best places to visit with family in switzerland

21 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with Kids (2024)

Are you thinking of visiting Switzerland with kids ?

Switzerland is a treasure trove of beautiful scenery, picturesque towns, and adventurous outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for a family vacation.

On a family holiday to Switzerland, there’s a huge variety of things to do, from exploring the Swiss Alps to cruising on Lake Lucerne and stepping into the historic centre of various Swiss cities .

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Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with Kids + Things to do

With an abundance of activities, from historical tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to outdoor adventures in the mountains, Switzerland offers a fascinating blend of cultural and natural wonders that promise a memorable experience for the whole family.

1. Take the Cable Car to Alpine Herdsman’s Playground

When you get a cable car to Alpine Herdsman’s Playground , you’ll look out over beautiful valleys dotted with cobblestone streets, old town charm and surrounded by the majesty of snow-capped mountains.

The kids will be entertained by the stunning views from the cable car station up to the playground, which is a fantastic place. The garden features a variety of outdoor adventures suitable for adventurous kids, including a scavenger hunt and a vast garden.

 The playground is located 5-6 minutes from Wengen on an aerial cableway ride from the centre.

2. The Bernina Express (One Way)

As one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland, a ride on the Bernina Express is a must. This train ride through the Swiss Alps offers beautiful landscapes and an experience your entire family will never forget.

The Bernina Express is more than just a train ride. It’s a journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in Switzerland. The route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winding through mountains and picturesque villages and offering an up-close look at the stunning view of the Swiss Alps.

The Bernia Express is over 4 hours, so if you are travelling around Europe, I will use the Bernia Express to transport you to Italy for the next leg of your trip! From there, you can travel to Milan and Lake Como.

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Switzerland:

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3. Engelberg

Engelberg, a car-free town in Central Switzerland, is a beautiful city known for its surrounding mountains and beautiful gardens. A visit to Engelberg is an easy day trip from Zurich and a great destination.

In Engelberg, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, mountain coasters, and snow sports. Pack your hiking boots and prepare for an easy hike that provides fantastic views of the mountain peaks.

Your young kids and older kids alike will love the children’s playgrounds dotted around the town. Who knows, you may even see one of the national animals of Switzerland !

Engelberg also offers several family-friendly attractions, including the Swiss Open Air Museum and the historic centre, where you can learn about the history of Switzerland for kids.

While in Engelberg, make sure you visit Titlis , one of the best mountain trips in Switzerland!

4. Bern Bear Park

Visiting Bern Bear Park is one of the best days out for kids in Switzerland. It is home to a family of bears living in a beautiful, spacious park setting, and the city centre’s location means it’s an accessible and exciting stop for the whole family.

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is famous for its clock tower, beautiful city views, and cobblestone streets, so there’s much to explore before or after visiting the park.

Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, offers a unique blend of Swiss and Italian cultures. It’s known for its beautiful lake, Lake Lugano, and the surrounding mountains, providing a stunning landscape that will captivate the entire family.

The city is an excellent destination for a family vacation in Switzerland, as it offers many outdoor activities such as hiking and boating and boasts a historic centre filled with delicious food and beautiful gardens.

6. Mountain Rigi – A Switzerland Train Adventure

Known as the “Queen of the Mountains,” Rigi is one of the most famous mountains in Switzerland and one of the top 10 attractions in the country.

Taking a cogwheel train to the top of Mount Rigi is a must for any Switzerland family vacation.

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This train ride offers beautiful views of Lake Lucerne, Zurich, and the Swiss Alps. Once at the top, your can enjoy various activities, such as hiking, picnicking, and even sledging in the winter.

7. Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland with Kids

The picturesque Lake Lucerne, located in Central Switzerland, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it one of the most famous spots in Switzerland .

A boat ride on Lake Lucerne is one of the top things to do in Lucerne with kids . It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and a unique perspective on the surrounding picturesque towns and majestic mountains.

The Swiss Travel Passes can be used for unlimited boat rides, making it a fantastic way to save money on your family vacation in Switzerland.

8. Hop on Hop off Bus in Zurich

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, has activities for children and teens. A day trip around Zurich will keep kids entertained with beautiful playgrounds, educational stops at the museum, and delicious food options around the city.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a convenient way to explore the city, allowing you to visit major attractions at your own pace. Highlights include the Zurich Zoo, the Swiss National Museum, and the historic old town.

I loved this tour; I did the bus tour in the morning and visited the Lindt chocolate factory in the afternoon.

Read our complete guide to visiting Zurich with Kids here

9. Jungfraujoch

Taking a train ride to Jungfraujoch is one of the top 10 things to do in Switzerland. Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is home to the highest train station in Europe.

The train ride offers beautiful views of the Swiss Alps and picturesque towns.

Once at the top, you can visit the Ice Palace, walk through the snow tunnel, or enjoy a restaurant with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

A trip to Jungfraujoch is a memorable adventure activity for the whole family, offering stunning views and snow sports in a beautiful landscape.

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10. Ski School

Switzerland is famous for its ski resorts.

If you’re visiting Switzerland in winter, enrolling your kids in a ski school could be one of the most exciting things.

Swiss ski schools are well-equipped to teach children of all ages, ensuring they learn in a safe and controlled environment.

11. Zurich Lidnt Museum

Visiting the Lindt Museum is a must if you’re in Zurich with kids. At the museum, the entire family can learn about the history of Swiss chocolate and see how it’s made.

What’s more, everyone gets to sample the delicious product! First, you’ll learn about the history; then you can try melted chocolate, followed by chocolate buttons and then the finished product.

🤩 Get your tickets here >>>

12. Alpamare Water Park

Located near Zurich, Alpamare Water Park is Europe’s largest indoor water park and an excellent destination for family fun. The park offers something for everyone, from thrilling water slides for adventurous kids to a wellness area for parents.

A day at Alpamare is a crazy, fun-filled experience that will surely be one of the top things to remember from your family vacation in Switzerland.

13. St Moritz

St Moritz is one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts, offering many activities beyond skiing.

The beautiful town has picturesque streets and stunning valley views, making it an excellent destination for a day trip or a more extended stay.

Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and even horse riding in the summer.

As well as Chur, St Moritz is another main stop on the Bernina Express.

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14. Zermatt

Zermatt, a car-free town located at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world, is another must-see location when visiting Switzerland with kids.

The town is known for its ski resorts, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery.

You can take a cable car or a train to Gornergrat for some of the most stunning views in Switzerland. There’s also the Glacier Paradise, a world of ice, snow, and rock, which can be visited throughout the year.

15. Mount Titlis

Located in Central Switzerland, Mount Titlis is a popular destination for bottles and tourists.

To reach the top, you’ll need to take a cable car ride, which is an experience there; you can walk across the highest suspension bridge in Europe, explore an ice cave, or enjoy the breathtaking views.

Mount Titlis also offers a variety of winter sports, making it a great place to visit on a Switzerland family vacation.

Basel, located at the border of France and Germany, offers a unique blend of three cultures. It is a beautiful city known for its museums, including the Tinguely Museum and the Kunstmuseum, the oldest art collection in the world.

The city’s historic centre is well-preserved and charming, and a visit to the Basel Zoo, the oldest and largest in Switzerland, is one of the top things to do in Basel with kids .

17. Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport

Located in Lucerne, the Swiss Museum of Transport features a variety of exhibits related to all types of transport, including planes, trains, automobiles, and even space travel. It’s an educational and entertaining place to keep the whole family engaged for hours.

18. Visit the Christmas Markets in Switzerland

One of the most beautiful and substantial Christmas markets in Switzerland is that of Basel, located on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.

Basel was chosen as the best Christmas market in Europe and the best Christmas market in Switzerland for 2021.

It’s located in the city centre and has a lot of different things to do. There are many booths selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. If you decide to have a fantastic time with your family, visit Basel with your kids .

Basel Christmas Market offers a lot of entertainment for children, like puppet shows and rides, ice skating on a frozen river that runs through the city centre or visiting Santa Claus at his crib.

You can read more about the best Christmas markets in Switzerland here

19 Ballenberg Open Air Museum

The Ballenberg Open Air Museum is excellent for learning about Swiss culture and history. The museum features over 100 original buildings from all over Switzerland, transported here and carefully reconstructed.

Children can enjoy hands-on exhibits, traditional crafts demonstrations, ad interaction with farm animals. It’s like stepping back in time and a fantastic educational experience for kids.

20. Château de Chillon

The Château de Chillon, located on the shore of Lake Geneva, is a historic castle that offers a fascinating journey into Switzerland’s past.

It’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland , and children will be captivated by the grandeur of the castle and its many rooms, towers, and dungeons.

It’s the perfect place for children interested in history and tales of knights and princesses.

21. Swiss Vapeur Amusement Park

Swiss Vapeur Parc is a miniature railway park in Le Bouveret, Switzerland.

The main attraction of Swiss Vapeur Parc is its miniature steam trains, which run over 1.5 kilometres of track through the park’s various landscapes, including a Swiss village, a mountainous region, and even a replica of the Matterhorn.

Swiss Vapeur Parc is particularly good for kids because it offers a unique and exciting experience, allowing them to ride on miniature steam trains and explore the park’s various landscapes.

There are also several other attractions and activities for kids, such as a playground, a mini-golf course, and a petting zoo.

In addition to the park’s attractions, Swiss Vapeur Parc is also known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Visitors can also take a boat ride on Lake Geneva or visit the nearby Chillon Castle, one of the best castles in Switzerland .

Map of the Best Places to Visit on Family Vacations to Switzerland

Tips for Planning a Family Vacation to Switzerland with Kids

Switzerland is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, but like any trip, it requires careful planning. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your adventure:

Choose the Right Time to Visit

Switzerland is a year-round destination, with skiing and snow sports in the winter and hiking, cycling, and sightseeing in the summer.

Consider your family’s preferences and the activities you’d like to do when deciding when to visit.

When we visited in March, it wasn’t too cold, and you could still see snow going up the scale cars to the mountain peaks.

Pack Appropriately

Switzerland’s weather can be changeable, so it’s best to pack layers. Don’t forget to pack essentials like hiking boots for mountain adventures and swimwear for visits to water parks or lakes.

Plan for Your Children’s Ages

Switzerland offers a wide range of activities suitable for children of all ages. Consider the ages and interests of your children when planning your itinerary.

For younger kids, consider destinations with plenty of open spaces, playgrounds, and easy hikes.

For older kids and teens, consider more adventurous activities like mountain biking or visiting a high-adrenaline amusement park.

How to Get Around Switzerland

Navigating through Switzerland is a breeze thanks to its world-class transportation infrastructure. Whether you opt for the Swiss Travel Pass or rent a car, your journey across this beautiful country will be seamless and scenic.

Switzerland by Train

Travelling through Switzerland by train is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful experiences. The train routes are exceptionally scenic, winding through picturesque towns, stunning valleys, and beautiful lakes.

The Swiss rail network is highly efficient, with frequent services to even the smallest cities.

The Swiss Travel Pass

Offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland for a selected number of days, plus free admission to over 500 museums.

This is great value if you are planning to do LOTS of exploring during your trips. Make sure you add up the cost of the attractions and trains on your trip to see if the pass is worth it.

🤩 Get Your Travel Pass Here >>>

Swiss Half Fare Card

Provides a 50% discount on train, bus, and boat travel within Switzerland for 1 month. This is perfect if you have a longer stay in Switzerland. Children under 16 travel free is an adult has this pass.

🤩 Get your Card Here

Saver Day Pass

Offers unlimited travel on public transport for a day at a discounted price when booked in advance.

Interrail and Eurorail Passes

Interrail (for European residents) and Eurail (for non-European residents) passes offer a cost-effective and flexible way to experience the Lucerne to Geneva route and beyond. There are different types of passes available. T

he global pass covers 33 European countries, suitable for those planning extensive travel across Europe.

This can be flexible (e.g. 7 days within a month) or continuous for 15 days to 3 months. The one country pass is ideal for focusing on a single country.

For families that prefer more flexibility, renting a car is another viable option. Switzerland’s roads are well-maintained and well-marked and offer some of the most stunning drives in the world, with beautiful scenery all around.

This gives you the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions at your own pace.

However, it’s important to note that driving in Switzerland does require careful planning. Some Swiss cities, like Zermatt and parts of Lucerne, have car-free zones, and parking can be tricky and expensive in city centres.

You must also be prepared for mountain driving conditions, especially if visiting in winter.

How to Get to Switzerland

Switzerland is conveniently located in the heart of Europe and is well connected to its neighbours by various transportation options.

Airports in Switzerland

Switzerland has several international airports, including Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. These airports offer flights to and from destinations all over the world. The airports themselves are well-served by public transport, making reaching your hotel or destination easy upon arrival.

Read More: How to Get from Geneva Airport to City Center

Find Your Perfect Flight to Switzerland Here >>>

Getting to Switzerland from the U.S.

The most convenient way to get to Switzerland from the United States is by air. Switzerland has two main international airports, Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA), both of which are served by numerous airlines offering both direct and connecting flights from the U.S.

Direct flights to Zurich are available from several U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Similarly, Geneva also has direct flights from a few U.S. cities, including New York.

The flight duration depends on your starting point in the U.S., but direct flights usually range from 7-11 hours. Connecting flights, which typically stop in major European cities like London, Paris, or Frankfurt, will take longer.

Upon arriving in Zurich or Geneva, you will find an array of transportation options available to get you to your final destination. These include trains, buses, rental cars, and taxis.

Another option for travelling to Switzerland from the U.S., although far less common, is to travel by sea. This is usually done as part of a transatlantic cruise. After the cruise, you can travel to Switzerland by rail or air from the cruise port city.

Travel by Train

If you’re travelling from a neighbouring country, getting to Switzerland by train is enjoyable and eco-friendly.

Many European cities have direct train connections to Swiss cities, providing not just a means of transport but a picturesque journey across some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

🤩 Get Your Train Tickets Here >>>

For families travelling from within Europe, consider purchasing a Eurail Pass. This pass offers unlimited train travel within and between many European countries, including Switzerland, and can be a cost-effective way of getting around, especially for larger families.

Driving to Switzerland

Driving to Switzerland from neighbouring countries is another way to reach your Swiss vacation.

The country shares borders with Italy, France, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein, all of which have excellent road links with Switzerland. Remember to check local driving regulations before you embark on your road trip.

🚗 Check Car Rental Availability for Your Dates Here >>>

Buses to Switzerland

Long-distance buses like Flixbus or Eurolines also connect many European cities with Switzerland. While the journey is often longer than by train or car, buses can offer a more budget-friendly alternative, especially for families.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly resorts, vacation rentals, and mountain chalets.

Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne offer numerous hotels within walking distance of major attractions. For a more authentic Swiss experience, consider staying in a mountain chalet in the Swiss Alps.

Always check if the hotel or resort offers family-friendly amenities like children’s menus, babysitting services, or a kids’ club.

We enjoyed staying in Zurich, Geneva and Lucerne for a more city break-based holiday with day trips to the mountains. However, if you want to stay off the beaten path, try staying in the villages.

Switzerland with a Baby

Travelling to Switzerland with a baby can be a rewarding experience with a bit of planning. Swiss cities are generally baby-friendly, with changing facilities in most public restrooms.

When planning your activities, consider your baby’s routine. Schedule downtime and try not to pack too many activities into one day. Baby carriers are useful for hiking or visiting towns with cobblestone streets where strollers might not be practical.

Switzerland with a Toddler

Switzerland with a toddler can be a ton of fun. There are countless playgrounds across the country, and many attractions offer interactive exhibits or activities for young children. Most Swiss restaurants provide high chairs and kids’ menus.

From my personal experience, our toddler particularly enjoyed the boat ride on Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Museum of Transport. Remember to pack some familiar snacks, a comfort item, and plenty of activities to keep them entertained during travel times.

Eating out in Switzerland with Kids

Eating out in Switzerland is a beautiful way for the family to experience Swiss culture. Swiss food is hearty and delicious, with specialities like fondue, raclette, and rösti. Kids usually love Swiss chocolate and pastries, too.

Final Words

Switzerland is more than just stunning landscapes and delicious food. It’s about the experience of discovering a new culture, exploring beautiful cities, and creating unforgettable memories with your family.

Whether taking a boat ride on Lake Zurich, wandering through the old town of Geneva, or ascending the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps via a cable car ride, there’s something for every family member in Switzerland.

Plan Your Swiss Adventure

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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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Best places to visit in switzerland.

Switzerland is known around the world for its chocolate, cheese, charming towns and scenic landscapes . Everywhere you turn, you're treated to a little bit of history and a little bit of nature's beauty, as well as plenty of mouthwatering cuisine in between. U.S. News considered factors like sights, culture, accessibility and variety of things to do, plus traveler and expert input, to calculate the best places to visit in Switzerland. Peruse the list below, and vote for your favorite spots.

Appenzell District

Jungfrau region.

Interlaken's unique location between two lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun – makes it a breathtaking spot for a vacation. Here, you can spend hours hiking various trails, taking in the castle-studded shores of Lake Thun on a boat cruise or gazing at the surrounding mountains from the Harder Kulm observation deck (accessible via a funicular). To see more of the region's stunning scenery, go for a ride on the Schynige Platte Railway or sign up for a paragliding or skydiving excursion.

Travelers looking to ski or snowboard in the Swiss Alps should head to Zermatt. This small, car-free town in the middle of the Alps is famous for housing one of the world's most famous attractions — the Matterhorn (a peak so popular that it inspired a Disneyland ride) — and Switzerland's highest ski resort. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can spend the bulk of their vacation hitting the slopes, which showcase incredible mountain views. After shredding powder, visitors can ride the Gornergrat train, pick up a slab of homemade chocolate from a local shop or savor cheese fondue at a traditional Swiss restaurant.

Picturesque Lucerne sits on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland, framed by snowcapped mountains and medieval buildings. This beautiful city's old town is home to historic attractions, lively town squares, boutique shops and old churches. Top attractions include the Musegg Wall and its towers (the preserved fortifications date back to the 13th century) and Europe's oldest wooden covered bridge, the must-see Chapel Bridge, which was originally built in the 1330s. Those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure can also ride a cable car to Mount Pilatus for stunning views of Lake Lucerne and plenty of activities at the top.

This lakefront city on the Swiss-Italian border offers visitors a unique travel experience. Because Lugano shares waters with neighboring Italy, the city features a mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Plus, Lugano boasts unforgettable panoramas. Visit Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, both of which you can reach by funicular, for bird's-eye views of Lake Lugano and the city. Or, spend a few hours hiking the Olive Grove Trail or strolling the gardens of Ciani Park. If you'd rather lounge on a beach, head to Lido di Lugano.

Zurich is a cosmopolitan financial center, a foodie haven and a romantic European city that appeals to all types of travelers. A vacation here should include spending time admiring Lake Zurich, exploring the trendy bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, meandering through Lindenhof park and exploring the city's distinct neighborhoods. Join well-heeled shoppers (or just admire the window displays) on Bahnhofstrasse, a world-famous exclusive retail boulevard. While here, be sure to sample the famous dark chocolate Champagne truffles from specialty chocolatier Teuscher.

Visit the medieval town of Gruyères if you want to feel as if you've stepped back in time during your next trip. Its good looks (think: car-free cobblestone streets, fountain-filled squares and a 13th-century castle) create an old-world ambiance you're bound to love. Plus, the town is world-renowned for its Gruyère cheese, which you can sample and learn more about at a local cheese dairy or cellar. Sampling chocolate is also a must-do here, so be sure to check out a chocolate factory or attend a chocolate workshop while in town.

Like its neighbor Lugano, Locarno is located in the Ticino region near the Italian border. This quiet, small town is surrounded by stunning scenery (it sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps), and since it's the warmest destination in Switzerland, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. Be sure to stroll through the picture-perfect main square, Piazza Grande, where the city hosts several summer festivals, and trek to Madonna del Sasso, considered sacred among Roman Catholics. Then, head to the Verzasca river valley to swim or bungee jump.

Appenzell captures the essence of Switzerland with rolling hills, a car-free village and well-preserved customs. Visitors can take in the scenic landscape of the Appenzell District (located in the northeastern part of the country) by taking a cable car to the oft-photographed Aescher guest house, picturesquely built into the rock face, or hiking the region's "experience trails" like the Gonten Barefoot Trail and Appenzeller Kapellenweg, which weaves past 11 chapels. Meanwhile, the tiny village of Appenzell boasts quaint, frescoed shops and Museum Appenzell, which highlights the region's traditional crafts, folk music and art.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a small town that boasts more charm and incredible scenery than Brienz. Located in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, Brienz sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Brienz, which features gorgeous turquoise water and is flanked by towering evergreen mountains. Some of the best ways to soak up the awe-inspiring setting include strolling picture-perfect Brunngasse (often proclaimed the most beautiful street in Europe), riding the Brienz Rothorn Bahn (which traverses a steam rack railway) and taking a boat tour to lake attractions like Giessbach Falls.

Set along the banks of crystal-clear Lake Geneva in western Switzerland, this city is known for its incredible views and as the headquarters of the Red Cross and the United Nations. Geneva is also home to some iconic sights, including the Jet d'Eau (one of the world's tallest water fountains) and an old town with cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. While exploring the latter, be sure to check out the Saint Pierre Cathedral, which features Roman, Gothic and neoclassical details.

The capital of Switzerland, Bern sometimes gets overlooked for flashier Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern holds many charms, including an old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) featuring the iconic Zytglogge clock tower, Renaissance-style fountains and a Gothic cathedral with the highest spire in Switzerland. The city also boasts many museums – several dedicated to Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern when developing his theory of relativity. Head to Gurten mountain – which you can reach by funicular, by bike or on foot – for sweeping views of the city below.

As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, Engelberg is a winter playground, with a long, snowy season for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and sledding. But don't sleep on a summertime visit here; warmer months allow for a bevy of fun family activities like a toboggan run, 300-plus miles of hiking trails and water activities on Trübsee lake. Regardless of when you visit, you won't want to miss the TITLIS Rotair, a revolving cable car that takes riders up Mount Titlis, and the other cable lifts that stop at a glacier cave, a panoramic restaurant, and the TITLIS Cliff Walk.

Considered "the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism," St. Moritz welcomes travelers with world-class skiing, swanky hotels, renowned après-ski offerings and top-notch restaurants. In addition to offering downhill skiing trails so highly regarded that the town has hosted the Olympics twice, St. Moritz features excellent spots for cross-country skiing, sledding and winter hikes. Come summertime, the area invites outdoor lovers to golf, bike, hike or enjoy water sports and swimming in the surrounding lakes.

The Jungfrau Region is the perfect place for first-timers wanting to experience the otherworldly splendor that is the Swiss Alps. But be forewarned: The destination is sky high. Popular attractions like the Jungfraujoch (which features Europe's highest train station), the Grindelwald-First cable car and the First Cliff Walk Presented by Tissot sit at the top of towering peaks. The innovative Eiger Express gondola offers even faster transport to the top (just 15 minutes from Grindelwald). For those who'd rather stick closer to Earth's surface, prioritize a hike on a lower-level valley path and a visit to the Pfingstegg toboggan.

Tourists may not be as familiar with Montreux as they are with its Lake Geneva neighbors, which makes this Swiss town such an undiscovered gem. Quaint Montreux features a waterfront promenade dotted with flowers and trees, a medieval castle and a charming old town, not to mention a statue commemorating Freddie Mercury (Queen recorded multiple albums here from 1978 to 1995). Montreux is also surrounded by vineyards and hosts a popular open-air jazz festival every summer, while the holiday season brings the festive Montreux Noël market.

Located less than 5 miles from Montreux, Vevey is another Lake Geneva gem. This town's picturesque promenade along the lake is filled with flowers and features a sculpture of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. The Alimentarium, a nutrition-focused museum, also adorns the shoreline with its beautiful sandstone building, which once served as the headquarters to Nestlé (the company is still based in Vevey). After admiring the town, visitors can take a cog railway to the scenic Les Pléiades vantage point for its stunning views and the astronomy-centric Astropléiades trail.   

The second-largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is characterized by its renowned Gothic cathedral and surrounding hilly terrain. The stunning lake views and colorful city center don't hurt, either. Travelers can take in Lausanne's lively atmosphere by checking out the city's cafes, admiring the old town's beautiful architecture and perusing the exhibits at the Olympic Museum. No visit would be complete without venturing outside the city to nearby Lavaux, where you can enjoy wine from vineyards that are so scenic and well-preserved (some date back to the 11th century), the area was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Switzerland Family Vacation: Our Experience

What’s In This Article

Most of our family vacations are to a new place every trip. Not Switzerland; the fantastic scenery makes it a place we keep returning to.

This guide reviewsf the top places to see and stay in Switzerland, from the snowy Alps to the charming towns and lakes. We’ll show you what we loved and what we’d skip next time.

NOTE: Our guides focus on unique local attractions. We want to explore things that can’t be found at home, and we only include places that we’ve been to. If you search for “best things to do in (random city),” you’ll find many of the same things: wax statue museums and believe-it-or-not attractions. But if we’re flying around the world to visit somewhere, we want to see something new first.

Switzerland overview

Top Thing To Do : Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe .

Where To Stay : Swiss Holiday Park . Our kids love this resort because of the water park and other fun activities (complete review here ).

This resort is several hours from our other favorite, the Oberland area. Spend a couple of days at Swiss Holiday Park and some more in the towns of Wengen or Lauterbrunnen in Oberland.

The best time to visit is in the summer. The ski resorts are quiet, and the mountain temperatures are cooler. Plus, snow is still available to see year-round at places like Jungfraujoch .

How To Get There: Zurich (ZRH) is the closest airport, followed by Geneva (GVA). Check flight prices on Google Flights to find the best deals.

The Swiss rail system makes getting around the country easy, with no rental car needed. See more on the rail system below.

Getting to Switzerland

Switzerland is pretty easy to reach from the United States, with flights from many U.S. airline hubs to the main airport in Zurich. Swiss Air also serves the U.S. with flights to Zurich and Geneva.

Most of our trips have been through London (LHR) on British Airways, arriving in Zurich (ZRH). From here most of the country is accessable by train within a couple hours.

Our this trip we arrived in Zurich late in the evening, so we stayed overnight at the Hyatt Place Zurich airport. The stay wasn’t long enough to write a review on, but it’s a great place for an overnight stay at Zurich airport. You can walk to it, then walk to the train station right in the airport the next day.

Getting Around Switzerland

Dont bother looking at rental cars: the train is the only way you need to get around Switzerland. It’s easy, reliable, clean, and there’s amazing views along the way. We’ve taken “scenic train rides” in other countries before that are nowhere near as good as the scenery you’ll see on the Swiss public transportaion system.

Even small towns, like the ones we visited, are served by trains in Switzerland. Though you’ll often have to transfer once or twice to get where youre going. This is another reason our luggage has gotten lighter each trip.

The family cars on many Swiss trains even have small playgrounds on the upper levels! On one of our trips, our kids spent most of a 2-hour train journey playing with other kids in a small play area with a slide (picture in the galley below). The family cars are marked on the side of the train and on station signs when the train approaches.

We’ve typically purchased first-class train tickets for no more money, but the family train cars with playgrounds are usually second-class tickets.

Where To Go in Switzerland

After a lot of research on where to do, here are the top things we saw in Switzerland. Along with what we thought, we’ll tell you if we’d recommend each place or visit there again.

Swiss holiday Park in Morschach

Our first stop on our vacation was several hours by train, followed by a bus ride for the last 10-minute journey up the mountain to the town of Morschach.

Morschach was a great first place to see in Switzerland. The small town is tiny, with only a couple restaurants, and a tiny small grocery store. Usually when we travel, we run into other Americans, but not here.

Swiss Holiday Park is the only resort in town, attracting most visitors to this village.

The resort is similar to a water park resort in the United States, with a few excellent additions. Along with the indoor/outdoor water park, there are other activities like go-karts, horseback riding, a sauna, a steam room, and an ice bath.

Our kids loved the horseback riding, which takes you around the resort and ends up back on the town’s main street.

Read more about our stay at Swiss Holiday Park . This resort overall is a great place to visit, but keep in mind some parts of the hotel and apartments are older and about due for refurbishment. There’s also no air conditioning (common for European hotels), but that’s usually no issue with the cool temperatures in the area.

Oberland Area

This area is a must visit! If you don’t go anywhere else in Switzerland, GO HERE!

After leaving Swiss Holiday Park , our next Swiss vacation took us to Oberland. Our following few excursions are all from the Oberland area.

The Oberland area in the Bernese Alps is (in our opinion) the most scenic area in Switzerland. Known for it’s amazing mountains, serene lakes, and charming villages.

It’s instantly recognizable from the Lauterbrunnen waterfalls, made famous by Instagram. There’s plenty to do in this area.

If you’re visiting in the summer, temperatures are usually nice and cool, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities. You could spend a week here if you enjoy activities like hiking and spending time outdoors.

There are several towns to stay in with great mountain views. Click on the city to learn more:

• Wengen : A small car free village, that’s very quiet. Overlooks Lauterbrunnen in the valley below.
• Lauterbrunnen : A slightly larger town than Wengen, Lauterbrunnen is right under Wengen.
• Grindelwald: One of the most famous Oberland towns outside the valley, a short distance from the other two towns.

We stayed in Wengen on our most recent Switzerland family vacation.

There’s amazing views from Wengen, because it sits above the Lauterbrunnen valley. and offers great views of its waterfalls.

Wengen is a car-free and quiet village, so it may not be the best choice if you have lots to do. It you prefer a bit busier down, Lauterbrunnen is a good option. It’s just a short train ride via cog train down to the valley.

Here’s a short video clip of the amazing views from our Wengen VRBO , which was located on the top floor of the building with a rooftop window. You can even see the famous Instagram waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen.

Cable Car up to Mannlichen

Wengen is a great base camp to start one of our favorite things to do, the cable car ride up to Mannlichen.

Mannlichen isn’t one of the most well known tourist attractions, but rather a scenic mountain that is a popular starting point for hikes, and a skiing area in the winter.

But we found it to be an amazing partial day trip, that we did several times. Part of the fun is the ride up the mountain in the roof-top cable car. Check out the amazing video on the ride up from this video we took:

Once you arrive at the top, you’ll find a ski area with a great playground (or Splietsplatz) that we spent several hours on throughout our stay.

A restaurant is also located at the top, near the cable car station. We got lunch or drinks there both times while we watched the kids on the playground.

There’s even some unique Swiss playground equipment, modeled after the local cows you may find grazing the mountains nearby.

You can also enjoy some high-altitude hiking and cool weather.

There’s a short hike up to the viewing point where we took the picture above. It’s a bit steep at the end on a gravel path, so strollers don’t work on the latter part of the path.

Schlithorn Mountain

Another Oberland excursion, this is a must-do if you’re staying in near Wengen or Lauterbrunnen.

Riding the cable car is an amazing experience. You have to transfer between several cable cars to reach the top. The views of the Swiss Alps and the countryside are breathtaking.

At the top, we visited the revolving restaurant, though clouds limited views. Get reservations if you’re interested in this; it was packed.

Fun facts: A James Bond movie was filmed here at the revolving restaurant at the top. (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service). You’ll be reminded of this throughout the attraction, from James Bond mannequins to 007 branded hamburgers.

On the way up or down the cable cars, don’t miss a stop at the midpoint station. You’ll have to change cable cars here anyway, so take a look outside. It was one of the best parts of Schlithorn but it wasn’t well known about when we went. There was almost no one out there when we were there.

Brave kids can walk across a glass bridge, net bridge, or rope tunnel, all suspended thousands of feet above the valley! Both our kids loved this!

In this picture, it’s hard to tell how high it is because we’re in the clouds!

Cable car tickets for Schlithorn are included if you purchase the Oberland Pass from Swiss Travel Pass .

Ti[p: If you don’t have enough time to do both Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch while you’re staying in the Oberland area, visit Jungfraujoch. Jungfraujoch and Mannlichen are both amazing, but Jungfraujoch is even better.

Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

The highlight of our stay in the Oberland area was a trip to Jungfraujoch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read our complete review of Jungfraujoch .

We reached Jungfraujoch by cog train, arriving at the highest train station in Europe at 11,333 ft above sea level. The train leaves from Lauterbrunnen with a stop in Wengen , then a transfer higher up on the mountain.

Since we were staying in Wengen, it was very convenient. But you do need train reservations for this trip.

The whole ride until you get to the tunnel has amazing views. From the training leaving Lauterbrunnen (sit on the right side):

After passing through Wengen you continue up the mountain to the small village of Kleine Scheidegg, changing trains there.

On the return trip there was heavy snow coming down in Kleine Scheidegg. Not something we were expecting in June! This is a good stop for lunch before continuing the train journey.

The last part of the train journey is in a tunnel through the mountains.

The train station at the top is even inside a mountain

The views at the top of the snow-capped alpine peaks and glaciers are breathtaking. Our kids loved the year-round snow tubing .

We also visited the amazing ice palace and the Lindt chocolate store.

It was an amazing experience and the best part of our trip. We highly recommend taking the day to make a trip to Jungfraujoch. Read our whole trip report here .

Interlaken is a slightly larger town located between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is a popular destination and transportation hub with plenty of activities nearby.

While we spend much of our time in Switzerland in Interlaken , you have to connect on a train in Interlaken when traveling to the Oberland area from any large city.

Although it’s a great central location, it doesn’t give you the full mountain experience. It feels more industrialized and a transportation hub. We recommend staying in Wengen , Lauterbrunnen , or Grindewald .

That said, there are a few unique things to do in Interlaken.

Harder Kulm Funicular

From Harder Kulm (Top of Interlaken), take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain peaks and lakes.

A funicular will take you up the mountain, and once at the top, you can explore the terrace, restaurant, and observatory. We’d recommend Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch , instead of Harder Kulm if you have to choose.

The Oberland pass from Swiss Travel Passes also includes the Harder Kulm Funicular.

Interlaken Boat Cruise

An Interlaken boat ride is a great way to explore the beautiful Lake Thun.

The boat also passes Swiss landmarks like Jungfrau Mountain, the Eiger, and the Mönch. You can also spot the beautiful Thunersee and Brienzersee lakes. The cruise also stops at several ch arming towns, including Interlaken, Thun, and Spiez.

The Oberland Pass from Swiss Travel Passes includes some of the lake cruises.

Interlaken Jet Boat Ride

Jetboat Interlaken is also in Interlaken. Take a thrilling ride with fast turns on the waters of Lake Brienz.

This excursion is similar to the Shotover Jet Boat in Queenstown . But we think the one in Queenstown is much better. The boat is similar, but the canyon ride in Queenstown, New Zealand makes it even better.

Our next and finally stop in Switzerland is Lucerne. Lucerne is a beautiful city full of history and wonderful sights. Click here to read our full guide on Lucerne .

This old town has cobblestone streets, and a famous monument called the Lions of Lucerne.

When you visit the city, see the iconic Lucerne Bridge, which spans the Reuss River.

The paintings and sculptures of the bridge make it a unique and picturesque sight. View the lake, the mountains, and the quaint old town from the chapel bridge.

Lucerne is a great destination for a weekend getaway. But, if your time is limited, we would skip Lucerne in favor of the Oberland area.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

We focused on the most beautiful parts of Switzerland for our trips.

The Oberland area makes a perfect spot for a home base to explore the most scenic area of Switzerland. It’s close to attractions such as Schlithorn and Jungfraujoch .

The scenery here is incredible, making it a must-visit spot on any Switzerland trip.

The Swiss Holiday Park , a few hours east of Oberland, is a great place for a relaxing vacation. It offers many activities for kids and is one of our favorite resorts!

Interlaken is one of the largest cities in the area. But it is more of a commercial &transportation hub than a mountain village.

We’d recommend staying in one of the following towns that will give you more of an authentic Swiss vacation.

We stayed in Wengen on our most recent Switzerland family vacation. Click here to read more .

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen , located in the valley below Wengen , is another great option.

Here you’ll find a larger town than Wengen , as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Lauterbrunnen will also give you some great views of the huge Lauterbrunnen waterfalls.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is another good choice in the Oberland area, connected to Jungfraujoch by the Eiger Express cable car.

These towns all have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making them ideal bases for exploring the region.

We have visited Switzerland twice recently and would love to go back again. Our most recent summer vacation included Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. The whole family voted Switzerland as their favorite

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We are a family of four ( kids aged 3 and 7) We are on a first time tour to Switzerland in June this year. The whole trip is for about 2 weeks , spread between UK,France and Switzerland, with SW being the first point in this travel. Can you recommend how long do we plan for in SW? and which cities would you recommend traveling? I have shorlisted Zurich,Interlaken with day trip to Jungfrau.

Thank you for your help 🙂

Hi Ankur, Sounds like a great trip! We’d recommend 4-5 days, with most of it in the Interlaken area. We’ve been through Zurich a few times but it’s usually just for a day on the way to or from somewhere in the Alps. Instead of Interlaken, we’d take 1 more train transfer to goto Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, or Grindelwald. Those towns put you right in the mountains, vs a more industrial area in Interlaken, and the train to Jungfrau leaves from Lauterbrunnen and goes through Wengen on the way up. For the other days in the area, a cable car up to the Mannlichen hiking area playground was a hit with our kids (we diid that twice), and the waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, but they may be loud for the 3 yr old. We also stopped in several other cities like Lucerne, but none of them compared to the Lauterbrunnen area. If you ask our kids, their favorite place has been the Swiss Holiday Park, which has good kids activities, but doesn’t have the scenery of Lauterbrunnen/Wengen, which has been our favorite.

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland — From Quaint Villages to Glamorous Cities

From tiny medieval towns to iconic ski resorts, here are 20 of the best places to go in Switzerland.

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When you close your eyes and think of Switzerland, what do you see? Is it snow-capped mountains? Perhaps a verdant valley punctuated by springtime wildflowers? Or maybe it's a quaint Swiss city filled with cultural attractions and world-class restaurants. No matter which vision comes to mind, all of them are right — because Switzerland is all that and more. 

"Switzerland is small, yet we have four official languages, and every single one of the 26 cantons (states) is unique and has something different to offer," Catja-Camilla Straub, a tour guide with GatyaGoes , shared with Travel + Leisure . "There are different ways to explore and experience Switzerland, and there is something for everyone's interests: the outdoors, activities, luxury, a large number of festivals, food, culture, and history." 

Straub isn't the only one to see the nation's remarkable beauty. "Switzerland can offer you all Europa has to offer in one country," Tim Wehrle, a tour guide and underwater archaeologist in Zurich, said. "From lonely mountain valleys to a Mediterranean flair in the south of Switzerland, from busy nightlife to historic town centers, you can find everything in Switzerland." 

Ready to see it all? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

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“Zurich is a small gem with only 450,000 inhabitants, yet it's the largest and most vibrant city in Switzerland,” Straub shared. Zurich may be best known for its banking and shopping, but, as Staub noted, it “actually has a rich history dating back to the Romans.” Staub recommends seeing it all and learning everything you can on a walking tour with a local like her.

Mount Rigi Kulm

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Make your way to the top of Mount Rigi to get a view of three countries at once. The mountain, located between Lake Lucerne and Lake Zug, offers views of Switzerland, France, and Germany at the top, which you can reach by taking a train or hiking all the way .

Lake Lucerne

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Lake Lucerne offers some of Switzerland’s most fantastic views. The glittering lake stretches on for 43 square miles, offering visitors the chance to hike around it, boat through it, or stay at any number of fantastic hotels lining its shores to enjoy the view. 

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Make your way about an hour northeast of Lake Lucerne to the town of Rapperswil , which sits on Lake Zurich. The town is known for its abundant roses in the spring and summer and for its medieval architecture, including its very own castle.

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History lovers, this one is for you. Ticino, a town in southern Switzerland, is home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Bellinzona castles and Monte San Giorgio. Come explore them all year long, dive in the lake in summer, or take to the mountains for a ski trip in winter. 

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Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, travelers can find the town of Interlaken . It’s well known as an adventure-lovers paradise, offering the chance to hike, ski, paraglide, skydive, and more through the majestic mountain range surrounding the town.

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Quinten , which sits on the shores of Lake Walen, is the place to be for those who love to see everything on foot. The entire community is car-free and offers spectacular views throughout its terraced neighborhoods lined with vineyards overlooking the Churfirsten mountain range.

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Want another car-free adventure? Head to the picturesque town of Appenzell in northeast Switzerland. The small community of just 7,000 full-time residents is known for its hand-made cheeses, best enjoyed with a picnic out in the rolling green pastures. 

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Montreux, positioned on the shores of Lake Geneva, is loved for its palm-lined promenade, castles, and gorgeous alpine vistas. It’s also the place to be over the summer when it hosts the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which is worthy of planning an entire trip around.

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If you’re into cheese, you’ve likely heard the name Gruyère before. Visit its namesake town, located in southwest Switzerland, to dig into the cheese-making tradition and to visit its fairy-tale streets surrounded by a positively bucolic landscape.

Oeschinen Lake

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Explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Switzerland with a visit to the glacial Oeschinen Lake. Like many places in Switzerland, this lake comes flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows, and it offers more than its fair share of outdoor fun, including everything from hiking and biking to ice fishing in the winter.

Lavaux Vineyard

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Wine lovers will adore visiting Lavaux Vineyard, the nation’s largest contiguous vineyard area that goes on for nearly 2,000 acres. The vineyard is yet another one of Switzerland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which comes with the added bonus of gorgeous views and divine wine tastings .

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Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Head to Stoos , a town located at 4,265 feet. The entire (car-free) town is adorable, but the coolest part is its funicular railway — which holds the record as the steepest on Earth — that takes guests some 2,400 feet high in under 10 minutes. 

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Find a little slice of luxury in St. Mortiz. The high-end town marries some of the best skiing in the world with some of the best shopping. It’s got glitz, glamour, and plenty of bona fides to back up its reputation as a winter sports heaven; St. Moritz hosted the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games.

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Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its international organizations like the United Nations European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It’s also a spot where travelers can find luxuries galore, including high-end watch shops selling some of the most exclusive pieces on Earth.

Rhine Falls

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Feel the power of Mother Nature at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Visitors can marvel at the thunderous waters from viewing platforms, and those feeling more adventurous can take boat trips for a closer experience. Just make sure to wear something waterproof.

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Zermatt , which sits in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is one more car-free village that combines rustic charm with high-end amenities, including some of the best skiing in Europe. Of course, guests can explore the mountains all spring, summer, and fall by hiking and biking, or just enjoy the town’s fantastic (year-round) shopping opportunities.

Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers an enticing mix of old and new. The city has retained much of its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, now the setting for world-class dining venues, boutiques, and beer gardens, all worthy of visiting on your next trip.

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Find a little taste of Italy in Lugano, the largest Italian-speaking city in Switzerland (which counts Italian among its four official languages). The Swiss city offers more gorgeous promenades to stroll, along with delicious Italian-influenced restaurants and an art scene that can't be beaten. 

Swiss National Park

Get one more taste of Switzerland’s incredible natural beauty with a visit to Swiss National Park , located in the Engadin Valley. The park encompasses 68 square miles, making it a fantastic place to explore. While on a hike, see how many animals you can spot, including the park’s resident marmots, ibexes, and golden eagles.

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Zest In A Tote

For the discerning family traveler, switzerland with kids: family friendly things to do in switzerland.

• by mikejensenavt
• Posted on October 1, 2023 May 4, 2024

Looking for great ideas for family vacations in Switzerland? Look no further! Switzerland offers a plethora of family-friendly activities such as exploring the beautiful Swiss landscapes, taking a scenic train ride, or visiting the interactive museums. Your kids will have a blast in this picturesque country!

With its cultural richness, natural beauty, and excellent transportation system, Switzerland offers the perfect setting for families to bond. Exploring Switzerland with kids will leave you with memories to treasure for the rest of your life. And with many incredible things for adults and kids to do, your Switzerland family adventure will be the best you can have. 

There are many words to describe Switzerland. With perfect harmony between the city and nature, the country has a lot to offer for any kind of traveler. It’s a popular destination for couples and adventurers, and also an excellent country to explore with the entire family. Switzerland with kids can be great fun both in summer and in winter. There are many enjoyable things to do in Switzerland with kids from outdoor fun to city activities.

From hiking in Interlaken to wild swimming in Zurich and indulging in chocolate, here are the best family-friendly things to do in Switzerland.

Disclaimer:  This helpful post contains some affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (AND make a purchase) I may receive a  small commission  at  absolutely no cost to you . As such I thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy .

Things to do in Switzerland with kids: City Activities

You really can never go wrong with a trip to Switzerland. Despite its relatively small size as a country, experiences here are very diverse and always memorable. Family trips can sometimes be stressful, but there will always be something in Switzerland that will make every member of the family happy. 

Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly attractions, making it the perfect destination for a memorable vacation with children. From exploring the picturesque Swiss Alps to indulging in delicious Swiss chocolate, there are countless activities to enjoy in Switzerland with a toddler. Here are a few things things to do in Switzerland with kids in and around cities.

1. Explore Jungfraujoch

A quintessentially Swiss experience, the Jungfraujoch shows the best that the country has to offer. It’s fairly accessible from any city in Switzerland. The train ride itself is a must-do experience on its own and one of the top family fun activities in Switzerland with kids. From Lauterbrunnen, the train does a quick stop at Klein Scheidegg for amazing views just below the Eiger mountain.

From here, a cog train brings passengers to a height of 3,454 meters, the highest station in all of Europe, earning Jungfraujoch its nickname “Top of Europe”.

Obviously, the views at Jungfraujoch are spectacular. There are several lookout points for visitors to see a panoramic view of the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Monch peaks all in one sweep. Visitors can also spend time at several exhibits, including the Ice Palace, with walls of ice carved into works of art, and the Alpine Sensation, a memorial for all the workers that opened up the Jungfraujoch railway. There are shops and restaurants to sit in, and many walking trails to explore.

Every member of the family, from kids to grandparents, will have a grand time at Jungfraujoch. And Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland is worth spending more time in.

You can travel independently, just book the train tickets online.

Or you can book a private tour from Zurich and enjoy a guided tour around ‘Top of Europe’.

2. Indulge in Chocolate

Switzerland is known for many things , and especially its chocolate. Some of the world’s best chocolate makers come from this country. Bringing home chocolate is already a given, but there are more ways to enjoy this heavenly confectionery.

At the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne is the Swiss Chocolate Adventure , a multimedia attraction in partnership with the Lindt Chocolate Competence Foundation. It shows the journey of a humble cocoa bean to one of the best chocolates in the world. Families can also hop aboard The Chocolate Train that runs between Montreux and the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory at Broc. Chocolates and croissants are served onboard, followed by a trip to Maison Cailler to discover the process of making Swiss chocolates. I recommend this if you are visitinig Switzerland with kids.

Several chocolate factories also open up tours for visitors. Take a look around Läderach Chocolate Adventures, Alprose chocolate’s Schokoland in Caslano, and, of course, Maison Cailler in Broc.

See some of the chocolate indulging tours in Switzerland:

3. City-Nature Tour in Lucerne

Lucerne is a beautiful city that has perfected the right mix of city, history, and nature. Seated at the heart of the Alps, mountain peaks tower everywhere, giving many opportunities for outdoor excursions.

For a more relaxed trip, a leisurely walk around Lucerne’s Old Town is a full day’s worth of historical immersion that reveals how this German-speaking city’s culture was formed.

The Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks, is also the country’s most impressive historic bridge. The inside panels have been turned into a gallery, displaying 17th-century paintings.

Of course, there’s Lake Lucerne that provides an endless list of activities. Families can take ferry tours across the lake, ride a bike or stroll along the shore, or sit at one of the many parks surrounding the lake. In the summer, swimming and water activities are also great ways to spend the day with the kids.

Book your 1-hour panoramic cruise in Lucerne.

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Get travel tips, itineraries, best activities and more straight to your inbox., 4. animal encounters.

What kid doesn’t like animals? There are around 25 zoos all over Switzerland, and there’s one bound to be near where you’re staying. One of the things to do in Switzerland with kids.

The largest zoo can be found in Zurich, with Zoo Zurich housing over 360 animal species. Both local and foreign species make up the impressive roster of Zoo Zurich, including tigers, snow leopards, gorillas, and penguins. Within the zoo are various exhibits, too. There’s the Masoala Rainforest where visitors follow walkways on treetops, and the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park to see these majestic beasts roaming freely around their habitat.

5. Museum-Hopping

Some of Switzerland’s most famous museums might not be too interesting for kids, but there are many interactive museums and experiences designed especially for kids and kids-at-heart.

With the many types of exhibits to choose from, dinosaur museums are some of the popular ones to visit. The Aathal Dinosaur Museum , found in Aathal near Zurich, has one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in Switzerland. They also have life-sized dinosaur models and a gift shop with educational books and toys. The Jurassica Museum in Porrentruy is situated in a beautiful structure built within lush gardens. Its exhibits also feature different creatures and species during the Jurassic era.

Another family hit is Science museums, which Switzerland has absolutely no lack of. CERN in Geneva is a must-visit for future scientists as the world’s largest particle physics laboratory. Winterthur has the Swiss Science Center Technorama , combining physics, chemistry, and biology to create a highly interactive and engaging experience.

For the ultimate Swiss museum experience, head to the Swiss Open-Air Museum in Ballenberg. This museum displays traditional buildings and architecture from all over the country. It’s a great way to see all of Switzerland’s iconic chalets in one go.

6. Historical Trip to Bern

If you’re visiting Switzerland, you might as well visit the capital. Bern is a relatively small city with a lot of character. Unlike many capital cities in the world, Bern boasts of calm energy hanging over well-preserved medieval buildings.

The city is very endearing, making it a fascinating place for families to visit and be transported back in time.

Bern’s Old Town is unique as it’s flanked on both sides by the River Aare. It’s a very small-town feel that only amplifies the magnificence of its beautiful medieval structures and arcades. There are also several water fountains around the city where kids love to play.

Bern has several parks for families to stroll around in and have a picnic as well. The Rose Garden is beautiful with over 200 kinds of roses. The city also has a bear park, in honor of its symbol, where live bears roam around.

Things to do in Switzerland with kids: Outdoor Fun

In Switzerland with a 4-year-old kid, families can embark on a memorable adventure filled with breathtaking mountain views, enchanting Swiss villages, and thrilling outdoor activities.

7. Hit the slopes

Switzerland has numerous family-friendly ski regions, offering something for adults and kids of all ages. While the grown-ups relax and unwind, the little ones can hit the slopes. In addition, Switzerland offers plenty of luxury ski chalets for families , ideal for those wanting a skiing break.

With over 300 ski resorts and vast kilometres of slopes, Switzerland is a haven for winter sports. Aside from the traditional ski runs, the Swiss Alps has plenty of cross-country ski trails and sledging runs.

Skiing is a popular activity in Switzerland, but having the famous Matterhorn in the background makes the experience all the more special. Zermatt is a small town in the Swiss Alps at the base of the Matterhorn. The city itself is beautiful, but most travelers take a trip up to the Matterhorn for a lot of fun in the snow. It’s popular for skiers and snowboarders, but also a great place for kids and beginners.

While there are many experienced skiers here, the atmosphere is not competitive or intense, making it a great place for families to simply have fun in the snow. Skiing in Zermatt is perfect for families, offering an incredible blend of modern ski lifts, charming Alpine villages, and various ski trails to introduce kids and beginners to skiing.

Grindelwald is another famous destination for a family-friendly ski holiday in Switzerland. The picturesque glacier village is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering an incredible skiing experience. Grindelwald is also home to family-friendly attractions like the First Flyer zip-line, which adventurous teens will love to try.

Grindelwald attractions are fun in summer months as well. See these fun activities at Grindelwald:

8. Go Hiking

Switzerland makes hiking easy for families, including those with little kids. You can hike up the mountain for breathtaking views or venture into picturesque lakeside villages. The country offers many theme trails, offering fun activities to delight and motivate kids to keep walking. Many are marked, which makes planning your hiking adventure so easy. 

If you’ve got older kids with hiking experience , conquer the Oeschinensee Panoramic Trail , about 40 minutes from Interlaken. It’s a scenic trail with a panorama loop circling the stunning Lake Oeschinen along the Berner Oberland. You can take a shuttle or cable car to get to the trailhead. With some effort, older kids who love nature will be delighted by the stunning views. Take a break at a lake for a refreshing dip, especially during warm summer days. Pack some snacks and drinks, and have a picnic by the lake.

While you’ll find incredibly scenic hiking paths around Switzerland, Interlaken offers some of the best spots for hiking. Many of these trails are easy and are perfect for most families. For instance, the Rugen trail is a 40-minute hike to the top, suitable for all hiker levels. Take your time and stop often to enjoy the views, including a 360-degree view of Interlaken.

9. Join Summer Camps 

Summer camp offers kids many growth opportunities while learning some essential life skills. You will find fantastic places to camp around Europe, with many great options in Switzerland. In fact, Switzerland is a renowned summer camp destination, home to some of the world’s best camps featuring high-quality facilities and well-trained staff.

One of the reasons your children will enjoy an alpine summer camp in Switzerland is because many of these camps are located in iconic locations with spectacular views. If your kids are nature lovers, they will appreciate spending time at a summer camp in Switzerland. They will sleep surrounded by majestic mountains and lakes and spend the day enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore Switzerland’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Switzerland is famous for its excellent educational standards. You can expect the same in Swiss summer camps. They provide academic and enrichment activities to help kids develop new skills.

10. Wild Swimming in the Lakes

Switzerland has numerous rivers and lakes, perfect for wild swimming. Many lakes are worth a day trip, with amenities for a safer and more enjoyable adventure. Aside from changing rooms and a lifeguard, many have play areas, perfect for your little ones.

Lake Zurich is a safe spot for wild swimming, attracting local families to its tranquil shores. Whether cooling down on a hot day or looking to get away from the crowds and spend some time in nature, swimming in Lake Zurich offers a fun adventure for the family. As one of Switzerland’s largest lakes, Lake Zurich attracts hundreds of visitors to its shores. Its lakeshore has many beaches and bathing spots for wild swimming, though it can get crowded during the peak of summer. The water is clean and safe for everyone. 

Head to Strandbad Mythenquai, one of the best beaches along the lake. The beautiful sandy beach is in the western section of the town and has a vast grassy area offering plenty of spots for sunbathing. Aside from swimming, your kids will have a great time jumping from the diving boards and platforms towards the clear waters.

Strandbad Mythenquai is ideal for families with little kids. Its gradual entrance into the lake makes it safe for smaller kids since there are plenty of areas where the water is shallow enough for your kids to swim and paddle.

11. Try Ice Skating

Another enjoyable pastime for families travelling to Switzerland is ice skating. Ice skating is one of the many wintertime pastimes popular among locals in the Swiss Alps. Many outdoor natural ice rinks around Switzerland offer incredible ice-skating experiences, especially in the Swiss Alps. Others are even attached to Christmas markets, offering a more enjoyable experience!

As Switzerland’s most populous city, Zurich is the hub of ice-skating rinks in the country. It’s home to some of the best outdoor and indoor ice rinks in Switzerland, with plenty of places suitable for families. At 6,000 square metres, Dolder eisbahn is one of Europe’s largest ice rinks. Sitting next to the Dolder Grand Hotel, the iconic place is a local favourite and dates back to the 1930s.

Switzerland is a relatively small country, so it’s easy to hit several spots in one trip. Traveling with kids can be stressful at times, but the fresh Swiss air and awe-inspiring views are enough to keep even the most restless toddler wonderfully distracted. At the same time, families traveling with older kids have endless parks and attractions to explore without too much of a physical strain.

Families visiting Switzerland can enjoy a wide variety of activities and attractions. From exploring the beautiful Swiss Alps to visiting interactive museums, there are plenty of things to do in Switzerland with kids.

Not to mention, Switzerland is probably one of the safest cities in the world. Switzerland also makes for a fairytale winter holiday amongst all Europe winter destinations .

Pin it for later!

This is a guest post by Mike Jensen . Mike is addicted to both adventure and travel, so he decided to combine the two to form TheAdventourist . There he shares his journey from one adrenaline rush to another, always exploring new places as he goes. You can find him sharing his travels on Facebook .

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17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

Nestled in central Europe and dominated by the Alps, the best places to visit in Switzerland are downright sublime.

When it comes to jaw-dropping landscapes, quaint small towns, and enchanting cities that perfectly blend the past, present, and future, nowhere does it quite like Switzerland.

Many people (us included) put off planning trips to Switzerland’s beautiful corners for years because of its deserved reputation for high prices–but the best Swiss travel destinations are so incredible that, while expensive, you never doubt that you’re getting your money’s worth.

To help get you excited about planning your bucket list Switzerland vacation, we’ve worked with several other travel bloggers to round up the most magnificent places in Switzerland to visit!

Whether your dream Swiss trip involves Alpine hiking, lake swimming, skiing, or simply eating lots of fondue while overlooking the mountains, there’s an incredible getaway in Switzerland here for you.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland!

Table of Contents

Stunning Cities to Visit in Switzerland

Beautiful small villages + mountain towns in switzerland, more of the best places to visit in switzerland, map of the most beautiful places in switzerland to visit.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From Rachel of Rachel’s Ruminations

Basel is a lovely little city with a historical core that is just perfect for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere.

The houses are simple and charming, some dating to the Middle Ages.

Art dots the streets: fountains, decorative sculpture, and painting on the centuries-old buildings as well as amusing modern art, like the dragon sculpture that breathes actual smoke!

“Reaction ferries” – no motor or sails – carry passengers across the Rhine between the two halves of the city.

If you like to see historical sights, the Romanesque and Gothic Basel Cathedral is one of the best sights in Basel , and climbing the spire to see the view is also worth the effort.

Three of the original city gates still stand, restored to their medieval glory, and the bright red Rathaus (city hall) is quite a sight too.

The more modern Tinguely fountain is an amusing cross between a fountain and a kinetic sculpture.

The Foundation Beyeler, on the edge of town, houses a truly exceptional collection of modern masterpieces by major artists such as Rothko, Picasso, Monet, and Mondrian. It’s just outside of town but easy to reach.

Basel is a year-round destination, but summer is the best season for enjoying the outdoor attractions and architecture.

However, December brings a different charm: Basel is home to what is widely considered to be the best Christmas market in Switzerland!

From Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Snowcapped mountains, half-timbered houses, and a city that seemingly rolls down a hill right into the most pristine lake, upon which steamboats glide to and back from France: this is the storybook city of Lausanne, in the  Vaud-region .

Built atop three hills, the very first thing you will want to bring with you is a good pair of walking shoes. Start at the Lausanne Cathedral for some of the best views over the entire city, walk down the famous wooden staircase ( Escaliers du marché ) into the heart of the city at the  Place de la Palud , which contains a clutch of restaurants and bars as well as the oldest working fountain of the city.

Meander through the tiny streets until you hit  Palais de Rumine , a Renaissance palace well worth a visit.

The buzzing Flon district is great for a night on the town, or grab a drink at Brasserie Montbenon if you are looking for a more intimate setting.

Make your way to Lake Geneva at the foot of Lausanne, where you’ll find a variety of watersports on offer throughout the year.

Time permitting, hop of a steam peddler to Chillon Castle.

On the way make a brief stop at the UNESCO Lavaux vineyards, to try a glass of locally-produced wine.

From Zoe of Together In Switzerland

For one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, consider booking your next Swiss getaway in Lugano!

Located in the heart of the Italian-speaking Ticino region, Lugano is beautiful to visit all year round.

However, the best time for  Lugano is in the summer , with long warm days and lots of local events in the city.

Since Lugano is well known also for its Lake Lugano, one of the best things to do after exploring and shopping in the city is to get out onto the lake!

You can rent cute red little paddle boats for a minimum of 30 minutes, or else book a larger boat trip that includes sightseeing at some local villages nearby. 

Lugano also is home to two funiculars that you can take up either Mount San Salvatore or Monte Bre.

Both nearby mountains are just above 900 in elevation and both have gorgeous views of the lake and the city of Lugano.

Summer is especially beautiful at each top mountain as they both have a restaurant serving drinks and food late into the night.

From there, you can see the sunset from above as well as watch the city light up in the darkness. 

If you’re visiting Switzerland in the summer, it’s also a must to bring your swimsuit to Lugano as you should not leave without swimming in the lake!

There are a few dedicated swimming areas to choose from, such as at Lido Riva Caccia right in the city center. 

From Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

When looking for the best travel destinations in Switzerland, you won’t want to miss the lakeside city of Geneva.

The city is in the French-speaking region of Switzerland and is located right next to the border of France, not far from Annecy.

In addition to being a beautiful city with lots of French-style architecture, Geneva’s location along Lake Geneva makes it an ideal Swiss city to visit.

The most iconic attraction in Geneva is the Jet d’eau Geneve, a 140m tall water jet in the middle of Lake Geneva.

After seeing the fountain, you can walk along the harbor and admire the colorful flower clock in the nearby Jardin Anglais.

The flower clock features over 6,500 flowers that create the watch’s face.

No trip to Geneva would be complete without paying a visit to Palais de Nations.

You’ll see the flag of each country that is part of the United Nations!

So if you’re looking for places to visit in Switzerland, consider Geneva, and make sure you visit during the summer months to minimize your chances of rainy weather!

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

One of the best places to visit in Switzerland is the picturesque city of Lucerne.

Whether you are spending  one day in Lucerne  or enjoying a longer trip, this German-speaking city nestled along the River Reuss is a beautiful travel destination.

One of the best things to do in Lucerne is to visit the Kapellbrücke, a covered pedestrian wooden bridge that spans the river in the city that dates back to the 14th century.

The Kapellbrücke has unique architecture and there are historic interior paintings that are very interesting to see.

If you like the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuer Bridge is another must-see!

Other top attractions in central Lucerne include climbing the towers along the Musegg Wall for incredible views of the city and Lake Lucerne and visiting the Swiss Museum of Transport .

Another one of the best things to do in Lucerne is to spend time on Lake Lucerne to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. You can ride the ferry or go swimming in the summer.

While visiting Lucerne, don’t miss the chance to head up to Mount Pilatus , either–not only are the views incredible but getting to the top includes riding the steepest cog railway in the world!

From Sarah of CosmopoliClan

Nestled amidst rolling green hills and hugged by the crystal-clear Aare river, lies the city of Bern.

It’s the political epicenter of Switzerland with the Bundeshaus as the seat of the Swiss Parliament.

Bern’s picturesque Old Town may be compact, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site has a lot offer.

Visiting the Zytglogge, or Clock Tower, is one of the most popular of  things to do in Bern .

This landmark featuring a bear parade, golden rooster and time god Chronos as it strikes the hour, seems to come straight out of a story book.

As you stroll the elegant flag-lined streets of Bern, you’ll notice the many colorfully decorated water fountains.

Other architectural highlights are the stately arcades and the vaulted cellars that guarantee a pleasant shopping or dining experience regardless of the weather.

For a wonderful view over the city, climb the 312 steps to the viewing platform of the Bern Minster. This cathedral has the highest spire in all of Switzerland.

Behind it, you’ll find the Mattelift which will take you to the lower-level Matte district with its artistic flair and half-timbered houses.

From there, you can cross the Aare river to the Bärengraben where you can meet some of the city’s most famous residents: the bears.

The legend goes that the Duke who founded Bern would name the city after the first animal he encountered while hunting and that happened to be a bear.

End your visit at the Rosengarten park and take in the most spectacular panoramic view over the Altstadt and the white mountain peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

From Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland , with no shortage of things to do.

It’s also a beautiful city, with the Limmat River flowing through the old town and Lake Zurich at one end, surrounded by mountain peaks.

Among the best things to do in Zurich is to spend some time in the historic old town.

This has picturesque cobbled streets and squares to wander through, with beautiful churches, wonderful cafes and restaurants, and a 17th-century renaissance town hall.

Boat trips run along the river and around the lake; the ferry stops at Zurichhorn for the chance to walk around the park and visit the small pretty Chinese Garden with its lake and colorful temples.

Zurich also has a number of fascinating museums to visit.

These include the Swiss National Museum, the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum , the Rietberg Art Museum, and the FIFA World Cup Museum dedicated to the history of football.

For visitors looking for some relaxation, there is the rooftop thermal pool at the Thermalbad and Spa that provides views out across the city.

Zurich is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year.

The summer months are perfect for walking around the lake or dipping in the water in one of the city’s lidos.

In the winter, there is skiing in the nearby mountains and ice skating in the city.

The city’s streets are lit up, and there are cozy cafes to pop into to warm up with the local fondue. At Christmas, the city hosts several markets.

Though deservedly famous for being expensive, Zurich has a range of accommodations to suit most Switzerland-friendly budgets.

The Hotel Montana near the main train station is ideal for short city breaks.

For more luxury, The Dolder Grand , with its hilltop setting, complete with an ice rink in winter, is a great option. 

From Megan of Megan & Aram

Interlaken, also known as the “Adventure Capital of Switzerland”, is a gorgeous place that can be visited in any season!

There are so many things you can do regardless of whether  you visit in winter   or summer… you just need to dress appropriately for the weather.

Go kayaking on beautiful Lake Brienz in all seasons, and relax on the beach after a swim session in the summer.

Interlaken has many fantastic hiking trails to choose from, and some of the most popular ones are Oberburghorn or Hardergrat.

You can take the funicular up the mountain to the Harder Kulm viewpoint, where you can enjoy the stunning views and dine at the Panorama Restaurant.

To see the countryside from another perspective, take a hot air balloon ride!

And for even more views, take Europe’s highest railway to Jungfraujoch, where you will get breathtaking views from an elevation of nearly 3,500 m (about 11,500 ft).

You will never get tired of the spectacular scenery no matter how many viewpoints you go to!

Travel back in time by visiting the following fairytale-like places: St. Beatus Caves, a cave system over a kilometer long where legend says St. Beatus ousted a dragon living there in the 6th century; the medieval Thun Castle; or the charming village of Grindelwald.

Interlaken is a must-visit location in Switzerland and should be added to every itinerary!

From Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina.com

Mürren  is a beautiful, small village in the Bernese Oberland in Switzerland.

Situated at 5400 feet (ca. 1,646 m) above sea level, this car-free village can only be accessed by cable car or mountain train.

Visitors can get there within 10 minutes from Stechelberg with the Schilthornbahn or take the iconic mountain train via Grütschalp to travel to Mürren within 20 minutes.

The views from Mürren are beyond stunning and will enthrall every nature and mountain-loving traveler.

Mürren and the Schilthorn peak came to fame thanks to a James Bond movie. Take the cable car further up to Birg and Schilthorn to discover Bond World and enjoy brunch in the Piz Gloria rotating restaurant.

From there you can spot the Mönch, Jungfrau, and Eiger peaks.

Adventure lovers will enjoy the Brig Via Ferrata trail, a rock climbing, zip lining, and tight rope walking trail further down.

Every season is beautiful and has its perks in Mürren, but the warmer months are more suitable to go hiking and paragliding.

Skiing and snowshoe walking are popular winter activities in the area.

A winter wonderland awaits you from December to March with plenty of snow and snow-dusted Swiss mountains.

From Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

Home to the world-famous Matterhorn, Zermatt has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.

So, yes, it can get very busy. But the fabulous mountain scenery more than makes up for that.

While the iconic Matterhorn dominates the skyline, the town is completely surrounded by impressive mountains and fantastic viewpoints, many of which are accessible by cable car .

Truly a year-round destination, Zermatt is one of the top skiing destinations in Switzerland in the winter, while in summer it attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over to enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, white-water rafting, and, of course, hiking.

If you have your heart set on seeing the Matterhorn , try to give yourself a few days in Zermatt in order to increase your odds of clear weather.

Along with a wide variety of gorgeous day hikes, Zermatt serves as the start or end point of the incredible  Walker’s Haute Route , a phenomenal 2-week hut-to-hut trek through the Alps that is arguably the best long-distance hike in Europe.

Secluded at the top of a picturesque valley, Zermatt is closed to vehicles (except for electric hotel and work shuttles), making it a wonderful place to wander on foot.

While long-time visitors to Zermatt lament the ever-growing number of hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, they make it a very easy place to have fun and every new building still conforms to the town’s classic ski town vibe.

Those looking for a luxury stay with amazing Matterhorn views should check out the Europe Hotel & Spa , although there are practically endless Zermatt accommodation options to fit most budgets.

Baden, Switzerland

By Nina of Nina Out and About

Baden is the spa capital of Switzerland, yet most people have never heard of it.

Unlike Bath in the UK, Baden has remained off the beaten paths for tourists, and even most  expats who live in Switzerland .

Baden is a small town located in Aargau, about 20 minutes by train from Zurich.

It’s routinely confused with Baden-Baden in Germany (even when you try to buy a ticket to visit). But don’t be fooled: it does exist!

Baden’s claim to fame is the natural springs that have made it a popular spa destination for centuries.

The most well-known is the Friedensquelle (“Peace Spring”), but there are several others to explore as well.

In addition to its spas, Baden is also home to a beautiful old town with plenty of shops and restaurants. There’s also an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the town’s springs.

You can try out the hot springs for free along the riverside.

There’s a bench with a trough of natural hot water that you can put your feet in while you enjoy a hot chocolate or takeaway pastry.

The spa inside has evening and early morning discounted tickets, which will allow you to enjoy the spa when it’s nearly empty.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Zurich to one of the most underrated places to visit in Switzerland, Baden is the perfect place to head.

The best time to visit Baden is in the spring or summer when the weather is warm and you can enjoy all the town has to offer.

Lauterbrunnen

From Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

Lauterbrunnen is a village at the base of the stunningly beautiful Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland region, and it is indisputably one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland!

It is the epicentre of this bucolic area, which boasts of pretty waterfalls, steep snow-capped mountains and quaint wooden chalets, and there are plenty of  things to do in Lauterbrunnen  and the surrounding area.

In the village itself, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to scenery. On either side of the village, there are green hillsides dotted with chalets and sheer cliff faces.

The stunningly delicate and impossibly tall Staubbach Falls seem to be falling on the village – although they are actually just a short walk outside it.

And the best view of all is southward across the village towards Lauterbrunnen Church.

Looking in this direction, you see the pretty church steeple flanked on either side by the steep valley walls and the Staubach Falls, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps behind them.

It is so picture perfect, it almost doesn’t feel real!

To explore the countryside around Lauterbrunnen, there are hiking and cycling trails, and you can also take trains and/or cable cars to the neighbouring car-free alpine villages of Mürren and Wengen.

You can also take a series of trains from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch for an up-close look at one of Switzerland’s remarkable glaciers.

For a reasonably affordable stay, with good food and a chance of gorgeous views from your room, check out the Hotel Oberland .

From Marianne of Pasta, Pretzels & Passports

Located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Lucerne, in the heart of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, lies the picturesque town of Entlebuch.

Covering a 22-square-mile area, the town is home to only 3,300 people.

But don’t let its size fool you! Entlebuch is one of the prettiest towns you will ever see.

And if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, or canoeing, then this town is definitely one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Entlebuch offers more than 60 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails.

You can also choose one of the 13 loop trails that wind through gorgeous forests, along clear rivers, and through mountain meadows.

But if you are looking for something truly unique, head over to  Stillaub Lama  where you can go Lama-Trekking with a guided tour! Enjoy an incredible hike accompanied by llamas.

If canoeing is something that interests you, the Canoe Club in Entlebuch offers canoe rentals or even guided excursions.

Paddle along the scenic Emme (Emmenuferweg) river between Hasle and Entlebuch.

And although summer is an incredible time to visit Entlebuch, if you like winter activities, the town has plenty to offer at that time of the year as well.

From snowshoeing to winter hiking, cross-country and downhill skiing, you won’t find a more scenic location.

And after an exhilarating day of exploring this incredible area, head back to town where you will find several excellent restaurants serving local cuisine.

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

On the banks of Lake Geneva stands the charming resort city of Montreux, which happens to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

The town looks out over the entrancing splendor of the surrounding countryside as it lies peacefully tucked away within the Swiss Alps.

The architecture of the historic cities and the ancient castles of Montreux has made it a place worth exploring.

The ideal months to visit Montreux are from April to October, but you’ll also find a charming Swiss Christmas market here in December!

The French-speaking Vaud region of Switzerland, which stretches from Lausanne to Montreux, is the heart of the Swiss Riviera and has a distinct Mediterranean character.

The lakeside resorts provide a surreal view of the lush green landscape, where you can unwind.

It’s one of Switzerland’s most picturesque locations due to its gorgeous lakeside location, expansive vineyards, and mountains, hills, and valleys.

Take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Geneva to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the lakefront villages.

You can visit the Freddie Mercury statue, wander along the Old Town’s streets, and circle the Montreux Lake.

It is unusual to visit Switzerland without trying  Swiss chocolate , the country’s most well-known delicacy.

The chocolate train on the Montreux-Berner Oberland Railway is devoted to the world’s most delicate temptation.

The famous Château de Chillon, which is about a 30-minute walk from Montreux, is another reason to visit.

This 13th-century fortress comes from the Middle Ages and features a beautiful view of the lake.

From Michelle C. of Intentional Travelers

When it comes to beautiful places in Switzerland to add to your bucket list, nothing compares to the Alps.

Nendaz, a small ski resort town up in the mountains, is popular for both winter and summer activities.

Arrive via train to Sion, in the valley, and then take a Postbus up to town.

The drive up the winding mountain road is a beautiful initiation to the area with spectacular views.

In the summer and fall, there are great hikes leaving from town so be sure to pack  walking shoes !

Several of the trails in the region follow along the “ bisses ,” or old waterways, in and out of small villages and farms, through the hills and forests.

The ski lift to Tracouet’s Black Lake provides another panoramic perspective and more hiking trails.

The vacation rental options in Nendaz are abundant, although many of the hotels close in the shoulder season (fall).

Staying in Haute (“high”) Nendaz not far from the Tourist Office is best for easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, bus stops, and the ski lift.

Nendaz can also be a good base for day trips to other excellent Switzerland travel destinations like Sion, Martigny, Zermatt, and even places a little further like Spiez, Interlaken, and Bern.

Ascona, Switzerland

From Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

The small lakeside town of Ascona is located in Ticino, the sunny, warmest, and most charming place in Switzerland.

Indeed, it boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and its mild climate makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

There are always plenty of delightful things to do in Ascona, regardless of the time of year.

From hiking to discovering the holy Monte Verità, and from soaking in the Maggia or Verzasca Valley surrounded by magical waterfalls to visiting historical museums such as Castello san Materno, Galleria Borgo, and Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna.

And, of course, the Ascona lido is always tempting in the summer.

Don’t forget to walk along the famous lungolago, where there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine.

From this promenade, you can take an electric train around Ascona to discover the local attractions.

Or, you can take a boat to Brissago Island in the middle of Lake Maggiore letting you live an exciting story of only Switzerland’s Botanical Garden on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, this little hidden gem is an incredible Switzerland travel destination to add to your bucket list!

Bernina Express

It’s hard to say whether a train ride counts as a Switzerland travel destination–but then again, trains in Switzerland are a bit more exciting than just about anywhere else.

Famous for being one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, the Bernina Express runs from Chur, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy, covering truly spectacular scenery along the way!

Featuring nearly 200 bridges and more than 50 tunnels along the way, this 4-hour scenic journey definitely belongs on your Switzerland bucket list.

Dramatic views of the Alps, glaciers, the soaring bridges, and more are waiting to be enjoyed through panoramic windows.

Be sure to book this Swiss travel experience in advance–the train is deservedly popular, and gets booked up quickly!

Schynige Platte

From Amela of Stay Wild Travels

If you’re heading to the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland, then visiting the summit of  Schynige Platte  is a must.

In order to get there, you’ll need to hop on board the Schynige Platte-Bahn, an old-fashioned, historic railway that leaves from the small village of Wilderswill which is not too far from Interlaken.

It chugs slowly up the mountainside and offers fantastic views, which is an incredible experience in itself.

Once you’ve arrived at the summit, you’ll find a plethora of hiking trails, a restaurant and a botanical alpine garden, to name a few.

The most popular hiking trail is the Panorama Trail. As the name suggests, this offers unmatched views over the Jungfrau Region, including the three major peaks in the area: Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger.

You’ll be able to visit Schynige Platte from the end of May to the end of October.

Those looking for a traditional stay among the mountains are in luck, as the restaurant also offers doubles up as a popular hotel .

The rooms are quaint with Swiss décor and offer picture-perfect mountain views.

It’s worth noting that Swiss Travel Pass holders receive a discount on the trip, and Jungfrau Pass holders have a visit included with their card.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)”

One place that should be a must to visit when in Switzerland is the Rheinfall (Rhinefall) near Schaffhausen which also is a beautiful town. It is less then 1 hour from Zurich. PS: A small typo, the river in Lucerne is called Reuss, not Neuss

Thanks, Thomas, I’ll get that fixed. 🙂

And yes, I hear the falls are supposed to be gorgeous!

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Switzerland

Travel guide.

• Things to Do
• Planning a Trip
• Regions in Brief
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• In One Week
• In Two Weeks
• For Families
• The Grisons, the Engadine & Ticino

For Families in Switzerland

With its clean, safe cities, ample green space and outdoor activities, Switzerland is a great country to take the kids. Large cities like Geneva and Zurich might quickly overwhelm youngsters, so we’ve included just 1 night at each of those, with more time for mountain exploration in Interlaken and Lucerne.

Day 1: Zurich: Your Arrival Point

On Day 1 , arrive as early as you can in order to do justice to Switzerland’s largest city . The most kid-friendly way to explore is to walk the famous waterside promenades , along the Limmat and Lake Zurich. In some places, they open onto beautiful gardens where the entire family can rest their feet or even take a swim. End your walk at Blatterwiese , with its playground and Chinese garden, then hop on a ferry from Zürichhorn back into town. The rest of the afternoon can be spent wandering Zurich’s Altstadt and drinking from some of its 1,200 free water fountains, ducking into the Toy Museum  on your way to the Lindenhof city park, which provides great views and plenty of space for running around.

Days 2 & 3: Lucerne: Mountains & Lakes

On Day 2 , leave Zurich and head 50km (31 miles) south to Lake Lucerne and its “queen,” the city of Lucerne itself. Check in to a hotel for 2 nights, and take the whole family on our walking tour , which will take you by the big attractions. Our favorite museum in Lucerne is one that the whole family will enjoy: the Swiss Transport Museum , featuring everything from spaceships to planes to an adventure ride simulating the work of a train driver. In the afternoon, take a ride on one of the lake steamers plying across Lake Lucerne. Some summer boat excursions last 4 hours, and there is a cafeteria onboard.

On Day 3 , while still based in Lucerne, take your family on one of the most famous mountain excursions in Switzerland, either Mount Pilatus or Rigi (see Day 11 under “Switzerland in 2 Weeks,” earlier in this chapter). The cog railways and cable cars that get you there are part of the fun.

Day 4: Bern: Capital of Switzerland

On Day 4 , leave Lucerne heading for the capital city of Bern, 111km (69 miles) to the west. Swiss politics will hold little interest for children, but the BearPark  is a surefire winner. These pampered bears are the best fed in Europe, carrots being their favorite food. Families may also enjoy the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) , which, 4 minutes before the hour, stages a spectacular horological puppet show, mechanical bears included. Later, an excursion to Mount Gurten at 844m (2,768 ft.) is in order. Not only do you get a panoramic view, but there’s also a children’s playground and a mini-train on-site. After a final stroll along Marktgasse, the main street of the Old Town, you can call it a day.

Days 5 & 6: Interlaken: The Bernese Oberland

On Day 5 , drive 54km (34 miles) southeast of Bern to reach Interlaken , the tourist capital of the Bernese Oberland. This will be your launchpad for exploring the mighty Jungfraujoch at 3,400m (11,152 ft.), home to the highest railway station in Europe.

Arriving in the morning in Interlaken, check in to a hotel for 2 nights and spend the rest of the morning exploring parklike Höheweg , covering 14 hectares (35 acres) in the center of town. All ages can admire the view of Jungfrau mountain and the famous flower clock. In the afternoon, take an excursion to the Wilderswil/Schynige Platte at 1,936m (6,350 ft.), where you’ll find an alpine garden. Alternatively, you could try to fit in a trip to Giessbach Falls, accessible by boat and funicular, allowing about 2 hours. Return to Interlaken for the night.

On the morning of Day 6 , set out for a day’s excursion to the aforementioned Jungfraujoch  —save money on the trip by purchasing a Family Card for the whole brood. Attractions at the top include the famous Eispalast (Ice Palace) , the Snow Fun Park, and various food options. Departures from Interlaken are daily from 6:35am, with returns till nearly 7pm. Overnight once again in Interlaken.

Day 7: Geneva

On Day 7 , leave Interlaken in the morning and drive 218km (135 miles) southwest across some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, both lake and mountain, until you come to Geneva. After checking in to a hotel , set out to discover one of Europe’s most regal cities. Kids delight in seeing the famous fountain, Jet d’Eau  and the Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais. A walk through the Old Town , or Vieille Ville , might be a highlight of the trip. Depending where you are, you can hop onto a mouette boat to the other side of the lake, to the Perle du Lac. Wind down in the Parc Mon-Repos , perhaps securing picnic fixings on the way. Older children might also be interested in the adventure movie and exhibitions at the Musée International de la Croix-Rouge et du Croissant-Rouge, devoted to the Red Cross. Overnight in Geneva before making your way home or to your next destination.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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25 best places to visit in Switzerland

Itinerary guides , Switzerland 29 comments

Beautiful scenic locations, stunningly pretty lakes and mountains, charming towns and villages, the yummiest chocolates and cheeses, and superlative public transportation – what’s not to love about Switzerland! (Except maybe how expensive it is but hey, you get used to it after a while!) You could spend years in Switzerland and still continue to be overwhelmed by how spectacular everything is! To give you a taste of the best of it, here’s my list of the best, most epic places to visit in Switzerland.

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Click here for a detailed travel guide to Switzerland – including the best time to visit, itinerary options (for 3, 5, 7 or 10 days), visa, transportation in Switzerland (including Swiss Pass), and more!

Note: This post contains some affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through these, I may earn a small commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Have limited time in Switzerland? Here’s a 5-day Switzerland itinerary to take in the best of the country!

Here's what's in store for you

The most Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

Surrounded by snow capped mountains and crystal clear water, Bachalpsee is the prettiest Swiss mountain lake.

Located in the Bernese Oberland at a height of ~2200 m, amidst lush Alpine greenery and snowy vistas, Bachalpsee is a must-visit place in Switzerland . This is a day trip we take all our visitors to give them a jaw-dropping experience! 

The walk upto the lake is just as spectacular as the lake –  the sharp peaks of Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn are visible on the opposite side of the valley as you hike along it. This is the hike that will get you excited for more hikes in the Swiss Alps!

Best time to visit Bachalpsee: Bachalpsee can be visited during the spring/ summer depending on snow conditions. The best time to visit Bachalpsee is during the summer, around May-June when the flowers are at their best and the crowds are much thinner.

Wondering about the best time to visit Switzerland? Here’s my guide: What is the best time to visit Switzerland?

How to get to Bachalpsee: Head first to Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland region – easily accessible by car or train from anywhere in Switzerland. At Grindelwald, head to the Grindelwald First cable car station and take the gondola up to Grindelwald First. A 3 km easy hike from there will bring you to Bachalpsee.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bachalpsee: Grindelwald First is a beautiful mountain with a thrilling cliff walk which helps you take in the views in an even better way! There are several more activities such as first glider, first flyer, first mountain cart and trottibike available at this mountain.

Where to stay to visit Bachalpsee: Base yourself at Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for a quick trip to Bachalpsee. You can also visit the lake as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Bachalpsee

Read my complete guide to visiting Bachalpsee and my guide to the First Cliff Walk .

Oeschinensee

Oeschinensee is a bright blue Swiss mountain lake – unbelievably photogenic and much lesser known, making for fewer crowds!

Located in the Bernese Oberland region at a height of ~1600 m the lake makes for a stunning landscape. Surrounded by sharp peaks and a small waterfall at one end , Oeschinensee is ridiculously beautiful and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. This lake also features high on our list of places to take visitors to!

The very short optional hike to the lake adds to the charm of the experience . The landscapes along the hike are simply breathtaking and quite different to most other hikes you’ll do in the Swiss Alps.

You can also take a boat out to see the waterfall up close – and get a little workout for your arms!

Best time to visit Oeschinensee: May to October are the best months to hike to Oeschinensee. The lake freezes over in winter and the trails usually open by May.

How to get to Oeschinensee: From Zurich, take the train or drive up to the town of Kandersteg and head to the Oeschinensee cable car station. Take the gondola up to the top station, Oeschinen Bergstation and from there either take the electric bus or (recommended!) take the easy 2 km hike to the lake.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Oeschinensee: Ride the toboggan (or the mountain coaster) down the mountain for an exhilarating experience. Take up more hikes in the region – some take you higher up into the mountains for more spectacular views of Oeschinensee.

Where to stay to visit Oechinensee: Base yourself at Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for a quick trip to Oeschinensee. You can also visit the lake as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Oeschinensee

Read my complete guide to visiting Oeschinensee.

One of the steepest funiculars in Switzerland takes you up to the lake – on a ride that feels more like a roller coaster than a train!

You would have seen sped-up versions of this funicular on social media and though the actual ride is not quite as exciting, it’s spectacular nonetheless!

Crystal clear water, mirror-like reflections and no tourists – this lake is a treat to visit. There’s an optional 2-hour hike that you can do around the lake for even better views, or just walk along the dam and relax on the small beach.

We had booked our tickets for this lake a few times before we were finally able to make it there! Some of the times it was down to bad weather while other times it was our inability to get up early in the morning (the overconfident me had often booked tickets for the earliest time slot which meant leaving from Zurich at the crack of dawn, easier said than done!)!

The time we were finally able to make it was absolutely fantastic – it’s quite hard to believe how beautiful the place is . The pictures hardly do it justice!

Best time to visit Gelmersee: The Gelmerbahn runs from May to October and tickets are sold for exact time slots. Try to visit around May – June, preferably in the morning to enjoy the hike and the lake with minimal crowds.

How to get to Gelmersee: This lake is located near Meiringen, about 2 hours’ drive from Zurich and makes for an excellent day trip. It is easily accessible by car, however there are only limited connections with public transportation .

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Gelmersee: After you have visited the lake, you can also continue driving towards the Grimsel Pass for stunning panoramic views , and 3 more lakes to enjoy! 

Where to stay to visit Gelmersee: Meiringen or Interlaken, both of which are ~45 minutes’ drive away.

See also: Where to stay near Gelmersee

Bannalpsee is a hidden gem – a beautiful lake set amidst tall cliffs and with no people around! 

Bannalpsee is a reservoir in Wolfenschiessen in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden and was built in the 1930s. This lake is located close to Engelberg, home to the famous Mt. Titlis. 

While there are several hiking options, if you are a more laid back traveller (like me!) you can reach Bannalpsee taking a very short walk. 

While this may not be my absolute favourite lake, it’s one I’d happily go back to for more visits since it’s usually so empty. It’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve come across in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Bannalpsee: If you are there just to visit the lake, May to October would be ideal. The cable car runs during winter too if you’re interested in winter activities.

How to get to Bannalpsee: You need to get to the Fellboden cable car station or the Fell station to take the cable car up to the lake. If you are driving the address for the GPS is: Fellboden, 6387 Wolfenschiessen, Switzerland. By public transportation, take the train to Wolfenschiessen and then the bus from Wolfenschiessen Bahnof to Oberrickenbach, Talstat followed by a 2 minute walk to the Fellboden cable car station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bannalpsee: Located just 15-20 minutes’ drive (or train ride) away is the town of Engelberg, home to the cable car heading up to the famous Mt. Titlis.

Where to stay to visit Bannalpsee: Engelberg is closest to the lake, however Lucerne or Zurich would be more central locations to stay at.

See also: Where to stay near Bannalpsee

Read my complete guide to visiting Bannalpsee .

Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz’s powder blue colour and it’s stunning location surrounded by the mountains of the Bernese Oberland make it a breathtaking place to visit.

The town of Brienz located at the shores of this lake makes for the perfect spot to enjoy the lake. There is a wonderful promenade along the lake lined with beautiful wood carvings. Brienz town and the lake are bucket-list worthy places to visit in Switzerland!

Fun fact: The town of Brienz has a long history of woodworking and you’ll find fascinating carvings everywhere !

I’ve loved this lake ever since I first took the Golden Panorama train ride in Switzerland back in 2013 and then brought my husband back to it during our honeymoon! Can’t believe my luck that I’ve visited it so many more times now that I live in Switzerland!

We’ve been to this lake both during the summer and during the winter and every time it’s been fairly empty and we’ve had the most wonderful experiences. The milky blue colour of Brienzersee is very unique and it is one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Brienzersee: All year round! 

How to get to Brienzersee: One of the easiest lakes to reach, you just need to get to the town of Brienz – easily accessible by public transportation or by car!

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Brienzersee: Take the charming steam train up to Brienz Rothorn, the 2350 meter summit for some panoramic views.

Where to stay to visit Brienzersee: Stay right in the town of Brienz or at nearby Interlaken.

See also: Where to stay near Brienzersee

Read my guide to visiting Lake Brienz .

Blausee is the bluest lake you’ll ever see – its name literally means Blue Lake!

This small lake with crystal clear waters is located in a beautiful nature park . There is a trail that goes around the lake taking you through pine trees and moss-covered boulders. You are guaranteed to feel transported to an enchanted forest here!

There is an interesting legend behind Blausee . It is said that the lake is deep blue in colour because of the deep blue coloured eyes of the young girl who died of a broken heart. In eternal memory of the love of this girl, there’s even an underwater statue at Blausee!

Best time to visit Blausee: The park is open year round so pick your time! Try and avoid the peak summer season to enjoy the place in peace.

How to get to Blausee: If you’re driving, the GPS coordinates you need are: 46°32’02.0″N 7°40’01.6″E. We’ve visited Blausee on day trips from Zurich multiple times and it is easily doable. If you’re using public transportation, head to the train stations of Frutigen or Kandersteg and take the bus to Blausee.

Where to stay to visit Blausee: You can choose to stay at Grand Hotel – the hotel right in the park itself or in the nearby town of Kandersteg. You can also base yourself at Interlaken or Bern.

See also: Where to stay near Blausee

Located in the town of Flims in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, Caumasee is one of the least-touristy places in Switzerland.

Caumasee quite whimsically translates to Lake of Noon Rest. Surrounded by forests, it’s an ideal place to relax, swim and have a picnic. The most stunning feature of the lake is its turquoise green water, unlike anything you may have seen before. Caumasee is easily accessible by a very short walk. It can be visited standalone without the need for a hike. Take a virtual tour of the lake here.

We also took our parents to the lake and despite the long drive from Zurich, they were enthralled by the place. Bonus for us was that we reached the place after 5 pm so the entry was free!

Flims was the first area in Switzerland that we hiked in and though the hike may not be as spectacular as some in the Bernese Oberland region, it was still absolutely amazing. Tall mountains, beautiful forests and wild flowers made the trail supremely beautiful.

Best time to visit Caumasee: While you can visit the lake year-round, check the weather cam before you visit. The Caumasee lift and the bathing area at Caumasee are open from the end of May to October. While the lift helps save some time, it’s not essential to reach the lake.

How to get to Caumasee: You need to first get to the Flims Waldhaus bus stop. From there, follow the signs along the parking lot behind the bus stop to Caumasee lift – it’s an easy 10-15 minute walk. This lift takes you directly down to the lake. You can also skip the lift and walk another 15 minutes down to the lake if so inclined.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Caumasee: Take a hike from Caumasee to The Rhine Gorge, Switzerland’s very own Grand Canyon. This 13-kilometer long gorge is the result of geological events tracing back 10,000 years. While you can see the Rhine Gorge from several points along the way, the best views are from the viewing platform – The Il Spir viewing platform is located just a few minutes from Restaurant Conn. The Swiss grand canyon in all its glory can be seen from here.

Where to stay to visit Caumasee: Stay at the nearby town of Flims or if you have the energy, stay in Zurich and visit Caumasee as a day trip (which has been our preferred way to visit the lake several times!)

See also: Where to stay near Caumasee

Read my detailed guide to visiting Caumasee and the hike to the Swiss Grand Canyon.

Klöntalersee

Klöntalersee is a large Alpine lake surrounded by lush green forests and tall mountains.

Ridiculously photogenic and completely devoid of tourists, Klöntalersee is one of the hidden gems of Switzerland . 

This emerald lake occupies a large portion of the Klöntal valley and is used as a natural reservoir. There is a lovely trail along the lake through the forests where you can hike, picnic or swim.

We came across this lake when we were looking for places to visit in Glarus in Switzerland since that was a canton that we hadn’t been to much. Surprisingly, it took quite a bit of research to come across this beautiful lake! Well, now the secret is out! Add Klöntalersee to your list of places to visit in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Klöntalersee: All year round! If you’d like to swim or take the drive up to Klausen pass, choose the summer season to visit the lake.

How to get to Klöntalersee: Drive or take the train to Glarus. From there head to Klöntal and follow signs to Klöntalersee.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Klöntalersee: Take a drive along the stunning mountain scenery to Klausen Pass – an Alpine pass at a height of ~2000 m . The views from the top of the pass are absolutely spectacular. 

Where to stay to visit Klöntalersee: Stay at the town of Glarus nearby or camp at the lake itself! There are large camping grounds next to the lake.

See also: Where to stay near Klöntalersee

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Here are more useful tips.

Switzerland’s most stunning mountains

Mt. Rigi offers an all-encompassing experience of all that’s wonderful about Switzerland!

A trip to Mount Rigi from Lucerne includes a cruise on the delightful Lake Lucerne, a ride on a steep funicular, spectacular views from the Rigi cogwheel train, a beautiful mountain top and stunning views across Central Switzerland – and surprisingly few tourists! There are 13 lakes that you can see from the top ! On a clear day, even the sharp peaks of several Jungfrau giants are visible. 

A visit to Mount Rigi is fully covered under the Swiss pass. Need I sell the place more?! Make sure it’s on your list of places to visit in Switzerland! 

Best time to visit Mt. Rigi: Rigi is open for visits all year round – from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter, there’s a lot to do here!

How to get to Mt. Rigi: Start at Lucerne and take a ferry to Vitznau. You can buy a round trip ticket for the entire journey up to and back from Rigi Kulm right at the ferry ticket counter. Take the mountain railway from Vitznau to Rigi Kulm.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Mt. Rigi: There are multiple hiking trails on Mt. Rigi. Here’s where you can find more details .

Where to stay to visit Mt. Rigi: Lucerne or Zurich are both ideal for this trip. If you’re staying in Zurich, add about 45 min – 1 hour travel time for this excursion.

See also: Where to stay near Mt. Rigi

Read my complete travel guide to visiting Mount Rigi .

Schilthorn offers 360 degree panoramic views of the Swiss skyline including the giants of the Bernese Oberland region – Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

At a height of 2970 m, Schilthorn is one of the highest peaks in the region located across the Lauterbrunnen valley from the famous Jungfraujoch . From the multiple viewing platforms, you get spectacular views of 200+ mountain peaks!

Famous for being the shooting location for a Bond movie, there are Bond motifs all over the mountain. Enjoy the photo booths and the trivia about Bond movies here.

Another landmark at Schilthorn is Piz Gloria, the famous rotating restaurant! Enjoy a meal while taking in views of the mountains around you.

Best time to visit Schilthorn: Year-round! Since Schilthorn is less touristy than Jungfraujoch, you can easily get tickets and enjoy the views with much fewer crowds

How to get to Schilthorn: Head to Stechelberg, near Lauterbrunnen and take the cable cars upto Schilthorn.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Schilthorn: Stop over at Brig for the thrilling cliff walk and at Murren to take a stroll through the charming car free village.

Where to stay to visit Schilthorn: Stay at Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken to make the easy trip to Schilthorn. We have (as usual!) visited this place as a day trip from Zurich.

See also: Where to stay near Schilthorn

Mount Titlis

Mount Titlis is always our recommendation to visitors asking for a snow capped mountain to discover in Switzerland.

Cheaper than most other attractions (I’m looking at you Jungfraujoch!) and just as spectacular, Mt. Titlis is a must-visit place in Switzerland.

At ~3200 m, Titlis is one of the highest mountains in Switzerland and is perpetually covered in snow. The landscapes from the top are absolutely breathtaking. There are multiple viewing areas which give you 360-degrees views of the mountains around.

The thrilling cliff walk is one of our favourite features at Mt. Titlis. Walk through the snow to get to the start of the cliff walk, and end it in an ice cave – could there be anything more fun!

Best time to visit Mt. Titlis: Open year round, Titlis is an amazing place to visit in any season – just make sure it’s a clear sunny day.

How to get to Mt. Titlis: Drive or take the train to Engelberg where the Titlis cable car station is located and take the gondolas up to the mountain.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Mt. Titlis: Discover the pretty village of Engelberg!

Where to stay to visit Mt. Titlis: Stay at Engelberg for a quick visit to Titlis or stay at Lucerne or Zurich and visit Titlis as a day trip. Guess our preferred way to visit Mt. Titlis – that’s right, a day trip from Zurich!

See also: Where to stay near Mt. Titlis

Read my guide to visiting Mount Titlis .

Harder Kulm

Interlaken’s own mountain, Harder Kulm offers views like no other – from the stunningly blue Brienzersee to the emerald blue Thunersee, with the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau in the background.

Located at 1300 m, Harder Kulm is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. Take in the spectacular views from the Zwei-Seen-Steg (Two-Lakes-Bridge) or from the castle-like restaurant next to it.

Best time to visit Harder Kulm: The gondola that takes you up to Harder Kulm operates from April to November. Avoid the peak July – August season if you’d rather not stand in queues.

How to get to Harder Kulm: The easiest mountain to reach, Harder Kulm is super easy to visit. Take the 10-minute cable car up from the gondola station located next to the Interlaken train station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Harder Kulm: Several panoramic hikes start from Harder Kulm, or if you’re not feeling too adventurous, head down to the town of Interlaken and take a stroll through the pretty streets.

Where to stay to visit Harder Kulm: Interlaken forms the perfect base location not just to visit Harder Kulm, but also to visit all the attractions in the Bernese Oberland region.

See also: Where to stay in Interlaken

Fronalpstock (& Stoos)

The world’s steepest funicular (with a 110 percent incline and covering ~740 metres altitude in just about 5 minutes!) brings you to the charming village of Stoos, located at the foot of the Fronalpstock mountain.

Stoos is a beautiful village that you can walk across in about 30 minutes.

Once you’ve explored the village, take the chair lift and head up to the mountain for some panoramic views and spectacular hikes. Located at ~1900 m Fronalpstock has several viewing platforms and hiking paths to take in the stunning views over Lake Lucerne and 9 other lakes!

We took our parents on a short hike at Fronalpstock and they loved it! We had panoramic views of Lake Lucerne throughout the hike, as well as tall Alpine peaks of central Switzerland in the background.

Best time to visit Stoos: Year round! Go in the summer for the beautiful hikes and in the winter for fun winter sports.

How to get to Stoos: If you’re driving, head to Stoosbahn to take the funicular up to the village. Using public transportation, head to Schwyz and take the bus to Stoosbahn.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Stoos: Explore the beautiful lakes of Lucerne or Zug nearby.

See also: Where to stay near Stoos

Switzerland’s best Waterfalls

Rhine falls.

Europe’s most powerful waterfall, the Rhine falls, are our go-to day trip for any visitors.

We’ve already been to Rhine Falls 5+ times already and every outing continues to amaze us! 

These falls are super easy to reach and are among the cheapest but most amazing places to visit in Switzerland !

There are multiple platforms built along the falls that give you an opportunity to see them up close. Standing in front of the gushing waterfall will leave you spell bound!

Best time to visit Rhine Falls: Rhine Falls remain open throughout the year. It’s equally wonderful to take in the falls with snow surrounding them in the winter as it is to visit in the summer. I’ve been there in April, June and July and have enjoyed myself every time. I’d still suggest Summer as the best time, preferably May to July to get the best views.

How to get to Rhine Falls: Rhine Falls are easily accessible by train or by road from Zurich/ Lucerne. If you’re using public transportation, head to Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall. A short walk (or an elevator ride) up from the station is the Schloss (German for castle) where the falls are located. If you’re driving, head to Parking am Schloss Laufen.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Rhine Falls: The charming town of Schaffhausen is located very close to the falls. Explore the wooden buildings and the beautiful painted facades in this historic town.

Where to stay to visit Rhine Falls: Zurich would make an excellent place to base yourself in to explore these falls.

See also: Where to stay near Rhine Falls

Read my detailed guide to visiting the Rhine Falls .

Trümmelbach Falls

One of the most unique waterfalls I’ve ever seen, Trümmelbach Falls are Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.

Set inside a mountain, these are a series of 10 waterfalls fed by the Jungfrau glaciers . Superb Swiss engineering allows you to access these falls through underground lifts and galleries.

Deafeningly roaring water will greet you as you go inside the caves to see these falls – you’ll feel awed and supremely tiny in the face of the waterfalls!

As amazing as these falls are, they are very difficult to capture on camera – the low lights and the sprays of water do not help.

Best time to visit Trümmelbach Falls: The falls are open to visitors from April to November and are very busy during July – August. 

How to get to Trümmelbach Falls: About a 5-minute drive from Lauterbrunnen you’ll see signs for Trümmelbachfälle. If you’re using public transportation, take the post bus from Lauterbrunnen.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Trümmelbach Falls: Hike back from the falls to Lauterbrunnen through the valley of 72 waterfalls! On the way, spend some time at the famous Staubbach Falls.

Where to stay to visit Trümmelbach Falls: Lauterbrunnen or Interlaken would be ideally suited for a visit to these falls (and multiple other places in the Bernese Oberland region!). You can also visit as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne.

See also: Where to stay near Trümmelbach Falls

Reichenbach Falls 

I’m not saying I sneaked this one into this list since I love Sherlock Holmes, but hey, who doesn’t love Sherlock Holmes, right?!

The famous Reichenbach Falls are the setting of Doyle’s ‘The Final Problem’ where Sherlock fights Moriarty to his death (albeit a temporary one since he was resurrected later!). You will find odes to the great detective everywhere near these falls, including a small museum!

While Reichenbach Falls are not the most spectacular of waterfalls in Switzerland, the sweeping views of the valley from the top make it worth a visit.

Best time to visit Reichenbach Falls: The Reichenbachfall-Bahn funicular operates from May to October

How to get to Reichenbach Falls: Head to the Meiringen railway station and take a bus to the Reichenbachfall-Bahn funicular, or drive directly to the funicular station.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Reichenbach Falls: Visit the spectacular Aare Gorge , located just a 10 minutes’ drive from Reichenbach Falls. The Aare Gorge is a stunning rock formation made by the Aare river eroding a series of rocks over thousands of years. There are a series of walkways inside the gorge to give you a close glimpse of this awe-inspiring geological phenomenon.

Where to stay to visit Reichenbach Falls: Base yourself at Meiringen or at Interlaken to visit most places in the Bernese Oberland region. Or, per my usual advice, visit as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne!

See also: Where to stay near Reichenbach Falls

the most Charming Swiss Cities & Towns

Zürich is a vibrant cosmopolitan city steeped in culture and history dating back 5000 years.

A beautiful river and a stunning lake surrounded by lush green hills add to the charm of this city.

I’ve called Zürich home for a few months now and can already understand why it ranks so highly on the list of cities with the world’s best quality of life. Head on to Zürich to discover for yourself and be prepared to be amazed at the plentiful opportunities (and mostly free ones!) for leisure, enjoyment and relaxation and the beautiful cultural and gastronomic diversity.

Every time I’m out in the old town of Zurich for shopping I’m tempted to take pictures and join the hordes of tourists doing the same! It’s just so pretty that I can’t help it!

Best time to visit Zürich: Any time! You can enjoy the beautiful Christmas markets and wonderful holiday season during the winter or come during summer for wonderful views and spectacular hikes.

See also: Where to stay in Zürich

Read my complete guide to Zurich, including things to do in every season, the best places to eat and stay at, and tips on getting around .

Lucerne is a fairy-tale like town, complete with charming cobbled streets, a stunning lake, snow peaked mountains and quaint buildings.

One of the most romantic places to visit in Switzerland , Lucerne will take your breath away!

From the charming old town to the famous Kapellbrücke, the Lion Monument, and the spectacular lake promenade, Lucerne has plenty of amazing sights to keep you engrossed in the town itself. 

Head on to the nearby mountains for panoramic views and opportunities for hiking (or skiing!).

Best time to visit Lucerne: Anytime! The beautiful town covered in snow looks just as magical as when it is covered in flowers! 

See also: Where to stay in Lucerne

Read my guide to Lucerne , including the best things to do, the best day trips to take and all the information you need to plan your trip to Lucerne!

Another fairytale-like (and charmingly car-free) town – inches of snow and the magnificent Matterhorn make Zermatt one of the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland.

Zermatt is a beautiful town located at an elevation of 1600 m, below the iconic Matterhorn . It’s a popular place for mountaineering, skiing and hiking. Or even a beautiful stroll in the town if you are the more laid back type.

We visited Zermatt on a day trip from Zurich (I know, ambitious right?!) and the 3 hours in the train to get there were tiring but worth it! The fresh air at Zermatt is enough to invigorate anyone! Plus, on the way back we decided to skip the regular route and took the Glacier Express route on a whim and it turned out to be a fantastic decision – we got to explore the beauty of the glaciers without paying the exorbitant ticket prices for the actual Glacier Express.

Best time to visit Zermatt: Anytime – Ski in the winter and hike in the summer!  Even if you are not into either of these activities, the views from taking various excursions such as the trains to Gornergrat or the cable car to Sunnegga, are worth a visit.

See also: Where to stay in Zermatt

Read my guide to the best things to do in Zermatt .

Let’s head to the Mediterranean side of Switzerland for a bit and take in Ascona, the pearl of Lake Maggiore!

Ascona is a historic village with a rich medieval and Renaissance history. As you stroll down the streets, you’ll be enthralled by the cultural and historic landmarks. The lakefront is my favourite place in Ascona – with colourful houses and cafes lining the promenade, it’s an amazing place to take a stroll in (and have some fantastic Italian food!).

We last visited Ascona during the winter and while there was snow everywhere on the drive from Zurich, Ascona was wonderfully bright and sunny ! (It’s another story that our car decided to make us extend our stay in the town by bursting one tyre! But hey, walking in a town is any day better than driving right?!)

Best time to visit Ascona: Anytime! The mild Mediterranean climate of Ascona means you’ll be able to enjoy sunny days whenever you visit.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Ascona: Visit the town of Locarno on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore. This is Switzerland’s warmest town and just as pretty as Ascona!

See also: Where to stay in Ascona

Continuing your sojourn in southern Switzerland, head to Lugano located on the shores of Lake Lugano.

The Swiss-Italian mix of cultures in everything, from the food to the architecture will charm you to no end!

Stroll around the historic town centre or take the funicular up to Monte Brè for sweeping panoramic views over the lake and the mountains.

We visited Lugano over a weekend when we were headed to Lake Como and loved the place so much that we’ve been itching to go back! Our love for the city has not been hampered much (well maybe just a bit!) by the hundreds of Swiss Francs we had to pay in fines for disobeying a red light (by the most minuscule amount, barely a fraction of a second!).

Best time to visit Lugano: Visit in spring to enjoy the flowers blooming everywhere, especially along the lake promenade

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lugano: Bellinzona famous for its historic castles or Lake Como which is just a ~45 minutes’ drive away.

See also: Where to stay in Lugano

One of the lesser known places in Switzerland, Lavertezzo is a picturesque village, also in southern Switzerland.

The unique stone buildings in the village give it a very historic, romantic charm .

My favourite feature of the place is the 17th century double-arched stone bridge Ponte dei Salti over the River Verzasca. This strikingly emerald-coloured river will make you question whether it’s possible to have such vivid colours naturally! Smooth, bright white rocks along the river add to its other-worldly charm and make for the perfect spots to sunbathe or relax after a swim.

Best time to visit Lavertezzo: Visit during the summer so you can take a dip in the beautiful river!

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lavertezzo: Ascona is located just about 30 minutes away from Lavertezzo so you can combine the two into a day trip!

See also: Where to stay in Lavertezzo

From the Italian speaking part of Switzerland, head next to the French speaking one! 

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) , Montreux is a beautiful town with postcard-perfect landscapes. Start exploring the town from the pretty lake promenade, lined with flowers, interesting sculptures and cafes. This is our favourite part of the town and we always end up spending hours here often walking all the way to the Chillon Castle.

Montreux is also the end/ start station for the Golden Pass train line , one of the must-do train journeys in Switzerland.

Best time to visit Montreux: Summer, to see the flowers in all their glory, as well as the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. The famous Montreux Jazz Festival is held in this season too.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Montreux: Located little over an hour away on the other side of the lake is the city of Geneva. Visit the beautiful lakefront and the famous fountain Jet d’Eau, the Flower Clock in the English Garden and the charming old town.

See also: Where to stay in Montreux

Lauterbrunnen

Heading back into the heart of Switzerland and the Swiss Alps, unarguably the most beautiful region of Switzerland – the Bernese Oberland.

The small, traditionally Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen is located in a huge valley, surrounded by tall mountains and gigantic rock faces. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known for its 72 (!) waterfalls and beautiful alpine meadows. Stroll through the valley and try to spot as many waterfalls as you can!

I’ve lost count of how many times we’ve driven through this village and every time the landscapes have made us look up in awe!

Lauterbrunnen is where you can base yourself at for most excursions in the Bernese Oberland region – Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald, Schynige Platte, Trummelbach Falls, and more!

Best time to visit Lauterbrunnen: Anytime! Summer opens up more opportunities for hiking and mountain visits though.

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Lauterbrunnen: Take your pick of any place to visit in the Bernese Oberland region!

See also: Where to stay in Lauterbrunnen

The capital city of Bern is severely underrated for how pretty a place it is!

Surrounded on 3 sides by the Aare river, Bern is a historically and culturally rich city.

The old town of Bern is breathtaking to walk through with its numerous fountains and beautiful sandstone facades. The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland!

Somehow all our trips to Bern have been when it’s been raining so all my memories of Bern include an umbrella! However, despite the bad weather, we’ve always enjoyed a stroll through the old town towards the elevated Rose Garden above the Bear Park.

Best time to visit Bern: All year round! 

Bonus feature to add to your trip to Bern: Bern is located in the heart of Switzerland and acts as the gateway to the Alps. Most places in the Bernese Oberland are within easy reach of the city. If you’re looking for something slightly different, make the ~1 hour journey to Gruyère and see cheese being made!

See also: Where to stay in Bern

Looking for more beautiful Swiss cities? Here’s a Basel city guide to inspire you!

Best places to visit in Switzerland on the map

Have you visited any of these places? Tell me about your experience!

Which place would you like to visit the most? Let me know in the comments below.

More information for your trip to Switzerland:

ITINERARY GUIDE: Travel guide to Switzerland | 5 days in Switzerland | Best time to visit Switzerland BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS: 25 best places to visit in Switzerland HIDDEN GEMS: 10 hidden gems in Switzerland TRAIN RIDES: The Golden Pass train line HIKES: Bannalpsee | Oeschinensee | Hike to Bachalpsee | Swiss Grand Canyon  |  Gornergrat hike  |  5 lakes hike LAKES : 7 most beautiful lakes in Switzerland | Lake Brienz | Melchsee-Frutt MOUNTAINS: Mount Titlis | Mount Rigi | Schynige Platte CITIES/ VILLAGES: Zürich | Zermatt  | Lucerne

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TRAVEL RESOURCES

Planning a trip? Here are some of my go-to travel resources to make it more efficient for you, while staying within budget!

ACCOMMODATION – Booking.com  is my favourite platform for hotel or apartment bookings. I love their map interface (I prefer to stay within walking distance of major attractions!) and they have an excellent customer service

FLIGHTS – I prefer to use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. I often use their monthly view of prices to decide my travel dates!

TOURS & ACTIVITIES – Get Your Guide  is my go-to choice for fun tours and activities. They have a wide range of options and a great interface.

TRAVEL INSURANCE –  Travel insurance is absolutely essential for all your international travels. I’ve been saved by it a few times when I fell sick while travelling and I swear by it since then! World Nomads is an excellent choice for travel insurance.

29 Comments

Loved reading this post as it brought back lovely memories of our visits to Switzerland. The country is a real treasure trove of nature and there is so much to see. We loved visiting Lucerne on a misty morning, it looked so ethereal. Our other favourites were Zermatt and Gornergrat. We also discovered some offbeat places like Rapperswil and Uster.

Goodness Smita you really have made the most of your time in Switzerland. You have been to sooooo many ridiculously beautiful places. I am so in love with all those crazy blue lakes!!

p.s. It made me smile that you booked to visit Gelmersee a couple of times before you made it there! I know what you mean about waking up early for adventures – it seems soooo hard when you actually wake up!

haha yeah Josy, somehow managed that! Can’t wake up early for the life of me!

Inspiring blog post and absolutely gorgeous photos. You had me at the Oeschinensee – I had never heard about this lake and really hope to visit it soon. Thank you for all the recommendations!

What a great round-up of places to see in Switzerland. I’ve never been, but would love to get there one day. It’s so beautiful!

Wow, look at those clear blue lakes and bright green landscapes, stunning! I’d love to visit Switzerland, especially after seeing your pics 🙂

Every single time I read your blog, I am amazed at the sheer stunning beauty of Switzerland! It is gorgeous. I am trying to talk my husband into taking our next vacation here, because of how beautiful it is.

Wow this is a great guide to Switzerland. I have been to some of them. Reminded of my visit to Rhine Falls from your lovely pictures. I would love to visit Bern again.

Oh my goodness, so many wonderful places to see in Switzerland. I haven’t been since I was a child and only went to Lucerne. I desperately need to visit some of these gorgeous lakes. I can’t imagine why Klontalersee was completely devoid of tourists. It is stunning! Oeschinensee is unbelievably beautiful also. I wouldn’t be able to go on the steep funicular to Stoos, as I’m not a fan of rollercoasters. How else can you get there?

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more organized and beautiful travel blog post as this one! Switzerland is a place we still want to visit, so this one hit my bookmarks folder!

Switzerland certainly has a lot to offer! When I was a kid, my parents used to take me to Bodensee in Konstanz, Germany to visit relatives. It’s right at the German-Swiss border, so we would take a boat to visit Switzerland on a day trip. Now whenever we drive down to Italy, we have to cross Switzerland. Last time we stopped in Lugano for 2 days and liked it a lot. But we should certainly visit Switzerland for a longer period since there are so many amazing towns and sceneries! And by the way, I was supposed to go to Bern for work last year. Now I kinda regret that I cancelled that work trip!

Switzerland is on my travel bucket list. The views are amazing.

Hello Smita,

Thank you very much for the great collection of 25 best places to visit in Switzerland with fantastic photos. You provided a lot of information in one post – more than I could digest at once LOL. I bookmarked your post to come back when I start planning my trip to Switzerland. You are absolutely right: the lakes and mountains views are jaw-dropping.

Cities are good, but I love nature more. I liked the wood sculpture you posted the picture of, in the town of Brienz. 🙂

I’ve been to Switzerland twice and I loved both cantons I have been too. wonderful country, beautiful, and calm.

I have always wanted to travel to Switzerland, but your photos literally just gave me such a huge case of FOMO! It’s legit so clean and picturesque that I cannot imagine being there to take in all that beauty in person. This was a pretty epic virtual tour and I must thank you for it.

It seems to be that Switzerland is all about glorious blue lakes and mountains, mountain, mountains. Would you ever get sick of visiting quaint towns with towering hills and turquoise waters? I don’t reckon so.

This is great – I grew up in Bern, Switzerland and have visited many of these, but certainly not all. There are loads of wonderful places in Switzerland, both in winter for skiing and in summer for hiking and exploring.

One thing to note if you go to Bern in the summer: bring a bathing suit! You can actually swim in the river Aare, looking at the government building while you float along the river. Pretty unique experience.

I studied at les roches in bluche and did my stage in Geneva, Fribourg and craans montana and can relate to all the writing and wonderful pics you have. This is an amazing write-up and your pics are wonderful.

I have spent some time in Lucerne and everywhere around it including Liechtenstein but really haven’t explored much of the rest of Switzerland. So when I was reading these best places to visit in Switzerland I realized I really need to go back and spend a good chunk of time preferably during the warmer months to really explore the outdoors there. I love hiking and backpacking so exploring all the lakes and those waterfalls would be right up my alley! Though I have to say the little kid in me LOVES funiculars for some reason so when you shared that Stoos has the most steep funicular in the world, that immediately jumped into my bucket list project!

I am a HUGE fan of Switzerland. Not just because my part of my family lives there, but the landscapes are absolutely stunning! I try to get there once a year and when I do, we go to Grindelwald for the weekend. The glaciers and mountains are just breathtaking.

Great places! Switzerland is among the places I’m dreaming to settle down.

You are so lucky. I would love to visit Switzerland! Yet, your review and pics make me feel like I’m already there

Awesome! Every place is so picturesque. I can’t even decide where to go first! Thank you for this write up, Switzerland is just amazingly beautiful. ?

As someone who skis I have always wanted to visit Switzerland and I recognize some of the names of these mountains like Schilthorn. I’ve only ever seen Switzerland covered in snow yet these photos of lakes and valleys are stunning. Your pictures are unreal. I hope to one day visit Switzerland.

All these look so picturesque! Especially Oeschinensee. So pretty

Absolutely stunning photos, how can you not fall in love?

You brought my memories back from my visit to this beautiful nation. I visited Switzerland back in 2011, been a long time; almost enough time to visit again.

Switzerland is amazingly beautiful. I have been there only once and have fallen in love with it.

These places in Switzerland are absolutely stunning and picture-perfect! How on Earth is so unfair?! You are so lucky to visit these beauties. The Bachalpsee is truly breathtaking.

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Gruezi, Hi! My name is Smita, a part-time traveller and a travel writer. So far I’ve been what you might call a serendipitous traveller! I got a chance to visit several amazing places more by chance than by design. I would love to put all my extensive travel planning to good use by sharing it with you and hope that these inspire you to visit all those famous, and not-so-famous locations! Read More

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How to have the best family vacation in Switzerland

Switzerland is a great destination for any traveler, but it’s no secret that it’s one of the most expensive countries to visit. If you’re a lone traveler, it’s easy to skimp on your trip like staying in hostels or walking as far as you can. But when you’re taking your whole family with you, the story is a little different. Keep scrolling to find out how to have the best family vacation in Switzerland!

Bringing along your kids or their grandparents can be tricky anywhere. However, with good planning and some helpful tips, even Switzerland can be an accessible, enjoyable, and definitely memorable destination for the whole family.

The Best Places to Visit in Switzerland with kids

Switzerland offers an endless list of attractions and activities. You can pretty much enjoy breathtaking scenery anywhere you look. Each city and town has its own unique twist to architecture, culture, and outdoor adventures. But if you have little ones in tow, some cities are more family-friendly than others.

Here are some of the best places to visit for some quality family time during your trip.

When it comes to Switzerland’s great cities, there’s always a bit of debate on which one to visit: Zurich or Geneva? While Zurich is exciting and offers great shopping, Geneva is just a little more peaceful, a little more mellow, and quite easier to manage when you’re traveling with the whole family.

If you’re traveling from another continent, Geneva will be an extremely convenient first stop since this is most likely where you will land in the country. After long hours of plane travel, the whole family deserves to take a breather.

Take everyone towards Lake Geneva and have a picnic. During the summer months, you can take a dip in the crystal-clear blue water. Surrounding the lake are many parks and gardens to explore on foot or with a rental bike if everyone knows how. Behind the lake are views of the Alps and there’s nothing better to welcome you to Switzerland.

There are many attractions around the city, but a visit to CERN will definitely let your kids’ imaginations go wild. There are many exhibits and tours at CERN that showcase the wealth of knowledge the center has discovered throughout the years. Most of the exhibits are interactive and will surely keep the kids busy the whole day.

Lucerne is a great destination to have a satisfying mix of city, Old Town, and the Alps. Historical landmarks like the Chapel Bridge and Museggmauer are extremely well-preserved, and a walk through the Old Town is easy enough to navigate even with eager children.

As nature would have it, Lucerne also has its own lake, Lake Lucerne. With this comes a whole slew of activities both on and off the water. Just like in Geneva, you will find many spots to just sit down and play by the shore of the lake. A very popular activity here is to take a tour via Paddle Steamer towards the other end of the lake and back. You can disembark at Brunnen for a quick tour before returning to the city, or simply enjoy the views and the experience.

Another great thing about making Lucerne your home base is how easy it is to visit other places from here. There are several day trips you can take from here to make the most out of its convenient location. There are several mountains to visit and most of the have easy and family-friendly hiking trails.

The best day trip you can take is to Jungfraujoch . As the highest train station in all of Europe, a trip to Jungfraujoch brings you to the heart of the Bernese Alps for the most impressive views you can imagine. There are several ways to reach the top, but the trip is well worth it. On top of the exhibits, attractions, displays, and shops, simply being that high up and almost eye level with Alpine peaks is an experience worth having.

If there’s one peak you need to see in Switzerland, it’s the Matterhorn – the country’s most iconic Alpine peak. If your family is the type that needs to be on the move all the time, Zermatt is an ideal location because there are simply so many things to do .

If your kids are still small, the best place to hang out will be at Sunnegga. The funicular ride takes less than five minutes from Zermatt and brings you to a sunny platform with perfect views of the Matterhorn. Directly at the site are playgrounds and barbecue areas, but you can also take a quick and easy hike to Leisee Lake. There is also a marmot-watching station for the kids to spot wild marmots trotting around the area.

If you have older and more active kids, you can have a bit more fun at Zermatt. There are countless trails you can take for a day hike through mountains or towards lakes. Skiing is also popular here around winter time and there are many slopes to try out for every skill level.

Interlaken is the heart of all outdoor activities in Switzerland. This is where adrenaline junkies go to jump off cliffs for paragliding, bungee jumping, mountain biking, skydiving, and the list goes on. While you may not have the same plans for your family, Interlaken is a beautiful town surrounded by beautiful mountains. It’s also a relatively small place, so it will be easier to explore.

The biggest draw of Interlaken is all the outdoor activities you can enjoy. A great place to take the kids is the Interlaken-Harder Alpine Game Park to see some Ibex and Marmots. Right next door is Harder-Kulm Cableway where you can sit and relax while enjoying the views of Lakes Brienz and Thun as well as the Jungfrau and Eiger peaks.

But if you don’t want to get too crazy on your adventures, the city itself has a lot to offer. Stroll through Hohenweg Promenade to look at shops and try out different restaurants. You can also marvel at the 13 th century buildings in the Old Town or visit several museums for a more educational trip.

Tips for having the best family holiday in Switzerland

There are so many options right now when it comes to accommodation. Choosing the right place for your family to stay depends on many factors. The first step is to determine the towns and cities you want to consider.

Switzerland is one of the safest countries you could be in, but some common sense and vigilance never hurt anyone. I still carry around a theft-proof backpack , even if some people think I am mad.

Once you’ve laid out your itinerary, weigh-in the pros and cons of staying at hotels, hostels, and AirBnBs . Look beyond the price and consider which factors will be most suited for your family.

Taking advantage of Swiss train passes

Just like anywhere in Europe, the best way to travel is by train. It’s easy, always on time, and you can get yourself to any city in Switzerland within just an hour or two. Most importantly, train rides offer scenic views of the lakes, mountains, and include lots of fun tunnels. While you can’t do everything in one trip, traveling by train is an excellent way to take in as much of Switzerland as you can.

Train rides can be expensive, but the key is getting the right pass for you and your family. The first thing you need to do is plan your itinerary to know which pass will be the best to use. If you have the patience to get into the details, you can sum up regular ticket prices between all your destinations and compare it to all the applicable discounts and passes. Unfortunately, not everyone can do that, so here’s a general overview of train passes you can take advantage of.

The most popular one and so far most convenient is the Swiss Travel Pass. Not only does it cover unlimited transportation via rail, bus, or ferry, it also provides free or discounted entrance fees to museums and attractions. It’s great for spontaneous travelers that do last minute bookings, or for families that plan a lot of traveling. For those under 26 years old, they can get a Swiss Travel Youth Pass with the same benefits but at a discounted price. Children up to 5 years old also get to travel along for free.

But if you won’t be covering a lot of ground, perhaps consider the Swiss Half Fare Card. As the name suggests, it gives you a 50% discount on transportation tickets and children up to 5 years old can still travel along for free. It’s valid for one month and if your itinerary involves short trips, it might turn out cheaper than the Swiss Travel Pass.

If your kids are aged between 6 and 15, they can travel along for free with the Swiss Family Card. The parents need a Swiss Travel Pass or a Swiss Half Fare Card for the kids to get a free ride, but the Swiss Family Card is free of charge.

There are still many other kinds of rail passes you can try, but the Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Half Fare Card are a good start.

How to eat without breaking the bank in Switzerland

Food in Switzerland is always fresh and high quality. The dishes are also as diverse as its regions. The country also has some of the best restaurants in the world and you wouldn’t want to miss out. Unfortunately, it’s very expensive, especially when you’re traveling as a family. A meal at a fastfood chain will cost you around 10 euros, and double or more when you go out to a proper restaurant. 

The best way to make mealtimes affordable but still satisfying is to go direct to the supermarkets. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to whip up dishes yourself. Most of the supermarkets have a take-away section where you can bring home prepared dishes. Look out for Migros, Coop, Aldi and Lidl. They’re everywhere in Switzerland and will give you many options no matter how picky your kids may get.

If you do eat out, there are still several ways to bring the bill down. Most restaurants have lunch specials so you can enjoy the same good food at a cheaper price. Also consider dining at ethnic and Asian restaurants as their servings are generally larger. If you’re staying at a hotel, consider taking advantage of their hotel menus. Sometimes these turn out to be cheaper than standalone restaurants.

Making the most out of your family holidays in Switzerland 

Taking a trip with the whole family is both exciting and daunting. Experiencing different parts of the world with the people you love most spells a world of difference from visiting destinations by yourself. It will be stressful to prepare and do everything with everyone, especially little kids, in tow, but taking time to plan ahead as much as you can will give make the trip easier on everybody. Leave a little room for some flexibility, figure out what you want to do as a family, and just enjoy the special time you have in Switzerland.

This post was written by…

Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. Although she has traveled the world, she now calls Switzerland home and spends her time writing about her experiences  on her travel blog  with her husband. 

Hi, We are 4 from Spain. I, my spouse and two kids of age 12 and 6. We are planning to fly to Geneva, stay one night there, and next day leave for Interlaken and the following day from Interlaken to Lake Como and then returning back to Geneva to get our return flight. It would be 3 night and 4 days trip. Any suggestion please, especially regarding travelling. How it would be most economical?? Please share your knowledge. Thanking you in advance. Best Regards

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Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, best places to visit in switzerland with kids.

• By Amy Andrews
• February 7, 2018

Spectacular snow capped peaks, a world-class train system and a reassuring sense of safety make a Switzerland vacation an ideal family travel destination. But with so much beautiful scenery and so many picturesque towns and villages, where exactly should you go? And how do you make the beauty resonate when visiting Switzerland with kids? We’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation with a weeklong itinerary that will give you a true taste of all (the chocolate!) that Switzerland has to offer.

We suggest pairing a few days in your “fly-in” city (usually Zurich , Geneva or Basel) with four days  in a Swiss Alps mountain destination — of which there are plenty. Switzerland wins the Alpine prize, with 48 peaks spread over 4,000 meters. This approach will allow you to tick the boxes on iconic sights while leaving ample time to appreciate the stunning vistas with a minimum of fuss.

Favorite Places to Visit in Switzerland with Kids

Days 1-3: zurich.

Most visitors will fly into Zurich , and it makes an ideal home base for the beginning of your trip. Two days in Zurich will give you a great sense of the city. Start on Bahnhofstrasse, brimming with luxury boutiques and watch shops and known as one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world. Then amble around the medieval Altstadt (Old Town). Kids will enjoy the Muhlestag footbridge, famous for its love locks, and going on a scavenger hunt for potable water at more than 1,000 fountains. Hint: look in the pretty squares, and make sure to carry an empty water bottle!

Art lovers will want to stop into Fraumünster (Church of Our Lady) to see the Chagall windows. Visit in the morning for the best light and bring paper to let your kids imitate his swirling romantic style. Nearby, the twin towers of the Grossmünster cathedral, one of Zurich’s landmarks, offer great city views from the top.

Stop in for lunch at Sternen Grill, famous for its sausages and boasting the crowds to prove it. For an authentic Swiss chocolate experience, Lindt offers occasional classes at the Lindt Chocolate Workshop in Zurich, but you must book in advance as they often sell out. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Limmat River. Or better yet, visit Schwimmbad Oberer Letten, a traditional swimming area along the Limmat. Act like a local and pack a picnic to enjoy along the banks.

For your second day, slightly outside the Altstadt are several interesting areas that offer a distinctly different flavor than the cobblestoned center of Zurich. Teens will particularly enjoy wandering around the edgier, design-driven shops built under the railroad tracks at Im Viadukt; its food hall offers a bounty of local specialties. Adjacent Frau Gerolds Garden is a kitschy hangout constructed from large shipping containers. On a pretty day, sit outside and enjoy the garden and vibe. It’s one of the funkier travel destinations in Switzerland.

Take a 5-minute cable car ride to Felsenegg for unbeatable views of Europe. Go just for the views or stay for lunch at the restaurant. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, instead check out Alpamare, the biggest indoor water park in Europe. It offers something for everyone, from kid-friendly zero-depth entry pools to a vast array of slides and water features. We don’t know any children who turn down a water park while on a family holiday!

At dinnertime, venture to Jura Blick for fondue, an authentic Swiss dining experience in the forest. It’s an easy train ride away on the S10 to the top of Uetliberg and then a 20-minute walk down the mountain. Don’t forget to make a reservation.

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On day three, we suggest an easy day trip to Lucerne or the Swiss capital of Bern (each is under an hour train ride). In Lucerne, don’t miss the picturesque Kappelbrücke bridge spanning the Reuss River, the charming Lion of Lucerne carving, or simply a stroll along the shores of Lake Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s spectacular crystal clear lakes. You might even consider a trip up Mount Pilatus to enjoy the views. In Bern, soak up the atmosphere of its UNESCO-listed medieval center, filled with shops, cafes and fountains.

TIP : We also love the French part of Switzerland, and if you fly into Geneva, you can easily make this the home base for the first part of your stay. If you go this route, explore Geneva itself as you get acclimated. Conquer jetlag by spending a leisurely day or two enjoying the views of Lake Geneva, which is always a hit on a family vacation. And then branch out to Lake Léman (Western Europe’s largest lake), the UNESCO-protected Lavaux wine region, Creux-du-Van (the Swiss version of the Grand Canyon) and perhaps even a jaunt to Gruyeres for their famed fondue.

Days 4-7: Jungfrau Region

To explore the Jungfrau Region , home to Switzerland’s highest and most breathtaking mountain peaks, make Interlaken your base; it’s centrally located, has a major train station, and the easiest transport connections. The Jungfrau area is part of the eastern Bernese Alps and is anchored by the 13,000-foot Jungfrau (Maiden) peak, as well as Monch (Monk) and Eiger (Ogre), with deep glacial valleys in between. In the immediate vicinity, there are several quintessential mountain villages to explore. Activities are varied and plentiful but shift noticeably based on time of year.

Upon arrival, stroll down Höheweg, the main promenade connecting Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost. Stretch your legs in the flower gardens and parks as you look toward the Alps, then check out the shops and cafes that line the other side of the street. Kids flock to Funky Chocolate Club, where they can taste, create and decorate their own Swiss chocolates. Trips to Switzerland are never complete without lots of chocolatey indulgence, after all.

Then, depending on the season, try your hand at kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Thun or Brienz, or spend the afternoon at the extensive Ice Magic rinks on Höheweg.

Devote one day to taking the Jungfrau Railway up to the Jungfraujoch , the highest train station in Europe at 11,000 feet. A highlight here is the view of the Aletsch glacier, the longest in the Alps. It almost goes without saying that the views here are hard to beat; just remember to dress accordingly, as the Jungfraujoch is encased in ice and snow year-round.

For the remainder of the week, pick and choose from these dreamy enclaves and attractions, clustered a stone’s throw south of Interlaken:

Grindelwald is a mountain resort town famed for its extensive skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. If heights don’t test your nerves, amaze friends with pics taken at First Cliff Walk, a crazy-high pedestrian suspension bridge and viewing platform.

Sunny Wengen , accessible only by train, is a storybook Alpine village surrounded by more than 60 miles of skiable terrain. Enjoy the atmosphere and lunch at the crowd-pleasing Da Sina.

Car-free Murren  is another fabled destination, with expansive views of the region’s peaks and valleys. Take a 20-minute cable car to the top of the Schilthorn for breakfast in the revolving restaurant (featured in the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service ). Then ski or toboggan down from the top in winter or hike down in summer. Families will particularly enjoy the welcoming Allmendhubel Flower Trail and flower-themed playground, as well as the panoramic restaurant.

See our collection of favorite family hotels in Switzerland

Our full list of tried and tested places to stay in every area of the country with kids >

Nearby Gimmelwald is another Alpine dot on the map known for its skiing and hiking. Note that this village is only accessible by cable car or on foot.

Trummelbach Falls (accessible in summer only) are a fun stop with school-age kids and up. You’ll be overcome by the sheer force of the 20,000 liters of water that drain each second from the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau peaks from within the mountain. There are serious stairs to contend with, and we do not suggest taking little ones, as it can be dark and slippery. Bring cash, as no credit cards are accepted for entry.

Home to only a few thousand people, quaint  Lauterbrunnen  lies in the valley amid the region’s highest peaks. The valley contains more than 70 waterfalls, the highest being Staubbach Falls. Head toward Murren and stop in at the scenic Winteregg Mountain Restaurant for a lunch of Swiss favorites. The views are terrific, and if the weather is conducive, you can sit outside and the kids can play games or jump on the trampoline.

With More Time

If you have a few extra days when you visit Switzerland, spend them in the Jungfrau Region. Consider visiting these spots in and around the area:

The Swiss Open-Air Museum at Ballenberg celebrates Swiss heritage. Take a step back in time amid this pastoral setting and see what a traditional village would have looked and sounded like. Kids will enjoy the petting zoo and a glimpse of people in traditional dress at work in different capacities around the property.

Chateau d’Oberhofen, located on the banks of the Thunersee near the town of Thun, is a classic example of a Swiss castle and dates back to 1200 A.D. Book a travel guide and take a tour and enjoy some of the most beautiful gardens in the region.

Seilpark Interlaken is a vast ropes park that offers nine courses with over 120 challenges for those who enjoy vertical thrills. An engaging option for teens, Seilpark also organizes rafting, paragliding, sky diving, canyoning and scenic flights. Check the website before you go, as they are in the midst of rebuilding after storm damage.

TIP : For families who truly want to settle into an Alpine escape, we also love Zermatt as an alternative to the Jungfrau Region. Home to the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a year-round paradise, enticing families with its car-free atmosphere, extensive ski program for all ages and fully operational gondola system. It is a bit more isolated than the Jungfrau Region, but offers a decidedly different perspective on Switzerland’s natural beauty — there is a reason that it’s world-famous.

Have we convinced you that Switzerland is perfect for traveling with children? Contact one of our travel advisors to help you put together a customized vacation package based on the ages and interests of your family. Whether you want to road trip or get around by train, spend more or less time in the mountains versus cities, we can work with you to create a Switzerland tour as dreamy as the landscape that surrounds you.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Switzerland

Five things to do in and around Luzern, Switzerland with kids

Kid-friendly hiking on the Children’s Adventure Trail in Mürren, Switzerland

Switzerland with kids must-do activity: Jungfrau Railway to the Top of Europe

WOW attraction alert: Trümmelbach Falls

Navigating skiing in Zermatt with kids

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Hi, I’d love to visit Interlaken as per your input above but I don’t see a hotel recommendation from you for somewhere to stay there. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks, Stacey

Hi Stacey – We maintain a list of vetted hotels that are ideal for families…one of our Family Travel Advisors can help and will reach out in email to follow up. Happy travels!

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VISIT SWITZERLAND WITH KIDS: TOP FIVE MUST SEE TOWNS FOR FAMILIES

Posted on Published: December 7, 2020

Home » Blog » VISIT SWITZERLAND WITH KIDS: TOP FIVE MUST SEE TOWNS FOR FAMILIES

Exploring Switzerland with kids is a dream for families who want to be outdoors exploring and adventuring – or indoors sampling fondu. Switzerland has some of the best skiing trails in the world and a myriad of exquisite hiking trails perfect for active families, and the views….ahhhh. It’s also a great country to visit if you have no interest in burning calories – after all, this is the cheese and chocolate capital of the continent.

Whether you’re looking to dip food in chocolate fountains or go on wild family adventures, you can do so in one of these top five family-friendly destinations in Switzerland!

Before you go:

• Check out these five top things you need for travel
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Nestled between two vast lakes, the resort town of Interlaken makes an excellent destination for a family trip. With an abundance of hiking trails to explore and lakeside activities to enjoy, any time spent here will be full of happiness and laughter.

Canoeing and rafting will take up most of your day, or you can bring your own inflatable kayak or stand up paddle board. But, if you venture just a little outside the charming town, you will find the Interlaken Adventure Park (Seilpark) . The place is popular for its zip lines and treetop bridges, which are fun for both kids and adults.

In case you find yourself longing for a little peace and quiet, the Höhematte park is where you should head. The vast grassy marks makes an amazing picnic spot, with picturesque mountain views everywhere you look.

A trip to Jungfrau Park is also a must for adrenaline-loving families. It’s open only in the summer though, but it’s certainly worth it to plan your trip around it. Take your kids to Mysty Land, a play area with bouncy castles, climbing towers, ball pits and more than a dozen other fun activities – you’ll have a hard time convincing them it’s time to go home. You can also do a day trip to the top of Jungfrau – it looks amazing.

Check out everything to do in Interlaken here.

Where to stay:

Accommodation here is not cheap, but it is beautiful and it’s all part of the experience.

The Boutique Hotel Bellevue is right on the river Aare and all rooms have balconies overlooking the river and mountains for around $340 AUD per night. It’s in an excellent location and the rooms are lovely.

A triple room at the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof will set you back $199 AUD, and they have rooms for five people if you have a larger fam for around $290 with breakfast.

The newly opened Hey Hotel looks gorgeous and has family rooms for up to five people starting from $249 or $340 with breakfast.

You can find more Interlaken accommodation here .

Although the largest Swiss city might not be at the top of your list of family friendly destinations in Switzerland, it certainly deserves a spot there. With an abundance of fun things to do here – like visiting wineries and cruising on Zurich Lake – the entire family will enjoy their time in Zurich.

And do you know what else is on the menu when you’re in Zurich? All the chocolate you can possibly eat! It’s no secret that Switzerland is one of the largest producers of chocolate in the world, and Zurich is home to all the best shops including Laderach (my favorite), Sprungli and Lindt. Take your kids on a chocolate-tasting tour of the city, or take them to a workshop where you can all make chocolates together (offered by Laderach) – it will be both fun and delicious for everyone.  You can even visit the outlet shop at the Lindt factory in the suburbs of Zurich and take home some bargains!

And last but not least, if your kids are interested in time, why not indulge in a little watch history at the Beyer Watch Museum right in downtown Zurich. After all, what better place to learn about watches than Switzerland?

Check out all the activities in Zurich here.

For stays in the city take a look at CitizenM Zurich and Hotel City Zurich, and  for some wishful thinking check out Baur au Lac.

You can see all the Zurich hotels and check prices here.

If you’re visiting Lucerne in the winter months, you have a unique opportunity to take your family on a dog-sledding ride . It’s an incredibly fun activity that both the kids and the parents will love, and it’s certainly an exciting way to spend an afternoon.

Not only do you get to experience the joys of being pulled by a pack of strong huskies, but you can also make friends with the fluffy dogs. Visitors are often encouraged to give the huskies belly rubs and hugs, so we have a feeling your little ones will especially love this activity.

And if you’d prefer to stay in the city, you can always head to the Nature Museum . The permanent exhibits include minerals and crystals, insects and stuffed animals, while temporary exhibits have been known to feature some live animals as well! Your kids will love the gorgeous butterflies, while you admire the impressive wild boars – a visit to the museum is just what you need if you want to keep your trip educational!

And if you’d like a day of pampering take the train up to Mount Rigi and enjoy time in the natural mineral spa baths.

Take a look at all the activities in Lucerne here  and find where to stay in Lucerne here.

At the foot of the Matterhorn lies a town known for its gorgeous nature and luxurious hotels. Zermatt is one of the places in Switzerland that attracts people of all ages because it has so much to offer. From exciting ascents of the Matterhorn to thrilling treasure hunts – whether you want to enjoy your time with the kids or leave in the hands of someone you can trust, Zermatt is the place to go.

Zermatt even has a mascot that kids adore – Wolli the Blacknose sheep. He visits the town every Monday in the summer and loves meeting the youngest adventurers! He can even take the entire family on an educating hike, where you not only explore wonderful trails, but also learn about the climate phenomena.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can have heaps of fun just skiing and snowboarding. This resort town is known for some of the best skiing trails in the country, and an adventurous family will hardly get bored of them.

Check out everything to do in Zermatt here and where to stay in Zermatt here.

Lying on the banks of Lake Geneva, Montreux is often overlooked in favor of Geneva that’s just on the other side of the massive lake. But when talking about family friendly fun in Switzerland, we’d take Montreux over Geneva any day!

For one thing, Freddie Mercury owned an apartment here that you can actually rent. And you can take the entire family on a Queen studio experience – some quality music is always fun for the family!

You should also head south to Chillon Castle in Veytaux – it is absolutely spectacular and it looks and feels like something straight out of a fairytale. While parents can appreciate the exquisite architecture and rich history, kids can have fun roaming around the vast castle grounds and living out their own fairytales.

Another thing you’ll love about Montreux is the proximity of the wilderness. There’s a wildlife refuge just a few minutes outside city proper, with a plethora of hiking trails to explore. Enjoy scenic views of waterfalls, admire the gorgeous flora or just find a spot on one of the extensive plains and make it a fun-filled family day!

Check out where to stay in Montreux here.

About the author:

Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. She now calls Switzerland home and spends her time writing about her experiences on Expert World Travel .

And if you’re feeling nervous about travelling check out our comprehensive family travel safety guide  HOLIDAY SAFE: The complete guide to staying safe when traveling with kids  It has everything you need to know about traveling safely on our family holiday or extended trip.

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Switzerland with Kids – 10 Places Swiss Families Love

Are you thinking of visiting Switzerland with kids? We love traveling with our son and we have visited this alpine country with him a few years ago. Switzerland is a veritable gem bursting at the seams with amazing nature and beautiful cities. But if you have limited time, how could you possibly know where to begin exploring?

Well, I hope to have solved this dilemma for you. I reached out to a fellow blogger, Augusta, who is Swiss. Along with other local moms, Augusta runs a family travel blog called MiniMeExplorer. Their blog is chock full of information about family travel with a focus on Switzerland with kids. Without further ado, I give the floor to Augusta.

Switzerland with Kids

My name is Augusta and I’m Swiss, born and bred. I live in Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland. Let me tell you about it in a nutshell. Ticino is filled with snow-capped mountains, palm trees, Italian food and language, and add to that Swiss efficiency.

My family have been living here for generations, so I’m Swiss down to the bone. And I have a secret to share with you about the Swiss. Living surrounded by mountains, we don’t necessarily seek out alpine landscapes when we travel around our own country.

Do not make the mistake, however, to think that we don’t love mountains. We do, big time! The truth is that most Swiss families own a cottage in the mountains, usually under a 90-minute drive from home.

How shocked would you be if I told you that I have never seen the Matterhorn? And while I visited St. Moritz a few times I never actually liked it. Also, Grindelwald seemed to me like a big tourist trap. And, no – I’m not really planning on riding the Glacier Express. Neither are my friends.

So what do Swiss people like? I asked a few friends – those who have young kids – and we have come up with this list of our top 10 beloved Swiss places.

10 places beloved by Swiss families:

1 – basel.

Not many people think of Basel as their main destination when visiting Switzerland with kids, as it is so un-Swiss. Why do I say that? Well, there’s not a mountain in sight in the surrounding area, the landscape is flat and boring. What you will find here, however, is plenty of amazing museums – and most of them are kid-friendly. I highly recommend for families to visit the Tinguely Museum . Jean Tinguely was an avant-guard Swiss sculptor, famous for his artistic perfomances and his kinetic machines . You can see these in this museum and they are a big hit among children of all ages. Some of these machines can be activated by pushing a button, others kids can climb onto. Perfect for curious children!

2 – Bellinzona

Why choose one Swiss castle when you can have three? Bellinzona, in the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland, is home to three UNESCO-listed castles: Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro. Montebello is the most amazing of the three, with its ancient draw-bridge and merlons. Medieval walls connect the castles, and you can walk on them.

In addition to castles, another highlight I should mention has to do with food. You can sign up for a salami-making class in one of the castles. A butcher will share with you all his tips and tricks and once you’re done it is time to part with your salami… It will be placed in a special cellar and left there to age for a few months. Once the sausage is aged to perfection, it will then be shipped to your home. As you can see, there are many different reasons to come to Bellinzona when you visit Switzerland with kids.

3 – Bern

How about a hike not far from the city? Nothing strenuous, no incline, no mountains… but I can guarantee amazing landscapes. I’m thinking of Meiringen, the place where the fictional Sherlock Holmes met his end, falling off a cliff in front of a waterfall. Here you can combine the sight of a majestic waterfall ( Reichenbach Falls ) and a 1.5 km hike along the Aare river gorge , with its narrow passages and suspended platforms. After the hike, if you are hungry, you can have a merengue or two. In fact, they were invented in Meiringen, hence the name. I bet you didn’t know that!

4 – Viamala

Another great point to add to your Switzerland with kids itinerary is Viamala. Viamala is not a town or city but a road in the Grisons area, close to the town of Thusis. Viamala means Bad Path . Its ominous name refers to a narrow and dangerous Roman mule track which ran right by a deep gorge. In fact, in the past, many travelers had lost their lives on this path. It is now a destination in its own right. You can descend deep into the gorge by using stairs, concrete walkways, tunnels and by walking under natural overhangs. The best part of it is the fascinating scavenger hunt for kids aged 7-12. Please note that it is not accessible with strollers.

5 – Lucerne

Everyone loves Lucerne, and for good reason. In the first place, there’s an incredibly well-preserved medieval centre with an ancient wooden covered bridge . There is also an impressive Dying Lion Monument , a Glacier Garden and a mirror labyrinth . However, our favourite thing in Lucerne, is the amazing Swiss Museum of Transport , which happens to be the country’s most-visited museum. It is highly interactive and you can learn all you possibly need to know about mobility and transport – be it road, rail, water or air. There’s also a planetarium and a section dedicated to space travel (my son’s favourite).

6 – St. Gallen

If you are planning a holiday to Switzerland with kids, you cannot miss this place. Just about 20 minutes away from the medieval city of St. Gallen, there’s a perfect place to learn a very important Swiss craft: the art of chocolate – making . In the village of Flawil you can visit the Maestrani chocolate factory and museum. You should sign up online (and beforehand) for one of their delicious workshops . We chose the one which allows you to create and decorate your very own chocolate bar. It was a big hit with my son! By the way: their chocolate is delicious!

7 – Furka Ice Cave

Well, the name says it all. While I have not yet taken my son there, it is one of my fondest childhood memories. You will find it by driving on the Furka Pass road , near the Belvedere Hotel, at an altitude of about 2 400 metres above sea level. This cave is man-made and it is “cut” every year inside the Rhone glacier. I will never forget the sight of it: a long deep blue ice tunnel that ends with an equally blue ice grotto . You can only visit this place in the summer, though – as the road is closed in winter.

8 – Lausanne

Don’t miss this city when visiting Switzerland with kids. Lausanne lies in the French-speaking area of Switzerland and is our fourth largest city and home to the International Olympic Committee as well as the Olympic Museum. My suggestion, however, has nothing to do with sports. But it does have to do with water. I am referring to the brand new sweetwater aquarium in Lausanne. Why visit this place? The reason is simple: it is the largest sweetwater aquarium in Europe , with over 10 000 fish, reptiles and amphibians and even… Komodo dragons! And pay special attention to the architecture: the building is covered with tiny glittering tiles which look like fish scales. It’s truly spellbinding.

9 – Zurich

Zurich is our largest city and it has really a lot to offer, so it is always difficult to pick a single sight to recommend… First, I must mention my son’s very favourite thing. It is the FIFA World Football Museum . This museum is perfect for everyone, even if you are not crazy over football. In fact, we especially loved the interactive upper floor. When we were there, we each received a card with the name of a footballer. Then, we could test our football skills in many different “positions”. It is fun to watch adults acting like kids. Furthermore, a nother gem in Zurich is the old Urania Observatory. Here, there are free guided tours for kids on the first Saturday of the month (in German only, though). As you can see, Zurich is a must-visit when you come to Switzerland with kids – be they big or small.

10 – Stoos

The tiny car-free village of Stoos, in Canton Schwyz , is a perfect destination for every season: hiking in summer, skiing in winter. Getting there is part of the fun, as you will be riding the steepest funicular in the world , and the cabins look like huge beer barrels. So definitely expect amazing mountain landscapes and views. My favourite time to visit is in late spring, where we enjoy walking the experience trail along the Teufb ö ni Moor . It is full of surprises and activities for children. There is even a scavenger hunt there, too.

The above list of ten places come highly recommended by me and my friends for a perfect experience in Switzerland with kids. This way you can enjoy our country like a local.

Final Word about Switzerland with Kids

I want to give sincere thanks to Augusta for putting together this great list of top ten places preferred by Swiss families. There is nothing better than a recommendation by a local. So when you plan your holiday to Switzerland with kids, take into consideration Augusta’s and her friends’ great ideas listed above. And if you know anyone who’s planning a family holiday in this alpine country, please share this post with them. If you have any questions for Augusta, please ask them in comments below.

Buon viaggio!

Bea Cińska is the voice behind PackYourBags.org. She has a weakness for good books and strong espresso. When not chewing on pencils while writing, she can be found exploring the world.

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This is such a great post! I’ve only ever passed through Switzerland but always wanted to visit properly. I don’t have kids, but I do have a sweet tooth and I love hiking, so I will be adding a lot of the suggestions in this post to my travel wish list!

Is Switzerland expensive with kids? I have only been for 5 days solo and it was quite pricey but sooo magical. When I have kids, I’d love to take them, but only when they’re old enough to remember haha. These things would be great for both kids, and fun-loving adults!

I think Switzerland is more expensive in general when compared to the neighbouring countries but it can still be visited with kids in affordable way. For example, if visiting in the summer, camping is a great option.

Switzerland is amazing so stunning and scenic and you’re right it really is child friendly as there are a lot of diverse things to do

Thank you for sharing this! I’m planning to go to Switzerland soon 🙂

Enjoy your trip to Switzerland!

[…] 10 Places Swiss Families Love – Pack Your Bags […]

This is on my travel list for summer of 2020 and it looks beautiful! Cannot wait to visit and will be using some of your tips above. Thank you!

You’ll love Switzerland!

I don’t have kids but I still find so many of these activities fun, like the ice tunnel, very cool. I appreciate guides like this because hopefully I’ll have kids in the next few years and I love seeing that there are lots of great travel options with them.

Yes, the ice tunnel sounds amazing.

Ooh Switzerland is on my bucket list!!! Specifically Bern, thanks for all the helpful tips!

We’d like to visit Bern as well. Augusta’s guest post has really opened our eyes for how much there is to do with kids in Switzerland.

Switzerland is high up on my bucket list. I hope to visit this incredible destination soon. I had always thought of it to be a place with snow capped mountains, thanks for making me know there is so much more to it.

Yes, it’s such an amazing country. Hope you get to visit soon.

I’m trying to wrap my head around the idea of a combination of Italian language/part of its culture, mixed with Swiss officiancy. Do the two kind of butt heads at all? Great list of things to do though! I didn’t know that people in the Italy-adjacent part of Switzerland spoke Italian!

Yes, there are actually four languages spoken in Switzerland: Italian, German, French and the lesser known Romansh.

Switzerland is such an amazing country! I didn’t know Basel was where the Sherlock Holmes story where he met his end took place! I loved Lucerne. Such a gorgeous place. I really want to visit Zurich. It sounds like a neat city, especially the football museum.

Switzerland definitely has a lot of hidden gems and no shortage of places to discover.

Switzerland has always been my dream destination. Can’t wait to explore it now!!

It is a beautiful country!

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9 Switzerland hikes that offer views you have to see to believe

Dec 1, 2022 • 11 min read

Matterhorn is the mountain you can’t stop gawping at, one of many highlights on Switzerland's best hiking trails © wilpunt / Getty Images

In Switzerland , the mountains call. One look at this ravishing land of skyscraping peaks, glaciers, forests and lakes of piercing blue will have you itching to sling on a backpack, zip up to the heights and hit the trail.

You certainly won’t be alone. The Swiss seem to be born with one leg up a mountain – which means hiking is the fast track to the nation’s nature-loving soul. This being Switzerland, even the trails leading you deep into the country’s wildest, remotest corners are diligently marked, and almost every inch of the country is precisely mapped. 

Switzerland? Little? Not for hikers it isn’t. As the Swiss delight in reminding you, the country’s 62,500km (38,836 miles) of trails would be enough to wrap around the globe 1.5 times. Alpine hikers fall hard for the high-level trails in the Bernese Oberland and Graubünden , which notch up the challenge and floor you with phenomenal scenery. Yet lowland areas like the vineyards of Valais and the gently rolling hills of Appenzell are equally atmospheric and accessible virtually all year long.

Picking Switzerland’s best hikes is kid-in-a-candy-shop stuff. Still, here are nine favorites to whet your appetite.

1. Faulhornweg

Best day hike 15km (9.3 miles) one way, 5 hours, moderate

Mother Nature pulled out all the stops in the Bernese Oberland, and the Faulhornweg might be the best day hike to take it all in. This moderately challenging ridge hike throws you in the scenic deep end. Beginning and ending on a high, you’ll take in the full glittering sweep of Lakes Thun and Brienz as you trudge from Schynige Platte to First, and colossal peaks like the dagger-shaped Wetterhorn and the big three of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau . 

Navigation-wise, the trail is easy enough to follow. From Schynige Platte, the walk eases you in gently, heading over rolling pastures before rising more abruptly to scree slopes, boulder-strewn passes and high moors. You’ll make a steeply rising traverse along a broad ledge between stratified cliffs to the ridge of Winteregg, before turning off to the summit of 2681m (8796ft) Faulhorn. Here you’re in for a treat, with 360-degree views reaching across a sea of mountains to the Black Forest in Germany and Vosges in France on clear days. Keep an eye out for marmots as you descend to the grassy basin of the Bachalpsee, where a steel-blue lake contrasts starkly with the ice-shrouded peaks of Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn. 

2. Lakes of Macun

Best hike in a national park 22km (14 miles) one way, 8 hours, moderate

For a glimpse of the Swiss Alps before the dawn of tourism, there’s no place like the nature-gone-wild  Swiss National Park in  The Engadine in Graubünden, where Switzerland muscles its way into Italy. Squished into a remote corner of the country’s southeast, this off-the-radar national park punches high on every level. It’s often so silent that the only sound you’ll hear is that of your own footsteps.

Of all the trails threading through the wilds, this demanding full-day hike from Lavin to Zernez has the edge, weaving up to the glacial cirque of Macun, necklaced with almost two dozen lakes of sapphire, azure and turquoise blue. The snow-capped Bernese, Silvretta and Ortler Alps hog the horizon. Ibex are in their element in these peaks, and with luck and patience you might spot them. The trail becomes tougher, rockier and more exposed as you ascend steep slopes to Fuorcletta da Barcli, a gap in the range at 2850m (9350ft), with top-of-the-world views. The descent to Zernez leads through avalanche grids to meet an Alpine track, twisting through forest to reach Zernez, where you can either stay the night or take the train back to Lavin.

Planning tip: Getting an early start is essential. The walk requires sure-footedness and a good head for heights because some sections are lofty and exposed. Snowfields can linger into summer on the upper reaches.

3. Gemmi Pass

Best hike over a mountain pass 13km (8 miles) one way, 5 hours, challenging

If you think hiking the Gemmi Pass is tough today, spare a thought for those first intrepid travelers who crossed it as part of Thomas Cook’s first forays into the Swiss Alps in 1863. Linking the Valaisian spa resort of Leukerbad to the cute-as-a-button Alpine resort of Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, the hike is easily doable in a day, but nevertheless presents a proper challenge, as it involves 1050m (3445ft) of ascent through stark, rocky and at times steep and exposed mountains.

Your reward for the effort to reach the pass is bleakly beautiful lake Daubensee at 2205m (7234ft) and a clifftop lookout platform next to Wildstrubel Restaurant, floating 900m (2953ft) above the valley and affording top-of-the-beanstalk views of the high, perennially snow-frosted mountains of Valais, which hover around the 4000m (13,123ft) mark. At lower elevations, the trail weaves through flower-freckled pastures. Afterward, hop back on the train to Leukerbad to give your feet a soaking in its thermal hot springs, which have views out to the peaks.

Planning tip:  While the path is safe and well maintained, be sure to check the forecast before you venture up.

4. Via Alpina

Best multi-day hike 390km (242 miles) one way, 20 days, challenging

The Via Alpina is the big one: an epic 20-stage trek that takes you from the castle-topped principality of Liechtenstein in the east to Montreux , dreamily set on the shores of Lake Geneva, in the west. Embarking on the whole thing is a serious undertaking: you’ll need to be sure-footed, have a head for heights and experience in navigating using a map and compass because you’ll be grappling with 14 Alpine passes. The highest of these is Hohtürli at 2778m (9114ft) in the Bernese Oberland, reached via a steep wooden ladder hacked into the rock face and secured with iron chains.

The descent is no less dramatic, dropping more than 1000m (3281ft) to Lake Oeschinen above Kandersteg, a celestial vision of cerulean blue ringed by snow-streaked mountains and fed by the glacial waters of the Blüemlisalp peaks.

Via Alpina is a proper journey into remote wilderness, with nights spent camping beneath starry skies or at rustic mountain huts, plentiful chances to spot wildlife like chamois, ibex and golden eagles, wild swims and entrancing sunrises and sunsets.

Planning tip: The route requires some advance planning and is best hiked from June to September, dodging the snow and wet or foggy conditions with bad visibility.

5. Aletsch Glacier route

Best hike on a glacier 17km (10.5 miles) one way, 6 hours, challenging

Switzerland bombards you with out-of-this-world scenery, and few places leave you speechless like the Aletsch Glacier , a moraine-streaked, deeply crevassed 23km(14-mile)-long superhighway of ice powering through some of the highest mountains in the country. You can’t quite suppress the gasp of wonder while hiking alongside the largest glacier in the Alps, particularly on a sunny day when great daggers of peaks razor 4000m (13,123ft) above the ice into a searingly blue sky.

Hands down one of the most astonishing day hikes in Switzerland, this route takes you from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp, with front-row views of the Aletsch Arena peaks. The Fieschergletscher is the prelude to the big one. Snaking down from the eastern flank of Grosses Fiescherhorn, a razor-edge peak at 4049m (13,284ft), this 16km (10-mile) swirl of eternal ice is the second-biggest glacier in the Alps. From here, the route winds around slopes and up through a rock-strewn gully, gradually steepening as it negotiates switchbacks up to a remote valley, its mountain hut  and Märjelensee, a milky turquoise splash of a lake buttressed by immense mountains and the rim of the Aletsch Glacier. 

The Aletsch Glacier is now your constant companion, as the trail skirts the deeply crevassed ice. Swiss stone pine forest and glittering tarns soften the Alpine picture as you continue along a ridge to the grassy slopes of Moosfluh, where a strategically placed bench offers staggering glacier views. Soon after, you’ll reach the glass-blue lake of Blausee. From here, it is just a stone’s throw to Bettmeralp.

6. Rigi Panorama Trail

Best accessible hike 7km (4 miles) one way, 2 hours, easy

JMW Turner was so smitten by Rigi that in 1842 he painted the mountain in three different lights to reflect its changing moods. Flinging up above fjord-like Lake Lucerne, the 1797m/5896ft-high peak still has a magic touch today, especially when seen in the pink blush of sunrise or sunset. On a clear day you can see all the way to Mt Titlis, the glacier-encrusted Jungfrau Alps and Lake Zug. 

Following a wide path that shadows the old Scheidegg Railway, this wheelchair- and stroller-accessible ridge trail from Rigi First to Rigi Scheidegg beautifully opens up the surrounding lakes, cow-grazed pastures and mountains, with plenty of options to pause for a picnic or barbecue en route.

Planning tip: Some sections are steep for wheelchairs (you’ll need good brakes), but there are options to shorten the trail should you so wish.

7. Höhenweg Höhbalmen

Best hike at altitude 18km (11 miles) round trip, 7 hours, moderate

Matterhorn is the mountain you can’t stop gawping at – and this circular hike in Zermatt gets you up close and personal to the beauty.

The trail threads up through larch forest on the ascent, making broad switchbacks above the Triftbach Gorge. From here, it’s a stiff uphill march to Berggasthaus Trift , at the foot of its namesake glacier, where you stay overnight to split the hike into two days if you wish.

The onward hike takes you over flower-flecked Alpine meadows, zigzagging up grassy slopes to climb onto the high balcony of Höhbalmenstaffel, where a riveting panorama unfolds. Heading west, the route traverses narrowing ledges that get astonishingly close to the north face of Matterhorn to reach Schwarzläger, the walk’s highest point at 2741m (8993ft).

From here, it’s a steady descent over the sparse mountainsides of Arben. The path winds down to meet a more prominent walking track alongside the high lateral moraine wall left by the receding Zmutt Glacier. Follow this down in zigzags through glacial rubble and continue along gentler terraces to the photogenic hamlet of Zmutt and then back to Zermatt.

Planning tip:  Pick a good-weather day and get an early start for this full-day trek, which embodies all that is unique about the Swiss Alps, leading you into another world of glittering streams, crevassed glaciers and 4000 peaks. Weather permitting, Höhenweg Höhbalmen is hikeable from June to October.

8. Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail

Best hike for families 7km (4 miles) round trip, 3 hours, easy

Rippling across  northeastern Switzerland , the under-the-radar Appenzell Alps are a surefire winner with families. You’ll walk to the backbeat of cowbells through rolling dairy country and flower-freckled meadows. The mountains are easily accessible for those with small legs, and the towns look freshly minted for a bedtime story, with their timber-framed, prettily muralled houses.

A cable car swings up from Jakobsbad to the 1663m (5456ft) summit of Kronberg, the trailhead for this terrific family hike, which skips back down the mountain and presents challenges and clues leading to the “treasure.”

Planning tip: If you want to make a day of it, you can ramp up the adventure in the valley at the water park, adventure playground, zip-line course and bobsled run.

9. Bisse de Clavau

Best hike through vineyards 8km (5 miles) round trip, 4 hours, easy

Gentle walking trails tread quietly through staggeringly steep terraced vineyards in Valais , producer of Switzerland’s most feted wines, with many vignerons (winegrowers) throwing open their cellar doors for tasting and buying. There’s no better place to walk, taste and appreciate the grape than Sion, with its cinematic twinset of castles and raft of gourmet addresses.

And there’s far more to hiking around Sion than enticing strolling between grape-heavy vines. What makes trails in this part of the Rhône Valley unique are the bisses , miniature canals built in the 13th century to irrigate these vertiginous terraced vineyards hemmed by stone walls. This half-day hike between Sion and St-Léonard is a treat, shadowing the Bisse de Clavau, a 550-year-old irrigation channel that carries water to the thirsty, sun-drenched vineyards and commanding grandstand views of hilltop chateaux, the snaking River Rhône and the not-so-distant Alps.

Pause to sample Valaisian Dôle (red) and Fendant (white) wines, perhaps over lunch at Le Cube Varone , an old winegrower’s hut. The hike is never lovelier than on a golden fall day when the grape harvest is in full swing, when you can enjoy a  brisolée , the traditional harvest feast built around chestnuts, cheese, cold meats and vin nouveau (new wine).

This article was first published Sep 1, 2021 and updated Dec 1, 2022.

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