BEST TOWNS IN SWITZERLAND TO VISIT

MOST BEAUTIFUL SWISS TOWNS

Switzerland might be most famous for its breathtaking landscapes with the Swiss Alps. However, Switzerland is so much more than just stunning scenery – it’s also got loads of seriously cute, fairy-tale towns! And here it is all about the most beautiful towns in Switzerland.

As a regular Switzerland visitor, I have to admit that it is mostly about nature – but not all. I enjoy spending time in Swiss cities as well as villages and towns where I can admire beautiful (and often very colorful) buildings nestled amidst the mountains.

So, in this post I share my favorite towns in Switzerland – these are places to add to your Switzerland bucket list!

TOWNS IN SWITZERLAND TO VISIT

P.S. Even if you are not a budget traveler, read my budget travel tips for Switzerland. After all, Switzerland is extremely pricey, and you might appreciate my tips after all.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it here.

Stein am Rhein

Who knew such a magnificent medieval town could be tucked away in Switzerland? Stein am Rhein will make you feel like you’ve gone back 500 years in time. With colorful frescoes and captivating cobblestone streets, this storybook setting is not one to miss!

So don’t wait until your 8th or 9th Swiss adventure for the magical experience of Stein and Rhine (like I did).

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN STEIN AM RHEIN

This Swiss town may be small, but it’s got some seriously stunning houses with super gorgeous architecture. 

Even if you take your sweet time, you can explore the entire town in just a few hours. Once you’re done admiring the gorgeous facades, take a stroll by the Rhein River or hop on a boat for a chill tour.

Pro tip: swing by Hohenklingen Castle for some insane views – it’s worth the hike, I promise. And while you’re at it, why not hit up one of the vineyards for some sweet wine tasting? Sounds like a plan to me!

WHERE TO STAY IN STEIN AM RHEIN

There are no luxury hotels in Stein am Rhein and the choice of hotels is limited. 

Schaffhausen

  • Canton: Schaffhausen

Ever heard of Schaffhausen? Not only is it the capital of Switzerland’s smallest canton, but it is also known as The City of Oriel Windows

Don’t miss out on exploring some amazing sights and creating memories that are sure to last you for years. Plus – get this – it’s home to Europe’s largest waterfall: Rhine Falls!

Most beautiful erkers in Schaffhausen
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN SCHAFFHAUSEN

If you’re looking for some awesome views and a good time, check out Munot! It’s a fortress and tower perched up on a hill that’ll give you a great view of the Rhein River and some of those famous vineyards. 

Take a leisurely stroll by the Rhine River or explore the town center, which is seriously overly cute. I mean, it’s one of the most colorful spots I’ve seen in all of Europe!

And while you’re in the area, visit the Rhine Falls. It’s a seriously cool spot that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SCHAFFHAUSEN

I stayed at Hotel Rüden – a very authentic Swiss hotel in the old town and can recommend it though it is quite basic, the location was good.

Thun

  • Canton: Bern

If you’re looking for one of the prettiest Swiss towns, then visit Thun! Located in the region of Bernese Oberland, this charming destination will leave a lasting impression – one that even surpasses its more famous neighbor (Interlaken)!

Thun, most beautiful town in Interlaken
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN THUN

Thun´s town center is so pretty, it’ll make you feel like you’re walking through a medieval fairytale!

But the real kicker is Schloss Thun – it’s got some of the most stunning views of Thun. And if you’re looking for a place to unwind, hit up Schloss Schadau. It’s a beauty and there’s plenty of greenery to chill out in – with great views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Thun.

But let’s not forget about Lake Thun itself. It’s honestly one of my favorites in Switzerland – with amazing views of the Swiss Skyline (aka the majestic Mönch, Eiger, and Jungfrau mountains). And the best part? You get to walk right by the water the whole time.

It’s one of the nicest walks  – and the views are just so darn gorgeous!

Interlaken

  • Canton: Bern

Interlaken should be at the top of your must-visit list! Located in Bernese Oberland and surrounded by two magnificent lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – this picturesque paradise is ready to take you on a wild ride.

It is one of the most popular small towns – sure, it’s pricey but don’t let that dampen your enthusiasm. After all when there are sights as stunning as these who can resist?! 

Interlaken town and Aare river, from the view point of Harder Kulm, Interlaken, Switzerland
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My favorite thing about Interlaken is its great location for surrounding attractions – like the Jungfraujoch. Having two train stations really opens up your options for a whole range of excursions.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN INTERLAKEN

Get up Harder Kulm Mountain – the local “house” mountain for a beautiful panorama of Interlaken.

If you’re ready for a break, head on over to the main shopping street for a little retail therapy. And after that, chill picnic at Höhematte Park? It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.

And speaking of beautiful surroundings, visit Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Interlaken is smack dab in the middle of these two stunning lakes, so you get the best of both worlds. 

WHERE TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN

Interlaken is home to some amazing hotels – amazing and expensive. 

  • I recently stayed in the newly renovated Hotel du Nord. I actually was very positively surprised (the reviews were not great, but since all rooms were renovated lately, it is a great place to stay). Click here to get the best deals.
  • If you are on a budget, I recommend staying at this gorgeous hostel. This hostel is a bit more expensive than others, but the best I have stayed at in Switzerland and they also offer free parking.
  • Check out my full guide on the best places to stay in Interlaken.

Appenzell

  • Canton: Appenzell Innerrhoden

Appenzell is the place to be if you’re looking for a charming getaway that isn’t overrun with tourists! Its tiny capital city of Appenzell Innerrhoden features colorful, one-of-a-kind houses and makes an ideal day trip from Zürich.

Climb nearby Ebenalp Mountain, Säntis, Hoher Kasten, or explore other attractions in this chocolate box town – it’s definitely worth checking out while still off the tourist radar!

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN APPENZELL

Check out the tiny village center of Appenzell. It’s small but seriously charming.

And if you’re up for a little adventure, why not hike up Ebenalp Mountain? Or, if you’re feeling a little lazy (no judgment here), you can take the cable car up. Once you’re up there, you gotta check out “The Aescher” – it’s a mountain guest house that’s seriously amazing.

Trust me, the views alone are worth the trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN APPENZELL

  • The Gasthaus Hotel Hof is located in the town center (with free parking space),. If you are looking for a friendly, welcoming family-run hotel, this might be a perfect choice. It is quite simple and basic but a good choice. Check out rates here.
  • If you want something fancier, check out this 4-star hotel in Appenzell.

Montreux

  • Canton: Vaud

When it comes to beauty and charm, Montreux is in a league of its own. From the captivating flower-lined Lake Geneva waterfront to the awe-inspiring Chateau de Chilllon, this Swiss town will have you falling head over heels with only one glance!

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX

If you’re looking for a good time, Lake Geneva and Montreux is where it’s at. It’s seriously inviting, so why not take a dip and cool off? 

And if you’re up for a relaxing time, check out the boat tours. You can even combine it with a visit to Lausanne or Geneva – so you get some sightseeing in too. Plus, make sure to visit Chateau de Chillon. It’s a freaking magnificent castle perched on a rocky base right by the lake. 

And if you’re more of a wine connoisseur, head on over to Chexbres to see the Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage Site‘s terraced vineyards. Not only is it a sight to see, but you can also do some wine tasting. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX

  • Luxury Hotels in Montreux: For one of the most luxurious experiences in Montreux, check out Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. This 5-star hotel has a great location and is best known amongst those who like to indulge. 
  • Mid-Range Hotels in Montreux: As mentioned above, I stayed at the lovely 4-star hotel Eurotel which you can check out here – I was more than happy with my choice.

Solothurn

  • Canton: Solothurn

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, then Solothurn should be at the top of your list! This cute town – with its city’s old town origin from around 1530 – nestled in northeast Switzerland will surprise and delight with its unique architecture. Despite being small-town size, there’s plenty to explore – so don’t miss out on this gorgeous place!

Views from cathedral tower in Solothurn, Switzerland, Arzo Travels
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN SOLOTHURN

Check out St. Ursen Cathedral – right in the town center. And while you’re at it, don’t miss the famous clock, Zeitglockenturm. 

And the best part? It’s a car-free town! So you can stroll around to your heart’s content without worrying about getting hit by a car. Plus, the views by the Aare River (aka my favorite river in Switzerland) are seriously stunning. Grab some ice cream and enjoy the sunshine by the river.

Listening to the people around me as I basked in the glorious sunshine, I could tell that the area was popular with the locals and tourists. So, if you find yourself in Zürich or Bern and are looking for a getaway, visit Solothurn.

WHERE TO STAY IN SOLOTHURN

Grindelwald

  • Canton: Bern

Nestled in Jungfrau/Interlaken, picturesque Grindelwald has something to offer both winter and summer visitors.

Skiing fanatics can hit the slopes with incredible views of Mount Eiger in the winter, while hikers will be spoiled by breathtaking trails surrounding them at every turn in the summer months! Packed full of attractions, why not make your next holiday destination Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN GRINDELWALD

Grindelwald may be a tiny town, but it’s seriously picturesque. And if you’re into being active and exploring the great outdoors, you’re in luck! There are so many mountains and cool spots nearby that you won’t know where to start.

But let me give you a hot tip – hike to Bachalpsee Lake. Trust me, it’s a must-see. You’ll be surrounded by wildflowers, mountain peaks, glaciers, and the lake itself.

And if you’re planning on visiting Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald is the perfect base. It’s a popular spot for a reason – and you won’t regret making it your home base.

WHERE TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD

There are some very nice, typical Swiss hotels in Grindelwald.

  • I stayed once at the Hotel Caprice Grindelwald and really liked it – a simple yet lovely hotel right in the center of Grindelwald.
  • The other hotel I stayed at was the only 5-star hotel in Grindelwald. The lovely Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof. Check out rates here.

Ascona

  • Canton: Ticino

Colorful Ascona, located on Lake Maggiore’s northern shore and just 30 minutes away from the Italian border, is brimming with Italian style! Not only this, but it combines a warm climate perfect for palm trees with fantastic views of the Alps. It is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland.

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN ASCONA

Ascona is seriously special – especially the Old Town and its lively piazza. From there, you can saunter down the lanes to the Lake Promenade. It’s filled with street cafes where you can kick back and relax while taking in the views. 

And if you’re up for a little adventure, why not rent a boat or stand-up paddleboard? Explore the lake on your own and see Ascona from a whole new perspective. Plus, get on a boat ride to Brissago Islands’ botanical park. They’ve got 1500 different plant species there.

And if you’re feeling extra wild, Ascona has some seriously great alpine trails for hiking, biking, or rock climbing. So whether you want to soak up some sun or get lost in the wilds, you can do it all in Ascona. 

Yes, this pretty town is a must-see in Lugano.

WHERE TO STAY IN ASCONA

  • Luxury Hotels in Locarno/Orselina.  Villa Orselina is a top luxurious small boutique hotel in Orselina, not too far from Ascona. Check out prices here.

Find out more about great places to stay in Switzerland.

Mürren

  • Canton: Bern

Mürren is the ultimate destination for a Swiss postcard! This tiny but traditional village has all your heart could desire, from cozy little wooden chalets tucked away beneath snow-blanketed mountains in the winter to wildflowers in the summer and stunning views of Switzerland’s famous Skyline all year round.

Geographically small yet full of attractions and breathtaking beauty – prepare to take some jaw-dropping photos wherever you look!

Murren in summer months
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN MURREN

Muerren is a paradise for hikers and winter sports enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, including the famous Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains. You can also enjoy a scenic train ride, and visit the famous Schilthorn Peak. 

Schilthorn Mountain – it’s seriously epic! From the top, which is almost 3,000 meters above sea level, you get an amazing panoramic view of the Swiss Skyline and more. Here you have amazing views of snow-capped mountains at all times (well, unless it is cloudy).

And the cherry on top? The Piz Gloria revolving restaurant. It’s a filming location of a 007-Bond movie (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service) and it’s seriously cool. You can dine while taking in views of 200 snow-capped mountain peaks. Plus, there’s even a James Bond museum there.

Zermatt

  • Canton: Valais

Looking for picture-perfect scenery? Get ready to take your Instagram game up a notch with Zermatt. Located at the base of the iconic Matterhorn peak, it’s full of colorful blooms, quaint chalets, cobblestone streets – oh yeah, and restaurants galore!

Word on The Street is that you need to add this Swiss village to all your Swiss itineraries!

Zermatt old town with Arzo Travels
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Zermatt is one of the best places for winter sports enthusiasts and offers many different excursions. There are 38 peaks over 4,000 meters and 360 kilometers of pistes for skiers! 

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT

Check out the Matterhorn Museum. You can see the equipment used in the first tragic ascent of the peak back in 1865.

Check out the highest cable car station in Europe at 3883 meters above sea level. It’s called Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and you can see France, Italy, and Switzerland all at once. And while you’re up there, don’t miss out on the Glacier Palace. It’s a palace made entirely out of ice-

Visit Gorner Gorge. The rushing waters of the Gornervispe River have created this seriously epic gorge. 

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT

Brienz

  • Canton: Bern

Ready to enjoy a dose of Swiss charm? Then Brienz is the place for you! This beautiful village lies on the shores of magical Lake Brienz, and its main draws are woodcarving – you won’t find more intricately decorated homes anywhere else in Switzerland – and violin making.

Most beautiful street in Europe, Brunnengasse in Brienz
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN BRIENZ

Hop on a boat and check out Giessbach Falls. They’ve got 14 consecutive waterfalls falling from a height of 500 meters. You can even walk behind some of the falls. It’s like something out of a fairytale!

And for the ultimate romantic spot, head on over to Brungasse. It was once given the title of the most beautiful street in Europe. 

Get up Brienzer Rothorn Mountain. You can either hike up or take the steam locomotive. And trust me, the views at the top are seriously epic. You can see the Bernese Alps and Lake Brienz – it’s a view you won’t forget! Check out my detailed guide on a trip to Brienzer Rothorn.

Locarno

  • Canton: Ticino

With its Mediterranean feel, Locarno is the perfect spot for anyone seeking a sunny escape! The picturesque town overlooks Lake Maggiore and boasts vibrant blooms of flowers every spring.

From sipping cocktails under swaying palm trees or picking fresh lemons off lemon tree branches – Locarno has a lot to offer!

Where to visit in Switzerland
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN LOCARNO

Locarno is seriously beautiful – check out Sacred Mount Madonna del Sasso in Orselina. It’s a church on an outcrop of rock! From there, you can admire the natural beauty of the area and see stunning views of Locarno, Lake Maggiore, and the surrounding mountains.

Don’t miss out on taking a cable car up to Cardada Mountain. You can sit back and enjoy the spectacular views of the Locarno region.

And if you’re lucky enough to be there during the International Film Festival, you’re in for a real treat. The Piazza Grande becomes a huge open-air cinema.

Check out Lido Locarno. It’s got thermal baths and pools where you can relax and unwind. 

But if you’re looking for a real adrenaline rush, check out the “James Bond – Golden Eye bungee jump” at Contra Dam. It’s close to Locarno and it’s the ultimate adrenaline kick. 

WHERE TO STAY IN LOCARNO

  • Luxury Hotels in Locarno – I have stayed at a couple of very luxurious hotels, but this is probably one of my favorites. Villa Orselina is a top luxurious small boutique hotel in Orselina, just a few minutes from Locarno. Check out prices here.
  • Mid-Range Hotels in Locarno – Hotel Garni Muralto. I did not stay here, but it is one of the best-rated hotels in that price range. Find out prices here. It is not directly in Locarno, but Muralto which just borders Locarno and you can get there within minutes.

Spiez

  • Canton: Bern

If you’re looking for a postcard-perfect destination with unbeatable scenery, then Spiez is the place to be! It surely is one of the prettiest towns in Central Switzerland. Situated between a tranquil lake and some of Switzerland’s finest mountain ranges, this beautiful bay offers wonderful views everywhere you look.

Plus there are plenty of activities nearby – like hiking through lush gardens or biking along vineyards – that’ll give your holiday even more character. 

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN SPIEZ

Check out Castle Spiez – it’s seriously imposing with its huge tower and stunning interior. 

And if you’re up for some hiking, Spiez has got you covered. There’s a 14 km circular hiking trail that’s seriously awesome.

If you need a break after all that hiking, why not try a relaxing cruise on the lake? The paddlewheel steamship ferries passengers from Thun to Interlaken all year round.

And speaking of relaxation, check out the wine-growing museum. You can learn about local viticulture and even try some of the produce from a local wine cellar. It’s seriously delicious!

But let’s not forget the most obvious activity – strolling the beautiful promenade. It’s seriously stunning, like the French Riviera but in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. 

Nyon

  • Canton: Vaud

If you’re looking for an idyllic holiday spot – Nyon is the perfect place. Nestled on beautiful Lake Geneva between Lausanne and Geneva- smack dab in some stunning vineyards – this spick-and-span town has plenty to offer history buffs too with excavations of Celtic Helvetian and Roman times plus lots from the Middle Ages. 

And if that’s not enough there are loads of countryside walks and water sports in the summertime!

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN NYON

Nyon has got a lovely marina and a lakeside promenade that’s perfect for strolling. And it’s super family-friendly too! There are free beaches and tons of parks and play areas to keep your little ones entertained. 

For some seriously stunning views, check out Chateaux de Nyon. You can access the courtyard and terrace for free and see some seriously spectacular views of Lake Geneva, the French Alps, and even Mont Blanc on clear days. You might even catch a glimpse of the famous Jet d’Eau fountain in Geneva.

And if you’re looking to learn more about Lake Geneva or ‘Lac Leman’, you gotta check out the Museum of Lake Geneva. You can learn about its origins, flora and fauna, and local history. And if you’ve got kids with you, there are tons of opportunities for interactive learning. It’s like a fun history lesson! 

WHERE TO STAY IN / NEAR NYON

  • I visited Nyon twice for a couple of hours. Montreux was my base because Nyon can easily be reached by boat or train. In Montreux, I recommend a beautiful 4* hotel with a great view of Lake Geneva. Find accommodation in Nyon and get the best price

Lauterbrunnen

  • Canton: Bern

This cute village is surrounded by majestic mountains and mighty waterfalls – with an impressive total of 72!

And don’t forget that it’s also one of the biggest nature conservation areas in Europe, so you know you’ll be exploring some pretty special sights. Get ready for a spectacular adventure – “Lauterbrunnen” even translates from German as ‘many fountains’ after all.

Lauterbrunnen in spring
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Lauterbrunnen in spring

TOP THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

Lauterbrunnen is seriously awesome – there are so many things to see and do! Check out Staubbach Fall – water plunges almost 300 meters from an overhanging cliff face. 

Explore the Trummelbach Falls – Europe’s largest subterranean caves. Ten thundering waterfalls have carved the rock over millions of years into some seriously strange and wonderful shapes. It’s like a natural wonderland that is open in the summer months.

But that’s not all – Lauterbrunnen has even more to offer! You can take the Jungfraubahn, a cog railway, to Europe’s highest railway station – the Jungfraujoch – at a whopping 3,454 meters above sea level.

And if you’re up for some seriously stunning views, check out Schilthorn Mountain Peak. Take cable cars or even hike up (at least some parts)! On the way to the top, you’ll see pretty Mürren and enjoy scenic views of the mountains Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. 

WHERE TO STAY IN LAUTERBRUNNEN

Morcote

  • Ticino

It’s no surprise why Morcote was voted the most beautiful village in Switzerland – it’s basically a picture-perfect postcard coming to life. It isn’t just visually captivating, but its unique culture is what sets this place apart from other villages in the area!

You can feel an incredible mix of both Italy and Germany vibes when you visit here; so if you ever find yourself near Lugano, be sure to see magnificent Morcote for yourself!

What to do and see in Morcote, Ticino, travel guide
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THINGS TO DO IN MORCOTE

There are several things to do in Morcote.

Visit the Church Santa Maria del Sasso – not only is it beautiful, but the views over Lake Lugano are seriously stunning. It’s like a picture-perfect moment!

And if you’re up for some adventure, make sure to search for The Swing – it’s part of a project that you can learn more about in my post. You’ll find several swings scattered throughout Ticino that will take you on an exhilarating ride!

But if you prefer a more relaxing stroll, head on over to the old town of Morcote and take a leisurely walk along the pretty promenade. 

And for the ultimate panoramic view, hike up San Salvatore from Morcote.

And last but not least, hop on a boat and visit the lively city of Lugano. There’s so much to see and do here, you’ll have a blast!

  • Check out my Morcote post for more info on this beautiful, beautiful place.

Soglio 

  •  Graubünden / Grison

Have you ever heard of the fairytale-like Swiss village, Soglio? It was named one of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages in 2015 and it definitely deserves its title! This picture-perfect town is nestled on a sunny terrace at an impressive 1,000 meters above sea level.

You’ll get to experience both Italian and German culture here as this dreamy spot borders Italy but technically lies within Grisons –a mainly German-speaking region. While there are not many activities for visitors, who could turn down wandering through old cobbled streets viewing unparalleled beauty?

Soglio in Graubünden
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN SOGLIO

Make sure to take a leisurely stroll through each street – the town may be small, but it’s bursting with charm and beauty.

Don’t forget to check out the cemetery and the viewpoint outside the village center for some amazing views.

If you’re feeling adventurous and up for a hike, be sure to check out the trails from Majola or Casaccia to Soglio (also known as Via Panoramica Val Bregaglia) – it’s rumored to be one of the most picturesque hikes in the whole country!

Murten / Morat

  • Fribourg

Murten – this medieval town perches atop Lake Murten and is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. 

With its cobbled lanes, shady arcades, and picturesque lake shore promenade Murten is a medieval charmer at the heart of Switzerland’s linguistic crossroads. Perfect for explorers who fancy some culture, water sports, or simply strolling along picturesque lakeside paths!

Wall of Murten
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN MURTEN

Take a leisurely walk along the Ramper Wall – it was originally designed to keep out unwanted visitors, and it’s still standing strong to this day! You’ll get stunning panoramic views while feeling like you’ve been transported back in time.

For a deeper dive into the region’s rich history, check out the Museum Murten – it boasts an impressive collection spanning 6,000 years of the town and surrounding area.

And don’t forget about Lake Murten – it’s a real beauty and offers all kinds of water sports. Plus, Murten is the perfect home base for all kinds of outdoor adventures!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON EXPLORING THE BEST TOWNS IN SWITZERLAND

There’s no wrong choice when selecting the best town to visit in Switzerland. Whether you prefer quaint alpine villages, big bustling cities, or even one with a great nightlife scene, you’ll find something that perfectly suits your needs—and the views won’t hurt either.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a summer adventure with the family, or just an affordable ski holiday with friends, these towns are sure to offer something special during your trip. With spectacular views at every turn and an atmosphere that simply can’t be beaten, Switzerland remains one of the top tourist destinations year after year. 

Safe Travels, Arzo
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