30+ must-go & best places to visit in Switzerland

Known as the “Heart of Europe”, it is an ideal destination for those who love to explore and experience. Let’s find out which Swiss tourist destinations are most loved by travel enthusiasts through this article with 30+ most beautiful attractions & best things to do in Switzerland!

Switzerland is almost the most expensive country in Europe and the world, so it is often not popular with tourists on a tight budget. Certainly not a cheap destination, but Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. No matter where you go in Switzerland, you will be amazed by its beauty.

If you want to go to Switzerland, then “swim” all in here! The list of Swiss tourist destinations below will help you have the most wonderful journey to Europe!

Grossmünster Church – Zürich

The Grossmünster Church is an ancient monastery, built on the tombs of the city’s patron saints, Felix and Regula. Charlemagne is said to have founded the first high school here and his statue can be seen atop the Karlsturm tower on the south side. From the nave of the church, you can climb 187 steps to the observation deck for stunning views of the old town and Lake Zürich, which are captured through six large windows.

Uetliberg Mountain – Zürich

Located in the southwest of Zürich, Uetliberg is considered Zürich’s own mountain. At 871m high, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the spectacular lake. You can easily reach the top of Uetliberg by taking the mountain train. In particular, going to Uetliberg at night to enjoy dinner and watch the city sparkle in the snow is one of the favorite activities of the locals in Zürich in winter.

Best places to visit in Switzerland: The poetic Lake Zürich in the heart of the city

It would be a big mistake to come to Zürich without visiting Lake Zürich! This is one of the five largest lakes in Switzerland, which was once used as a traffic route. Today, Lake Zürich is a popular destination for locals and tourists to swim, SUP, or picnic on both sides of the lake. You can combine it with a journey to explore Zurich’s medieval old town, which retains rich historical imprints and well-preserved architecture.

Bahnhofstrasse – Zürich

Bahnhofstrasse is Zürich’s unique pedestrian street, stretching from the Hauptbahnhof main train station to the Bürkliplatz marina at the head of Lake Zürich. The 1,200m-long street is one of Europe’s most attractive shopping paradises, surrounded by fountains, street art, trees and old buildings. You can find everything on Bahnhofstrasse, stroll along the lake in summer and enjoy hot chocolate in winter.

Zürich Zoo

Zürich Zoo is considered one of the best zoos in Europe. Opened in 1929, Zürich Zoo is home to more than 380 animal species living in a world as close to their natural environment as possible. You will see snow leopards amidst the Himalayan mountains, penguins swimming in the cold water, or catching a flying fox from a treetop in the middle of a tropical rainforest.

Lake Geneva – The Giant Freshwater Lake of Western Europe In Geneva

Lake Geneva, also known as Lake Léman, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Western Europe, located between Switzerland and France. With its charming natural beauty, Lake Geneva is a famous tourist destination, where diverse activities take place. You can take a boat tour, kayak… Around the lake are many beautiful cities and towns such as Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, famous for their ancient architecture, museums, and unique cultural festivals.

United Nations Office Palais Des Nations – Geneva – Geneva

Built in the 1900s, the Palace of Nations (Palais des Nations) is not only a symbolic building of the city of Geneva, but also the second most important headquarters of the United Nations, after New York. Located in Ariana Park, overlooking Lake Geneva, this building is the second largest architectural complex in Europe, after the Palace of Versailles in France.

Opposite is the Place des Nations, where the 12-meter-high sculpture “Broken Chair” is located, a powerful reminder of victims who have lost body parts due to landmines, and a warning to diplomats about their responsibility to protect and rescue those affected by war.

Old Town of Geneva – Geneva

A visit to Old Town of Geneva is a must-do when in Geneva! The highlight of the neighborhood is the St. Pierre Cathedral, the center of the Reformation, an event that profoundly changed the history of Europe. Stroll along the small cobblestone streets, and you will hear the historical story told through the square, old buildings, museums with many secrets and mysterious passageways that are carefully preserved by the locals.

Saint Pierre Cathedral – Geneva

St. Pierre Cathedral was built in the 12th century and has a deep history since the 16th century, especially during the Reformation in 1535, when it became a place of worship for Protestants. You will have the opportunity to climb the 157 steps of the North Tower to take in the breathtaking panorama of the city and the lake. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the archaeological site located right below the cathedral!

L’Horloge Fleurie Flower Clock – Geneva

Geneva is known worldwide for its watchmaking tradition, being the home of the high-end watch industry. To honor this honor, in 1955, Geneva created the world’s largest clock made from nearly 7,000 flowers, located on the west side of the Jardin Anglais. Interestingly, the clock always looks different, as the flowers change with each season, but the time is always accurate. This landmark shows the ingenuity and creativity of the Swiss.

Kapellbrücke Chapel Bridge – Lucerne

Kapellbrücke Chapel Bridge is probably the most checked-in spot in Lucerne. This covered wooden bridge crosses the Reuss River diagonally, named after the nearby St. Peter’s Chapel. The bridge was built in the 14th century and until it burned down in 1993, it was considered the oldest wooden bridge in Europe. After being restored, more than 100 paintings of 17th-century Lucerne life were hung from the bridge’s rafters.

Mount Rigi – Lucerne

Known as the “Queen of the Mountains”, Mount Rigi is located between Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and Lake Lauerz. At 1,798 metres, Rigi offers a majestic natural landscape, panoramic views of the Alps and clear blue lakes. Rigi is a paradise for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, cycling, skiing, visiting ancient villages, participating in traditional festivals. To get to Rigi, you can take the train from Arth-Goldau, Vitznau or Weggis stations.

Lake Lucerne – Lucerne

Lake Lucerne is the fourth largest lake in Switzerland. The lake is especially beautiful on a sunny summer day or a winter night when the Christmas lights sparkle. You can drive on the highway or take a rowboat from Lucerne and between the villages on the lake. More active you can cycle around the lake or walk on the 34km long Swiss Path, built in 1991 to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the country’s founding.

Swiss Museum of Transport – Lucerne

The Verkehrshaus was built in 1959. It houses locomotives, motor vehicles, ships and aircraft. It also houses the large EURECA satellite, launched by Europe and the United States in the 1990s. In addition to transport, the museum also features a planetarium and a rich collection of works by sculptor and painter Hans Emi, and even a chance to learn about Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven.

Museggmauer Wall – Lucerne

The Museggmauer Wall is an important part of the Lucerne citadel, built in the 13th century and largely intact to this day. The Musegg Wall has nine towers, but only some of them are accessible. The Zyt Clock Tower, with the first public clock of the city of Lucerne installed in 1535, has the privilege of ringing one minute earlier than all other clocks in the region.

Jungfraujoch – Interlaken

Jungfraujoch is the name of a saddle-shaped mountain peak in the Bernese Alps system, 3,571m above sea level. Jungfraujoch is also known as the “Top of Europe”, because it is home to the highest train station in Europe. Here, you can watch a documentary about Jungfraujoch, learn about the history of the Jungfraujoch railway system, admire the cave carved from the eternal glacier, visit the world’s highest astronomical observatory Sphinx Observatory.

Lake Brienz – Hot Check-in Spot In Interlaken

Lake Brienz is one of Switzerland’s most famous lakes, located next to the town of Interlaken. It is sometimes called the “blue pearl” due to its crystal clear waters. The village of Brienz, located on the opposite side of the lake, is made up of traditional wooden houses with the snow-capped Alps in the background. You can take a walk or cycle along the southern shore of the lake, or cross Oberried and catch the train to Interlaken.

St. Beatus-Höhlen Caves – Interlaken

Located next to Lake Thun, the St. Beatus-Höhlen Caves were formed over centuries and are filled with stalactites, lakes and beautiful waterfalls. Legend has it that in the 6th century, a dragon took refuge in these caves while the monk and hermit Beatus of Lungern was hunting it. You shouldn’t miss this attraction with cave hiking, waterfalls, panoramic restaurants, and a museum overlooking the lake with the Alps in the background.

Rhône Glacier – Interlaken

The Rhône Glacier is one of the landmarks of the Goms Valley, flowing from the source of the Rhône River through Switzerland and France, into the Mediterranean Sea. The glacier is estimated to be over 10,000 years old. At the foot of the glacier is a cave that was carved out in 1870, as tunnels and caves are excavated every summer. Although the glacier appears grey-white from the outside, inside it is a vibrant icy blue.

Ropes Park Interlaken

Let yourself go in Ropes Park Interlaken, with nine playgrounds nestled among the treetops. Here you will experience more than 120 obstacles on nine different challenging courses, surrounded by nature and the mountains of the Bernese Oberland. You can explore the different routes at your own pace and initiative.

Château De Chillon – Lausanne

The Château de Chillon is a must-see when visiting Lausanne, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval fortresses and the most visited by tourists. The iconic fortress was built on a stone platform on the shores of Lake Geneva and was owned by the Counts of Savoy from the 12th to the 14th centuries.

Olympic Museum – Lausanne

The Olympic Museum is home to exhibitions related to the Olympic Games and sports. Come here to experience and feel the Olympic spirit the way the athletes felt, study the history of the Games from Antiquity to the present. With temporary exhibitions, the museum’s grounds are decorated with works of art and the restaurant offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Notre-Dame Cathedral – Lausanne

Located in the heart of the old town of Lausanne, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is majestic and magnificent and is considered one of the most beautiful monuments in Europe. Built between 1170 and 1235, the cathedral has a historical significance since the Middle Ages, and is an annual pilgrimage site for over 70,000 people. The cathedral is surrounded by the old town of Lausanne, including the Maire Castle built between 1397 and 1427 and the 17th-century town hall.

Lake Geneva – Lausanne

After visiting the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Lausanne, head to the other side of Lake Geneva, which offers stunning views of the French Alps and the Swiss Riviera. A boat ride on the lake will give you the most panoramic and stunning views of the lake and the city. These boat trips have become a favorite among tourists as they allow them to relax in nature and see new sides of the city.

 

Plateforme 10 Art Museum – Lausanne

More than a museum, Plateforme 10 is known as a large and lively art district next to the Lausanne train station. Plateforme 10 is home to the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (MUDAC), the Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts (MCBA) and the Photo Elysée Museum of Photography. Plateforme 10 also has a pleasant, breezy promenade that is home to restaurants, terraces, bookstores and gift shops.

Independent Swiss Travel Experiences for Sports Lovers

Switzerland – with its snow-capped mountains, majestic gorges and waterfalls – is an ideal destination for sports or adventure lovers. Let us suggest some Swiss travel experiences suitable for “adrenaline lovers”.

Skiing in the Jungfrau region

With more than 200 km of easy to difficult slopes, Jungfrau is a dream destination for ski enthusiasts. You will be overwhelmed by the snow-capped Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch peaks, along with the Aletsch valley recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. In addition to skiing, you can also go sledding, hiking on snow, ice climbing or exploring the Ice Palace. The cable car and train systems will make traveling between ski areas easier.

Paragliding in Klosters

Klosters has a number of beautiful flying spots with breathtaking mountain views. In particular, the Gotschna launch station is easily accessible by cable car, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Take a flight over Klosters and you will have the opportunity to admire the Alps from an ideal height. Don’t worry, the flight with a professional guide from us will ensure your absolute safety.

Canyoning Experience in Interlaken

Joining the canyoning journey in Interlaken, you will challenge yourself to conquer steep canyons, immerse yourself in majestic nature and experience all kinds of emotions. You can join professionally organized canyoning tours, guided by experienced experts. These tours often include activities such as waterfall climbing, waterfall jumping, waterfall sliding and swimming in cold water.

Bungy Jumping in Stockhorn

Bungy jumping in Stockhorn is not only an adventurous activity, but also an unforgettable experience, testing the limits of courage. Stepping off the 134m high platform, you will feel the ultimate thrill before plunging into a spectacular free fall, where the speed of 120 km/h will bring you the ultimate feeling of excitement. In that moment, all worries and fears seem to disappear, giving way to freedom and sublimation.

Kayaking on Lake Brienz

Kayaking on Lake Brienz in winter offers the opportunity to explore the wild and tranquil beauty of Swiss nature. When the surrounding mountains are covered with white snow, the surface of Lake Brienz becomes as flat as a giant mirror. In the quiet space, you can freely kayak, weaving through the cliffs covered with ice and snow. You will be fully equipped with protective equipment and thoroughly instructed in kayaking skills.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

Switzerland, with its diverse natural beauty and rich culture, welcomes visitors at any time of the year. However, to have a complete and memorable trip, choosing the right time is very important.

Summer (June – September)

This is the peak tourist season in Switzerland, when the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, kayaking and swimming in lakes. You can enjoy sunny days to enjoy sidewalk coffee or stroll in the cool green park. In the summer, Switzerland also organizes many cultural festivals and special music events.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn in Switzerland brings romantic scenery with brilliant red and yellow foliage. The number of tourists is lower than in summer, making it easier to visit famous destinations without being too crowded. The weather is cool and fresh, suitable for hiking and exploring nature.

Winter (November – March)

Switzerland in winter is a paradise for those who love winter sports such as skiing, skating and sledding. Famous ski resorts such as Zermatt, St. Moritz and Verbier attract many visitors from all over the world. Winter is also the time for many festivals and cultural events, especially Christmas markets.

Spring (March – May)

Spring in Switzerland brings freshness and vitality as nature awakens after a long winter. The weather gradually warms up, trees sprout and flowers bloom everywhere. This is the ideal time to explore ancient cities and towns, visit museums and historical sites. If you had to choose the most ideal season to travel to Switzerland, it would be spring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Switzerland

When is the ideal time to travel to Switzerland?

The ideal time is summer (June-September) for warm weather, or winter (November-March) for skiing activities.

What are the famous attractions in Switzerland?

Famous attractions include the Alps, Lake Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne, and Jungfraujoch.

What are the popular means of transportation in Switzerland?

Popular means of transportation are trains, buses, and boats. The public transportation system in Switzerland is very efficient and reliable.

What should I prepare when traveling to Switzerland?

Be sure to pack weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and some common medications. If you’re traveling in the winter, pack warm, waterproof clothing.

Do you need a visa to visit Switzerland?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries are exempt from a Schengen visa for short-term stays. However, Vietnamese citizens need to apply for a Schengen visa. You should check the latest visa information on the Swiss embassy website.

Safe, modern, beautiful, and friendly – ​​that’s what you will think of Switzerland. It’s sure to leave you with great memories, as well as inspire your creativity in your work. Whether you’re opting for a luxury vacation in Switzerland or trying to experience the country on a budget, the best part is that many of the most stunning sights in Switzerland are completely free.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Zurich you can refer to

• Zürich Card
• Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City 1-day pass
• Jungfraujoch Day Tour from Zurich
• The Best of Zurich City Half Day Tour
• Swiss Travel Pass
• Zurich City and Surroundings Half-Day Tour with Ferry and Cable Car Ride
• Lucerne City Tour and Yacht Cruise from Zürich
• Zurich Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Heidiland & Liechtenstein Day Tour from Zurich
• Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

Are you looking for more top things to do in Zurich: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And full guides for Switzerland, Bern, Lucerne, Jungfraujoch, Interlaken, Zermatt and here.