44 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND

WHERE TO GO IN SWITZERLAND – BEST PLACES TO VISIT

Looking for the cream of Switzerland’s crop when it comes to incredible places? For the absolutely best places to visit in Switzerland?

I’ve got you covered! Since I have been traveling through Switzerland for many, many months (probably around 24 months in total) and am really looking for the incredible places in Switzerland, I cannot name all those beautiful Swiss places. That would be just too many – I mean, Switzerland is so rich in breathtaking landmarks and places, I could talk about them FOREVER.

Whether your goal is exploring nature, taking in stunning views, chasing lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites or simply finding a tranquil place in the Swiss Alps – I have narrowed down my list of the best places to visit in Switzerland to show you only those worth visiting.

Pick up some great Swiss chocolate and prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through this gorgeous destination that will make this trip truly special – get ready to visit Switzerland like never before!

MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT IN SWITZERLAND

So, here are some of the best places in Switzerland to add to your itinerary.

MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN SWITZERLAND – LAKES

From turquoise alpine waters to picturesque lakefront promenades, these crystal-clear lakes will have you itching to jump in.  From swimming, and boating to hiking, sightseeing and simply enjoying nature’s beauty, there is something for everyone here. Let’s dive right in!

Find out about the best areas and places to stay in Switzerland – for all budgets.

OESCHINENSEE

• Canton: Bernese Oberland

Oeschinensee is often considered the most beautiful lake in the country. If you want to spend time in nature, it surely is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Lake Oeschinen is a mountain lake at almost 1,600 meters above sea level and located in Kandersteg which is quite close to Interlaken.

For the best views, you need to do some hiking. Take the cable car from Kandersteg and get to the mountain top and then your hike will start which will take about 3-5 hours in total. It is definitely worth seeing it from above since the lake then has the most intense color! 

However, you can also take the cable car and then do an easy 20-minute hike straight to the lake.

It reminds me a little bit, with its color and surroundings, of one of the Canadian lakes and if people say it is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, you won’t find me disagreeing with them!

• Check out my detailed post on Lake Oeschinen.
• Read more: 50 best things to do in the region of Interlaken and Jungfrau.

BLAUSEE

• Canton: Bernese Oberland

Blausee is another gorgeous lake in Kandersteg, close to Oeschinensee. A pocket-sized lake that is a little show-off.  

Blausee is a VERY tiny lake located in a national park. Though it is called a blue lake, I personally see more of a greenish color. Either way, the color is amazing.

The myth says that the lake has its unique color, as a maiden actually died by drowning in the water, and thus, the color of the lake is actually the color of her eyes. Though it’s tiny, you can do a short boat cruise there, and once when I visited, there was even a big screen showing movies in the evening.

Also, it’s a popular place for couples who have just gotten married to have their pictures taken.

• There is an entrance fee (during the high season) of about 12 €. I visited twice, but I am still not sure it is really worth the entrance fee. It is very beautiful – yes – but there are many more great places to see for free. 
• For more tips on Blausee, check out my detailed post about Blausee.

LAKE BRIENZ

• Canton: Bernese Oberland

Lake Brienz is one of my personal favorite of Switzerland’s lakes. Simply because it has the most amazing color that I could imagine for a lake, it has extreme clarity and beautiful surroundings, so it isn’t surprising that I have added it to the list. 

This stunning alpine lake is located in the heart of Switzerland, just a short distance from the popular tourist town of Interlaken. This breathtaking lake stretches for over 14 kilometers and is surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests, and picturesque Swiss villages.

With its crystal-clear waters and dramatic natural scenery, Lake Brienz is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers.

Lake Brienz is huge, too! As a big boat fan, I loved cruising on Lake Brienz, and since it is located in one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland, Interlaken, this lake never ceases to amaze me.

Whether you choose to stroll along the lakeside, cruise on its waters, swim in it, or just want to take time to admire it from afar (by the way, the best view is from Brienzer Rothorn or Giessbach Waterfalls), this lake is definitely a beauty.

• Of course, I also have a detailed post on Lake Brienz as well.
• Read more: Best places to stay in Interlaken

LAKE THUN

• Canton: Bern

Lake Thun is another top-notch lake in the region of Interlaken. Interestingly, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun were one lake once upon a time. Now, Lake Thun is a beauty in its own right, shimmering in gorgeous emerald color. 

It is a little bit warmer than Lake Brienz, making it a little better for swimming, and other water sports activities. It is perfect for long (or short) boat tours and nice strolls along the shores.

• To find out more about Lake Thun, read my post on the best activities around Lake Thun.

LAKE ZURICH

• Cantons: Zurich, St. Gallen, and Schwyz

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Zurich are perfect for swimming, boating, and the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Whether you’re a nature lover, a water sports enthusiast, or simply seeking some peace and tranquility, Lake Zurich is an idyllic destination that is sure to capture your heart.

It is also a perfect place to end your day since there is so much going on at Lake Zurich, including many artists congregating by the lakeside in the evening on a warm day to keep you entertained. So really it is a perfect idea to spend the whole day at Lake Zurich.

• Read more: Best things to do in Zurich

LAKE GENEVA (LAC LEMAN)

• Cantons: Vaud

Lake Geneva is one of the biggest lakes in Europe, and it amazes with its size, color, and range of activities.

The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps visible in the distance and picturesque villages dotted along the shoreline.

Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman) is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its pristine waters, stunning scenery, and world-class cultural attractions.

Whether you like sailing, SUP, or swimming, there are tons to do at Lake Geneva, and it is definitely one of the best places to see in Switzerland. Not only is Lake Geneva great to visit in its own right, but you can also visit Montreux from there to have the best of Lake Geneva.

LAKE CAUMA

• Canton: Graubünden

If you are looking for a lesser-known place to visit in Switzerland, add Lake Cauma to your Switzerland itinerary. Standing at the mountain summit and looking down at this lake is a feast for the eyes.

This little mountain lake in Flims blew me away, and with its amazing color, it proves that size isn’t everything.

If you are not convinced yet, make sure to visit Switzerland’s lesser-known area and hike around the area. You can, of course, swim in it or if you prefer you can take a little row boat out onto the water.

Bring your towel and bathing suit and grab some food and drink and you can spend your whole day at Lake Cauma and have a great time.

• In the summer months, there is an entrance fee to pay if you want to spend time at the shores of Lake Blausee.
• Check out my post on the Caumasee here.

LAKE LUNGERN

• Canton: Obwalden

Lake Lungern is named after the village of Luungern which is located on the shores. Passing this area by train is one of the most scenic routes, but it is worth it to stop and enjoy the beauty of the place.  

While Lake Lungern makes a great place to have a picnic or walk around, this view can be enjoyed when driving up the mountain (for most people from Lucerne to Interlaken) – a popular place when road-tripping Switzerland.

It is not surprising that the viewing station is quite popular, and people stop by and take trillions of pictures. Well, it certainly does not surprise me as I am one of those who stops by every single time (yes, I stop here every single time) I am driving this road.

LAKE LUCERNE (VIERWALDSTÄTTERSEE)

• Canton: Lucerne

Without a doubt, Lake Lucerne is one of Switzerland´s gems given its size, colors, and setting make Lake Lucerne (or in German “Vierwaldstättersee”). 

It does not matter whether you are strolling along Lake Lucerne in Lucerne, relaxing in Weggis, heading to Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus to enjoy the view from above, or driving the scenic Grand Tour around Lake Lucerne = this lake knows how to impress.

Thus it should not come as a surprise that you have to add this place to your Switzerland bucket list.

LAGO DI SAOSEO

• Canton: Graubünden

If you prefer smaller, lesser-known places and lakes – but still stunning ones, then Lago di Saoseo is perfect for you. 

The Lago di Saoseo appears like an optical illusion, its cobalt-blue waters shimmering with a vivid and luminescent glow. The Scima da Saoseo, with its furrowed spine, provides a delightful contrast to the velvety meadows, serene lakes, and sparse Swiss pine and larch woods that adorn the Val di Campo.

I had never expected to see such a beautiful lake in the region of Valposchiavo – it surely is one of the five prettiest lakes in the country, and I can promise you that no pictures do the lake any justice.

I would even suggest visiting the mountain lake if you are short on time – because then you really have seen a hidden gem of Switzerland.

• As you have probably never heard of it, you might wonder how to get to this unique lake – find out in this detailed post of mine.

BACHALPSEE

• Canton: Bern

One of Switzerland’s most beautiful places is the Bachalpsee (Bachalp Lake) – a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region near Grindelwald.

Situated at an elevation of over 2,200 meters above sea level, this picturesque lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests, creating a stunning natural backdrop. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers, who come to admire its beauty and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Swiss Alps.

The lake is a hidden mountain lake and seeing it requires a short and easy hike of about one hour from Grindelwald First. The hike is well worth it and makes a perfect day tour that you will not forget so easily.

• Check out my detailed guide on the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland

LAKE GELMER 

• Canton: Bern

If you’re looking for a magnificent Swiss experience, Lake Gelmer in the Bernese Oberland is practically calling your name! This artificial lake sits at 1.850 meters elevation with an incredible maximum depth of 48 meters and while looking at it, might be nice, hiking around the lake is the real experience.

Plus it’s got its own dam, steep funicular railway, and spectacular waterfalls if you are brave enough to take on the hike around the shoreline – no need for goggles here though as there’s plenty of fresh mountain spring water that will keep all swimmers happy.

LAI DA PALPUOGNA

• Canton: Grison

Tucked away in the Swiss Alps is a hidden gem known as Lai da Palpuogna. I have a hard time talking about this lake because it is so special – especially in the autumn months (I visited during different seasons) this lake is impressive with its colorful backdrop.

The lake is located along the Albula Pass – keep your eyes peeled for this incredible spot; if not, don’t worry – public transportation takes you close too then it’s just all about putting one foot in front of the other until paradise awaits.

Get ready for some unbeatable fall vibes or clear summer skies…trust us when we say that seeing really is believing with Lai de Palpuogna!

LAKE WILDSEE

• Canton: Grison

If you’re looking for a unique backdrop to your hiking adventure, how about Lake Wildsee at a lofty 2,438 meters above sea level? Nestled in the stunning Pizol Glacier with azure waters and breathtaking views  – this glacier lake is just…wow!

The Wildsee can be found in an alpine landscape, just a few hundred meters north of the Pizol Glacier and the summit of Pizol. The Wildsee can be reached with a good one-hour steep uphill hike from the mountain station of the Pizol cable cars. Especially during the warmer hiking months, this trail is quite popular.

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Unlike many Alpine lakes though this lake is definitely off-limits for swimming so take some pics instead to remember why mountain air doesn’t get much better than this. But if walking uphill isn’t quite your thing then have no fear – check out my comprehensive guide on tackling the Pizol Hike like an absolute champ!

BANNALPSEE

• Canton: Nidwalden

Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Well, I’ve got just the place for you! Explore Lake Bannalpsee, a picturesque reservoir tucked in Switzerland’s breathtaking Swiss Swiss Alps.

This idyllic alpine lake is situated above the Engelberg Valley and is a popular destination for mountaineers, families with children, and anyone seeking relaxation.

It provides a breathtaking natural experience, complete with wood fireplaces and mountain inns, some offering stunning views of the lake. 

You can reach Lake Bannalp via cable car from Oberrickenbach, either directly to the lake or to Chrüzhütte, with a footpath linking the two mountain stations (tickets are valid on both cableways).

So, don’t miss out on this tranquil escape into nature! Here is more about Bannalpsee. Believe me, there are many more gorgeous lakes in Switzerland – check out my guide to see more of these beauties.

TOP PLACES TO SEE IN SWITZERLAND – CITIES

If you’re looking for a beautiful, idyllic destination full of charming cities and breathtaking scenery, then Switzerland is the place for you! From the vibrant city of Zurich to the majestic Geneva, Switzerland is filled with fascinating cities that are sure to dazzle any traveler.

ZURICH

• Canton: Zurich

Switzerland’s biggest city Zurich, located in the northern part of the country close to the German border, is one of my favorite cities.

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The city is full of beautiful nature, mountains (though there are no Swiss Alps, there are some nice mountain peaks like Uetliberg), and Lake Zurich, and it is home to one of the most expensive streets in the world: the Bahnhofstrasse.

• Read more: Check out my Zurich accommodation guide to find the perfect accommodation for your Zurich.
• Check out my Zurich travel guide for more information.
• If you visit Zurich in winter, read more about the winter activities in Zurich.

GENEVA

• Canton: Vaud

If you want to visit a place in Switzerland that doesn’t feel Swiss, then visit Geneva. Geneva is the only city in Switzerland with a cosmopolitan feeling, making it a great place to visit. 

While there, you can head to Lake Geneva, visit the UN headquarters or the International Committee of the Red Cross, and you can see Mont Blanc from Geneva – the white peak only shows on clear days, but it is quite impressive.

By the way, Geneva is THE place for luxury watches, so “watch shopping” might be another activity you might want to do in Geneva.

You should set aside at least one day to visit Geneva when you visit Switzerland. To find out how to spend a day in Geneva, check out my Geneva itinerary.

LUCERNE

• Canton: Lucerne

Lucerne is considered by many as the most beautiful city in Switzerland. 

Lucerne is way smaller than Zurich and has fewer activities on offer. However, walking the world-famous wooden Chapel Bridge (a popular attraction in Switzerland), strolling through the old town, doing a boat trip on Lake Lucerne, or getting on top of Mount Pilatus and/or Mount Rigi are definitely some of the best things to do in all of Switzerland.

• Read more: Check out my Lucerne winter guide and my Lucerne accommodation guide.
• Here is my Lucerne travel guide for more detailed information on this amazing city.

BERN

• Canton: Bern

Bern – the Swiss capital – is one of the best places to go in Switzerland. Bern is located in the central part of the country. It is situated on a peninsula formed by the Aare River, which provides stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming and kayaking.

Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the famous Bernese Old Town – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, as well as the Swiss Federal Palace, which houses the Swiss government.

Whether you head to the Rosengarten for great city views, visit the bear family in the Bärenpark, or stroll along the Aare River – Bern is not short of nice attractions. 

• READ MORE: Check out my Bern post for more travel tips.

BASEL

• Canton: Basel City

If you are an art lover, you have probably heard of Basel because it is worldwide known for its many important museums. 

But Basel also has a beautiful old town, and it is also very well-known for the Christmas markets in December for a few weeks. In summer, people love to swim and float in the Aare River.

It took me years to visit, but I was surely not disappointed when I finally went to Basel. To find out more about Basel, check out my Basel travel guide.

LUGANO

• Canton: Ticino

Lugano is located in Ticono which is in the southern part of Switzerland – close to the border of Italy and you can tell, the Italian influence is there. 

So, by visiting Lugano, you are going to see some of the prettiest places in Switzerland. Parks, mountain peaks (like Monte Bre and Monte San Salvatore), cute villages, and towns along the shores of Lake Lugano – in Lugano you have all that and more.

Due to its southern location, you also have a mild climate throughout the year (while also having snow in the mountains in the winter). If you want to find out more, check out my Lugano guide.

The complete list of wonderful Swiss cities is here.

BEST PLACES TO GO IN SWITZERLAND – WATERFALLS

Ah, Switzerland! Home of dazzling Alpine views, world-class chocolate, and… waterfalls? Yes indeed! From thundering cascades to serene streams, the Swiss countryside is teeming with beautiful (and powerful!) waterfalls.

GIESSBACH WATERFALL

• Canton: Bern

Waterfalls in Switzerland can be pretty amazing. One of the best places to see waterfalls is Interlaken and its Giessbach Waterfalls. These stunning falls have a total length of around 500 meters over 14 stages.

If you are fine to admire the waterfalls from far away, you can just do a boat tour to pass the waterfalls. Alternatively, you can hike up to get to the top of Giessbach Waterfalls, or if you are at the Hotel Giessbach, you can enjoy the most beautiful view from there. Check out my hotel review of Grand Hotel Giessbach.

RHINE FALLS

• Canton: Schaffhausen and Zurich

Talking about waterfalls, the most powerful waterfall in Europe is the Rhine Falls. Several hundred cubic meters of water thunder through these impressive falls each second. 

The Rhine Falls are located close to the German border, or, more precisely, between Schaffhausen and Zurich. To experience this powerful waterfall, you can go to a platform where, if you stretch out your hand out far enough, you can almost touch the waterfall!

Or, if you prefer, you can do a boat tour. My tip would be to visit on a sunny day, or after a hefty rainfall if possible because the waterfall is more powerful.

• Check out my guide on the Rhine Falls for more information.

STAUBBACH WATERFALL

• Canton: Bern

With 300 meters in height, Staubbach Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland and one of the most interesting ones.

Located in the beautiful village of Lauterbrunnen, the water looks like fine dust, which explains the origin of the name (Staub=dust). Supposedly, it inspired Johann Wolfgang Goethe for one of his poems, so wandering around this area with the waterfalls in eyesight might be an inspiration for all those looking for stunning places to visit in Switzerland.

Also, Lauterbrunnen is the starting point for going to places like Murren or Schilthorn.

• Check out my Lauterbrunnen guide for more information.

STÄUBIFALL

• Canton: Uri

If you’re looking for a refreshing break, take the plunge and visit Stäubifall—where one of Switzerland’s most powerful waterfalls awaits! Nestled in the beautiful Unterschächen (Klausenpass) region of Uri, this eye-popping natural wonder is sure to give your vacation that extra burst – especially during earlier months.

Treat yourself: it’s time to make some waves at Stäubifall. Whether you look at it from the Klausenpass or actually walk toward it – it’s an eye-catcher! It is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland –  the place less traveled and yet so stunning. To find out more about this and many other amazing waterfalls, click here.

MOST BEAUTIFUL SWISS PLACES – TOWNS & VILLAGES

Let’s not forget about the stunning towns that Switzerland is famous for – Stein am Rhein, Thun, Interlaken, Montreux, Locarno, Ascona, and Zermatt. Each town offers its own unique charm and beauty that will leave you in awe!

So here are some of the best places to visit in Switzerland  – “town´s edition”.

26 – STEIN AM RHEIN

• Canton: Schaffhausen

Stein am Rhein is so exquisitely pretty that I can’t believe it is real. 

Stein am Rhein will leave you speechless, and after strolling the tiny old town, it is time to enjoy the scenery while walking along the Rhine River. It is lesser-known than towns like Interlaken or Lucerne but a must-see in Switzerland. Check out my Stein am Rhein travel guide.

• Read more: Switzerland´s cutest towns and villages to visit

27 – THUN

• Canton: Bern

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The castles there (Thun is home to several beautiful romantic castles, my favorite is Thun Castle because you have splendid views), the old town, Lake Thun, and the river. There are many reasons why you should see Thun – find out more here.

It also makes a great base as you can get quite easily to places like Kandersteg, Zermatt, etc.

INTERLAKEN

• Canton: Bern

Interlaken is one of the most famous towns in Switzerland – located between two lakes- Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The town is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and is often called the gateway to the Swiss Alps. Interlaken is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding!

Admittedly, the old town of Interlaken is a bit unspectacular, but the scenery makes up for that. 

Whether you get up Harder Kulm (Interlaken´s own local mountain) or stroll along the shores of one of the lakes, you will not be disappointed by this pretty piece of land.

It is also one of the best places to stay – there are so many amazing day trips from Interlaken (including to Lauterbrunnen, and Jungfraujoch).

• Read more: Here are the best things to do in Interlaken
• Read more: Find the best accommodation in Interlaken

MONTREUX

• Canton: Vaud

If you are looking for a beautiful little town located on Lake Geneva’s shores, Montreux is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

If you are a fan of Freddie Mercury or Charlie Chaplin, make sure to visit their statues/homes as both fell in love with Montreux/Vevey and made it their home. 

The town is a popular destination for music lovers, hosting the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival each year.

Montreux is just stunning and owes its beauty because it mostly consists of flowers and Lake Geneva. Check out my Montreux guide for more information.

GRINDELWALD & GRINDELWALD FIRST

• Canton: Bern

Grindelwald is one of the most popular towns in Switzerland – and it is indeed wonderful! Grindelwald is a charming village nestled in the Bernese Alps, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. 

The town itself is so popular because it is one of the most visited regions for skiing in the winter. In addition, it is a great base for people who like to hike in the summer months – this is mostly because of the stunning Grindelwald First Mountain.

Check out my Grindelwald in the Winter guide or my regular post on what to do in Grindelwald.

ASCONA

• Canton: Ticino

The Old Town – one of the most colorful in Switzerland – and its lively piazza make Ascona one of my top Swiss places to visit, and the proximity to another absolute gem – Valle Verzasca – is another plus. Read more about what to do in Locarno and Ascona.

ZERMATT

• Canton: Valais

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Zermatt is probably one of the hottest destinations in Switzerland – while this is not meant literally, this beautiful picturesque village nestled at the foot of the world-famous Matterhorn is just really….pretty!

Whether you head to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by cable car, get up Gornergat, or stroll the Vispa River, you will not be disappointed. Also, it is a top destination to visit in the summer and winter months.

• Read more: Find out more about the best places to stay in Zermatt

SPIEZ

• Canton: Bern

Seriously, Spiez is one of the prettiest places in Switzerland, which is located on the shores of Lake Thun in the canton of Bern.

Spiez is surrounded by mountains and offers breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The town is known for its historic castle, which overlooks the lake, as well as its vineyards and local wineries.   

Picture-perfect Spiez sits on a promontory jutting out into Lake Thun, above which the Niederhorn mountain range stretches out to the Bernese Alps, creating wonderful views. 

You can’t miss Castle Spiez, which looms, with its imposing size and huge tower, over the village with the best view of Niesen Mountain. Check out my Spiez travel guide here.

LAUTERBRUNNEN

• Canton: Bern

Lauterbrunnen, which translates as ‘many fountains,’ is just wow…

Surrounded by the magnificent Alps and boasting as many as 72 thundering waterfalls amongst alpine meadows and mountain inns and is, in fact, one of the biggest nature conservation areas in Switzerland.

The town itself is filled with beautiful timber facades and lies right alongside the beautiful crystal-clear river of the glacier-fed Lutschine, making it one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Check out my post on stunning Lauterbrunnen for more information.

GRIMENTZ

• Canton: Valais

Experience the best of Swiss alpine scenery in Grimentz, a picturesque village located at 1,594 meters above sea level in Valais.

Its stunning views and quaint atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to take in idyllic mountain landscapes and immerse themselves in traditional Swiss culture.

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Its proximity to the gorgeous Moiry Glacier and Lake is just another reason to visit the most beautiful village in Switzerland. Find out more about the stunner, Grimentz.

BEST PLACES IN SWITZERLAND TO VISIT – MORE PLACES

Switzerland is a land of breathtaking beauty, filled with stunningly majestic valleys, tranquil rivers, magnificent glaciers, lush parks, and much more!

Here are a few impressive places in Switzerland that did not really fit in any of the above categories, so this is my miscellaneous section of the best places to visit in Switzerland to see.

VALLE VERZASCA

• Canton: Ticino

If you are looking for a special place in Switzerland among the stunning mountains and lakes, the place to visit is Valley Verzasca.

You will hardly find a nicer shade of green anywhere, and – since it is not a lake – this beautiful Verzasca River is one of the most unique places in the country. Furthermore, the Lavertezzo Bridge adds additional beauty to this gorgeous region of Ticino. Check out my Verzasca Valley guide for more info.

• Read more: Best things to do in Locarno/Ascona

GRABENMUHLE

• Canton: Bernese Oberland

Grabenmuhle has blown me away, and I think it is one of the cutest and prettiest places in Sigriswil, in the region of Interlaken. 

Though I can’t say what it is about it that I love so much, it is a natural park with some cute flower arrangements and a great view of Niesen Mountain.

You can also fish there, or you can see the old houses so seriously, don’t ask me what it is, but it is a lovely place!

It is just a few minute’s walk from the Sigriswil Suspension Bridge, too, so definitely plan in half a day to see this place and the suspension bridge. So, this is one of the best places to visit if you are more into the hidden gems of the country.

AESCHER

• Canton: Appenzellerland

The Aescher is also known as the most beautiful restaurant and a wonderful stop for your Switzerland itinerary. It is a historic mountain guesthouse located in the Alpstein area of Switzerland. It is situated at an altitude of 1,454 meters above sea level, on a vertical cliff face overlooking the village of Wasserauen.

Sitting at the Ebenalp Mountain foot, this cliff restaurant (and former hotel) amazes guests from all over the world. The food is is also quite affordable by Swiss standards, so try out their vegetarian Rösti.

If you want to have the best wow effect, I recommend going up by cable car, getting off there, and then hiking down for about 10 or 15 minutes, and all of a sudden, you will see this beautiful cliff guesthouse where you can take a rest.

From there, I would recommend hiking down to see the Seealpsee – another beautiful place that you can easily combine with a trip to Appenzell.

JUNGFRAUJOCH 

• Canton: Bern

Getting up to Jungfraujoch is probably one of the highlights for many Switzerland visitors, making Jungfraujoch one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Swiss Alps. It is known for its highest railway station in Europe at an elevation of 3,454 meters and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

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The impressive saddle in the Bernese Alps (connecting the two mountain peaks, Jungfrau and Mönch, at about 3,500 meters) is a popular day-trip destination in the region of Jungfrau/Interlaken.  To get up, you can either do a combination of hiking and a cogwheel ride or just get up via gondola/cogwheel.

The views along the way are often gorgeous, though you also spend a lot of time in tunnels before arriving at the highest train station in Europe.

At the top, you´ll find a lot of attractions like the Ice Palace or the Alpine Sensation. But most of all, you have a lot of fun outdoors because snow is guaranteed throughout the year, so you can imagine how much fun it is for people of all ages – winter sports at any time of the year!

Jungfraujoch is one of those places you have to visit (even if the trip is not a cheap one). Check out my Jungfraujoch Guide for more info.

BRIENZER ROTHORN

• Canton: Bernese Oberland

Though I have had countless experiences that took my breath away in Switzerland, my day trip to Brienzer Rothorn was a one-of-a-kind experience and one of the most scenic train rides I could have ever imagined. 

The ride up in a historic locomotive was my personal favorite. While going up, you´ll have amazing views of Lake Brienz (the stunning turquoise lake in the region of Interlaken) and the mountain range in front of you.

You pass short tunnels and meet cows and other animals along the way (the ride up takes about one hour). It is indeed a memory that I will always cherish, and it is my personal top tip when it comes to mountain views. Check out my guide on the Brienzer Rothorn.

SCHYNIGE PLATTE

• Canton: Bern

 Schynige Platte is a mountain ridge located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. What makes Schynige Platte unique is the fantastic view you get.   

It offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The area is also home to a beautiful alpine garden with over 600 species of flowers and plants, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. 

After a 40-minute ride in a historic cogwheel, you arrive at Schynige Platte and have a gorgeous view of the Swiss Skyline (which consists of three mountains, Jungfrau, Eigner, and Mönch).

And if you think it cannot get much better than that, just take a 10-minute hike through the Alpine Garden, and on the other side, you have an even better view! This vantage point gives you the best view of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun (two of the most stunning sights ever) at the same time. 

It did not surprise me that this was so popular among visitors. Two completely different views from one summit! Now, that’s what I call efficiency.

MOUNT PILATUS

• Canton: Lucerne

My trip to Mount Pilatus did not start well, and I was sure it was not worth it (yes, I can be quick in jumping to conclusions). 

But, seriously, I have to admit that Mount Pilatus is pretty great. Not only literally (it is about 2,500 meters high), but the views from there are just breathtaking.

It seems that there is a whole new mini-village on the summit, and if you want to do some paragliding, you can even do that up there. Views of Lake Lucerne and the Alps make it one of Switzerland’s top places (avoid visiting on Sundays during these months and go very early, so you do not have to wait in line as I did, which almost ruined the trip for me).

SASSEL MASONE

• Canton: Graubünden

Last but not least: This stunning mountain peak with one of the prettiest mountain views I have had. Sassal Masone in Valposchiavo.

The view of the stunning, turquoise-colored lake is just one amazing reason to visit. The stone houses at Sassal Masone, Palü Glacier view are many reasons to visit this gorgeous place.

Getting here is just an experience by itself – and I promise you it is no less stunning than the other attractions and places in Switzerland. I highly recommend doing a Bernina Express train ride and seeing the lake then.

ALETSCH GLACIER

• Canton: Valais

If you’re looking for the biggest glacier in Switzerland, look no further than the Aletsch Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 23 kilometers and reaching a depth of up to 900 meters, this icy wonderland is not only visually stunning but also scientifically fascinating.

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The Aletsch Glacier was formed during the last Ice Age over 10,000 years ago and has been shaped by its alpine environment ever since. As one of the most visited glaciers in the world, there are plenty of ways to experience this natural marvel up close and personal.

You can take a guided tour, go skiing or snowshoeing, explore on your own with a map and compass, or just relax and take in the majesty of this majestic glacier.

Whether you’re looking for a new adventure or simply want to appreciate the beauty of nature, the Aletsch Glacier is sure to leave you breathless. Find out more about this stunning glacier here.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is full of beautiful places to explore. From stunning mountain views, tranquil lakes and rivers, lush forests, stunning glaciers and so much more – it’s no wonder why many people visit Switzerland year after year. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting adventure, Switzerland has something for everyone!

I hope you enjoy Switzerland as much as I do and these tips help you find the best places to visit in Switzerland. For visiting all the places above, you would need a while but maybe just pick a few that appeal the most to you so that you can create a perfect Switzerland itinerary for you.

Whether you road trip to Switzerland or discover the country by train and public transportation – I am sure you will not be disappointed!