The Top 20 Things to Do in Switzerland

Switzerland, a landlocked nation nestled in the heart of Europe, is a destination that effortlessly caters to every traveler’s desires. Within its relatively compact 16,000 square miles, it unveils a captivating tapestry of landscapes, seamlessly blending bustling, modern cities with the timeless charm of quaint, pastoral villages that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Towering mountains and shimmering lakes create some of the most breathtaking and picturesque scenery on the continent. Known for its beauty, cleanliness, efficiency, and ease of navigation, Switzerland promises an adventure and awe-inspiring experiences at every turn – or, perhaps more accurately, on the other side of every majestic mountain.

The task of curating a definitive list of must-do activities in this remarkable country is no easy feat. However, after careful consideration, here are 20 of our absolute favorite things to experience in Switzerland.

1. Cross the Alps on the Bernina Express: No journey to Switzerland is truly complete without embarking on a ride aboard the Bernina Express, a railway journey celebrated as one of the most magical in the world. This iconic train forms part of the Rhaetian Railway, a remarkable feat of engineering that earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008. The Bernina Express traverses a breathtaking route from Tirano, Italy, to St. Moritz, immersing passengers in the quintessential Swiss scenery that draws tourists from far and wide: majestic snow-capped mountains, awe-inspiring glaciers, and charming Alpine villages. The signature red trains wind their way through the picturesque Poschiavo Valley, ascend to Alp Grüm, and glide past the shimmering Miralago, showcasing just a few of the remarkable destinations along the way. Travel tip: When heading north, be sure to secure a seat on the right side of the train to capture the most spectacular views.

2. Tram-Hop Your Way Around Zürich: Chances are, your Swiss adventure will begin in Zürich, Switzerland‘s largest city and a major international hub. Before venturing off to explore the majestic Alps, take some time to discover the city’s diverse and sophisticated charms. Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the medieval architecture of Zürich’s Altstadt (Old Town), take a scenic cruise on the tranquil Lake Zürich, or indulge in the exquisite creations of the city’s renowned chocolatiers. While Zürich is known for its higher prices, exploring the city via its extensive public transportation network is an affordable way to explore. Zürich boasts an extensive tram network, ensuring easy access to almost every corner of the city. For the best value, purchase a Zürich Card travel pass, offering unlimited travel over 24 or 72 hours.

3. See Lake Geneva by Boat: Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, is a crown jewel among Switzerland’s numerous stunning lakes. It’s not only the largest lake in the country but also boasts some of the purest and most crystal-clear water in the world. Straddling the border between France and Switzerland, Lake Geneva transforms into a swimmer’s paradise during the summer months, offering 116 public beaches where visitors can take a refreshing (and often chilly) dip. However, the lake is best explored on a boat cruise, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking Alpine vistas, medieval villages, vineyards, and imposing castles that line the lakefront. Most sightseeing cruises operate from May to October, departing from ports including Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux. The lake itself isn’t the only attraction; many cruises are aboard heritage Belle Époque paddle steamers, elegant vessels that evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.

4. Bliss Out on Swiss Chocolate: If there’s one delectable treat that Switzerland is renowned for, it’s undoubtedly chocolate. This sweet delight has been produced in the country for centuries, thanks to the dedication of Swiss chocolatiers who perfected the art of crafting exceptional chocolate using high-quality cocoa combined with fresh milk from Alpine cows. Some of the world’s most famous chocolate brands, including Toblerone and Lindt, are proudly Swiss. However, for a truly unique and immersive experience, visit some local chocolate shops to delve into the production process, witness chocolate being made firsthand, and, of course, indulge in a few samples. Notable chocolatiers to visit include Auer Chocolatier in Geneva, Sprüngli in Zürich, and Maison Cailler in Broc.

5. Dip Into Cheese Fondue: Chocolate isn’t the only culinary delight that defines Switzerland. The country is equally famous for its fondue and raclette, two dishes that you’ll find prominently featured on restaurant menus throughout the country. Fondue, served in a hot earthenware pot, is enjoyed by using a long-stemmed fork to dip bread, apples, potatoes, or pickled vegetables into the melted cheese. Raclette, on the other hand, is heated on a grill and then scraped onto your choice of meat, potatoes, or bread. Both dishes make for a savory and satisfying lunch or dinner, or a restorative après-ski snack.

6. Walk Through a Glacier: Opportunities to witness glaciers are becoming increasingly rare worldwide, but Switzerland is fortunate to be home to several of these awe-inspiring natural formations. The Rhone Glacier, the source of the Rhone River, is one of the few glaciers that visitors can actually venture inside. Marvel at the glacier from within as you meander through a 100-meter-long tunnel and an ice chamber. The Earth’s glaciers, including the Rhone, are melting at an alarming rate, making a visit a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on our planet.

7. Tackle a Challenging Via Ferrata Hike: For those with a penchant for adventure and a healthy dose of courage, a Via Ferrata (Iron Way) hike is an unmissable experience. This thrilling activity involves navigating a mountain route equipped with fixed cables, ladders, and bridges, requiring a harness, helmet, and an experienced guide. One of the shortest and most popular Via Ferrata routes is the 2.2-kilometer trek from Mürren to Gimmelwald. You’ll reach Mürren, nestled at the base of the Schilthorn peak, via a mountain train. From there, hikers navigate an intimidating series of iron rungs, cables, ladders, and a swinging bridge suspended over a deep gorge. From Gimmelwald, you can return to Mürren by ski gondola. It’s a challenge that will test your physical endurance, but the rewards are some of the most breathtaking Alpine views in the country.

8. Count the Holes in Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese, known locally as Emmentaler, has been a beloved culinary staple in Switzerland since around the 15th century. Smooth Gruyère is another popular cheese that originated in Switzerland. Be sure to sample one or both during your visit, either at a fondue restaurant or on a tour of a local cheese factory. There’s no shortage of cheese factories in Switzerland that welcome visitors, including La Maison du Gruyère, the Appenzeller Cheese Factory, and the Engelberg, the only public cheese factory located within a monastery.

9. Discover Swiss Wines of the Vaud: The dramatic hills of Vaud, situated on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, are well worth a few days of your time, particularly if you’re a wine enthusiast. The Vaud region is renowned for its wine production, especially the Chasselas grape, which produces fresh and fruity white wines. Wine has been cultivated in the region since the Middle Ages, with early cultivation efforts attributed to Cistercian monks. While it’s impossible to visit every winery, some notable highlights include Luc Massy, Cave Castle Glérolles, and Domaine Blaise Duboux. Vaud isn’t just about wine, however, as it also offers a wealth of fine dining experiences and sightseeing opportunities – be sure to visit the medieval Chillon Castle, near Montreux.

10. Delight in a Festive Christmas Market: The charming, snow-covered Alpine towns of Switzerland provide the perfect setting to celebrate the holidays, especially if you’re an avid skier. However, anyone visiting Switzerland in the winter should also experience the country’s enchanting Christmas markets. Some of Switzerland‘s most beautiful festivities include Münsterplatz in Basel and Montreux Noël. These magical outdoor festivals illuminate the dark winter nights with entertainment such as carnival rides and ice skating rinks, holiday shopping, and delectable food and baked treats. If you’re feeling chilly, be sure to order a mug of glühwein, a spicy mulled wine that will warm you from the inside out. The Christmas markets typically run from late November until Christmas Eve.

11. Cross the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne: Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge, known as Kapellbrücke, is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Its charm and picturesque setting make it a delight to behold from any angle, and it remains a functional structure. Built in the 14th century to help fortify the city, it’s still used by pedestrians to cross the River Reuss. As you stroll across the bridge, take the time to admire the paintings on the bridge’s internal roof. These 17th-century triangular frames, some painted by Hans Heinrich Wägmann, tell the story of Lucerne’s history. You’ll also notice a striking tower next to the bridge, the Wasserturm (water tower), which has served various purposes, from a prison to municipal storage, but never actually held water.

12. Ride the World’s Highest Railroad: The Jungfrau Railway in the Bernese Alps is the highest railway in the world, reaching a staggering 3,454 meters above sea level. A ride on the Jungfraujoch is an investment, but this scenic train ride is one of the most beautiful in the world. Boarding in Interlaken, the train takes passengers through tunnels and stops halfway at Eismeer, an underground railway station. You’ll disembark in Jungfrau, also known as "the Top of Europe," where you’ll be greeted by Switzerland‘s most famous panoramic view.

13. Watch the Zytglogge Toll in Bern: The Zytglogge is Bern’s most iconic landmark. Built in the 1500s, it’s an incredibly elaborate astronomical calendar clock. The tower it stands on dates back to the 1200s, when it was constructed as a guard tower. Time your visit just before the Zytglogge strikes the hour to witness the clock in all its glory. In a six-minute "show," moving mechanical figures, including jesters, roosters, and bears, emerge from the clock and dance around, delighting passersby.

14. Marvel at the Abbey of Saint Gall: St. Gallen, near Lake Constance, is a charming, traffic-free town perfect for leisurely strolls and sightseeing. The highlight of the city is the Abbey of Saint Gall, founded in the 8th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Baroque cathedral is an artistic masterpiece, but even more remarkable is the Abbey Library, home to over 170,000 texts, many of which are handwritten, decorated with intricate artwork, painted ceilings, and ancient treasures.

15. Find Folk Culture in Appenzell: The fairytale village of Appenzell and the surrounding canton are among the best places in Switzerland to discover traditional folklore and culture. The region’s livelihood has long revolved around farming and dairy, and a visit to Appenzell might involve witnessing an Alpine cattle parade, participating in traditional dancing, or shopping for local crafts.

16. Toast the Après-Ski Scene in St. Moritz: Switzerland is one of the most challenging skiing destinations in the world. But even if you prefer to stay on solid ground, you can still enjoy the Swiss skiing culture. St. Moritz is a skiing playground for the rich and famous, offering fine dining, five-star chalets, and lively après-ski parties.

17. Marvel at the Matterhorn: The village of Zermatt is renowned as a skiing destination, but it’s also an excellent place to admire the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains. Its iconic, jagged peak is instantly recognizable, even from a distance.

18. Take to the Waters in Baden: If the steep hills of Switzerland have left your body in need of some R&R, head to the spa town of Baden for plenty of relaxation. The thermal springs here have been used to soothe sore muscles for over 2,000 years, since the Roman legions first arrived.

19. Expand Your Mind at CERN: Switzerland is home to one of the most prestigious research facilities in the world. Located in Meyrin, the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN) is the birthplace of the World Wide Web and also contains the world’s largest particle accelerator.

20. Hike Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee: The 6-kilometer roundtrip hike from Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee lake is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Switzerland. From the village of Grindelwald, take the cable car up to Grindelwald First, a summit in the Bernese Oberland. From there, you’ll take in spectacular Alpine views on your way to Bachalpsee.