Best Things to Do In Switzerland
Explore the grandeur of Switzerland attractions with our immersive audio tours designed for the culturally curious traveller.
St. Moritz: The Glacier Express
What is it?
A legendary scenic train journey weaving through the Alps.
Why you should go?
As one of the most majestic train rides in the world, The Glacier Express is a crown jewel among Switzerland activities. Linking St. Moritz and Zermatt, the panoramic train carves through the alpine heartland, providing a full-day immersion into Switzerland's natural wonders. With its slow travel philosophy, the Glacier Express allows one to savor the impressive landscapes of deep valleys, rugged mountains, and pristine forests deemed as must-see Switzerland attractions.
Montreux: Château de Chillon
What is it?
An island castle on Lake Geneva, steeped in history and art.
Why you should go?
Château de Chillon is the historical jewel by the shores of Lake Geneva and figures prominently in what to see in Switzerland. The medieval fortress, with its storied past, exudes romance and heroism through its walls and towers. Whether captivated by the tales of the Counts of Savoy or the poetry of Lord Byron, visitors find Château de Chillon to be among the top things to do in Switzerland for a rendezvous with the echoes of bygone eras.
Appenzell: Ebenalp and Wildkirchli
What is it?
A mountain peak offering fascinating hikes and hermitage views.
Why you should go?
Ebenalp and Wildkirchli caves comprise an enthralling blend of nature's artistry and human hermitage, marking them as intriguing places to visit in Switzerland. Visitors are rewarded with stunning perspectives over Appenzell's landscapes, and the hermitage-turned-restaurant provides sustenance alongside historical enrichment. This escarpment affords some of the best things to do in Switzerland for enthusiasts seeking both outdoor vigor and cultural authenticity.
Ticino: Castles of Bellinzona
What is it?
A trio of UNESCO-listed fortresses with medieval architecture.
Why you should go?
The Castles of Bellinzona present an engrossing foray into Switzerland's medieval military history. The formidable Montebello, Sasso Corbaro, and Castelgrande stand as sentinels bearing witness to the past and are a focal point for those interested in chivalric times. Exploring these bastions is among the best things to do in Switzerland, combining architectural marvels with history lessons amidst the picturesque valleys of the Ticino region.
Valais: Aletsch Glacier
What is it?
The largest glacier in the Alps, offering stunning icy landscapes.
Why you should go?
Nature aficionados will regard visiting the Aletsch Glacier as a highlight of what to do in Switzerland. This colossal river of ice stretches through the Valais, providing spectacular scenery and powerful testament to nature's masterful carving. Guided tours enable a deeper understanding of glacial movements and climate impact, cementing the Aletsch Glacier as one of the Switzerland tourist attractions that marries education with inspirational beauty.
Grindelwald: First Cliff Walk by Tissot
What is it?
An exhilarating cliff-side walkway with breathtaking alpine views.
Why you should go?
The First Cliff Walk by Tissot in Grindelwald offers an adventure for visitors looking to add excitement to their list of things to do in Switzerland. Suspended along the face of a sheer mountain, this attraction provides an adrenaline rush combined with panoramic vistas of the Bernese Alps. The well-secured path leads to a viewing platform that seems to hover in mid-air—ideal for capturing the essence of Swiss natural magnificence and thus becoming an essential Switzerland attraction.
Lucerne: Chapel Bridge
What is it?
A historical wooden bridge that is a symbol of the city.
Why you should go?
Lucerne's Chapel Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a landmark steeped in history and one of the best things to do in Switzerland. As the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, it presents an atmospheric stroll with 17th-century paintings lining the ceiling. A visit to this Switzerland tourist attraction offers deep insight into the region's heritage and a chance to witness the restored tower, a testament to Lucerne's resilience and architectural prowess.
Geneva: Jet d'Eau
What is it?
An iconic fountain and one of the tallest in the world.
Why you should go?
Jet d'Eau is an emblematic Geneva landmark and a must see among Switzerland activities. Shooting water up to an impressive 140 meters, it has become a symbol of the city's vitality and ingenuity. This phenomenal fountain is best viewed from a distance or up close by boat, where the play of light on the cascading water creates a serene yet dynamic atmosphere, marking it as one of the top things to do in Switzerland.
Zermatt: Gornergrat Railway
What is it?
A historic mountain cogwheel railway offering spectacular views.
Why you should go?
Board the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt for an unmissable journey to one of the highest altitudes accessible by train in Europe. The scenic route unveils a world of glaciers, rugged peaks, and the unforgettable vista of the Matterhorn. As one of the premier places to visit in Switzerland, it is a unique experience that combines transportation heritage with natural beauty, contributing significantly to the array of things to see in Switzerland.
Bern: Zytglogge
What is it?
A medieval clock tower with an astronomical clock.
Why you should go?
When exploring the charming streets of Bern, the Zytglogge stands out as a timeless beacon among Switzerland attractions. This historic clock tower captivates visitors with its intricate mechanical movements and the hourly show of ringing bells and rotating figures. Understanding the clock's historical and mechanical significance showcases why it is listed among the best things to do in Switzerland, offering cultural depth in the heart of the capital.
Zurich: Lake Zurich
What is it?
An iconic Swiss natural landmark offering picturesque settings.
Why you should go?
Embark on a scenic adventure around Lake Zurich, one of the quintessential places to visit in Switzerland. With the city's skyline on one side and the snow-capped peaks in the distance, this tranquil oasis provides a perfect mix of urban charm and natural splendor. Boasting of a vibrant ambience, visitors can indulge in activities like boating and lakeside strolls while enjoying the rich Swiss culture, making it a highlight among the best things to do in Switzerland.
Lausanne: Olympic Museum
What is it?
A tribute to the Olympic Games, past, present and future.
Why you should go?
Sports enthusiasts searching for things to do in Switzerland will be thrilled to visit Lausanne's Olympic Museum. The museum not only celebrates the history of the Olympic Games with an extensive collection of memorabilia and interactive exhibits but also offers insights into the cultural impact of this global sporting phenomenon. Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, the museum provides a panoramic backdrop that sports and culture lovers alike will find unmatchable.
Interlaken: Jungfraujoch
What is it?
The top of Europe, boasting incredible alpine vistas.
Why you should go?
Interlaken's Jungfraujoch is a must for what to see in Switzerland, offering an unparalleled high-altitude experience. As Europe's highest train station, it serves as a gateway to stunning glacial landscapes and breath-taking views of the Bernese Alps. Whether you're an avid trekker or a leisure visitor, the journey to this alpine wonderland is laden with beautiful vistas and the opportunity to explore the majestic Aletsch Glacier, contributing to the top things to do in Switzerland.
Lugano: Monte Brè
What is it?
A mountain offering panoramic city views and natural beauty.
Why you should go?
Lugano's Monte Brè is tailor-made for those looking to combine appreciation for Switzerland's natural beauty with an accessible, tranquil excursion. A short funicular ride from the heart of Lugano, Monte Brè provides hikers and sightseers with sweeping views of the city, Lake Lugano, and surrounding mountains. Its sunny slopes dotted with delightful restaurants and numerous hiking trails underscore it as a fixture in Switzerland activities, inviting visitors to experience the region's serene ambiance and picturesque charm.
Basel: Kunstmuseum
What is it?
Sophisticated museum with an impressive art collection.
Why you should go?
When pondering what to do in Switzerland for art aficionados, Basel's Kunstmuseum is a distinguished destination. Housing a comprehensive compendium of artworks ranging from the early Renaissance to contemporary pieces, this museum stands out as a cultural beacon. The extensive art collection, thoughtfully curated exhibitions, and the engaging architecture of the museum itself, make it one of the most significant Switzerland attractions for those looking to experience the rich tapestry of European art history.
TOP-5 Free Tours in Switzerland
- Nestled amongst the awe-inspiring Alps, discover things to see in Switzerland with a guide to the majestic Matterhorn and Zermatt village.
- Dive into the heart of Bern with a tour that teems with historical insights, making it one of the top things to do in Switzerland.
- Meander through the cobblestone streets of Old Geneva; this tour illuminates pivotal Switzerland tourist attractions and hidden gems.
- Experience the cultural vibrancy of Lucerne as you learn about its historical bridges and picturesque lakefront, landmarks key to what to do in Switzerland.
- Stroll through the lush vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO heritage site, and indulge in the serenity and beauty of Switzerland activities.