Although Switzerland is small, it offers many great places to explore. Switzerland has something for everyone, from breathtaking mountain peaks to idyllic turquoise lakes to a landscape filled with ancient wonders.
Ex-pats and visitors will have a hard time choosing where to go next.
1. The Matterhorn
This giant pyramid-shaped mountain is one of the most photographed in the world, making it a great place to visit in Switzerland. At 4,478 meters high, adventure-seeking mountaineers all over the world descend upon Switzerland to try the summit.
You can also use the cable car if you don’t feel quite as energetic. This mountain hosts the highest cable car station of the Alps. It offers spectacular views of the mountain peak as well as the surrounding area. A trip to the Matterhorn is a great way to experience Swiss culture.
2. Chateau de Chillon
The medieval Chateau of Chillon is a must-see on any trip to the Swiss Riviera. The castle is located on an island of Lake Geneva, near Montreux. It dates back to 10th-century when it was used for strategic water fortification.
The castle became a lakeside home for the wealthy Counts de Savoy. In the castle rooms, all kinds of art and treasures were displayed. It is Switzerland’s most visited historical monument, and it is worth a visit while touring the country.
3. Jungfraujoch
The Jungfraujoch, an Alpine paradise, is well-deserving of its title of “Top of Europe”. The Jungfraujoch, which is technically a glacier saddle that connects two mountains, is one of the most popular and most beautiful attractions in Switzerland.
Don’t be discouraged by the altitude – there are plenty of activities for everyone up there, including mountain climbing and tobogganing. The most famous attraction is undoubtedly the Jungfrau Railway, which is world-famous.
The train starts at Kleine Scheidegg and climbs to 3,454 m above sea level to Jungfraujoch. This station is the highest railway station of Europe.
4. Schweizerischer Nationalpark
It can be difficult to find the right place to visit in a country filled with stunning scenery. One thing is certain: you will want to visit Switzerland’s National Par near Zernez. It’s the only national park in the country, and it will give you a glimpse of the Alps before tourism.
This place is home to stunning meadows and snow-covered glaciers. You can choose from many hiking trails that take you past amazing sights. If you are lucky, you may even see some of the park residents, such as red squirrels and ibexes.
5. Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, which stretches from Geneva in the West to Lausanne (the East), is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque places. There are many things to do around Lake Geneva, from the bustle of Geneva to all the vineyards that climb the hillsides.
There is also a lot of water sports available. For more active visitors, you can also go kayaking, windsurfing and waterskiing. If you feel lazy, you can just relax and enjoy the view from the decks of paddle steamers as they cross the water.
6. Lugano
A trip to Lugano, the southernmost city of Switzerland, will show you a different side of Switzerland. The Monte Carlo of Switzerland is a city that lies on the shores Lake Lugano. It blends Swiss and Italian cultures to make for an unforgettable weekend getaway.
You might feel like you are in Italy, with its many museums and Mediterranean breezes. Amazing villas can be found around the hillsides rising from the lake, outside the city.
7. Bern
The capital of Bern Switzerland is also the medieval city. It’s also one its most charming places. You’ll quickly see why this area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll find many bars and boutiques in Bern’s historic centre. A family of bears, the city’s emblem, lives in the Bear Park, which is located across the river from the old city. The city also hosts a variety of vibrant markets, including memorable Christmas markets in Advent.
8. Lucerne
It’s hard to find a more stunning place than Lucerne in a country with so many beautiful lakeside cities. The compact medieval city is located on the shores Lake Lucerne, surrounded by three large mountains.
Walking around the charming old town will make you feel like you are in a painting. As you admire the architecture of the city, there are many places to visit, including ancient churches and bustling squares. The Chapel Bridge is the main attraction. This covered wooden bridge connects the city’s center since 1333.
9. Rhine Falls
It is Europe’s largest waterfall and it’s no surprise that Rhine Falls is a top tourist attraction in Switzerland. From several viewing platforms, visitors can enjoy the stunning waterfall located in the vicinity of Schaffhausen.
You can rent a canoe to explore nearby castles and take in the scenery from the water. As part of Switzerland’s National Day festivities, August sees the falls host an impressive firework display.
Conclusion
These are the top places to visit in Switzerland, whether you’re with your family or not. You will be awestruck by the beauty and natural beauty of these locations.