Top 10 places to visit in Switzerland

From breathtaking mountain peaks to dreamy turquoise lakes and a countryside littered with ancient wonders

10. Zurich

The social and cultural hub of the country.

From the popular Pride parade to Europe’s largest street rave, there’s a lot going on.

And, if all that wasn’t enough, the city’s pretty easy on the eye – from the charming streets of the old town to the stunning scenery of Lake Zurich.

9. Rhine Falls

Europe’s most powerful waterfall

Visitors can take in the beauty of the waterfall – located near the northern town of Schaffhausen – from several viewing decks.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can even rent a canoe and check out some nearby castles from the water.

8. Lucerne

Surrounded by three large mountains, the compact medieval city sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Wandering around the captivating old town, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into a painting.

There are ancient churches, bustling squares, and plenty of boutiques to explore as you marvel at the architectural wonder of the city.

But the highlight is the Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden bridge that has been connecting the center of Lucerne since 1333.

7. Bern

Not only is the medieval city of Bern Switzerland’s capital, but it’s also one of its most enchanting places to visit.

Walk around the old town’s narrow cobblestone stones and you’ll soon realize just why the neighborhood is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Lugano

Dubbed the Monte Carlo of Switzerland

Home to plenty of museums and warmed by Mediterranean breezes, you might even think you’re in nearby Italy when you visit.

Outside the city, impressive villas are sprinkled around the lush hillsides that rise from the lake.

5. Lake Geneva

One of Switzerland’s most beautiful places.

From the international bustle of Geneva to the many vineyards that crawl up the hillsides around the lake, there’s plenty to do in the surrounding region.

And there’s a lot of activity on the lake, too. Windsurfing, water skiing, and kayaking are all possible

4. Schweizerischer Nationalpark

The country’s only national park, it’ll give you an idea of how the Alps were before tourism.

From snow-crusted glaciers to captivating meadows, this place has it all.

There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, each taking visitors past unforgettable sights.

And, if you’re lucky you might catch sight of some of the park’s local residents – red squirrels, ibexes, and red deer all call this park home.

3. Jungfraujoch

An Alpine wonderland that fully deserves its nickname of the Top of Europe.

Technically a glacier saddle between two mountains, the Jungfraujoch is one the best – and highest – attractions in Switzerland.

And don’t let the altitude put you off – there’s plenty for the whole family up there, from mountain climbing to tobogganing and much more.

2. Château de Chillon

Switzerland’s most-visited historical monument and is definitely a must-see while you’re exploring the country.

Located on an island in Lake Geneva near the popular town of Montreux, the castle dates back to the 10th century, when it was used as a strategic water fort.

It then became a lakeside summer home for the wealthy Counts of Savoy, when the castle rooms were decked out with all manner of art and treasures visitors can enjoy today.

1. The Matterhorn

This pyramid-shaped giant is one of the world’s most photographed mountains

The mountain is home to the highest cable car station in the Alps, which offers some excellent views of the mountain peak and beyond. It really doesn’t get much more Swiss than a trip to the Matterhorn.

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