopes reserved for these teams and ski racing summer camps for amateurs. One of the coolest offerings in the Summertime is the Stomping Grounds freestyle park, featuring a half pipe and big air jumps.

The village is delightfully breezy and a lot less crowded in the Summer. Most visitors will be touring the lower alpine regions in the Summertime, so Saas-Fee will mostly have locals and residents in town. Many outdoor activities like hiking, biking and sightseeing are popular pastimes during the Summer.

Best Things to Do in Switzerland in June

Though there are many numerous locations that are attractive to visit in June, Switzerland has some wow-worthy spots that are best to visit this month. We’ve listed them in detail here to help you get your trip plans started.

Visit Basel 

Basel is one of the northernmost towns in Switzerland, sitting on the borders of France and Germany. Basel is a charming town and very popular, especially if you plan to visit all three countries during your stay. Tourists can easily travel by train to the historic towns of Colmar, France and Freibug, Germany from Basel. 

Basel, like most Swiss cities, has a beautiful historic district, and Basel Minster sits at the center of it all. Its remarkable architecture and Gothic masonry date back to the 12th century and guests can see the bustling Rhine River from its windows. Touring Basel by way of the Rhine is another fantastic experience and visitors can catch the ferry at four different docking points throughout the city. Alternatively, you could rent a wielding paddle boat and venture out on your own.

Basel also has great cultural experiences like museums you won’t find anywhere else in the country. The famous Paper Mill , dedicated to the history of writing and printing, is located in the St. Alban neighborhood which is known as the “Venice of Basel”. Artwork museums are also in abundance, with the most renowned being the Kunstmuseum displaying pieces from the 14th to 20th centuries .

Relax in Zernez 

Zernez is a relatively new municipality in the Graubunden canton of Switzerland, though the village has existed for centuries. The picturesque town of Zernez serves as the entrance point to Swiss National Park and is a great option for accommodations when hiking through the park. It also doubles as an ideal jumping off point for tours from Austria through Switzerland and into Italy.

The National Park Center is located inside Zernez and gives you a quick rundown of the kinds of things you’ll see in the Spring and Summer months. June is also a great time to hop in the family baths and pools in Zernez, or a quick jaunt to neighboring Engadine for more historic beauty. Overall, Zernez provides a more laid back vacation for those who want a slower pace for their Swiss holiday. 

Hike Swiss National Park

The Swiss National Park is Switzerland’s largest nature preserve featuring a beautifully green and wild mountainside. Alpine animals abound inside the park, wildflowers bloom and warm weather sweeps the preserve through the month of June. 

There are a total of 21 walking trails for families to explore the park at their own pace. These range from easy and short to long and difficult, so a quick look at the trail descriptions can help determine which is best for you. In addition to the hiking paths and the natural photo ops, the park also has outdoor sports facilities, mini-golf course and a wellness treatment spa for relaxation.

Visit Appenzell Village

The Appenzell region is famous for its farmland and amazing cheeses. The rural area is home to thousands of cows and the beautifully painted historic streets and buildings make this region worth the drive, especially in the Summertime. With the Alpstein mountain range in the background, Appenzell is one of the most quiet and tranquil Swiss towns you could possibly visit. After touring the town, we recommend you make the trek to Bergasthaus Ascher restaurant on the mountainside which is only open in the Summer months.

Hiking through the forests and mountain areas of Appenzell is accompanied by peaceful winds and tinkling sounds of bells from the cows and goats grazing on the hills. Appenzeller cheese can be purchased directly from the local farmers, who also facilitate small festivities and parties throughout the Summer. 

Bike Lauterbrunnen 72 Waterfalls Valley

Lauterbrunnen is well-known for one thing: an absurd amount of cascading waterfalls thundering down the Bernese Alps. While the town is a huge draw for hikers who want to explore the region, it’s also a cyclists haven. Travelers are invited to go it alone, but we recommend booking a three or six hour e-bike tour to properly take in the scenery of the 72 waterfalls valley.

Lauterbrunnen – the town that inspired the Misty Mountains of J.R.R Tolkien’s The Hobbit – is worthy of a Thomas Kinkade painting. Guests are entranced by the sheer number of hiking and biking trails along the valley and mountainside, and enchanted by the peaceful atmosphere. The village is small and quiet and most ideal for visitors who want a relaxing vacation.

Explore Grindelwald

The storied town of Grindelwald is one of the most idyllic places for a Swiss getaway. It’s located in the Bernese mountains and one of the only Jungfrau regional villages that is accessible by car. This makes it a popular place to go for tourists looking to see Jungraujoch and explore all the hiking trails through this mountainous area of Switzerland. 

Green rolling hills, steep peaks and quaint villages are all part of the appeal at Grindelwald, especially in June. Grindelwald Glacier is a beautifully cool destination to see in June, and visitors love taking part in the Summer toboggan runs. While hiking is most recommended in this area, we also suggest strolling along the city streets. Here, every hotel and rental has a room with a view, so it’s hard to go wrong with selecting accommodations.

Visit Interlaken

Interlaken is a popular Swiss getaway that offers hikes through the Alps and tantalizing chocolates from local craftsmen. June is the perfect month to experience both and much more. One of the most intriguing attractions in Interlaken is the St Beatus Caves where water flows from the inside of the mountain into thunderous waterfalls toward the countryside.

Other fun things to do include white water rafting down the Lutschine River, or hiking up to Harder Kulm and exploring the Harder Alpine Wildlife Park which overlooks Interlaken’s valley. And as far as chocolate tastings goes, guests can sample selections and learn how the chocolate is made as places like Funky Chocolate Club , among others inside the town.

Paraglide the Swiss Alps   

Interlaken happens to be a great place to achieve a thrilling paragliding excursion in the Alps. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding villages and rolling hills as you take to the skies on an expert guided journey. Tandem paragliding is the only way to accomplish this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

If you require more varied terrain, try paragliding through Lauterbrunnen where you’ll witness many of the 72 waterfalls misting the valley as they dominate the landscape. Zermatt also has some of the most unique paragliding experiences, which give you three different options for getting up close and personal with the famous Matterhorn peak.

See Rhine Falls 

The Rhine River is such a remarkable natural attraction that it brings in millions of visitors each year – and June is one of the busiest months of the year. However, this is the time when you’ll see the Rhine Falls at it’s best, since the snow melt has ended and the thundering waterfall is at it’s strongest. Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe and the cool part is that you have several options for viewing it. 

Visitors will have the most immersive experience by taking a boat cruise which puts you right to the base of the falls. Other great lookout points include the bridge walkway and viewing platforms that are built right over the falls. You can get here by vehicle if you park on either side of the river or opt to arrive by train . Train passengers can walk to the viewing area right from the Rhine Falls Train Station.

Play at Mount Pilatus 

Mount Pilatus overlooks Lake Lucerne and is a great destination to take the whole family on an easy sightseeing trip or hike. Here you’ll find incredible views of the lake and the mountains. At this point in the year, you’ll probably be competing with droves of visitors traveling from Zurich and Lucerne. However, the views are stunning enough to justify a full day at this site.

We suggest traveling here from Lucerne on the Golden Round Trip , which provides the ultimate experience when visiting Mount Pilatus. You’ll start by taking a bus through the country to Kriens, journey by cable car up to Pilatus and take in the stunning view from the Pilatus-Kulm platform. You’ll return by taking the cogwheel train from Pilatus to Alpnachstad and complete the journey by boat to Lucerne. This full day excursion is one of the best ways to take in the full sights of Lake Lucerne.

Tour the Rhone Glacier

The magnificent Rhone Glacier is a contributing source to both the Rhone River and to Lake Geneva. This impressive landmark is located high above the popular ski village of Andermatt and welcomes visitors all year round. It’s most impressive in the Summer when you least expect to see ice and snow, and provides a welcoming cool down from the warm weather. 

June is opening season for the freshly formed Ice Grotto , which is redrilled each year for tourists to walk through. The brilliant blue hues in the ice are starkly contrasted to the grayish tones of the mountain. There’s also an outdoor viewing platform that overlooks the exterior of the glacier and the lake below.

Visit Lausanne 

Lausanne is one of the less busy towns on the shores of Lake Geneva and serves as the International Olympic Committee headquarters. In town you’ll find the Olympic Museum , among many other museums and art collections, along with the famous Notre Dame of Switzerland: Cathedrale de Lausanne, the pinnacle of the city’s old town. 

Boat cruises on Lake Geneva are always trending in June, allowing you to see the full expanse of the city from the water, while a visit to Sauvabelin Tower will give you panoramic views of Lausanne from above. Taking a walk down Le Port d’Ouchy is a relaxing way to enjoy the Summer breeze, plus you can take in the sights of the surrounding historical buildings.

Tour Chateau de Chillon

Chateau de Chillon is a great place to live out your European fairytale . It’s situated on Lake Geneva with the stunning French Alps as its background. The Gothic romanticism of it’s halls and walls have inspired poets and writers for centuries, it’s likely also to draw you into its charm in one visit. 

After reveling in this gorgeous structure, a quick stroll through the promenade and small bite from Cafe Byron will complete the journey. June is one of the last months to visit Chillon Castle before waves of tourists storm its gates, though the end of June can also be this way. Montreux is the closest city by boat, but you can also access the castle with tours leaving from Geneva and other lakefront cities.

Walk through Stein am Rhein

Stein am Rhein is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland, found in the Schaffhausen canton. While many of Switzerland’s towns have well-preserved architecture and city squares dating back to the Medieval time period, none matches the preservation of Stein am Rhein. As a matter of fact, it’s got the most national heritage sites in all Switzerland.

The beauty of this little town is truly remarkable and showcases delicately painted buildings, original wood and stonework, and many historical religious sanctuaries. The top attractions of the town include the Rathausplatz city hall’s intricate murals, Hohenklingen Castle and St. George’s Abbey dating back to 1000 A.D. Many tourists make day trips here from Zurich, so sightseeing will be busy in June, but significantly less busy in the early morning and late evening.

June Events in Switzerland

Tellspiele is a Summer event that takes place in Interlaken. This open-air theatrical play is performed by dozens of amature actors who put on an interactive show each day. They dress in medieval garb and humor the audience, sometimes involving the spectators in their charade. The play is created to teach the audience something new about themselves in a constructive way.

Fete de la Musique

Lausanne is the home of this celebratory music fest each year, in partnership with other cities around Switzerland. It invites amateurs and professionals alike to perform in several venues for a free public concert, held each year on Summer Solstice . All genres of music can be heard at this family-friendly event and performers can be found all over the city.

St. Gallen Festspiele

Held at the Abbey of St. Gallen is an opera festival that wows audiences every year at the end of June. Much work goes into setting up the colossal stage at the foot of the abbey, transforming it into a beautiful piece of art. While opera is the main attraction, other performances involving dance, organs and musicals are put on throughout the event. 

Whether you choose to stick to one city or travel around the entire country, Switzerland has no shortage of great activities for you to enjoy on a trip in June. This month is a great time for avoiding the bulk of the Summer crowds while also experiencing the first days of warm weather activity in both the mountains and valleys.

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Switzerland travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Switzerland .

Switzerland in January: Everything You Need to Know

Switzerland in September: Everything You Need to Know

© 2024 by Roundtript

Switzerland in June: An Ecstatic experience.

Switzerland , the dreamland of many have always enthralled the people visiting this beautiful country around the year. But the question that many have are still unanswered is When is the best time to visit Switzerland? Switzerland welcomes its visitors all around the year, and every month has a different experience to offer its visitors. A different atmosphere, a different scenario, catering to a wide range of activities. So the best time for you to Visit Switzerland will depend on what kind of activities and experiences you want to indulge in. However, one of our crowd favourites is to visit Switzerland in June, irrespective of what kind of experiences you want to partake in. Read on to understand why we suggest you visit Switzerland in June. 

Weather in Switzerland in June 

• Average Temperature – 19-degree celsius 
• The temperature also can go as low as 11-degree Celsius and highest 23-degree Celsius. 
• Moderate rainfall – 137-173 mm
• Maximum time between Sunrise and Sunset – 12 hours

Switzerland Tour Package Starting @ ₹89,412

Snow capped mountains. Cozy stays. Adventure rides. Fun itineraries

Reasons for Visiting Switzerland in June 

Firstly, June being a shoulder-season doesn’t see a lot of visitors. This is one of many reasons why we suggest you visit Switzerland in June. June is when you get to enjoy the beautiful warm weather without having to worry about the huge number of tourists. But for folks who definitely want to ski, winter is surely the best time for you; between the months of December and March. 

4 Places to Visit in Switzerland in June

Confused what are the places to visit in Switzerland? Here is a list of places that can help you decide what to visit during your Switzerland trip. 

Land of serene lakes and beautiful churches, Zurich is one of the most visited places when you Visit Switzerland in June. Don’t forget to miss out the Mühlesteg Bridge, one of the most romantic places in Zurich. You can make a wish at this spot which is decorated with numerous padlocks. 

Other places to Visit in Zurich:

• Lake Zurich 
• Swiss National Museum 
• St. Peter Church 
• Grossmunster Church

Known for its medieval architecture, Lucern is popularly known as the gateway city to Switzerland. You will find a lot of places for food culture and shopping spots that will keep you entertained throughout the day. The lovely city of Lucern needs to be added in your trip to Switzerland in June. Don’t forget to try some of these famous dishes in Lucerne.

Other places to visit in Lucerne: 

• Lion Monument 
• Chapel Bridge
• Swiss Museum of Transport. 
• For the food lovers- Do visit the famous Geissmatt and Grottino 1313 restaurants. 

3. Interlaken

Switzerland’s adventure capital is the place to be for all the adventure buffs. There are numerous exciting things to do in Interlaken that are a must-do. You can indulge in a hiking session to witness the beauty of the city or try the funicular ride. Don’t forget to add this marvellous city to your trip to Switzerland in June. 

If June Switzerland vacation is on the cards for you, then Geneva is a city you should definitely visit on your vacation in Switzerland in June. This second-most populous city in Switzerland attracts numerous tourists around the year. Known for its ancient museums, amazing hiking paths, cruises in the lakes, people from across the globe flock to Geneva for a memorable vacation. 

Other places to visit in Geneva: 

• Art and History Museum
• International Museum Of The Reformation. 
• Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art
• Art and History museum 
• Ariana Museum 
• Lake Geneva

5 Things to do in Switzerland in June 

With winters just around the corner, June is a preferred time for hiking and trekking. With most tourists gone, prices dropping down, you literally have the entire place to yourself to indulge in numerous activities. Here are a few things we recommend you try during your Switzerland trip. 

This is the time for your trekking and hiking expeditions in Switzerland, with almost no slippery snow. Enthusiasts hike as high as 2000 metes above sea level as the conditions are very favourable. You will get to witness some excellent views of the inaccessible ice-capped peaks. This is definitely one of the best activity to do in Switzerland in June if you are in pursuit of a real adventure! 

With numerous lakes for you to explain, you will find families and friends taking picnics around these beautiful surroundings. You surely should not miss visiting the lakes for reasons many like the location they are located, their geographical location and above all, the lake themselves. 

Lakes to not miss in Switzerland

• Lake Maggiore 
• Lake Lugano.

3. Cable Cars And Cogwheel Trains

The Swiss cable trains is surely a dream for every Swiss visitor. The cogwheel rides and cable cars will be closed in winter due to the snow situation. In June, these attractions start operating again and giving you the opportunity to witness the beautiful sights of Switzerland, from high up in the sky. 

Cogwheel ride is yet another spectacular attraction people love visiting in Switzerland in June. But be wary of the steep ones as some might find it difficult to keep their head straight, and can have some dizzy spells. 

4. Pass Roads

The scenic pass roads open up as the spring arrives. Accessing places on the other side of pass roads becomes easier for all visitors. You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass to explore these scenic routes. 

5. Swimming And Sunbathing

Come summer and spring, its time for some outdoor activities. The weather turns pleasant and the places come to life. At this crossroads of seasons, Zurich provides you with good chances to enjoy in the sunshine. Go up the bank of Zurich’s rivers, or Lake Zurich, you can enjoy swimming in them or just laze around in the banks to sunbathe. There are more than 40 swimming areas in Zurich which include rivers, lakes and artificial outdoor pools. 

Here is a short list of things you can pack for your vacation to Switzerland in June. 

• Hats for the hikes and treks
• Short and Long Sleeve shirts 
• Water-resistant boots or shoes
• Wet weather gear 
• Over pants for the rain
• Pants with zip-off legs, preferably to adapt to the weather
• Fleece clothing

So, these are our suggestions for your vacation to Switzerland. We hope we were able to help you with the argument of when is the best time to visit Switzerland. Undoubtedly, Switzerland in June is a good time and we hope you are able to enjoy the beautiful country to the fullest. You can also check our Switzerland packages or Switzerland honeymoon packages to take inspiration from. Happy Holidays from everyone at Pickyourtrail!

Zermatt, the picturesque village at the foot of the impressive Matterhorn, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Chillon Castle, Rhine Falls, Mount Pilatus, Chapel Bridgeare some of the must visit places of Switzerland.

Fondue, Leeks with potatoes and sausage (Papet Vaudois), Rosti, Valaisanne-style, Basel-style roasted flour soup, Raclette, Polenta and braised beef, Zurich-style ragout of veal and mushroom (Zurcher geschnetzeltes), Tartiflette are unique and authentic to the region.

Swiss army knives, raclette maker, keychains, swiss chocolates, Heidi books, watches and music boxes are some of the best gifts to buy in Switzerland.

47 Posts Published.

Cynophilist, Potter Head , Dancer , Feminist , Agnostic Thiest , Taurean

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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

Francesco Meroni / GettyImages

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.

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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

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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.

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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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• Switzerland Travel Guide
• When to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland in June: Head Outdoors and Enjoy Festivities

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Summer temperatures rise in Switzerland in June, highlighting the country’s natural beauty renowned the world over. Some of the best places to visit in Switzerland during this time are Lake Geneva, Lausanne and plenty of other places that boast beautiful natural features. Whether you want to explore Switzerland by bike, on your hiking boots, or by setting sail on a pleasure cruise, June is an ideal time to enjoy everything the country has to offer.

Switzerland Weather in June

The weather in Switzerland in June is perfect for an early-summer vacation, with pleasant average temperatures of 21°C. Temperatures in low-lying areas like Geneva have a slightly higher temperature at around 23°C. Higher up in the mountains, June weather is still cold. For example, the resort town of Zermatt, the mercury plummets to 10°C. Barring some instances of rainfall, the overall weather in June is clear and sunny. There is an average rainfall of 110mm across the month, which equates to roughly nine wet days. Do not forget to pack a light jacket or an umbrella just in case.

Trying to figure out when to visit Switzerland? Check out our guide on the best time to visit Switzerland .

Weather in Switzerland in June - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit switzerland in june.

With gorgeous weather, beautiful vacation spots and plenty of festivals to enjoy, June is the perfect time to book your next trip to Switzerland. Here are some enticing reasons to visit Switzerland in June :

• Fête de la Musique: Ever wondered what it feels like to be in a musical? Well, head to Lausanne’s Fête de la Musique, where music is performed in public spaces all over the city, from squares to churches to the middle of the street.
• Street Artists Festival : Heading to Switzerland in early June? Explore Ascona for an unusual and quirky street artists festival. Wander the streets and enjoy jugglers, clowns, fire-eaters and more.
• St.Galler Festspiele: If you love opera, head up to the mountain town of St. Galler, which hosts an opera festival in June and July. The event brings together operatic acts from around the world.
• Plenty of outdoors: The beautiful sunshine and warm temperatures make June a perfect month to get outdoors and enjoy the natural landscape of Switzerland. If you are into hiking, there are some world-class trails through the iconic Swiss Alps and along the beautiful lakes.

Where to go and what to do

Looking for things to do in Switzerland? Well, if you want panoramic views of the verdant countryside and expansive Lake Lucerne, you need to check out the Titlis cable car. It is the world’s first rotating cable car that offers 360° views of the spectacular mountain landscape.

If you like finer things in life, why not check out one of the many wineries and vineyards in Switzerland? Head to the Lake Geneva region in early June to check out one of the many open tasting days towards the end of their spring wine season.

Want to get that blood pumping and adrenaline flowing? Head to Interlaken, Switzerland’s adventure capital and try something new. From paragliding to water rafting and beyond, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the great outdoors and the ideal dry summer conditions in a fun and memorable way.

June is also a perfect month to head to Zurich and take one of many spring pleasure cruises. You can board and disembark from points all around this giant lake. Not only is it a great excursion to enjoy under June sunshine, but it is also a luxurious way to travel to different towns and cities around the area.

What to bring

Struggling to decide what to pack? June can be tricky. Layers are your friend here. A light jacket goes a long way, especially in the evening when the temperature drops. If you are heading up into the mountains for biking or hiking, it will be considerably colder so bring your standard mountain coat and boots.

If you are looking for warm temperatures and beautiful natural scenery where you can indulge in your outdoor pastimes, June is the perfect month to visit Switzerland. Although the crowds are starting to increase for the summer, everything is open for business after a low-season hiatus. There will be no lack of attractions to visit and activities to participate in if you visit Switzerland in June.

It can be difficult trying to shape and build a great vacation itinerary, so why not let our travel experts help you out? With our customizable trips to Switzerland , we take your requirements, work our magic, and create the perfect trip for you and your loved ones.

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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.

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“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. 

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Switzerland

Written by Becca Blond and Joni Sweet Updated Mar 20, 2024

Switzerland's natural beauty is as addictive as its mouthwatering chocolates – one taste and you'll be left craving more. Whether you are on the hiking trails outside Zermatt, laying eyes on the iconic Matterhorn for the first time, or marveling at the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains schussing down a ski trail beginning atop the Jungfraujoch, Switzerland seduces quickly.

This landlocked central European country is home to two mountain ranges, the Alps in the south and the Jura in the northwest. But Switzerland's natural attractions don't stop with peaks and glaciers. You'll also find glimmering turquoise lakes, emerald valleys where tingling bell-wearing cows and sheep graze, charming chalets, and flower box-filled villages that look ripped from the pages of a fairytale storybook.

Amid all this natural beauty are also some fantastic urban diversions and places to visit. With four official languages (French, German, Italian, and Romansch), Switzerland has a multicultural sophistication to its cities, which all offer something different when it comes to history and culture.

French speaking Geneva is home to four major offices of the United Nations and has a large international population. German speaking Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and financial center, known for its shopping, museums, and nightlife. The capital city of Bern boasts a medieval old town with a famous moving puppet clock tower and a stunning riverfront locale.

Switzerland is a four-season destination with countless things to do for outdoor adventurists. In winter you can partake in snow sports at world-class resorts, while summers are perfect for hiking, biking, climbing, and paragliding.

Getting around Switzerland is easy. Although you can rent a car and drive, we recommend utilizing its excellent train system that goes almost everywhere in the country. Trains are fast, mostly on time, and allow you to just sit back and soak up the stunning scenery.

Explore in more depth by checking out our list of top attractions and places to visit in Switzerland

1. The Matterhorn

3. jungfraujoch: the top of europe, 4. interlaken, 6. lake geneva, 7. chateau de chillon, montreux, 8. st. moritz, 10. lake lugano and ticino, 12. the rhine falls, 13. swiss national park, 14. the albula/bernina railway line, 15. oberhofen castle, 16. swiss grand canyon, 17. gruyères, best time of the year to visit switzerland.

You'll never forget the first time you see Switzerland's most symbolic mountain, the Matterhorn. Maybe you arrive in the charming village of Zermatt, at its base , on a clear blue day and the 4,478-meter high , tooth-shaped mountain looms clearly in front of you. Or maybe it is spitting rain when you first set foot in the car-free town, and it isn't until the next morning that you witness the emblematic peak emerging from a sea of dissipating clouds. Whichever way you first see this legendary mountain, it will remain seared into your memory for years to come. It's that impressive.

One of the highest mountains in the Alps, the Matterhorn sits on the border with Italy. It has four steep faces rising to its craggy tip. Climbers have been intrigued by this mountain from the first successful summit in 1865 by British climber Edward Whymper and his team. The trip still ended tragically when four of the climbers fell to their deaths during the descent.

Today, thousands of experienced climbers come here in a summit bid each summer. There are several routes to the top of this mountain, which is not accessible by cable car. The easiest route is the Hörnligrat, which begins in Zermatt.

Things to Do at the Matterhorn

If you don't have the skills to summit the Matterhorn, there are still plenty of ways to experience the mountain. One top excursion is to ride the Gornegrat Bahn cog railway to the summit of the 1,620-meter Gornergrat mountain for stunning Matterhorn views. Europe's highest open-air cog railway, and the first fully electric train of its kind, departs from Zermatt station multiple times per day.

The ride itself is also bound to leave you speechless. Taking 33 minutes and climbing 1,469 meters it crosses dramatic bridges, passes turquoise-hued mountain lakes, and at times clings to the side of the mountain with views down into rocky ravines.

Once you reach the mountaintop, you'll find an observation deck with views in all directions including a view of Switzerland's highest mountain and the second biggest glacier in the Alps. Keep an eye out for wild ibex near the viewing platform in summer.

Europe's highest-altitude hotel, the Kulmhotel Gornegrat is also here. Besides lodging, it has a restaurant and shops open to the public. There is excellent hiking in summer, while Switzerland's highest sledding hill provides winter fun.

At the foot of the Matterhorn, lies the charming village of Zermatt, a top international resort that is one of the most popular ski destinations in Switzerland , and a hiking, biking, and climbing paradise in summer.

Laid out along just a few main streets with a surreal-looking blue river running through it, motorized vehicles except for official electric taxis are banned to preserve the air quality and the town's peaceful ambiance.

Zermatt can also only be reached via helicopter (very pricy) or the Matterhorn Gotthard railway via the towns of Visp or Brig. If you drive to the region, you'll need to park your car down the valley in the town of Tasch, and then continue by train. As such, staying in Zermatt truly feels like you hiked into a remote mountain paradise.

In the winter, skiers can play on more than 300 kilometers of slopes accessed via a funicular and the Blauherd and Rothorn gondolas. In the summer, these slopes turn into hiking and mountain biking trails.

The Five Lakes Trail is one of the most popular hikes, beginning at the top of the Blauherd gondola and eventually taking you back to town via a series of five lakes, three of which you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn in on a clear, windless day. If you want to paraglide, this is also available.

Back in town, you'll find dozens of shops, restaurants (order Raclette, a cheese and potato dish that is a regional specialty), and hotels. If you are interested in history, pay a visit to the Matterhorn Museum , which tells the story of the mountain village turned international holiday resort. It also provides facts and photos from the Matterhorn's first ascent.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Zermatt & Easy Day Trips

Since 1912, tourists have been making their way to the fairytale-like village of Grindelwald for an excursion to the Top of Europe (also known as Jungfraujoch). As its name suggests, it's the highest train station in Europe.

It offers panoramic views of the UNESCO-recognized Jungfrau region that will make your jaw drop. The Sphinx Observatory, an astronomical observatory that looks like a Bond villain lair perched 3,454 meters above sea level, is the best place to see the magnificent Aletsch Glacier and the 4,000-meter peaks that flank it. With snow 365 days per year, it's also a prime spot to get a break from Europe's heat in the summertime.

This famous attraction has come a long way in the last 100 years, giving tourists lots of things to do at the top. Step into the 360-degree cinematic experience room for a closer look at the glacier and the Swiss Alps (perfect for ensuring you still get a wonderful view on a foggy day). Walk through a 250-meter-long corridor with artifacts and exhibits on the history of the miners who built the railway to Jungfraujoch—the antique mining equipment hanging on the walls will give you a deeper respect for these early pioneers.

Peek inside a giant snow globe that depicts the region with charming moving figures, like yodelers and gondolas. Then, glide through the Ice Palace. Frozen from floor to ceiling, it features smooth, icy hallways filled with ice sculptures of animals, including several penguins around an igloo.

Jungfraujoach's highly sustainable cable car, the Eiger Express , shortened the journey between Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes when it opened in late 2020. That makes it possible to summit the Top of Europe on a day trip from Interlaken or even Zurich, but if you have time, it's worth sticking around Grindelwald to hike for a few days .

The trails here are among the most beautiful in the world and most trailheads are easily accessible through the town's network of cable cars and gondolas. The aptly named Panorama Trail takes you along paths lined by wildflowers with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, while the Grindelwald First cable car station puts you on the path to the world-famous Bachalpsee lake.

You can also break up your days of hiking with adventure activities. Grindelwald First is home to a zip line that soars at 80 kilometers per hour and a mountain cart attraction that lets you race down winding gravel paths, plus a trail you can tackle on a "trottibike"—a unique cross between a scooter and a bike that's surprisingly fast.

Nestled on a strip of land between two glassy lakes, Interlaken looks like a postcard brought to life. The enchanting resort town has been a popular vacation destination for centuries, giving tourists a home base to explore the Bernese Oberland. Visit in the spring or summer to take in the striking sight of the town's lush gardens blooming with the snow-dusted Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch towering in the background.

Interlaken's proximity to Lake Thun to the west and Lake Brienz to the east, along with soaring alpine mountains, has helped it become the "Adventure Capital of Europe" —and it offers thrills for any taste.

Want to hike? Take a 10-minute ride on the Interlaken Harderbahn, a funicular railway that's more than 100 years old, to the Harder Kulm (Interlaken's closest mountain). A brick path lined with quirky Swiss statues takes you to the trailhead for the Harder Kulm Circular Path , a relatively easy, forested path that opens up to panoramic views of Interlaken.

From mountainside slopes, you can also take the sky on a paragliding adventure in the summer, or slip on a pair of skis and zip down fresh powder in one of five winter sports areas around Interlaken. It's also a lovely place to get out on the water. Rent kayaks, row boats, and pedal boats for a serene experience on the lakes. Or challenge yourself to wakeboarding, windsurfing, or water skiing.

The beautiful part about Interlaken, though, is that it's as much a place for excitement as it is for a laid-back retreat. Once you've gotten your share of adrenaline, wind down with a stroll on the Höheweg , Interlaken's main boulevard, or find a moment of peace at the Garden of Friendship, the country's first Japanese garden.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Interlaken & Easy Day Trips

Imagine a sparkling blue lake surrounded by mountains, a car-free medieval old town, covered bridges, waterfront promenades, frescoed historic buildings, and sun-splashed plazas with bubbling fountains. No wonder Lucerne (in German, Luzern) is a top spot for tourists.

Famed for its music concerts, this quintessential Swiss town lures renowned soloists, conductors, and orchestras to its annual International Music Festival . The Culture and Convention Center is home to one of the world's leading concert halls.

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Chapel Bridge , built in the 14th century. In a small park, lies the famous Lion Monument , a poignant sculpture of a dying lion, which honors the heroic death of Swiss Guards during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution. History buffs will enjoy the Swiss Transport Museum with extensive exhibits on all forms of transport, including air and space travel, railroad locomotives, and a Planetarium.

For beautiful views of Lucerne, the Alps, and the lake, ride the funicular to the Dietschiberg on the north side of Lake Lucerne; cruise up Mt. Pilatus on the cableway; or head to the Rigi , a famous lookout point.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lucerne

Lake Geneva, Europe's largest Alpine lake , straddles the Swiss/French border, and laps at the shores of some of Switzerland's most popular cities. The city of Geneva (in French Genève; in German Genf) sits between pretty snowcapped peaks at the point where the Rhône spills into Lake Geneva.

This French-speaking "capital of peace" is the European seat of the United Nations and exudes a pleasing blend of French joie de vivre and Swiss structure. Promenades, parks, and gardens surround the lake, and the old town is a lovely spot to stroll among the historic buildings. The Jet d'Eau , a fountain in Lake Geneva shooting water 150 meters into the air, is a famous landmark. Cultural attractions include the Opera House and the Grand Théâtre , which stages international acts.

Also on the lake, about 62 kilometers from Geneva, Lausanne boasts lovely views over the surrounding region and the lake, with the Alps rising in the distance. Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its cute cafés and boutiques and stunning Gothic cathedral. At the foot of the Alps, on Lake Geneva, Montreux hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in June/July.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Geneva

On the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux , the Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Lord Byron, Jean Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo are among the luminaries who have written about this architectural treasure.

Once the stronghold of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy from the 12th century, the complex encompasses about 25 buildings clustered around three courtyards. Highlights include the Great Halls, with magnificent views of Lake Geneva; the Gothic underground rooms; the Chapel , adorned with 14th-century paintings; and the Camera Domini , a bedroom occupied by the Duke of Savoy decorated with medieval murals.

St. Moritz is a city of firsts. The world's first electric light clicked on here in December 1878. In 1889 it hosted the Alps' first golf tournament and in 1935 began operating one of Switzerland's first ski lifts. Additionally, the town is considered the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism after a hotelier convinced British summer guests to winter here in 1864. It went on to host the Winter Olympics twice (1928 and 1948).

In the Upper Engadin region in southeast Switzerland, in a valley surrounded by the Alps, today it is one of the world's most ritzy ski resorts , favored by billionaires and celebrities. It has 350 kilometers of ski and snowboard runs with some of Switzerland's steepest terrain.

Winter sports run the gamut, from skiing, snowboarding, skating, and bobsledding to tobogganing. One of the oldest natural ice runs for toboggans on the planet is found here, the famous 1.2-kilometer-long Cresta Run . There is also a snowboard fun park and 150 kilometers of winter walking and cross-country ski trails.

In summer, St. Moritz attracts hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers. If you prefer to golf, you can play four courses with fantastic mountain views. You can also enjoy the iron-rich natural mineral hot springs here year-round. They were discovered about 3,000 years ago.

Adding to all this spectacular mountain scenery, St. Moritz is a cultural crossroads. Romansch, German, Italian, French, and English are all spoken in the surrounding areas, not to mention the different languages of the many well-heeled international visitors and expats.

The town is divided into two parts: St. Moritz Dorf sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the Lake of St. Moritz. The other part of town, lakeside St. Moritz Bad on the valley floor, is a health resort with less expensive lodging.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in St. Moritz & Easy Day Trips

In a stunning location, perched on a peninsula of the River Aare, the Swiss capital of Bern exudes old-world charm, and the city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along the cobbled streets, visitors can explore the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, with panoramic views from its tower; 16th-century fountains; the Zytglogge medieval clock tower with moving puppets; and six kilometers of shopping arcades, called " Lauben " by the locals. The Rose Garden (Rosengarten) offers beautiful views of the old town center.

Bern has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered, including excellent museums. Art lovers will appreciate the impressive galleries, including the Zentrum Paul Klee, the world's largest collection of works by this famous artist, and the Bern Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum).

Don't miss the markets, held in the Bundesplatz (parliament square) with views of the elegant Renaissance-style parliament building (Bundeshaus). Families will also enjoy a visit to the Bear Park.

Lake Lugano lies on the Swiss/Italian border in Ticino, Switzerland's only official Italian-speaking canton, and offers a tantalizing taste of the Mediterranean. Citrus, figs, palms, and pomegranates flourish in the mild climate here–even as snowcapped peaks beckon in the distance.

In the towns around Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore to the west, the feel of Italy is unmistakable in the architecture, the piazzas, and the passion for fine food, which spills over the Italian borders from the south, east, and west.

Visitors can explore the area by touring the lake on one of the white steamers or renting a boat. For a panoramic overview, Monte San Salvatore offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, lake, and snow-capped peaks.

Lugano , a financial center and the largest and most significant town in Ticino, is a popular summer resort. Northwest of Lugano, in sun-drenched Locarno on Lake Maggiore, Swiss lakeside living takes on a subtropical touch with warm days, blossoming gardens, and palm-studded estates. In Bellinzona , capital of the canton, three magnificent castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lugano, Locarno, and the Ticino Region

Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, a major transportation hub, and a top starting point for travelers. The city lies at the northwestern end of Lake Zurich astride the river Limmat. Beyond its buttoned-up façade, this affluent banking capital boasts a rich line-up of cultural treasures.

A great place to begin a walking tour is the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its quaint shops, cafés, and galleries. Mile-long Bahnhofstrasse , one of Europe's finest shopping strands, beckons with designer stores selling fashion, watches, and jewelry.

Venturing away from the boutiques, visitors will find more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as many other tourist attractions . A top pick is the Kunsthaus Zürich , the museum of fine arts, with an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Another favorite is the Rietberg Museum , which focuses on non-European art with many works from China, India, and Africa.

A short stroll from Zürich's main station, the Swiss National Museum , in a Gothic chateau, spotlights Swiss cultural history. Families will love the Zurich Zoo with an elephant park, penguin parade, and Madagascar pavilion. From the city, take a train ride to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and countryside.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

Spanning 150 meters, the Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) at Schaffhausen are the largest falls in Europe. The best time to visit is during June and July when the mountain snow melts, and the falls swell in volume to spill over a 21-meter-high ledge of Jurassic limestone.

Boat trips up the Rhine provide excellent views of the falls, as do the viewing platforms on both sides of the river.

Founded in 1914, Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley is the oldest reserve in the Alps. The park sits right on the border with Italy and encompasses more than 170 square kilometers of flower-dotted hollows, fast-flowing rivers, and limestone crags. The scenery is especially dramatic in winter when the forested mountains are covered in a blanket of snow, and the views from the cross-country ski trails are stunning.

Nature lovers can explore the region on the large network of trails, though veering off these paths is forbidden in an effort to preserve the natural ecosystems. More than 5,000 species of wildlife call the park home, including marmot, red deer, chamois, ibex, fox, and more than 100 species of birds.

One of the very few railway lines in the world designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage listing, the Albula/Bernina line on the Rheatian Railways offers a majestic ride not to be missed. The route extends throughout the Albula and Bernina landscapes, covering 122 kilometers and winding through almost 200 bridges, the Graubünden mountains, and a number of tunnels and viaducts along the way.

A ride on this train means panoramic seats that overlook unspoiled mountain landscapes, including the Piz Bernina, the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps at just over 4,000 meters tall. The train operates all year long, and the views are just as magical in summer as they are in winter.

Right on the shore of Lake Thun and surrounded by a 2.5-hectare park, this 13th-century castle is one of the most breathtaking in Switzerland. Because Oberhofen Castle changed hands many times through the centuries, and new owners kept adding rooms to it, the result is a magical mix of many styles: Bernese Baroque-style buildings, Romantic-style facades, and Prussian-inspired exotic new areas (including a library and a smoking room).

The castle also houses a living museum showcasing the times and lives of feudal societies that called the castle (and its surroundings) home from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Ruinaulta (also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon") is a deep gorge surrounded by expansive meadows and forested cliffs. Located in Eastern Switzerland, it was created over 10,000 years ago–when the Ice Age Rhine Glacier retreated, it led to a chain of events that resulted in a massive rockslide in the Rhine Valley. As the Rhine River seeped through the rock walls, the gorge was filled with water.

Today, the Swiss Grand Canyon is not only one of the most beautiful areas in Switzerland, but also a preferred destination for hikers, bird-watchers, and nature lovers. It's possible to raft the rapids here between May and October, or rent a canoe or kayak for a gentler route with stunning views of the steep cliffs all around.

Even if you don't know anything about this small medieval town, you've probably heard about the hard yellow cheese that made its name famous. Today, that's one of the town's main attractions. Visitors can tour a cheese factory, sample the local specialties, and wave to the cows that call the surrounding green hills home. If cheese isn't enough, the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory also operates in town.

Gruyères might be tiny – it covers an area of just 28.4 square kilometers and is home to around 2,000 permanent residents – but it makes up for it with plenty of things to do, including the 13 th -century Castle of Gruyères and its two small arts and regional museums, as well as Saint-Germain Castle, which was bought by Swiss surrealist painter and sculptor H. R. Giger, and it now houses a museum dedicated to his work. The Tibet Museum, housed in an old church in town, is also worth a visit.

Stunning landscapes surround Gruyères, including the Gorges de la Jogne (favorite with hikers) and the nearby Mont Moléson, popular with climbers in the warmer months and home to ski and snowshoe trails during winter.

The best time to visit Switzerland depends partly on why you're going there. If you're going for the skiing, then of course winter is the best time to visit. For mountain hiking, summer is best, as it's warm even high up in the mountains, and you won't encounter much rain to disrupt your outdoor plans.

If your visit to Switzerland will include a bit of everything, then the months between April and June are your best choice . You'll still find some snow if you arrive early in this period, and warm days if you arrive later on.

Temperatures vary between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, and you'll get a bit of rain, but you'll also see long days with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking and sightseeing . May is the most unpredictable month weather-wise – you might see rain and cold evenings or sunshine with temperatures in the low 20s.

Since the summer crowds don't arrive until July, and the winter crowds are long gone, you'll get more privacy and a chance to grab better deals on flights and accommodations .

More on Switzerland

12 of the best things to do in Switzerland 

Dec 5, 2023 • 13 min read

Experience the best of Switzerland with these top things to do © nycshooter / Getty Images

No country has it all, but the Swiss are justified in feeling pretty smug about their lot.

In Switzerland almost every drive , train journey , boat trip or cable car ride has an element of the epic, taking you to thundering falls, gorges, valleys hidden deep in the mountains or World Heritage vineyards. Cities with medieval old towns, big-hitter galleries and extraordinary cultural collections are often just a whisper away from vivid turquoise lakes and the glacier-capped Alps. The stride between urban and outdoors is effortless.

Whether it’s floating down the Rhine in Basel, admiring Paul Klee’s punchy art in Bern, hiking below the mighty Matterhorn, feeling the thrill of ice at the Aletsch Glacier, or sipping Chasselas wines in the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux as the last sun touches Lake Geneva, these are some of the best things to do in Switzerland .

1. Float down the Rhine in Basel

At the point where Switzerland, Germany and France converge, Basel dives into creative waters when it comes to avant-garde art and architecture, with a raft of galleries right up there with Europe’s best. But this city also likes to let its mind drift. 

Cue the Rhine, where office workers ditch their suits to take a dip, and families gather for a city swim on weekends. A novel way to see Basel is to grab a Wickelfisch (a fish-shaped waterproof bag to keep your stuff dry), make for the river banks in Kleinbasel, then strip to your bathers and float past city landmarks as the current carries you gently downstream. If you prefer to keep your head above water, rent a stand-up paddleboard or join a tour with Birs73 . Locals like to end their dip socially, with drinks and a sunbathe at a buvette (riverside bar), especially on hot summer days.

Planning tip: Hop in just below Museum Tinguely to float 3km (1.8 miles) down the Rhine, or plot your own route by taking a look at the map . You can buy a Wickelfisch at the tourist office in central Barfüsserplatz.

2. Stargaze from your bed

It’s a night silent enough to hear your own heartbeat. Up in the Alps, darkness falls and the only sound is the gentle chime of cowbells. Constellations and distant planets sprinkle the sky like handfuls of glitter. Sound beautiful? It is. Harnessing the wild, Million Stars Hotel is a huge collection of open-air, one-of-a-kind sleeps across the country, where you can slip back to nature and enjoy a little pre-bedtime stargazing.

But we’re not just talking canvas here. These imaginative overnighters are ones that you’ll be raving about for years to come – from beautifully made-up beds plonked on top of remote mountains to a stylishly converted gondola on the edge of a crag, a bed under an apple tree and a “beehive” pod with views of Eiger’s mile-high North Face. And with this being Switzerland, they are not just clever but comfortable, too.

Planning tip: As each place only sleeps two, advance booking is highly advisable. Most are open from July to October.

3. Ride the Glacier Express

No country nails rail travel like Switzerland, where little red trains (polished and perfectly on time) chug from valley to peak with ease, leaving you to swoon over the Alpine scenery from the comfort of your panoramic carriage. Evoking a golden age of travel, Switzerland’s train journeys are hands down some of the world’s finest.

The big one everyone is eager to do at least once (and with good reason) is the Glacier Express , which crosses over the Furka, Oberalp and Bernina passes on the eight-hour ride between Zermatt and St Moritz in Graubünden ’s Upper Engadin. Riveting views of meadows, forests, fast-flowing turquoise rivers, canyons, castles, big-shouldered mountains and glaciers keep you glued to the window. The entire journey is a remarkable feat of 1930s engineering, but special mention goes to the Landwasser viaduct – the gravity-defying six-arched bridge that leaps between Tiefencastel and Filisur, and the Oberalp Pass (2,033m/6,670ft), harnessing the true wilderness of the Swiss Alps.

Planning tip: If you want to save a few francs, regularly scheduled services plying the same route can be just as enjoyable and significantly less expensive. Break up the journey by using cheaper SBB trains and overnighting along the way.

4. Hike in the Swiss National Park

For a taste of the Alps before tourists rocked up, head southeast to the Swiss National Park in Graubünden’s Lower Engadin valley, where the mountains nudge their way over into Italy. Easily accessed from the quaint villages of Scuol, Zernez and S-chanf, Switzerland’s only national park is a 172-sq-km (66-sq-mile) visual feast of rushing streams, high moors, pastures, glaciers, larch, pine woods and lakes. Here, nature has been left totally to its own devices: no trees are felled, no meadows are cut, and no animals have been hunted since the park was founded in 1914.

The only way to properly see the park is by chucking on boots and heading for its trail-laced heart. If you only have time for one walk, make it Lakes of Macun, a 21km (13-mile) day hike from Zernez, leading to a high Alpine plateau splashed with 23 lakes that shimmer topaz and sapphire. If you prefer, you can join a guided walk with one of the park rangers (you can book these at the visitor center in Zernez). With an expert in tow, you stand better chances of spotting rarities like wild edelweiss, ibex, chamois, golden eagles and bearded vultures.

Planning tip: Camping is off-limits, but you can stay the night at the gloriously remote Chamanna Cluozza . At 1,882m (6,174ft) above sea level, this is quite possibly the off-grid log cabin of your wildest Alpine dreams. The hut is reached on a moderately challenging 3½-hour uphill hike from Zernez. Bring your own sleeping bag.

5. Boat across Lake Lucerne

There are higher mountains in Switzerland than those lining the fjord-like shores of Lake Lucerne , but none are more enshrined in flag-waving Swiss myth. Boat across the emerald waters of Lake Uri and you’ll glimpse Rütli Meadow , the hallowed birthplace of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. You can also experience the Tellskapelle , a tiny, frescoed chapel that is said to be where the apple-shooting hero and beloved Swiss rebel William Tell escaped from the boat of his Hapsburg captor, Gessler.

Legends swirl like storm clouds over the mountains on the doorstep of Lucerne . Since 1889, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway has been rattling up to 2,128m (6,981ft) Mt Pilatus, where the restless ghost of Roman prefect Pontius Pilate is said to still roam. Never mind the spook stories – you’ll be captivated by the views reaching as far as Germany’s Black Forest on cloudless days. Its beauty rival is 1,797m Mt Rigi (5,895ft), famous for its painterly sunrises and sunsets and once a source of fascination to JMW Turner, who painted it in three different moods.

Planning tip: Lucerne makes an appealing base for exploring the lake, with its Old Town, medieval wooden bridge and promenade strung along the lakeshore.

6. Take the Eiger Express to Jungfraujoch

You’ve got to hand it to the Swiss – they are always ahead of the game. Since 1912, a little red train, fueled by hydro-power from the outset, has wound its way up to Jungfraujoch , Europe’s highest train station at 3,454m (11,332ft), blasting through the icy heart of Eiger. Just recently, the journey has become even more eco-friendly with Grindelwald’s Eiger Express , a super-speedy tri-cable gondola that covers the first leg of the journey using its wheels to generate green power. The ride will make you gasp out loud as you float above the landscape, with spruce forests and log chalets giving way to a realm of rock and ice. You’ll get so close to Eiger’s beastly, mile-high North Face that you’ll feel as though you’ll slam right into it.

At the top of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, temperatures drop and the world is always white. You’ll be wowed by the view from the Sphinx observation deck, reaching across a sea of snow-capped, 4,000m (13,123ft) peaks and the 23km (14.2-mile) swirl of the Aletsch Glacier while Germany and France hover in the distance. The frosty Ice Palace is a wonderland of ice tunnels and sculptures – they are impressive today but must have been even more so back when mountaineers first hacked them out by pickaxe in the 1930s.

Planning tip: Bring warm layers and boots, particularly if you fancy the 45-minute stomp to Mönchsjochhütte , Switzerland’s highest serviced mountain hut.

7. Drive the Furka Pass

You won’t be able to tell if it’s the stomach-flipping hairpin bends or the gob-smacking views that make your heart beat so wildly on this high, twisty, up-and-over-the-Alps drive from the isolated valley of the Goms in Valais to mountain-encrusted Andermatt in Uri – the gateway to southeast Switzerland. 

Drive the 31km (19-mile) Furka Pass from west to east to maximize the drama as dark, craggy peaks and glaciers fill your rear-view mirror. If you have a bit of a Bond moment behind the wheel, it’s no coincidence – this road starred in the car chase scene in the 1964 movie Goldfinger. As you swing dizzily around switchbacks, the road tops out at the 2,429m (7,969ft) Furka Pass, where you can peer across the lunar rockscape of a wind-battered plateau to the deeply crevassed Rhône Glacier and its ice grotto before the long, sweeping descent to Andermatt.

Planning tip: The road is open roughly from June to October (depending on snow) but check conditions before heading out.

8. Get active in Ticino’s valleys

In the sultry, parle Italiano canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland, it’s the lakes that get all the love. But dip into Ticino ’s hidden valleys and you’ll lose the crowds and find the region’s true pulse. Here glassy, jewel-colored rivers float past chestnut woods and incredibly pretty granite hamlets cresting hilltops (including Switzerland’s smallest, Corippo , with a population of just 15). And after a day’s hike or bike ride, you can kick back on the vine-swathed terrace of a rustic grotti (tavern) for polenta and brasato (beef braised in red wine) with a glass of the beefy local Merlot.

The wild, woody Valle Maggia is a magnet to mountain bikers and hikers, laced with 700km (435 miles) of trails, including the challenging 52km (32-mile), six-day Via Alta that spotlights the region’s best. For more adventure, head over to the rugged Val Verzasca, bisected by its namesake emerald river and crisscrossed by the Sentiero Verzasca trail. Every Alpine activity imaginable is offered in this valley, from hiking and cycling to rafting, bouldering, paragliding and bungee jumping from the 220m (656ft) Verzasca Dam, which starred in the opening scene of GoldenEye . Swissraft makes it happen.

9. Have a culture fix in Bern

You might have an I-can’t-believe-it’s-the-capital moment roaming the streets of Bern , with its refreshingly easygoing vibe, parks and alfresco cafes, resident bears and lush backdrop of hills. The city is certainly a looker, situated on a sharp bend in the startlingly turquoise Aare River, encircled by gentle hills and with views of the snow-frosted Alps on crisp, clear days. And you can get your cultural kicks here, too. 

Begin with a romp around the Altstadt , Bern’s medieval, cobbled, arcaded, flag-bedecked heart. Here you’ll spy the ornate Zytglogge clock (come at four minutes before the hour for the glockenspiel parade), the 15th-century Gothic Münster (hike up its lofty spire, Switzerland’s tallest, for far-reaching views over the rooftops) and many folkloric fountains, including the Kindlifresserbrunnen , depicting a giant snacking on children.

Museum-wise, Bern is a treat. Tour the apartment where Einstein lived and the magnificent Kunstmuseum , home to Renaissance masterpieces, Monets and Picassos. Make the short hop out to Renzo Piano’s bold, wave-like Zentrum Paul Klee to see the color-charged works of Swiss-born German artist Paul Klee.

Detour : Break up sightseeing with a wild swim in the Aare River. When the weather warms, join the Berner for a cooling downstream float. 

10. Ski or hike below the Matterhorn

Nothing sums up Switzerland’s outdoor-loving spirit better than the Matterhorn, the peak that has broken many a rock climber’s rope (and soul) and has a chocolate bar (Toblerone) shaped in its honor. Arrive in Zermatt on the train that chugs from Täsch. Like those who have come before you, you won’t be able to stop yourself from obsessively gawping at that mountain. 

And who could blame you? Razoring up above the Italian border in southern Valais, this 4,478m (14,691ft) fang of rock and ice is utterly mesmerizing, especially when seen from above. You can ski, hike or climb in its pyramid-shaped shadow by riding the world's highest-altitude 3S cable car to 3,883m (12,739ft) Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , on the Klein Matterhorn, with views reaching deep into the Swiss, French and Italian Alps. 

For close-ups of the melting ice, hook onto the two-hour, 6.5km (4-mile), moderately challenging Matterhorn Glacier Trail. When the flakes fall in winter, you can pound the powder on 360km (223 miles) of ski runs, some of which dip over the border into Italy and nearly all of which offer distractingly lovely views of the Matterhorn.

Planning tip: If you have some climbing experience under your belt, you can climb your way to the top with an Alpine guide .

11. Admire the Aletsch Glacier  

As you journey into the remote Goms valley in Valais , the Alps take a turn for the wild and the hamlets are pure Heidi stuff with sun-blackened chalets and flower-freckled meadows sweeping up to whopping mountains. The Matterhorn gets all the fuss, but just as arresting is the Aletsch Glacier , the jewel in the crown of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region. Powering past wispy waterfalls, rock spires and the dagger-shaped summit of Aletschhorn (4,193m/13,756ft) like a six-lane glacial superhighway, this 23km (14 mile) swirl of deeply crevassed ice is the longest and most voluminous glacier in the Alps.

Observe the glacier from the viewpoint, or – for close-ups – hit the trail on the 17km (10.5-mile), five- to six-hour hike from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp where every bend in the ice reveals phenomenal views and the odd Valais Blacknose sheep. If you prefer instant thrills, wobble across the Aletschji–Grünsee Suspension Bridge, which straddles the 80m-deep Massa Gorge.

Planning tip: Reaching the glacier is part of the fun. From Fiesch, take the cable car up to Fiescheralp, then beyond to Eggishorn for your first glimpse of the mighty Aletsch.

12. Walk among vines in Lavaux

In the country’s western crook, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lavaux vineyards are heaven on earth to oenophiles. The world’s steepest vineyards stagger up the terraced hills above Lake Geneva . If you’ve never heard of them, it’s because the hand-picked wines are so select and small-batch that the Swiss keep most of them to themselves – few bottles ever reach export.

Before hitting the caveaux (wine cellars) for a petite dégustation (tasting), brush up your wine knowledge. It’s said that these grapes are blessed by three suns: the one in the sky, the one on the lake and the one radiating heat from the dry-stone walls. The main grape is Chasselas, a very old variety producing crisp, flinty white wines with a fresh, citrusy nose. The fruity reds (Gamay, Pinot noir and Salvagnin) make up just 20% of production.

You can drive the meandering roads that loop around 40km (25 miles) of shore or take the Lavaux Panoramic Train , but you’ll get a better feel for the Lavaux by heading out on foot. Little trails dip into the vines everywhere, but top billing goes to the 11km (6.8-mile) trail from St-Saphorin to Lutry, where you’ll take in stirring views, pretty villages and welcoming cellars.

Planning tip: For a great primer on Lavaux wines, stop off at Vinorama in Rivaz. Housed in a strikingly revamped bunker, the lakefront center speeds you through the wine-growing process, and you can sample dozens of different wines in the Espace Dégustation.

This article was first published Sep 20, 2022 and updated Dec 5, 2023.

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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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• 7 Fun And Unique Things To Do In Switzerland In June Which Every Traveler Must Experience At Least Once!

23 Mar 2023

The immaculate Alps, green-hued fields, and a beautiful culture to top it all, Switzerland is no less than a dream destination. The place itself has been a veteran in terms of hitting the right chord with travelers for ages. The pristine beauty of the place is a majestic example of nature residing at every step. However, apart from being blessed with natural beauty, there are a lot of other things to do in Switzerland in June, for intrepid travelers. Hiking, boating, paragliding, skiing, and above all culinary delights holds the list of some of the best things to do in Switzerland in June to experience endless fun

7 Things To Do In Switzerland In June

The Alpine beauty is for sure a phenomenal destination for every visitor. However, the country also has its fair share of climate throughout the year. For experiencing a more nuanced journey the months between April and June are touted as the shoulder season for the country, as the temperature remains moderate and slightly on the warmer side. Now let us take a quick look at the various things to do in Switzerland in June.

1. Gurten Mountain – Go For Hiking And Tobogganing

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Despite its sheer size, Bern manages to stay in the limelight for a handful of obvious reasons. The city is drenched in medieval architecture which reflects through the buildings like Federal Palace and churches. However, the locale is also ideal for other activities such as hiking and tobogganing. One can indulge in hiking up the Gurten mountain which is roughly 860 meters above the sea level. The total hike will take around 1-2 hours on average and for all those who want to save energy can take a ride up to the summit on the “Gurtenbahn” train and come down through Tobogganing. Do we need to elaborate more?

Ideal for: Adventure, families, friends Activity cost/ticket fee: For tobogganing: INR 256 for children, and INR 334 for adults Gurtenbahn ride: INR 445 for children, and INR 742 for adults Entry timing and closing timings: 9 am-8pm Location: Bern Stay options: Hotels near Gurten

Must Read: 10 Fab Places To Visit In Basel On Your Switzerland Vacation

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2. Interlaken – Paragliding And Bungee Jumping

A journey through the Swiss Paradise is almost incomplete without mentioning “Interlaken”. Bustling with the right dose of blood rushing activities, Interlaken finds itself juxtaposed in the list of every eager traveler. While the town is noted for its quaint little hamlets that look like a page out of the fairy tale, the other string of activities is also something to vouch for. Bungee Jumping and Paragliding through the snow-clad Alps is a one time experience to indulge in. A free fall from a height of 132 meters towards Lake Stockensee sounds exciting, right? Also to make your trip even more fun one can opt to paraglide underneath the Swiss skies and soak in the panoramic views with the help of certified instructors.

Ideal for: Adventure, friends Activity cost/ticket fee: INR 15,585 for Bungee Jumping, INR 11,133 for Paragliding(INR 7,422 for double airtime, INR 2,969 for Photo and Video) Entry timing and closing timings: 4:15 Pm (Bungee Jumping) and 7:00 am-10 pm(Paragliding) Location: Interlaken Stay options: Hotels near Interlaken

Suggested Read: Dreaming Of An Exotic Honeymoon In Switzerland ? Make It Happen

3. Rhine Falls – Experience Boating

Rhine Falls, the name says it all! Being one of the largest falls in Switzerland this natural wonder attracts millions of tourists all over the world. The falls are perched on a high Rhine between Schaffhausen and Zurich, where the milky waters roar through its amazing journey way down. To make most of the breathtaking view one can take a boat ride to the middle of the falls and get amazed by this gushing stream of water. One of the amazing things to do in Switzerland in June, this major attraction is not to be missed!

Ideal for: Adventure, friends Activity cost/ticket fee: INR 330/person Entry timing and closing timings: No timings Location: 8212 Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland Stay options: Nearby hotels

Suggested Read: 10 Interlaken Restaurants Serving The Most Delicious Food In Switzerland

4. Mt Pilatus – Experience Cable Car Riding

What is an Alpine adventure without taking a ride on the cable car? This stunning mountain range near Lucerne is one of the most exquisite sights you will witness. With a huge blanket of snow topping its peak, Mt Pilatus is one of the most impressive mountains in the country with a gradient of 48 degrees. The tour starts from the countryside where the picturesque view of the Lake of Four Cantons awaits to suck you in. From there on the tour takes you to Kriens where Gondola and Cable car rides take you to the summit while tearing through the Alpine landscape. A true adventure for everyone, this is one of the best things to do in Switzerland in June.

Ideal for: Adventure, family, and friends Activity cost/ticket fee: INR II,334 Entry timing and closing timings: 9:30 Am-5:00 Pm Location: Lucerne Stay options: Nearby hotels

Suggested Read: 10 Unique Museums In Switzerland That Walk You Through History Of Humanity

5. Ride The Bernina Express

A train ride is the most spectacular way of enjoying the views of Switzerland. It is also a great way to travel at ease and check the picturesque scenery up close with your eyes. The Bernina Express with its large glass windows offers the most extravagant view of the country. Running through the major parts of the country the train connects Switzerland and Italy through the Swiss Engadin Alps. Also touted as the highest transalpine railway in Europe the journey stretches over 145 km and covers 55 tunnels and 196 bridges. With all these beautiful locales waiting to unveil, this ride through the cozy valleys will be etched in your mind forever.

Ideal for: Adventure, family, and friends Activity cost/ticket fee: Starts from INR 19,297 depending on the package Entry timing and closing timings: Starts from 8:32 Am Location: Bahnhofstrasse 25, 7002 Chur

Suggested Read: 8 Enticing Festivals In Switzerland For Mirth And Merriment

6. Jungfraujoch – Explore The Beauty

Who doesn’t want to wander beyond the glistening glaciers and travel into a mystic world? A trip to Jungfraujoch the peak of Europe has it all and is something that one should not miss. The place has it all from snow-covered mountains, quaint little hamlets to glaciers that make it a worth visit while in Switzerland. The coach journey boasts of everything majestic while running through the Brunig pass towards Lake Brienz. Also, the journey encompasses the trio peaks of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau along with a scenic view of the icy wonderland of Alps. So, make a deal with the “Alpine Sensation” and stroll along the tunnels for an experience that can’t be repeated.

Ideal for: Adventure, family, and friends Activity cost/ticket fee: Starts from INR 17,958 Entry timing and closing timings: 8:00 Am-7:00 Pm Location: Zurich Stay options: Nearby hotels

Suggested Read: Saxon Switzerland National Park: Your Wilderness Guide!

7. Lake Hopping

If you think Switzerland is home to only the avid mountain ranges then you are wrong? The mainland of the country is filled with small waterscapes that for sure will keep you on edge. Home to some of the most beautiful lakes, the crystal clear waters are a huge departure from the blanketed peaks. Starting from Lake Constance that makes a pair with the borders of Germany and Austria to Lake Maggiore which has in its kitty windsurfing activities. And for those who need to refresh their minds and get detoxed from the weary journey get to Lake Geneva, which has amazing spa towns around its perimeter.

Ideal for: Adventure, family, and friends Activity cost/ticket fee: Starts from INR 3,218 for windsurfing Entry timing and closing timings: 10 am-7 pm Stay options: Nearby hotels

Further Read: 10 Street Foods In Switzerland: Pamper Your Gastronomic Craving

Home to the Alps and an array of natural reserves, Switzerland is the most beautiful country in the world. The landscape of the country is painted with a spectrum of colors which is hard to find in the rest of the world. True to its myriad theme and culture the locale sees footfalls of a major number of visitors yearly. So pack your bags now and plan a trip to Switzerland immediately as the destination awaits your presence. Also while there do carry out the list of things to do in Switzerland in June so that your journey may be more fulfilling.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Switzerland In June  

What is there to do in Switzerland in June?

The following are the popular things to do in Switzerland in June - hiking & tobogganing at Gurten Mountain, paragliding & bungee jumping at Interlaken, boating at Rhine Falls, cable car riding at Mt Pilatus, riding the Bernina Express, and more.

How is the weather in Switzerland in June?

The average temperature in June varies between 16°C (61F) to 21°C (70F). The lowest temperature during this month might go around 11°C (52F). The place receives an average of 6 hours of sunshine per day, with the least chances of rainfall.

Is it safe to visit Switzerland during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Complete both doses of vaccination before planning your visit and get an RT PCR test done as you may have to produce it at the entry and exit points. Maintain social distancing and remain masked while stepping out. Avoid visiting crowded places and gatherings. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly after touching surfaces.

Is Switzerland crowded in June?

No, June is an offseason with comparatively fewer tourists visiting during this time. The weather is great to sneak peek at the mountainous regions of the country.

Is June a good time to visit Switzerland?

Yes, as the months between April-June are the shoulder months and experience warmer climates. The average temperature ranges between 16°C (61F) to 21°C (70F) during this time.

Can we witness snowfall in the months of June?

Depending on the weather there is little snowfall during June which stays on the ground for a short period, but higher altitudes are clad in snow. The snowfall experience entirely depends on the places covered in your itinerary.

Does it rain a lot in Switzerland in June?

Yes, some places might experience little to no rainfall during June. On average 15-17 days in a month can experience rainfall during June.

Is there snow in the Alps during June?

Yes, the higher altitudes of the Alps receive snowfall even in June. Whereas, you can easily catch glimpse of snow-clad mountains here.

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9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

• January 11, 2022 March 4, 2024

Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Admin

Switzerland is a beautiful country known for its mountains, glaciers, large lakes, and turquoise rivers. Switzerland has a lot more to offer than just the Swiss Alps . The country also has lots of interesting and beautiful cities to visit. 

Compared to some of the largest cities in the world, such as London, Paris, and New York, a Swiss city will always be minuscule. However, these places do have a lot to offer – from restaurants and shopping to old towns and museums.

So without further ado, here are 9 of the best cities to visit in Switzerland .

Switzerland’s fourth-largest city, Bern , is known as its Federal City. Bern is home to the federal government, international postal, and railway unions. With a UNESCO World Heritage site on its doorstep, its Old City in particular, Bern managed to retain its old-world charm.

Found west of central Switzerland, Bern is definitely more laid back than Zurich and Geneva. Flowing through the city of Bern is the River Aare , whose waters are crystal clear and turquoise. The city itself has its own share of interesting things to do. 

Wander through Gurten to take in the city’s sights and sounds. Following that, you can visit the bears (yes, real ones) and then walk further to explore the old city . In the city, you can walk along the 15th-century arcades, maybe go shopping a bit, or eat at one of the many restaurants. You’ll even come across some fountains from the 16th century on your way. Colorful figures and crafted pillars decorate the old city. 

Among Bern’s other notable landmarks are the Parliament Building , the Cathedral , and the Historic Museum , which is Switzerland’s second-largest historic museum. 

Near Bern, travelers often go to Wengen , Interlaken , and Mürren .

2. Lausanne

The eponymous capital of Vaud canton, Lausanne is a beautiful city. This city has everything – a beach on Lake Geneva, pools, a gorgeous old town, museums , shops, restaurants, an aquarium/vivarium , and views of the surrounding mountains. In addition, with varying altitudes, you have parts of the city with great views. 

Lausanne’s old town and Cathedral give it a rich history. The city was once ruled by Celts and Romans. Today, Lausanne is the fifth-largest city in Switzerland and the second-largest city in French-speaking Switzerland.

Near Lausanne, travelers often go to  Geneva and Montreux .

The city of Lucerne is one of the most popular tourist spots in Switzerland. In Lucerne, you’ll find everything you’d want in a typical Swiss city. The beauty of its fjord-like blue lake, charming old town, and mountains is unbeatable. For those who want to spend some time in Lucerne City, there’s so much to see: the Transport Museum, the Lion Monument , the Rosengart Collection , and Chapel Bridge , just to name a few. 

You can get around Lake Lucerne with the Lake Lucerne ship company . Various basins and bays provide exhilarating and changing views of the landscape on the lake – Stansstaad, Weggis, Buochs, Gersau, and Uri.

For those who want more details, we have an article about the best things to do in Lucerne:   9 Best Things To Do in Lucerne, Switzerland .

You can read more about other stunning places to visit near Lucerne such as Bürgenstock , Engelberg , Vitznau , and Weggis in this article 10 Beautiful Places Near Lucerne . And for those who wish to visit the mountains near Lucerne, you can find out about the Closest Mountains To Visit From Lucerne .

There’s an alpine city in Switzerland called  Chur  you might be familiar with. You may have passed Chur en route to Davos , St. Moritz , or another mountain resort in the canton Grisons. 

Chur has been inhabited for more than 11,000 years. The city of Chur is the oldest in Switzerland . Early trade also made the city important.

In 1803, canton Grisons ( Graubünden in German) recognized Chur as its capital. Chur might not be your first choice to visit in Switzerland, but it is definitely an alpine city worth visiting.

If you would like to read more about Chur , check out our articles:

• How to Spend 1 Day in Chur, Switzerland
• Is Chur Worth Visiting? 8 Fun Things To Do In Chur
• Discover St. Martin’s Church in Chur, Switzerland
• Rätisches Museum: Unleashing The Fascinating History Of Graubünden
• Closest Mountains To Chur in Switzerland
• Bernina Express Route: Chur to Tirano Train

Lugano  is the largest city in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. This charming city lies right along the shores of Lake Lugano quite near the Italian border. This beautiful city is home to 17 heritage sites. Aside from the city of Lugano itself, the districts Barbengo, Brè, Gandria, Castagnola, and Biogno are also part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites.

Worth visiting in Lugano is the Church of Santa Maria Degli Angeli with its stunning Renaissance fresco. This fresco has more than 150 faces and figures together with Jesus Christ, Gestas, and Dimas. A second Cathedral worth visiting is Catedrale San Lorenzo, with its Baroque decors. For those who are interested in shopping, Via Nassa is the place to be.

Near Lugano is the mountain called Monte San Salvatore . This mountain is part of the Lepontine Alps and is accessible by funicular from the city.

From Lugano , you can quickly go to Morcote , Locarno , Ascona , and Bellinzona . And if these are not enough, you can check out several other choices here: 8 Best Day Trips From Lugano .

The city of  Basel , along the Rhine River, is situated in northwest Switzerland, quite close to France and Germany. A highly cultural city, it also enjoys excellent weather year-round. It has also been included time and again in the list of most livable cities in the world.

Basel  is also known as  Switzerland’s cultural capital.  It has more than  40 museums , including the Kunstmuseum, the Fondation Beyeler , and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, it hosts Art Basel , an international art fair that attracts thousands of artists, art collectors, and art enthusiasts from Europe, the US, and Asia. 

One tradition that you might want to observe is the Basel Carnival festival . Sometime during the months of February and March, the country’s largest festival starts with what’s called the Morgestraich . It lasts a good 72 hours. As a highly anticipated and important tradition, the Basel Carnival was inscribed in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage back in 2017.

There’s more to Basel than just culture. Also in Basel are world-renowned institutions , like the University of Basel, the Bank of International Settlements, and FC Basel. Some of the biggest pharma companies are based in Basel, like Roche, Novartis, Lonza, and Actelion.

You can learn all about the local zoo in Basel in our review: Zoo Basel – An Honest Review.

If you would like to visit beautiful towns near Basel, you can choose from the list here 8 Beautiful Towns Near Basel, Switzerland .

Switzerland’s biggest and most populous city, it’s no wonder that people tend to visit Zurich . Home to the country’s biggest airport and train station, it is also logistically typically the easiest city to reach from abroad.

Zurich lies along the shores of Lake Zurich . It also has a charming old town and beautiful churches such as the Grossmünster and the Fraumünster . The city has a lot of restaurants, nightclubs, and bars compared to other cities in the country.

If you take the Polybahn up to the Polyterrasse , you will get fantastic views of the city. Another option is going up the Dolder . For those who want to see the greater Zurich area as well as see further away, Uetliberg Mountain is also relatively close.

For those who are interested in museums, Landesmuseum Zurich or the Swiss National Museum is right next to the Zurich Train Station. This castle-like museum is Switzerland’s most visited museum. You’ll find Bahnhofstrasse on the other side of the train station. This main shopping street ( Bahnhofstrasse ) has watches, jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs.

You can visit lots of cool towns nearby Zurich for a day trip – Arbon , Stein am Rhein , Aarburg , Lenzburg , Rheinfelden , and Laufenburg . And for those who want to visit the mountains and lakes close to Zurich, you can check out our list of Closest Mountains To Visit From Zurich and t he Most Beautiful Lakes Near Zurich .

Zurich’s counterpart on the French side of Switzerland is  Geneva . On the shores of Lake Geneva, it is the second-most populous country in Switzerland and the most populous in the French-speaking part of the country. 

A global city, Geneva is home to numerous  international organizations  such as the United Nations and the Red Cross. The city is also a  major financial center , ranking fifth in Europe after London, Zurich, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg. 

In Geneva, you can find also a beautiful historic center with Saint Peter’s Cathedral , Bastion Park , the Reformation Wall, and the Treille Promenade . The lake is also a wonderful place to visit with its iconic water jet called Jet d’Eau .

For museum lovers, Maison Tavel and Ariana Museum are worth visiting. Watch lovers might opt to explore the Patek Philippe Museum instead. The Palace of Nations , one of the most important diplomatic centers in the world, is also worth a visit.

Near Geneva, travelers often go to  Lausanne and Montreux . For those who wish to visit the mountains near Geneva, check out the Closest Mountains To Geneva in Switzerland .

9. St. Gallen

Often overlooked but still charming, St. Gallen is the location of the Cathedral of Saint Gall , a historic Catholic church from the Carolingian era. In 1983,  UNESCO  declared the Abbey Cathedral a  World Heritage Site . 

The  Abbey Library in St. Gallen , built around the same time as the Abbey Cathedral, has the  oldest book collection in Switzerland , and one of the oldest and richest in the world. 

St. Gallen , in northeastern Switzerland, is just a few kilometers from  Lake Constance . The old-world vibe of St. Gallen should appeal to those who love old cities. It’s a pretty city with 75,000 residents who mostly speak Swiss-German.

St. Gallen’s textile industry played a major role in Switzerland during the 19th and 20th centuries. Once, St Gallen was famous for textiles; embroidery was precious. St. Gallen’s Textile Museum is an excellent place to learn about textiles and the industry.

There are many beautiful places to visit near St. Gallen such as Appenzell and wonderful lakeside towns such as Arbon , Steckborn , Kreuzlingen , and more.

Final Thoughts: 9 Best Cities To Visit In Switzerland

All nine cities mentioned above are worth visiting. Each has its charm, beauty, and place in history. In the German-speaking part of Switzerland, you can check out Bern, Lucerne, Basel, St. Gallen, Chur , and Zurich . In the French-speaking part of Switzerland, Lausanne and Geneva are worth exploring. Last but not least, Lugano , the largest city in the Italian part of Switzerland, is also worth a visit.

We hope that the list above was a good starting point for finding a city in Switzerland that you’re interested in.

Related Posts

• Best Places to Go to in St. Gallen
• Wonderful Towns To Visit on Lake Constance
• 12 Best Things To Do in Appenzell Region, Switzerland
• 9 Best Things To Do in Lucerne, Switzerland
• Make the Most of a Long Weekend in Lugano
• 10 Beautiful Towns near Zurich for Day Trips
• 25 Best Things To Do In Zurich, Switzerland
• 12 Best Unique Experiences In Zurich
• 10 Best Free Museums and Parks in Zurich
• Closest Mountains To Visit From Zurich

Lausanne and Geneva

• Is Lausanne Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why
• 9 Closest Mountains To Lausanne, Switzerland
• 9 Best Things to Do in Lausanne on a Rainy Day
• Lausanne Cathedral: All You Need to Know in a Nutshell
• 8 Best Things to Do in Geneva on a Rainy Day
• Closest Mountains To Geneva in Switzerland

Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ The Historical Town of Werdenberg, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Andermatt or Grindelwald: Which is Better?
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland
• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ 7 Best Things to Do in Seelisberg, Switzerland

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18 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

You are probably thinking about Swiss chocolate, Swiss cheese, and clocks, too. These are some of the things that you know about Switzerland already. But this landlocked country is a haven for anybody who might be looking for some truly picturesque and sweepingly dramatic landscapes. It’s in the middle of the Alps, so how couldn’t it boast the picture perfect look that it does?

You might find yourself getting a cogwheel railway up a mountain one moment and visiting slices of medieval heritage nestled on lakes the next. You’d better prepare yourself for some breathtaking views of craggy peaks from Swiss mountain towns, exploring historic districts on a crisp backdrop of glittering water, and marveling at majestic alpine meadows ringed by snowy mountains. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Switzerland:

Map of Switzerland

With over 300 days of sunshine every year, there’s never a bad time to be in Basel. Set along the Rhine River, Basel is the third-largest city in Switzerland. But tradition, quirkiness, and a splash of rebellious spirit make Basel different to the rest.

Baslers, as they are known, are a fascinating community. You’ll find them floating along the Rhine in summer, going with the current until something else calls them forth. That thing could be a family swim in one of the city’s historic fountains.

The joie de vivre goes through all parts of life. You can find it in their excellent galleries (plus 40 museums) and atmospheric markets. The latter includes Marktplatz in the Old Town. Also, in the way they celebrate Christmas.

Along the old streets, you’ll find elaborate architecture, from the town hall to the cathedral. Not to mention some of Switzerland’s best theaters.

17. Appenzell

Enveloped in beautiful countryside, Appenzell is equal with its surroundings. The lovely village is complete with vibrant gabled architecture, a great selection of museums, some mouthwatering bakeries and cultural events.

Speaking of events, Appenzell maintains tradition. For several weeks from mid-May, alpine herdsmen don their customary wear and guide their cows in an enormous procession up into the high hills. The cattle drive occurs again towards the end of summer. In between is the Appenzell Folk Music Festival, where the town’s artistic heritage is on full display.

Other traditions still take place year-round, including the creation of Appenzeller cheese, known for its bold taste. Complement this with some Rösti, and you’ll receive the proper local culinary experience.

From there, it’s time to hike. You’ll have endless options, from hiking hut to hut across the Appenzell Alps to trekking up to the romantic Berggasthaus Äscher, a guesthouse built into the side of a mountain.

16. Swiss National Park

In Engadine, the Swiss National Park is renowned for its wildlife, a sanctuary set in an utterly Swiss landscape. With room to roam and well-maintained trails, it’s exciting and easy to explore the country’s only national park.

You can be assured of the spectacular here. Lace-up your boots and discover dense forests that quickly dissolve into vast meadows beset with wildflowers. The valleys drive you towards tumbling falls and azure lakes. It’s once you’re here that you will appreciate the towering moors and summits.

Some of the park’s best hikes include the 21km Lakes of Macun Trail through high alpine plateaus and Alps views. The easier 13km Munt la Schera takes you through steppe-landscapes.

While the family-friendly Alp Trupchun remains steady, providing a great overview of the park and wildlife. This includes stag rutting in autumn, marmots, chamoix, ibex and deer.

15. St. Moritz

A beloved winter destination since the mid-19th century, St. Moritz remains at the height of Swiss glitz and glamour. The snow forecast beckons high-end ski bums from across Europe, hoping to explore the slopes that have hosted two Winter Olympics. But there’s much more to St. Moritz for those who prefer to leave the skis at home.

Luxury palatial hotels bring warmth to the heart of winter. Day spas, retreats, romantic ice skating, even horse racing on ice. When the skiers and snowboarders return, swap stories in front of the cozy alpine fireplace.

Summer is a great time to visit St. Moritz and not just for the discounted 4 and 5 star hotels. One can sail on Lake St. Moritz, windsurf on Lake Maloja or float along the surging Inn River. To stretch your legs, plan a hike up to the Hedi Hut or wander the Segantini Museum.

14. Gruyères

In the flowing hills of French-speaking Switzerland, Gruyères’ cobbled streets lead you to a colorful mix of culinary and cultural delights. In classic Swiss fashion, the picturesque medieval town is also a proverbial trailhead for adventures beyond.

The Gruyères Castle dates back to the 13th century, from which the town surrounded it and spread out. It remains in great condition, atop the hill, offering splendid views of the diminutive Old Town.

From there, wander down to the historic main street, which at 300m long is packed with historic sights, charming buildings and cafe patios. Soon you’ll connect with the Les Grands Chemins, Gruyères’ walking path that circles the town.

As you explore, aromas will capture your attention. When in Gruyères, you’ll have an excellent opportunity to learn about the town’s famous cheese at the La Maison du Gruyère. Not to mention try the famous fondue at Restaurant des Remparts.

To work it off, hike the ionic Gastlosen or take the funicular to Moléson-sur-Gruyères.

13. Verzasca Valley

Lost in the midst of Switzerland’s many amazing destinations, the Verzasca Valley is home to azure waters, deep valleys and imposing summits. In southern Switzerland, the valley too has more than a splash of Italian influence.

The valley is a place to be in nature and admire the diversity of landscape that Switzerland has to offer. You’ll feel a long way from Jungfrau, with the Mediterranean atmosphere providing an entirely different environment.

It all starts at the valley’s 220m dam wall, made iconic by James Bong. Verzasca expands to be a haven for hikers. The Sentierone goes end to end, while mountain bikers will also get their fix.

But perhaps the most famous part of the entire valley is the Ponte dei Salti. This 400-year-old medieval footbridge features two arches that run over the emerald waters, leading you to the small town of Lavertezzo.

12. Montreux

On the eastern shores of Lake Geneva, Montreaux is an elaborate collection of 19th century noble excellence amidst 13th century medieval architecture. Its beautiful surroundings, in partnership with a cooler climate has made it a popular summer escape.

This can be traced back to the 1800s, when the community slowly became the stuff of legend. It’s a magical mix of Swiss Alps scenery, the snow-fed lake and the rows of celebrated vineyards. This has created a renowned arts culture, of which the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, held in July, is the centerpiece.

But you can’t get to know Montreux’s contemporary history without understanding what came before, and what still stands today. This includes the Chateau de Chillon, a Middle Ages masterpiece on the lake’s edge.

Cap that off by wandering the parts of the 10km promenade. All before walking up the cobbled streets, encased in Belle époque elegance and wrought-iron balustrades.

11. Rhine Falls

In Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall. The stupendous beauty of the falls is a natural spectacle, one worthy of a spot on your packed Switzerland itinerary.

In the country’s north, the falls can be found on the High Rhine. They were created as the tectonic plates shifted during the Ice Age some 15,000 years ago. From the observation platform, you can see upwards of 600,000 liters of water surge off the edge every second. For reference, that’s the equivalent of 20,000 basketballs!

The best time to visit the Rhine Falls is in the middle of the year. Come June and July, the snowmelt floods the region where this waterfall surges and drops over 21-meter ledge of pure Jurassic rock.

Surrounding the Rhine Falls, you can uncover the amazing Schloss Laufen, a 9th century castle. Its glass elevator offers some of the area’s best views with the castle’s thousand-plus year history dancing on your fingertips.

10. Interlaken

Interlaken used to be known as a watch making center, but today it’s more popular as a tourist resort. Tourists started coming to Interlaken in the early 1800s to breathe in the mountain air and partake of spa treatments. Its popularity only grew from there. The Swiss city is located directly between two major Alpine lakes: Thun and Brienz. As a result, you’ll never be too far from the chance to go swimming, boating or biking around the lakes.

Offering spectacular views of three famous Swiss mountains, the Eiger, the Jungfrau and the Monch, the city is also a popular base camp for outdoor acitivites in the surrounding Bernese Oberland Alps. Travelers looking for something different to do might want to sign up for a class or two at a woodcarving school. Hungry tourists may want to try raclette, a classic Swiss dish made from cheese.

9. Lausanne

Right on the shores of Lake Geneva, and with views of both the Swiss Alps and the French Alps, is the city of Lausanne. Serving as a gateway to a major ski area and the home to two major universities, it is easy to see the universal appeal of Lausanne.

The city is divided into districts, and the Cité district is by far the most important for travelers. In Cité, you can explore what was once known as the Old Town, and you can explore some of the architecture, which includes everything from cathedrals to castles. If you only have time to explore one attraction in Lausanne, make it the Palais de Rumine. This Italian Renaissance-style building is home to five different museums, making it the perfect place to spend an entire day learning more about local art, culture and history.

A part of the Swiss Riviera, Lausanne has been popular with writers over the centuries, include Lord Byron, the Shelleys and Ernest Hemingway. Located in the French-speaking sector of Switzerland, Lausanne boasts an impressive cathedral and wonderful outdoor markets.

Geneva is a city where international influences reign supreme. It is home to the International Red Cross Committee and the European headquarters of the United Nations, as well as 20 other international organizations. Environmental travelers will enjoy the fact that Geneva is a “green” city, with 20 percent of its land devoted to parks, earning it the nickname of “city of parks.”

A highlight of a visit to Geneva is a chance to see the iconic Jet d’Eau, an enormous fountain seen from the Lac Léman waterfront that spews water high into the air. In the Old Town, the towers of Cathédrale St-Pierre are the tallest things you can see, and you will definitely want to stop for some photographs of the exterior and a tour of the interior. Geneva also is a good city explore by bike or rest weary feet by taking a boat ride on Lake Geneva.

The city of Zurich is the largest in Switzerland, and it is known for being a major financial hub in Europe. Even if you’re not a part of the business world, Zurich has plenty to offer to visitors. To start, Zurich is located right on the edge of Lake Zurich. You can hike or cycle around the perimeter of the lake for some exercise, you could rent a boat and head out onto the water or you could check out some of the man made beaches and jump into the refreshing water for a lake swim.

Zurich is also home to a number of historic churches, world-class museums and renowned architecture. Not to be missed is the Swiss National Museum, located in a fairytale castle, it is dedicated to Switzerland’s cultural history. To see as much of Zurich as possible at once, hop aboard the Polybahn, a funicular dating back to the 19th century, for amazing views and a chance to dine at the charming cafe terrace at the top.

Zermatt is a small town that is famous for skiing and mountaineering due to its proximity to the Matterhorn, one of Switzerland’s highest mountains. Cable cars whisk skiers up surrounding mountains in the winter and hikers in the summer.

Zermatt is a good town for walking to various sites, since gasoline-driven vehicles are not permitted; any vehicles within the city limits must be battery-operated. As you wander, sun-soaked patios beckon you in. The same ones whose aromatic espresso and hot chocolates promise a warm escape once the snow has arrived. But keep your eyes peeled, as a striking view of the impregnable Matterhorn lies in wait.

Under the summer sun, the mountain blooms green, creating a mix of nature, rock and glaciers that create a climbing and biking mecca. Treks like the 5 Lakes Trail, peel back the curtain of the area’s beauty showcasing, yes, five lakes, many with Matterhorn reflections.

However, it’s the winter fun that brings most visitors. Funiculars and gondolas run up multiple sections to create a skiing and snowboarding paradise. With a touch of après-ski added in.

5. Jungfrau Region

The Top of Europe, the Jungfrau Region, brings together all that is great about Switzerland. Offering a bounty of outdoor adventures, it’s the centerpiece of the Bernese Oberland with endless snowy peaks that descend via glaciers into the lush valley.

Home to Grindelwald, Mürren, Wengen and the fairytale waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen, it’s easy to access the all-encompassing bonny beauty of Jungfrau. That’s all before you truly get to know how Switzerland makes some of its best scenery accessible to you, without overpowering nature.

Gondolas sweep you up from the deep valleys and place you alongside classic mountain chalets surrounded by alpine farms. One of Switerland’s most scenic rail trip, the Jungfraubahn takes visitors from the Kleine Scheidegg mountain through the Eiger and Mönch up to the Jungfraujoch.

Hiking trails snake through blooming meadows to remote villages and the views just, don’t, stop.

The four Jungfrau towns noted above are great places to visit in Switzerland and a good pick to base yourself. This isn’t an area you want to rush through. Take your time to discover the towns themselves, and the peaks that rise from their doorsteps.

Lugano has been nicknamed the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland,” because of its growing popularity with celebrities. The city is located on Lake Lugano, in the Italian speaking section of this alpine country. Lugano, which is blessed with warm summers, dates back to the 9th century.

A major draw to Lugano is outdoor recreation, and there are plenty of ways to stay active in and around the area. You might spend the day hiking along the clearly signposted Olive Tree Trail, or you could go for a swim at the easily accessible Lido di Lugano right by the city center. After strolling through the Old Town to enjoy the architecture, view it all from a unique perspective at the charming and fascinating Swiss Miniature Village.

3. Lake Geneva

A joyous blend of Swiss and French soak Lake Geneva in opulent elegance as captivating as the scenery itself. And with the Rhône flowing into Europe’s largest alpine lake, encompassing high altitude peaks and rolling green meadows, there are few better.

Crescent-shaped Lake Geneva is speckled with fascinating towns and cities alike. The kind that doesn’t overwhelm the surroundings, but merely blend in.

Here, you can explore world-class museums, discover Renaissance and contemporary arts, laze in gorgeous botanical gardens, admire the Jet d’Eau and take your pick of the waterfront cafes. As you do, you’ll see the mouettes, a boat taking locals from A to B across the glass surface of Lake Geneva.

Another beautiful example of Lake Geneva’s life is Lausanne. The medieval old town, backed by towering peaks, boasts a stunning cathedral and access to the lake and mountains.

There is something effortlessly romantic about Lucerne . Whether it’s the glacial-fed lake that reflects the world like a mirror, or the utterly walkable Old Town. Magic abounds here. Medieval buildings have become the home of modern luxuries and comfort. While the ancient streets eventually lead you to the iconic Kapellbrücke Bridge.

Before you notice the 14th century bridge, however, you’ll sense the peace that comes from a car-less Old Town. A haven for pedestrians, and a dream to wander, you can bounce between plazas, by frescoed buildings and along the edge of the Reuss River. Another famous monument is the Dying Lion, which was carved out of rock to honor Swiss mercenaries who died in France in 1792.

Along the way, you’ll discover that not much has changed since the likes of Queen Victoria, Goethe and Wagner were entranced by Lucerne two centuries ago. You’ll be glad it hasn’t.

After wandering across the Kapellbrücke Bridge and visiting the KKL and Rosengart galleries, head to the town’s namesake lake. Here you’ll find some of Switzerland’s best sunsets surrounded by epic peaks.

Bern is a picturesque medieval city with a history that dates back to the 12th century, though it did not become a part of the Swiss Confederacy until the 16th century. While not the largest city in Switzerland, Bern is the capital. Its most famous attraction is the Zytglogge, an ancient clock tower with moving puppets. Other popular sites in Bern include the Munster, a Gothic cathedral that rises from the old town, and its town hall.

The bear is the symbol of Bern, with several being kept in an open-air pit. Shoppers will appreciate the old town that boasts four miles of arcades, making it one of the longest covered shopping areas in Europe.

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Reader interactions.

December 14, 2020 at 10:57 am

I really loved Montreux. I love walking the path right next to Lake Geneva and all the beautiful artwork.

November 4, 2019 at 4:44 pm

I agree with all of the above comment! one thing in particular that I enjoyed is the punctuality of the trains. Did you know that the Bern StAtion is completely underground. .AMaZING!!! FYI, The Matterhorn, most of the time, it is surrounded by clouds (you cannot see the top).

December 27, 2018 at 2:52 pm

Most beautiful city in the Switzerland for me is Fribourg with biggest, best-preserved and best-maintained old city with large number of true medieval buildings. Beautiful Fribourg is unfortunately in shadow of only 30 km away politicaly more important capital city Bern, also very beautiful but more modern predominantly baroque.

January 1, 2018 at 3:21 pm

I am making my 11th trip to Switzerland next week. I always use rail passes and have travelled extensively on Swiss trains. I would highly recommend all the routes from Interlaken up to the Jungfrau and also Zermatt and the Gornergrat. Then the Glacier Express to St Moritz followed by the Bernini Express to Tirano. Also the Goldenpass train and a visit to Titlis and Pilatus. If time permits do Lugano in the South and Arosa in the East. Luzern is great along with the lake trips. Any of the above are very good see them all and you’ve cracked it. Oh and Martigny to Chamonix and the cable cars there and you’ll be amazed at what the Alps has to offer. Just do it. Enjoy.

October 27, 2017 at 2:22 am

I have been to Switzerland thrice and I think it is the most beautiful country in the world. I can go there again and again and again.

May 18, 2017 at 10:51 pm

St. Gallen is also worth visiting. Not only it has a UNESCO world heritage site, the Abbey of Saint Gallen, but the landscapes also are quite beautiful. The Appenzell Alps and the Lake Constance create some really pleasing views.

April 19, 2017 at 7:37 am

My favorite area is the Berner-Oberland region which comprises Interlaken, Beatenberg (stunning views), Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Wenger. I have seen every corner of this country and if you are looking for stunning natural wonders that seem like you are in a cartoon you can’t beat the areas I just mentioned.

May 10, 2016 at 6:46 am

I visit Switzerland last year. For me the best place was the Jungfrau region.

March 14, 2016 at 2:35 am

been to switzerland but i haven’t visited Lugano. Got to visit in my next trip.

November 15, 2015 at 7:09 pm

Switzerland is indeed the most beautiful and sensational country in every way. The scenery, culture and traditions are just a visual and aesthetic delight!!! My most favourite alpine village is Zermatt and of course the Mattterhorn, what a incredible presence that mountain exudes over the whole village. Every time the mountain seems to call me and the trip up the Gornergrat railway blows me away!!! Love the country, the people, culture, food, wines and traditions.

October 3, 2015 at 1:21 pm

I have visited Switzerland more than 5 times. I have visited several places of this beautiful country like Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Luserne, Laussane, Jungfrau, Interlaken Aust & West, Zermatt, Vevey, Lugano, Swiss Alps, Grindelwald, any several more. It is one of my favourite country in the World.

June 2, 2015 at 3:01 am

I visited Switzerland in May including Lucern, Interlaken, Luzane and Bern. The best one was Interlaken which is beautiful and very interesting.

May 22, 2015 at 11:35 pm

Rhine falls – Great experience, every time you visit. Next is Chapel Bridge and Water Tower Others are definitely worth visting

May 19, 2015 at 7:20 am

To me, Switzerland is the most beautiful country on earth…. the nature is Switzerland is such a great sight to watch…… I would place Zermatt and Zurich a little higher than where you placed…

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Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Switzerland

Nothing compares to the beautiful European country of Switzerland with its Alpine views, snowcapped mountains built for skiing, ice-blue lakes, and breathtaking valleys. A vacation to Switzerland is an adventure-lovers dream.

Tourists usually start their Switzerland holidays in big cities like Zurich or Geneva and then make their way out to iconic places such as Interlaken, St Moritz, and the Alps. Wherever you go, you’re in for a trip of a lifetime.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of five vacation ideas everyone should check out when they visit Switzerland.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Switzerland?

Choosing when the best time for you to travel to Switzerland really depends on what type of holiday you’re going for. Are you looking to enjoy some outdoor activities, or would you prefer just a quiet city break?

June until September is the summer high season. This is when the weather is at the warmest temperatures, ranging from 16 to 23°C, more and more festivals are being held, and Europeans are all on their summer holidays, so the crowds are bigger even on the trails up in the mountains.

The winter months run from November through Christmas right up until March. This is prime time for snow sports, so it does get busy, but it’s pretty cold, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 7 °C. That’s music to skier’s and snowboarder’s ears.

Finally, you have the shoulder seasons from April to June and September to October. These are less busier times to visit and far cheaper too, which is ideal because Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world.

Five Cool Places To Go In Switzerland

Zurich – One Of Switzerland’s Top Destinations For Families And Couples

Stunning Zurich is the world’s financial center and sits directly at the end of the charming lake Zurich in the northern part of the country. Stroll through the alluring old town a handful of times, grab a beer along the banks of the river Limmat or admire some contemporary art at the Helmhaus Gallery.

Zurich – What To Do There

Take a train up to Uetliberg – Southwest of Zurich is the breathtaking Uetilberg, a huge summit in the Albis ridge. You can take a train ride from Zurich city center that will leave you about a ten-minute walk from the peak of the mountain. When you reach the top, you’ll be treated to an outstanding view of the city center.

Check out the Fifa Museum – Every fan of sport knows what Fifa is. Gain insight into one of the world’s most famous sporting global brands and the story behind its success by taking a tour of its museum in Zurich. It’s a 13-meter-long interactive display that focuses mainly on the World Cup and how it has evolved over the years. You’ll even get the chance to see a trophy replica.

Hop on a Lake Zurich boat ride – Taking a cruise up Lake Zurich is one thing you must do. Catch a glimpse of the city’s promenades and the Glarus Alps from a different perspective. Either book a tour online beforehand, or you can approach one of the boat companies on the day to see if they have any availability. This is the perfect activity for honeymoons.

Must Try Food And Drink In Zurich

Cheese Fondue – Cheese fondue is a classic Swiss dish that dates all the way back to 1699. The recipe was first discovered in an old cookbook and has since evolved into a world phenomenon. It’s simply a pot of a couple of melted cheeses mixed in with additional ingredients like herbs, tomatoes, and mushrooms. A loaf of bread is usually served on the side for dipping when ordered in a restaurant.

Vivi Kola – Are you addicted to coca cola but would love an alternative that’s slightly better for your insides? Try Viva Kola. It’s made with 100% natural ingredients and is the perfect refreshment on a warm summer’s day in Zurich.

Tips For Visiting Zurich

• If you plan on spending a few days in Zurich, consider buying the Zurich Pass. It gives you unlimited travel on all forms of public transportation in the city for between 24 and 72 hours, depending on how long you buy it for.
• Lunch is the cheapest time to go out and eat. Many restaurants and bistros will offer great deals for a bite to eat that you should take advantage of when you can.
• Switzerland isn’t in the EU, and they don’t use the euro as currency; they only use the Swiss Franc, so stock up on some before you arrive.
• Discover the heart of Switzerland: flights to Zurich from Vienna.
• Fly to Zurich – the ultimate Swiss experience awaits from Warsaw.
• Your gateway to the breathtaking Alps: flights from London to Zurich.
• Explore the beauty of Switzerland with flights from Berlin to Zurich.
• Escape to Switzerland – flights from Paris to Zurich.

Bern – The Capital City That Everyone Loves

Most people usually assume that Zurich is the capital of Switzerland, but in fact, it’s Bern. The tiny capital is famed for its magical old town, ticking Zytglogge Clock Tower, and elevated viewpoints that give you a glimpse of the majestic metropolis from a different angle. You can easily make a day trip between Zurich and Bern as the train ride only takes an hour.

Top Places To See And Spots To Visit In Bern

Wander through the old town – Bern’s old town is a Unesco World Heritage Site located on the edge of a cliff, adding to its charm. Walk through the Medieval cobblestoned streets and scout out uniquely situated stores and cafes. Walk across one of the bridges to discover why some people say it looks like Venice.

Visit the Zytglogge Clock Tower – The Zytglogge Clock Tower is over 800 years old and is 23 meters high. Every three minutes before the clock strikes the hour, a display of mechanical dolls comes out and puts on a little performance to entertain the crowd as they wait patiently for the clock to finish the hour.

Go see some bears – Have you heard of Bear Pitt? It’s a tourist attraction that many people visit Bern for. In 2009, a bunch of bears found a new home in the Swiss capital at a 6000-meter square park where they roam freely, and you can go and watch them from a distance.

What To Eat And Drink In Bern

Meitschibei – Grab yourself a coffee and order a Meitschibei, a horseshoes shaped pastry with sweet hazelnuts. You can find these delicious snacks in bakeries throughout Bern and coffee shops; one is never enough; you’ll find it hard to resist.

Appenzeller Alpenbitter – Appenzeller Alpenbitter is simply a dark liqueur mixed with dark herbs. Of course, you can have it as a shot, but it’s best enjoyed on the rocks. There are many different types of Swiss Alpenbitter, but the most popular is the Appenzeller.

Must-know Tips For Visiting Bern

• Upon your arrival in Bern, take a free walking tour to get a real feeling for the city. Free attractions in Bern are rare, and because it’s so expensive, you will want to utilize what you can when possible.
• Uber is available in Bern and cheaper than taxis, but you’re better off avoiding both and sticking to public transport.
• If you plan on hiking near Bern, keep an eye on weather warnings. You don’t want to walk into an unexpected avalanche by accident.
• Explore the beauty of Switzerland: Fly to Bern from Antalya.
• Book now and discover gorgeous Bern: Flights from Heraklion.
• Discover the heart of Switzerland with flights from Larnaca to Bern.
• Escape to the Alps: Flights from Palma, Majorca to Bern.
• Experience the charm of Switzerland: Flights from Athens to Bern.

Geneva – The World Center For Diplomacy

Geneva is an oddly located city in southwestern Switzerland that France almost entirely surrounds. While the metropolis is often seen as business-oriented, there’s quite a lot to do there. Imagine slowly sailing up Lake Geneva to catch a jaw-dropping sunrise or admiring the Temple de Saint-Pierre. This is why Geneva is one of the most interesting places to travel in Switzerland.

Beautiful Places To See In Geneva

Sail up lake Geneva – Lake Geneva is, without a doubt, the highlight of everyone’s trip to the city. Kick back and enjoy a full-day boat tour or just an hour or two of the natural beauty, lake Geneva. Hear fascinating stories and see outstanding forms of nature as you immerse yourself in the Swiss countryside.

Walk around the Temple de Saint-Pierre – This romanesque church is a fascinating display of Gothic architecture and dates back to 1150. It’s situated at the Geneva old town’s highest point, so you’ll have to do some intense walking to get there. Be sure to climb to the top to catch an excellent city view.

Visit the Palais des Nations – The Palais des Nations is the general headquarters for the United Nations in Europe; that’s why Geneva is often referred to as the home of diplomacy. The marble buildings that make up the complex are impressive in themselves and will blow you away, to say the least. Join a guided tour to discover its role in the world and some of its great work.

Dishes And Drinks Everyone Has To Sample In Geneva

Swiss Meringue – Swiss Meringue is a dessert consisting of whipped egg whites and sugar. It looks the same as a blob of cream, only the consistency is more solid. The Swiss version of Meringue is fluffier than the French version but as tasty.

Iva – Iva, also known as Musk Arrow, is a sweet spirit made from the Iva plant with a light floral tang to it. Some health professionals have said that Iva can be used to help gastrointestinal issues because the Iva plant has always been used for various medical reasons.

What To Know Before Visiting Geneva

• Anyone who arrives in Geneva is entitled to a complimentary 80-minute transport card that can be used on all public transport.
• Many people in Geneva use bikes to get around. Blend in like the locals and hire a PubliBike, a part of the bike-sharing scheme, to explore the city.
• To experience Geneva’s nightlife, visit Eaux-Vives, a vibrant district with many clubs and cocktail bars that play all kinds of live music.
• Fly from London to Geneva – explore the Swiss Alps now!
• Paris to Geneva flights – experience the beauty of Switzerland.
• Barcelona to Geneva flights – book your next adventure now.
• Lisbon to Geneva flights – discover Switzerland’s stunning scenery.
• Bucharest to Geneva flights – get ready for a Swiss adventure.

Interlaken – A Typical Swiss Alpine Resort Town

Interlaken is a quintessential Swiss alpine resort town in central Switzerland embedded in a picturesque mountain valley. Many travelers will base themselves in Interlaken for their outdoor adventures because of its prime location. Take on challenging hikes like the Schynige Platte Trails, cross the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge, and go on the hunt for the mysterious St. Beatus Cave.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Interlaken?

Hire a kayak and hit Lake Brienz – East of Interlaken is the peaceful Lake Brienz, a quiet area that avid kayakers can’t stop talking about. Head down there early in the morning, and you might be lucky enough to have the place to yourself.

Chase the Giessbach Falls – The Giessbach Falls are over 500 meters high and crash down 14 rock ridges. To get there from Interlaken, buy a ticket for the Lake Brienz boat and get off at the Giessbach See landing stage. It’s about a 20-minute walk from there.

Experience the Brienzer-Rothorn Railway – Switzerland is home to some of the most scenic train rides in the world, including the Brienzer-Rothorn Railway, the country’s oldest steam rack railway. Buy your tickets beforehand and enjoy your ride to the enchanting town of Brienz.

The Best Food And Drink In Interlaken

Rostis – Rostis is a traditional Swiss breakfast dish made from leftover sliced potatoes that are fried in a pan with some butter. For some added flavor, ask for some meat or eggs to be added; you won’t regret it.

Filets de Perches – Seafood, anyone? Filets de perches is a freshwater fish caught in lakes around Switzerland. It’s served with either potatoes or French fries; most restaurants will give you the option. Unfortunately, finding Filets de Perches on the menu is becoming less common because they’re harder to catch.

Essential Information You Need To Know Before Traveling to Interlaken

• Interlaken doesn’t have an airport, so the best way to get there is by flying into Bern and taking a 53 minutes train ride there.
• To save money, stay at one of the many camps in Interlaken. They’re a fraction of the price of a hotel for a night and still come with great amenities.

Basel – The Cultural Capital Of Switzerland

Situated on the Rhine River, Basel is an adorable city in northwest Switzerland near the German and French border. Basel is sometimes called the cultural capital of the country, and Swiss citizens will tell you if you want to experience a whole different side of Switzerland, you need to visit Basel.

Which Are The Best Things To Do In Basel?

Start in the old town – To understand local life in Basel, start your trip in the old town, filled with medieval churches, cobblestoned streets, and uniquely designed homes; you’ll almost feel like you’re in a fairytale. If you’re a history buff, you should book yourself on a walking tour to get a real insight into the district’s background.

Visit the Paper Mill Museum – If you’re interested in unique museums, check out the Paper Mill Museum. It’s situated on the edge of a medieval canal in the heart of Basel. The museum aims to provide visitors with helpful information about the papermaking process and how the techniques have evolved over the years.

Go see some wildlife at Tierpark Lange Erlen – Take a break from city life and visit the Tierpark Lange Erlen, where wild boar, deer, lynx, and other animals roam freely. It’s a popular area for walking and a gem for any wildlife photographer looking to add some snaps to their portfolio.

Traditional Food And Drinks Everyone Should Try In Basel

Basler Mehlsuppe – A simple soup that will warm you up on a cold winter’s day in Basel is the Basler Mehlsuppe, consisting of brown flour, beef stock, onions, and a drop of red wine. This dish gains popularity throughout the city during the Carnival Basel celebration, which kicks off with a bowl on the first Monday after Ash Wednesday at 4 am.

Glühwein – Similar to mulled wine, Glühwein is a favorite among the Swiss, served around Christmas time and drank during skiing season. Its ingredients include red wine, sugar, citrus fruits, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon. Before consumption, the ingredients must be heated and mixed, but it’s forbidden to boil them.

Useful Information For Traveling To Basel

• If you’re on a tight budget, take advantage of the many street food stalls selling inexpensive meals.
• The tap water in Basel is safe to drink, so don’t waste your money buying bottled water.
• Budapest to Basel flights – discover one of the most charming Swiss city!
• Explore Basel from Warsaw – book your flights today.
• Bucharest to Basel flights – experience the beauty of Switzerland.
• Fly from London to Basel – discover the heart of Europe!
• Prague to Basel flights – book now and explore the Swiss Alps.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

Switzerland can be visited at any time of the year, but if you want the nicest weather, June until September is ideal for sun lovers.

As for anyone looking to take part in winter sports, November until March is when the snow falls and ski resorts begin opening up their doors to visitors.

The shoulder seasons are always a good option for lower prices and fewer crowds if you have time.

Kiwi.com allows everyone to fly to their favorite destinations for an affordable price. Whether you're looking to spend time at warm places by the sea or mountainous regions away from civilization, we have you covered.

With the help of our travel hacks and technology, Kiwi.com shows you unbeatable fares that you won't find on any other flight website.

To start planning your holidays in Switzerland, visit our Switzerland destination page, tell us where you want to fly to in the country, and within minutes, we'll provide you with the cheapest flight fares that suit your travel dates.

Switzerland is famous for its incredible outdoor excursions, tasty chocolate, quirky clocks, and ice-blue lakes.

People who have visited Switzerland before will take you scrumptious dishes like fondue and rostis are the best, but other secret delights, such as Raclette and Polenta and braised beef, are well worth trying out.

One week in Switzerland will give you a little mix of cities and countryside towns and villages, but if you can, allocate at least two weeks to your trip so you can go deep into the alps and discover some hidden gems.

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The best places to visit in Switzerland

Switzerland possesses both jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery and smart, dynamic cities, with the bonus of working like clockwork. Here are the best places to visit in Switzerland.

For many, Switzerland conjures up images of snow-capped mountains, pretty wooden chalets, and delicious fondues and chocolates. Yet there is much more to be discovered in this beautiful and surprisingly diverse little country. 

Switzerland boasts both spotless cities and breathtaking landscapes, including the Jura mountains to the north, the Swiss plateau, and the Swiss Alps to the south. 

The ever-changing vistas often include little red trains meandering through dramatic valleys, brightly colored boats on deep blue lakes, or a meadow of wildflowers below a picturesque traditional wooden chalet.

What are the best places to visit in Switzerland? Well, where do you start? Switzerland’s German, French, Italian, and Romansh-speaking cantons all possess their own distinct characteristics, with their own special cuisines, traditions, and festivals.

Around 10 million people visit Switzerland annually. Its location in the center of Europe makes it easily accessible by train internationally, while a number of airlines serve Geneva Airport and Zurich Airport, the country’s main aviation gateways.

Switzerland is perfect for business travelers and its remarkable efficiency means traveling around the country is effortless and quick.

In the winter, the crisp snow in the mountains is ideal for skiing at all levels and for snow sports. The summer months can be surprisingly hot, with temperatures very often in the 20s. During the fall and spring months, the terrain is ideal for hiking, biking, and cycling, which the Swiss do in droves.

Zurich – An adventurous city boasting incredible nightlife

Often dismissed as a place of grey suits and dull business, in truth this city is never boring thanks to its vibrant nightlife — Zurich has more nightclubs than any other Swiss city. 

There almost always seems to be a cool new bar, club, or restaurant around every corner and with around 50 museums and more than 100 art galleries, culture vultures won’t ever be disappointed. 

With its narrow, cobbled alleyways and boutique shops, the old town is undeniably pretty, but Zurich West, a dramatically redeveloped former industrial quarter, is the trendy place to go for a busy art, design, culture, food and shopping scene.

In summer, the locals head to the Limmat River, which curves its way through the city, to lounge in the hot sun or jump into its fresh, sparkling clear waters.

For hikers and skiers, mountainous landscapes are on the doorstep. The city even has its own little mountain, the Uetliberg, where Zurichers head to on the weekends for a beautiful country walk — if they’re not relaxing by Lake Zurich, the city’s large lake. the city is truly one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for those with a taste for the outdoors.

Weatherwise, the best time to visit Zurich is in the summer, when it is warm and sunny enough to swim in the river. But this is the time with the most tourists, and prices are at their highest. For a quieter, more inexpensive experience, visit in spring or fall.

Basel – Where history and modernity converge

Basel is Switzerland’s oldest university city, where diverse cultures, a multi-faceted history, and modern art all converge. One of the country’s more underrated tourist destinations, its location, sharing a border with both Germany and  France, makes it especially cosmopolitan. 

The Rhine river cuts through its center, separating the more industrialized Kleinbasel (Little Basel) from the older commercial and cultural center Grossbasel (Big Basel).

Its attractive medieval old town center has impressive examples of architecture, including the Romanesque cathedral, Basel Minster, and Renaissance town hall. This entire town is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for history buffs.

For more contemporary architecture, look to the city’s museums, created by architectural greats such as Renzo Piano , Mario Botta , and Jacques Herzog & Pierre de Meuron . 

Once you’ve had your fill with museums, there are restaurants, specialist shops, and small boutiques to be explored, especially around the Matthäus neighborhood and the Old Town.

The best time to visit Basel is mid-May to the end of June and mid-August to October to avoid the crowds and higher prices. 

Geneva – Where business, shopping, and beauty meet

Geneva Airport brings many visitors from around the world for both business and pleasure. While the United Nations, World Bank, World Trade Organization, and the World Health Organization, are all based in Geneva, the city is an attractive destination in its own right.

A visit isn’t complete without a stroll around the city’s Alpine lake and a tour of its varied architecture. Structures worth visiting include the striking spherical church Église Sainte-Trinité and the Hans-Wilsdorf bridge, a modern construction made from interwoven steel girders. The “Smurf Houses” built between 1982-84 in the Quartier des Grottes are also worth a visit for their vibrant colors, elaborate balconies, and curvy forms.

Despite its small size, Geneva is one of the best shopping destinations in the world. Check out the Rue du Rhône, home to famous designer flagship boutiques, the Rue du Marché, offering contemporary fashion brands, and the quieter Rue du Mont-Blanc with its independent Swiss boutiques.

The best time to visit Geneva is during the warm, sunny summer months. 

Zermatt – Ideal for superlative skiing

If you are keen on skiing in Switzerland, the gorgeous, picture-postcard small mountain town of Zermatt, in Switzerland’s Valais canton, is a must. 

Dominated by the mighty Matterhorn nearby, it’s a popular starting point for hikes into the nearby mountains, including the Haute Route, which leads to Chamonix in France. There’s also public outdoor rinks for ice skating and curling, and an absorbing museum covering the town’s history.

This town has a long skiing tradition and its cozy restaurants, swish bars, and good selection of hotels make for delightful apres-ski activities. 

Wandering Zermatt is a pleasure, with its narrow car-free streets lined with characterful weathered old chalets.

Zermatt has the longest ski season in Europe, from late November to early May. For dedicated skiers, the best time to visit Zermatt would be peak season between November to January, but that equates to correspondingly high accommodation costs. Otherwise, the town enjoys pleasant, warm summers, and skiing is possible then too.

Lugano – A slice of Italy in Switzerland

It’s fascinating how the different regions of Switzerland are influenced by their multicultural backgrounds. Bordering Italy, the Italian influence is undeniable in Lugano. 

There’s a more Mediterranean feel here compared to other cities across Switzerland and being in the south of the country, summers here are warmer. The architecture and cuisine also have an Italian vibe and things are a bit more relaxed than in the German-speaking cantons.

Lugano’s breathtaking scenery and gorgeous lake have made it a magnet for celebrities, giving it the nickname the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland”. 

Lugano has a number of impressive heritage sites, including grand neoclassical palazzos, and there’s a buoyant nightlife scene, with smart casinos, clubs, restaurants, and bars. Shoppers will delight in the Via Nassa, a long stretch of arcades with top designer stores and jewelry shops. For antiques, crafts, and vintage clothing, head over to the curving Via Cattedrale. 

Lugano can be particularly hot during high summer, so the best time to visit is May/June or September, with the bonus of missing the busy height of the tourist season and corresponding high prices.

Lucerne – Medieval architecture against a backdrop of mountains

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the compact lakeside city of Lucerne is known for its well preserved medieval architecture. The city’s Half-timbered structures with painted fronts are showcased in its old town. 

A well-known landmark of the city is the Chapel Bridge — a wooden structure that goes over the Reuss river, connecting the old town with the city’s right bank. Built in 1333, it’s the oldest covered bridge in Europe, although it had to be restored after a fire in 1993. 

For great views of the city, take a cable car up neighboring Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi, or the Stanserhorn.

Despite its small size, Lucerne is a surprisingly good shopping destination, centered around Schwanenplatz and Mühlenplatz in the old town, and between the railway station and Hirschengraben Street in the new town. Here you can find what Switzerland is famed for, such as luxury Swiss watches, chocolates, and cheeses, as well as boutiques with goods from both Swiss designers and international luxury brands.

With cold and rainy winters and unstable springtimes, the summer is the best time to visit Lucerne. 

Engelberg – A mountain resort on Zurich’s doorstep

The alpine town of Engelberg is central Switzerland’s largest ski resort, with slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. 

Outside winter, it’s a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. Graced by a 12th-century monastery in the center of town, its range of accommodation spans both cozy and large hotels, comfortable guesthouses, and mountain lodges. 

Engelberg is a popular day trip choice for Zurich residents, being just a 90-minute drive away.

The best time to visit Engelberg is during the summer or winter months.

Bern – The historic Swiss capital

The medieval city of Bern is Switzerland’s capital, home to its parliament, and boasts an incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for exploring.

A magnificent cathedral, churches, and fountains dating back hundreds of years are dotted around the city and together make for an enjoyable stroll. 

Arcades contain boutiques, bars, and cafes, and you can take a stroll in the impressive botanical garden.

The best time to visit Bern is during the summer months when visitors enjoy the Aare river and public pools.

Montreux – A pretty town with a fine musical heritage

The traditional resort town of Montreux, one of the highlights of the Swiss Riviera, is nestled on the banks of Lake Geneva. You can start or end a trip here on the Golden Pass Line train, which passes beautiful lakes and mountains and the towns of Interlaken and Zweisimmen, on its way to Lucerne.

The best way to experience Montreux’s lake is to take a walk along its promenade, which is lined with Belle Epoque-era buildings, flower displays, and sculptures.

Montreux is a musical city, famous for its Montreux Jazz Festival that hits town each July. The city also inspired a number of bands, with Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Nina Simone, and Queen all recording here.

In the center of the city is a weekly Friday market that features a fine selection of local produce, and in summer there’s a flea market as well. 

The best time to visit Montreaux is from June to September, as outside summer the weather can be unpredictable and, for half the year, cold. Music lovers will want to go in July during the jazz festival, although prices tend to be highest then. 

Ascona – A charming laidback lakeside town

Ascona sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore and is in the canton of Ticino. You’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Italy if it wasn’t for all the Swiss car number plates around, with the never-ending chorus of Italian voices, restaurants serving Italian food, and Italian-style buildings.

This popular destination is an eternally attractive destination with an elegant tree and cafe-lined promenade and winding old town of charming cobbled alleyways. 

It’s a place that remains unspoiled, seemingly set in the 1960s, with its old-style resort feel. Head over to one of its open-air, ridiculously rustic grottos for a taste of the real traditional local cuisine. These grottos, once stone cellars used to store wine and cheese, became simple restaurants full of character and lively ambiance.

Visit Ascona in late June and early July and you’ll stumble upon a little traditional jazz festival, JazzAscona , especially focusing on New Orleans jazz.

The best time to visit Ascona and enjoy its mild climate is from May to July. The snow tends to be best for skiing in December.

Lausanne – A thriving commercial center with a strong sports slant

The Swiss have a real knack for creating impossibly picturesque cities, and Lausanne, on Lake Geneva in the French-speaking region of Vaud, is no exception. The Savoy Alps beckon in the distance, making Lausanne one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for winter sports enthusiasts.

Lausanne is also home to a thriving center of commerce and conventions, a university town, and home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters, the Olympic Museum, and lakeshore Olympic Park. 

Culture-lovers, gastronomes, and shoppers alike will enjoy the hilly old town, with its mainly car-free medieval streets lined with shops, alleyways peppered with cafes and restaurants, and 12th-century gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame. 

There’s also the grand 19th-century Palais de Rumine, which contains museums dedicated to science and art. Shoppers should also head for the waterfront neighborhood of Ouchy, where further boutiques can be found – one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for culture-vultures.

Winters can be colder than normal by Swiss standards here, so the best time to visit Lausanne is between June to September to enjoy the warm, sunny weather.

Ben West has written for many newspapers and magazines around the world and visited 80 countries. Until recently, he called both the UK and Switzerland home.

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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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Related:  Switzerland Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

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.

Related:  The 15 Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland

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.

Related: Europe's Hidden Gems: The 20 Most Underrated Places To Visit

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.

Stay Connected With an eSIM From Airalo

No matter where you travel, stay connected with an Airalo eSIM. Airalo gives you access to  affordable eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions  — including Switzerland.

Why Airalo ? Here are a few reasons to use an Airalo eSIM when you travel:

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• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
• Running out of data? Top up in the Airalo app.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Get a  Switzerland eSIM  to stay connected during your trip.

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Top Budget-Friendly Sunny Destinations to Visit in June

S ummer is among one of the most popular times to travel . The warm sun, vibrant nature and thriving people are hallmark features of this favored season. But not every part of summer is considered equal. There are more favorable months of the summer season. Like June, which is a peak time to travel during summer due to many factors. For example, the weather is ideal and nature is thriving. June is the first big vacation month of the summer season so the overwhelming summer crowds may not be present. But some travelers may be rightfully concerned about the price of travel during the summer and where to go . So we have compiled a list of some of the cheapest places to visit in June. 

Budget-Friendly Destinations

For budget travelers, selecting an affordable place to visit is of the utmost importance. Avoiding the most expensive places to travel to will help travelers not break the bank as they explore the world. Places like North America are typically crowded and quite expensive in June. But there are still great options that offer fun and affordable experiences. 

Reasons to Visit Punta Cana

Punta Cana is a town located in the Dominican Republic. The resort area is a paradise for beach lovers and is popular with east coast travelers. It is a popular place for couples, but groups, solo travelers and families enjoy the destination just as much. In June, Punta Cana has great weather conditions. The temperature is around 75 to 90 degrees so it is nice and sunny. The Atlantic hurricane season technically starts in June and lasts until November, but severe tropical storms are not popular. June is not one of the rainiest months so it is still a pretty good time to visit. Also, summer crowds come to Punta Cana around July and August. This area commonly has crowds, but there may be slightly less during June. 

An Affordable Destination

Punta Cana is not an exceedingly expensive place to visit. The town even has modest prices for all inclusive resorts. Travelers will notice discounts on vacation packages. Accommodations will likely cost between $50 to $150 a night during the month of June, so there are varying prices that fit an array of budgets. It is important to note that inclusive resorts are a bit cheaper than resorts. Plus, flights to the Punta Cana International Airport (PJJ) are well priced during this month. This destination is great for families and groups due to its affordability. 

Costa Rica 

Reasons to visit costa rica.

Costa Rica is known for its calming ambiance , impeccable views and wellness experiences. The weather during June is usually pleasant. Temperatures are usually between 70 and 90 degrees during the month with some light showers. These weather conditions make an ideal environment as nature gets greener and more full. Because June is technically not in the dry season, there is likely to be less crowds too. So tourist spots will be more quiet and enjoyable. 

During this month travelers will be able to enjoy some cheaper seasonal prices. Accommodations, tours and even flights are less expensive in June. Kids are still in school in Costa Rica (and the United States) during June, so the area is less crowded during the day. This generally means that there is more flexibility and freedom for travelers. Another thing to note is that meals typically cost around $10 to $20, depending on where travelers go. Also, reservations are not necessarily needed in Costa Rica. 

Reasons to Visit Cancun

Cancún, Mexico is a great place to visit for stunning beaches and exciting nightlife. And travelers will not lack options for things to do. There is plenty to do in Cancun including nature exploration and enjoying local cuisine. Travelers can even take part in cenote exploration. One of the most popular cenotes near Cancun is the cenote Verde Lucero. An important thing for travelers to note is that there are sporadic showers in June. But the showers are short, so if travelers are not opposed to dealing with them every now and then they may be able to avoid the crowds of other summer months.  

Cancun is a well known resort town. So there are great all-inclusive resort options and deals that fit many budgets. The tourists that come during the high travel season have likely not come yet, there may be great deals as a result. Also, the food in Cancun and flights to the destination are not generally expensive. With these things considered, Cancun is one of the cheapest places to visit in June, especially if tourists visit early in the month. 

Fort Lauderdale 

Reasons to visit fort lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale has some of the best beaches on the East Coast. It is known for its beaches but there are other features that keep travelers coming back. There is a thriving art culture and local events are readily available to travelers in Fort Lauderdale. During June the city has idyllic weather. Temperatures usually are around 75 to 90 degrees during this month. The year round average in Fort Lauderdale is 77 degrees, so travelers are sure to experience warm temperatures. There are about 13 hours of sunshine during the day in June and the sea is mild.

If travelers can beat the heat and don’t mind the presence of children on summer break, they will reap some monetary benefits. There are significant hotel deals during June. Plus, in comparison to March and July, the most expensive times to fly to Fort Lauderdale, June has relatively cheap flight prices too. 

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February 26, 2022

ACT NOW! SAVE UKRAINE. DEFEND DEMOCRACY.

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At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine, confirming our worst fears. At this very hour they are attacking us on the streets of many Ukrainian cities.  We are at war.

Skylum was proudly founded in Ukraine, and our core development center is based in Kyiv. At this harrowing time, unfortunately we cannot guarantee the on-time delivery of updates to Luminar Neo. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we will make sure to further develop and improve Neo and to keep you updated on any news. 

However, today we ask our community for help and support. Here are some details on what has happened and how you can support Ukraine in this difficult time.

!   At 5 am on February 24, Russia began the full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. They are violently trying to steal our country.

! Right now, there are missile strikes and bombardment of peaceful Ukrainian cities.   We must hide our families in bomb shelters and protect our land with weapons in our hands as part of the territorial defense forces.

! This disastrous and entirely unprovoked Russian war has already taken the lives of 198 civilians. 33 children have been injured, and 3 have been killed.

! The Armed Forces of Ukraine, young and brave heroes, are fighting all over the country not only for Ukraine but for Peace and Clear Skies in Europe. 

As we write to you from a city under attack, we want to be very clear: This war is not just something you see on TV. It is not happening in some distant lands. It is happening right now here in Ukraine, and the Russian forces who are invading our lands and threatening our families may come to your doorstep one day too if we do not stop them.

Sanctions that world governments are currently imposing are not enough. Russia must be completely isolated from all spheres of the civilized world: the financial system, technologies, sports, culture.  

Here is a list of simple actions you can take to help Ukraine. We MUST unite to quite literally save the world before it’s too late:

- Contact your local representatives and pressure them to provide more support for Ukraine and stricter sanctions on Russia. We need military and humanitarian aid and Russia must be cut off from SWIFT.

- Donate money to humanitarian aid organizations. Find a full list over here:  https://how-you-can-support-ukraine.super.site/  

- Follow the news from official channels. Avoid fake news and disinformation!

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa  

https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba  

https://twitter.com/Hromadske  

https://twitter.com/DefenceU  

https://twitter.com/backandalive  

Telegram:  https://t.me/Forbes_Ukraine_official  

- Support the Ukrainian Army —  Official Account of the National Bank of Ukraine

We stand together

Please share this information with your community.

#Ukrainians #NATO #Ukraine #StandWithUkraine

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