Things to see and do in Switzerland
Attractions in Switzerland
Appenzell
Appenzell may be Switzerland's most traditional canton, with its idyllic villages of ornately painted houses nestled in lush, rolling landscapes. Säntis, the region's highest peak, offers breathtaking panoramic views spanning six countries on clear days: Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. Another must-see is Hoher Kasten (1,794m/5,886ft), where a revolving restaurant and scenic trails provide stunning vistas of the Rhine Valley and Alpstein range.
Bad Ragaz
Bad Ragaz is Switzerland's premier health resort renowned for its healing thermal waters. The Tamina Therme spa offers mineral-rich baths that promote relaxation and wellness. This picturesque town also features luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and access to nearby hiking trails in the Pizol area, blending health tourism with outdoor recreation.
Basel
Basel is a cultural gem located on the Rhine River and the meeting point of Switzerland, Germany, and France. The city boasts over 40 museums, including the renowned Kunstmuseum Basel, home to an impressive collection of fine art. Walk along the picturesque Old Town, with its medieval architecture, the Basel Minster, and the charming Marktplatz. Basel also hosts Art Basel, one of the world's premier contemporary art fairs, attracting art enthusiasts from around the globe.
Bern
Bern is Switzerland's historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval Old Town's arched sandstone buildings and cobblestone streets are a must-see. Marvel at the Zytglogge, a 13th-century clock tower with moving figurines, and visit the Federal Palace, home to the Swiss parliament. For a touch of nature, walk along the River Aare or visit the famous Bear Park. Art enthusiasts can explore the Zentrum Paul Klee, showcasing the works of this renowned Swiss painter.
Geneva
Discover Geneva's picturesque Old Town, home to the Cathédrale de St. Pierre, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Stroll through the Jardin Anglais to admire the famous flower clock (L'Horloge Fleurie), with its 12,000 blooms celebrating Geneva's watchmaking heritage. Explore themed guided tours that highlight the city's beautiful parks and iconic international organisations, including the UN's Palais des Nations.
Interlaken
Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the gateway to the Bernese Oberland and a haven for adventure seekers. From paragliding and kayaking to hiking and skiing, the options are endless. Don't miss the Harder Kulm viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the lakes and surrounding peaks. Interlaken also serves as a base for excursions to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe".
Lucerne
Lucerne is a picturesque city set against the backdrop of Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus. Stroll across the Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge adorned with paintings, and admire the Water Tower. Visit the Lion Monument, a moving tribute to Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution, and enjoy Swiss history at the Swiss Museum of Transport. Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne or ascend to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking Alpine views.
Montreux
Montreux is a lakeside gem on the shores of Lake Geneva. Famous for its annual Montreux Jazz Festival, the town also boasts the enchanting Château de Chillon, a medieval castle perched on the lake. Stroll along the flower-lined promenade, enjoy the scenic train ride on the GoldenPass Line, or visit nearby vineyards in Lavaux, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St Gallen
St Gallen, known for its textile heritage and historical charm, is home to the stunning Abbey of St Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Abbey Library with its ornate rococo design and thousands of ancient manuscripts. The city's vibrant old town features colourful oriel windows, quaint boutiques, and cosy cafés. Art lovers should explore the St Gallen Art Museum, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby Appenzell and the picturesque Säntis Mountain.
Ticino
Discover Switzerland's southernmost tip, the charming Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. Begin your journey in Bellinzona, home to three UNESCO-listed medieval castles overlooking the town. Continue past the sweeping Contra Dam, famous as the James Bond's GoldenEye bungee jump site, to the picturesque lake resorts of Locarno and Lugano, where a Mediterranean vibe meets Swiss precision.
Zermatt
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a car-free hub for skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. Take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks or explore the Glacier Paradise, Europe's highest cable car station. The Glacier Express, often called the world's slowest express train, begins (or ends) its journey in Zermatt, taking passengers on a spectacular ride through the Swiss Alps to St. Moritz. After a day of adventure, relax in the village with its charming chalets and gourmet restaurants.
Zurich
Zurich is Switzerland's largest city. The old town, Altstadt, is especially picturesque. See the gothic Fraumünster, with its stained-glass windows by Chagall; the imposing twin-towered Grossmünster cathedral; the Swiss National Museum; and the modern art collections at the Kunsthaus Zurich. The Dada art movement originated in Zurich during World War I, and the Cabaret Voltaire is a historic venue celebrating this avant-garde movement.
