Best places to visit in Switzerland

Switzerland may be famous for its chocolate and its watches, but there is much more to this beautiful country: impressive mountain ranges, medieval cities, pristine lakes, fairytale castles... Discover them all with our top 7 Swiss wonders and be sure to check page 2 for the one national symbol you cannot miss when you next visit us!

7. Jungfrau Region, Interlaken

Switzerland is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe and the Jungfrau region is proof of that. It is here that the Jungfrau, the Eiger and the Mönch mountains form one of the most iconic sights of the Swiss Alps. The impressive landscape can be admired by taking the Jungfraubahn, a mountain railway that takes you to the summit at 3454m where your mind will be completely blown away.

TOP TIP: For a different view of these mountains and less crowds to deal with, you can travel to Haslital an area not only rich in Alpine views but also Swiss folklore.

6. Jet d’eau, Geneva

The dancing waters of Geneva’s most famous fountain are one of the best loved landmarks of the city and perhaps even Switzerland. Reaching 140m high, it is one of the largest fountains in the world and can be seen even from the air. During spring and autumn it becomes even more magical as it is lit by a set of lights during the evening. The closest you can get to it is via the stone jetty on the left back of Lake Geneva but look out for sudden wind changes as you can end up soaking wet!

TOP TIP: For a different and awe-inspiring way to spend the day in Geneva, visit CERN a world-leading scientific exploration about how the universe works. It won’t leave you indifferent!

5. Château de Chillon, Montreux

There are almost 500 castles and medieval fortresses in Switzerland but no one has the charm of Château de Chillon. Switzerland’s most visited historic monument lays on the edge of Lake Geneva and is formed by 100 buildings. The castle is open daily and guided tours are available. The entry fee is CHF 12.50 for adults and CHF 6.00 for children. Reduced rates are also available for students and pensioners.

TOP TIP: If history is not quite your thing, we suggest renting a boat in nearby Montreux and touring Lake Geneva instead. You will get one of the most impressive views of the fortress from the water as the high – and probably snowed – peaks of Dents du Midi stand right behind it, in the background.

4. Rigi Bergbahnen, Lucerne

While you can take a gondola lift or a cable car to ascend the gorgeous Mount Rigi, also known as “Queen of the Mountains” there is nothing quite like riding Europe’s oldest cogwheel railway: the Rigi Bahnen. You can either start your trip at Arth-Goldau or Vitznau and if you are a holder of a Swisspass, you can ride this nostalgic rack railway free of charge!

TOP TIP: No trip to Lucerne is complete without a visit to Chapel Bridge, especially if you are in Switzerland for a romantic getaway. This quaint covered wooden bridge is the oldest in the world and is romantically decked in flowers. Don’t forget to take your camera with you!

Visit Website - Rigi Bergbahnen
Continue to Page 2 to discover our top 3 attractions in Switzerland!

3. Old City of Bern

The capital of Switzerland may not be as famous as other cities in the country but it is worth a visit thanks to its enchanting medieval city centre. Surrounded by the Aare River and accessed by stunning bridges, its medieval character transports you back in time as you explore its narrow streets, Renaissance fountains and magnificent churches. The Old City was awarded a UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983 and many buildings have been designated as properties of national significance. There are several tours available for those wishing to know more about the area.

TOP TIP: Although chocolate is king in Switzerland, there are other sweet pastries that will make you lick your fingers. Some of Bern’s most typical treats are the Bernese Haselnusslebkuchen, the Meitschibei biscuit and the delicious meringues with whipped cream.

2. Abbey of Saint Gall, St. Gallen

This magnificent cathedral is St. Gallen’s most famous attractions and one of Switzerland’s most important Baroque monuments. Created in the 8th century, its intellectual and religious importance is attested by its breath-taking library containing some of the most important collections of medieval books dating back to the 9th century. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is open daily from 8am to 6pm except during church services. Its denomination is Roman Catholic.

TOP TIP: The OLMA bratwurst is one of St Gallen’s most traditional delicacies. You can savour this sausage alone – mustard is frown upon – or in one of the city’s local recipes: bratwurst with onion sauce.

1. The Matterhorn, Zermatt

Photographed from almost every possible angle, the impressive Matterhorn is more than just an iconic sight; it’s a national symbol. Standing at 4478m, it is one of the highest peaks in the Alps and also one of the deadliest. The most popular route to the summit is the northeast Hörnli ridge and is also the busiest during summer. However, if you enjoy hiking and want a wow view of the peak head to Gornergrat, and walk up to the lake where you can view the Matterhorn and also admire its reflection in the water.

TOP TIP: The best time to photograph the Matterhorn is in the morning as the peak faces east.