MOST BEAUTIFUL SWISS TOWNS
Switzerland is so much more than just stunning scenery – it’s also got loads of seriously cute, fairy-tale towns! Get your passport ready and add these destinations to your Swiss getaway bucket list…you won’t want to miss out on exploring the most magical places Switzerland has to offer!
These are places to add to your Switzerland bucket list!
TOP TOWNS IN SWITZERLAND TO VISIT
While I can understand the urge to spend as much time as possible in nature, I also recommend exploring the many cute Swiss towns and finding out more about the other side of Switzerland.
P.S. Even if you are not a budget traveler, read my budget travel tips for Switzerland. After all, Switzerland is extremely pricey, and some money tips might be welcomed.
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Stein am Rhein
- Canton: Schaffhausen
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 – visit today so no regrets tomorrow!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN STEIN AM RHEIN
This Swiss town may be small, but it’s got some seriously stunning houses with super cool architecture. Trust me, you won’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find them – they’re all over the place!
But don’t worry, 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!
- Find out more about Stein am Rhein here.
WHERE TO STAY IN STEIN AM RHEIN
There are no luxury hotels in Stein am Rhein and the choice of hotels is limited.
- This hotel seems to be a good option – it is directly located in the town center and has good reviews.
- This youth hostel might be a more budget-friendly option in Stein am Rhine.
Schaffhausen
- Canton: Schaffhausen
Ever heard of Schaffhausen? This town is worth a visit! 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!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN SCHAFFHAUSEN
If you’re looking for some awesome views and a good time, you gotta check out Munot! It’s a fortress and tower perched up on a hill that’ll give you a sweet look at the Rhein River and some of those famous vineyards. Plus, you can scope out Schaffhausen from up there too!
Take a leisurely stroll by the Rhine River or explore the town center, which is seriously lit. I mean, it’s one of the most colorful spots I’ve seen in all of Europe – and trust me, I’ve seen a lot!
And while you’re in the area, you can’t miss out on visiting 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)!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN THUN
The 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 that you can’t find anywhere else. And if you’re looking for a place to unwind, you should 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 faves in Switzerland – you get some 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.
Trust me, skip the bus and just walk it. It’s one of the nicest walks you’ll ever have – and the views are just so darn gorgeous!
- Here is my Thun guide.
Interlaken
- Canton: Bern
Pining for an epic Swiss adventure? 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?! Plus rumor has it visitors keep taking one look around before stamping their approval – so get packing ‘cuz Interlaken awaits!
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
You should check out the Alpin Center – they’ve got all sorts of wild stuff to get your heart pumping. Zorbing, bungee jumping, sky diving – you name it, they’ve got it. But if you’re more of a chillaxing type, don’t worry – they’ve got plenty of hiking and biking trails too. So you can enjoy the fresh mountain air without risking a heart attack.
And when you’re ready for a break, head on over to the main shopping street for a little retail therapy. And after that, why not have a chill picnic at Höhematte Park? It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
And speaking of beautiful surroundings, you can’t miss out on 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. Trust me, it’s worth the trip – you won’t regret it!
- Check out my Interlaken guide for more ideas on what to do.
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!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN APPENZELL
You gotta 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.
- Check out my Appenzell travel guide for more info.
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!
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? There’s plenty of sweet spots to jump in, so no worries there.
And if you’re up for a relaxing time, you should 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, you can’t miss out on Chateau de Chillon. It’s a freaking magnificent castle perched on a rocky base right by the lake. So cool!
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. Sounds like a win-win situation to me! So let’s go have some fun in Lake Geneva, baby!
- Check out my Montreux guide for more travel tips.
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!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN SOLOTHURN
You gotta check out St. Ursen Cathedral – it’s seriously famous and right smack dab in the town center. And while you’re at it, don’t miss the famous clock, Zeitglockenturm. It’s a real beaut!
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 (aka my favorite river in Switzerland) are seriously stunning. And even though the restaurant choices may not be the best, who cares? You can grab some ice cream and enjoy the sunshine by the river.
Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me!
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
- Bern or Zurich are great places to do a day trip from. For accommodation in Zurich, click here.
Grindelwald
- Canton: Bern
Are you looking for a getaway in one of the world’s most stunning regions? Look no further than Grindelwald! Nestled in Jungfrau/Interlaken, this picturesque village has something to offer both winter and summer visitors.
Skiing fanatics can hit the slopes with incredible views of Mt 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?
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. It’s seriously stunning and worth the trek.
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.
- Check out my Grindelwald guide for summer – here is also a post on what to do in Grindelwald in winter.
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.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN ASCONA
Ascona is seriously special – especially the Old Town and its lively piazza. You gotta check it out! And 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? You can explore the lake on your own and see Ascona from a whole new perspective. Plus, you can’t miss out on booking a boat ride to Brissago Islands’ botanical park. They’ve got 1500 different plant species there – how cool is that?
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.
- Check out my Ascona travel guide for more tips.
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!
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.
Get up 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 an 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. It’s a meal you won’t forget! Plus, there’s even a James Bond museum there. How sweet is that?
- My Murren travel guide has more information for you.
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 (the one splitting Switzerland and Italy), 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 on all your Swiss itineraries!
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 – it’s seriously cool. You can see the equipment used in the first tragic ascent of the peak back in 1865. It’s a real piece of history!
And if you’re up for some seriously stunning views, check out the highest cable car station in Europe at 3883 meters high. 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 – how cool is that?
And speaking of cool, you gotta visit Gorner Gorge. The rushing waters of the Gornervispe River have created this seriously epic gorge. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before! So let’s go have some fun and explore the Matterhorn, baby!
- Check out my Zermatt in winter guide or my tips for the best things to do in Zermatt.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN ZERMATT
- Luxury hotels in Zermatt: This luxury hotel in Zermatt knows how to spoil its guests, the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof.
- Mid-range hotels in Zermatt: Hotel Matterhorn Lodge Hotel & Appartments is located in the heart of Zermatt’s historic center. Decorated in a classic Alpine style, it boasts a wellness area with three different saunas.
- Click here to find my accommodation guide for 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.
So why not take some time out from your busy life and head down to this peaceful spot overlooking one of our favorites?
TOP THINGS TO DO IN BRIENZ
If you’re looking for a seriously awesome boat trip, 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. It’s like walking through a dream!
But the real kicker? 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.
- Check out my Brienz guide for more info.
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.
Plus there’s plenty to do in this lively village- from sipping cocktails under swaying palm trees or picking fresh lemons off lemon tree branches – you won’t be disappointed with all that it has to offer!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN LOCARNO
Locarno is seriously beautiful – and you gotta 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. It’s seriously breathtaking!
And while you’re in Orselina, don’t miss out on taking a cable car up to Cardada Mountain. It’s also known as the “Pearl of Lake Maggiore” for a reason. 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 – how cool is that? Plus, in the winter, you might even get to witness the sea fog rolling in to cover the whole of the Lake Maggiore basin. It’s like something out of a movie!
Check out Lido Locarno. It’s got thermal baths and pools where you can relax and unwind. It’s seriously awesome!
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. So let’s go have some fun in Locarno, baby!
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. Trust me when I say it: Europe doesn’t get much better than this!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN SPIEZ
Check out Castle Spiez – it’s seriously imposing with its huge tower and stunning interior. And if you climb to the top of the tower, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the lake.
And if you’re up for some hiking, Spiez has got you covered. There’s a 14km 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, you gotta 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. So let’s go have some fun in Spiez, baby!
- Check out my Spiez travel guide for more tips.
Nyon
- Canton: Vaud
If you’re looking for an idyllic holiday spot, stop your search now! 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!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN NYON
Nyon is seriously cool – it’s 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.
And if you’re up 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 – it’s seriously cool!
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.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
Lauterbrunnen is seriously awesome – there are so many things to see and do! Check out Staubbach Falls – it’s seriously cool. Water plunges almost 300 meters from an overhanging cliff face.
And don’t miss out on the Trummelbach Falls – Europe’s largest subterranean caves. There are ten thundering waterfalls that have carved the rock over millions of years into some seriously strange and wonderful shapes. It’s like a natural wonderland!
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, you gotta check out Schilthorn Mountain Peak. You can take cable cars or even hike up! On the way to the top, you’ll see pretty Mürren and enjoy scenic views of the mountains Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. It’s seriously breathtaking!
- Check out my Lauterbrunnen post for more info.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAUTERBRUNNEN
- I visited Lauterbrunnen several times when staying in Grindelwald and can recommend this typical Swiss hotel in Grindelwald – just click here (easy to get from Grindelwald to Lauterbrunnen).
Wengen
- Canton: Bern
Need a weekend getaway? Pack your bags for Wengen and escape to the Swiss Alps! Enjoy pristine mountain air, soak up sunny views of Lauterbrunnen Valley & snow-capped peaks all while embracing car-free family fun in Wengen. Adventure awaits – Jungfrau here we come!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN WENGEN
Wengen is seriously awesome – it’s the perfect setting-off point to take the Jungfraubahn railway journey up onto the Jungfraujoch summit. The journey takes you through a 7km tunnel in the rock with viewing windows so you can peek into the magical glacier world beyond. It’s like a fairytale!
And once you reach the summit – ‘the top of Europe’ – there’s so much to explore! You can check out the ice carvings in the Ice Palace or even take a husky-driven sled ride. And the views? Oh, the views! They’re seriously breathtaking – you can see the snow-covered Alps as far as the eye can see.
But that’s not all – Wengen has even more to offer! If you’re up for some adventure, there are opportunities for hiking, biking, river rafting, canyoning, and even paragliding. It’s like an adrenaline junkie’s dream come true!
Verbier
- Canton: Valais
If you’re planning a winter getaway and want to have snow-filled adventures, head on over to Verbier! This small town has all the best activities like skiing, snowboarding, and more. I personally had my first ski experience there – it was absolutely amazing! So don’t miss out; make your way over for some incredible memories this winter.
THINGS TO DO IN VERBIER
If you’re looking for the ultimate winter wonderland, then Verbier is the place to be! There are so many winter sports to try – skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding, and more. I even had my first ski lesson here, and it was seriously amazing! Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, Verbier is perfect for anyone who loves winter sports.
But even if winter sports aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful mountain views. It’s like a postcard come to life! So come on, let’s hit the slopes in Verbier or just take in the stunning scenery. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
- While I cannot say much about visiting in the summer, this is one place to visit in winter. To find out more about things to do (and many pictures), check out my Verbier travel guide.
WHERE TO STAY IN VERBIER
- Mirabeau: I stayed at this 3-star property and enjoyed great room views (especially sunrise views). The hotel is quite basic (and so was breakfast), but the view and the fireplace in the lobby made up for the simplicity. Click here to find out more about the hotel and get the best hotel rates.
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 not to miss out on seeing magnificent Morcote for yourself!
THINGS TO DO IN MORCOTE
There are several things to do in Morcote – you won’t know where to start! But here are some must-see highlights:
First up, you gotta 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 cool 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. It’s like something out of a fairytale!
And for the ultimate panoramic view, hike up San Salvatore from Morcote. Trust me, the view from the top is like no other – it’s seriously breathtaking!
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 (don’t worry I got some ideas!), who could turn down wandering through old cobbled streets viewing unparalleled beauty?
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
Looking for something stunningly gorgeous? Look no further than Murten! This medieval town perches atop Lake Murten and is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.
Murten – with its cobbled lanes, shady arcades, and picturesque lake shore promenade – 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!
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!
- Find out more about Murten here
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.
- Do not forget to check out my post with recommendations, “Most beautiful places in Switzerland”
- Here is my 3-day Switzerland itinerary, or a 5-day itinerary for Switzerland – if you stay longer, check out this 10-day itinerary
- For more info on where to stay in Switzerland, check out this post
- and if you want to find all my Switzerland posts, click here