Switzerland may charge slightly more for everything, but its unspoiled landscapes and towering mountains more than makeup for any additional costs. Tips on where to go in Switzerland?
See for yourself by visiting one or more of these destinations:
Lauterbrunnen is a beautiful village tucked into an idyllic mountain landscape teeming with mountain peaks and waterfalls, making it a top tourist spot in both summer and winter in Switzerland. An excellent place for taking family photographs!
Zermatt
Zermatt in Switzerland is famous for its mountainous scenery. Renowned for skiing and climbing, Zermatt draws visitors year-round – its glittering snow-covered slopes and picturesque alpine town make Zermatt feel like something out of a postcard!
Car-free streets are lined with rustic chalets and shops. The iconic Matterhorn towers over the town, providing stunning panoramic views. Intimate hotels such as Hotel Post have also graced this picturesque village since 1875.
The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise trail offers an unforgettable hike for anyone interested in seeing one of Europe’s most beloved mountains close up. Reaching its summit requires taking trains, cable cars, and gondolas but is well worth your while – don’t miss hiking Edelweiss on a clifftop for breathtaking views over Zermatt too!
Chur
Chur is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities despite being relatively small. As one of its oldest inhabited towns, its historic senior center boasts picturesque Alpine mountain views that rival any in Switzerland.
Car-free streets of the Old Town are ideal for aimless strolling, with breathtaking mountain views at every turn. Visitors can also discover magnificent towers and medieval houses, while St Martin Church serves as its centerpiece.
Chur is a vibrant cultural hub in Graubunden and features boutiques, restaurants, and museums of note. For visitors planning more extensive trips through the Alps, it is the starting point of two scenic train rides: Bernina Express and Glacier Express!
Interlaken
Interlaken, known as the ‘Land Between the Lakes,’ is an ideal hiking destination. Here you will be met by towering mountains, stunning lakes, and charming villages dotted with wooden chalets – everything a hiker desires in their hiking experience!
Hoheweg, the town’s spectacular boulevard between East and West rail stations, features hotels, flower beds, and an iconic working clock made entirely from flowers. Nearby Thun Castle boasts impressive medieval structures, while Thun Parish Church’s 1471 Late Gothic tower adds further beauty.
Harder Kulm offers panoramic views over mountains and lakes from the railway valley station. St. Beatus Caves gives visitors a thrilling adventure through caverns filled with stalagmites and stalactites, while Heimwehfluh provides beautiful long views across Interlaken. Additionally, nearby Alpine Wildlife Park is an essential sanctuary for marmots and ibexes that had nearly gone extinct.
Lucerne
Lucerne is an idyllic lakeside city tucked into picturesque Swiss mountains, making for an unforgettable visit. A trip here will provide lifelong memories as you see iconic landmarks such as Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church, which you won’t find elsewhere.
Kapellbrucke, Europe’s oldest wooden covered footbridge, is the centerpiece of any visit to Lucerne. You can walk across it and admire its artwork or head into its museum for further insight into its history.
Winter in Lucerne offers visitors a special treat, with breathtaking snow-covered mountains creating a winter wonderland scene. Lower crowds and accommodation costs make Lucerne an excellent budget travel option.
Gruyeres
Gruyere, Switzerland, is an idyllic medieval town beloved by cheese enthusiasts, yet offers much more than fondue and chocolate factories.
Gruyeres boasts an exquisite castle and some genuinely engaging museums. Additionally, Gruyeres offers mild weather conditions, great foodie spots, and scenic trails perfect for hikers.
Visitors can explore the Gastlosen massif mountain range south of Jaun, which offers stunning Alpine scenery and an abundance of native plants. This medium-level trek makes for a rewarding journey!
Another exciting attraction is the Tibet Museum, offering an exceptional collection of Buddhist art. You may be amazed that such an exquisite Tibetan museum exists in a small Swiss town! Additionally, HR Giger Museum exhibits his incredible surrealist artwork from the Alien 1979 movie soundtrack.
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