This landlocked European country boasts charming cities, elegant ski resorts, and Insta-worthy mountain scenery with cuckoo-clock houses and bell-adorned cows. Over the years, I’ve explored Switzerland on a mix of road trips (including an epic two-month adventure) and separate city and ski breaks, here are the spots that truly stole my heart…
1. Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva was just as breathtaking as I imagined it to be — one of Europe’s largest alpine lakes, its vast, shimmering waters were set against the dramatic Alps, with elegant Belle Époque promenades, the fairytale Château de Chillon resting on its shores, and a peaceful yet sophisticated vibe that I was instantly charmed by!
I flew into Geneva Airport for a long summer weekend which featured wandering along Montreux’s flower-lined promenade, cruising the spectacular glacial lake, sampling aromatic Lavaux wines, soaking in the wellness-focused Les Bains de Lavey thermal spas, and even catching the spectacular lakeside Montreux Jazz Festival!
Location: On the border of Switzerland and France | Size: ~580 sq km | Vibe: elegant, serene, and postcard-pretty
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Hotel Angleterre – I sat gazing at the incredible lake views while slowly drinking a Williamine Pear Brandy cocktail.
2. Zurich
I found Zurich to be sophisticated, surprisingly lively and also very attractive, home to quaint Old Town filled with medieval buildings, quirky cafés, fine restaurants, and its gorgeous location on Lake Zurich backed by distant Alpine peaks.
I flew in from London and spent a fun long weekend here in summer and found that was the season the city really came alive! I wandered medieval cobbled streets ticking off all the landmarks, dipped in luxury boutiques, swam in the cooling waters of the huge lake and then lounged around in the famous Badi Bars at sunset (the trendy Rimini Bar became my favorite)!
Location: Northern Switzerland | Size: Switzerland’s largest city | Vibe: polished, cultured, and effortlessly livable
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star 25hours Hotel Langstrasse – I loved its fun vibe, its eco-friendliness and sipping on a Shiso Plum Whisky Highball served in frozen glass in the rooftop bar!
3. Lucerne
I thought Lucerne was just so easy-on-the-eye – founded in the 8th century – it had an enticing mix of medieval, baroque, and Swiss chalet styles, a colorful frescoed Old Town, a deep-blue lake with fjord-like inlets, and a mountain backdrop that was seriously photogenic! I arrived on a Swiss Rail from Zurich and based myself for three days at the beautifully-located 4-star Seehotel Kastanienbaum.
From walking the flower-decked Chapel Bridge to gazing at the fortified Musegg Wall’s towers, my time in Lucerne was just gorgeous — it ended with a Lake Lucerne boat cruise and a thrilling ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel train to the legendary Mount Pilatus, where the alpine panorama stole the show for me!
Location: Central Switzerland | Size: small city | Vibe: storybook-pretty, romantic, and serene
My personal highlights…
- Dining at the Restaurant Da Luni – I loved the trendy but cosy vibe and dining on their creative and pillowy Potato Muffins with Avocado Sauce!
4. Swiss National Park
Swiss National Park totally wowed me — Switzerland’s oldest park had everything from flower-filled meadows to dense forests and dramatic peaks, and it all felt so untouched and wild.
I drove 2.5 hours from Zurich into the Engadine Valley and stayed three breathtaking days at the Insta-worthy Relais & Châteaux IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau, just 10 minutes from the entrance. I trekked the picturesque Il Fuorn, Macun Lakes, and Val Trupchun Trails, and joined a guided tour where I discovered just how remarkable the park’s biodiversity and conservation legacy really was. Just note that no off-trail hiking, camping, or pets are allowed
Location: Eastern Switzerland (by the borders of Italy and Austria) | Size: ~170 sq km | Vibe: pristine, wild, and deeply peaceful | Wildlife: ibex, red deer, marmots, chamois, and many species of birds
My personal highlights…
- Hiking the 14-kilometer Val Trupchun Trail (a six-hour trek) and admiring the soaring limestone cliffs and the clear, sparkling Spöl River, its waterfalls echoing through the valley!
5. Chateau de Chillon
I absolutely adored visiting Chateau de Chillon — this 11th-century castle perched on a tiny island in Lake Geneva looked like something out of a painting, with its towers and spires rising dramatically against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. I loved its romantic atmosphere, full of medieval grandeur and intrigue, and it genuinely felt like stepping back in time!
An hour and 15 minutes from Geneva brought me to Montreux and the iconic Château de Chillon, where I explored fresco-filled halls, atmospheric dungeons immortalized by Lord Byron, a chapel with striking medieval paintings, and towers offering heart-stirring views across the lake and Alps.
Location: On the shores of Lake Geneva, western Switzerland | Size: 110 meters long by 45 meters wide | Vibe: dramatic, romantic, and storybook
My highlights…
- Seeing Lord Byron’s name carved into a dungeon pillar —still legible after centuries— with the damp stone walls carrying a faint, musty scent of history gave me chills!
6. Zermatt
Postcard-perfect Zermatt instantly became one of my favourite Swiss gems — the whole place had a magical, picturesque vibe, from the car-free streets lined with wooden chalets to the Matterhorn dominating the skyline. It felt both relaxed and buzzy with a mix of cozy bars, gourmet restaurants, après-ski fun, and outdoor activities on my doorstep!
I took a scenic 3.5-hour train ride from Zurich and spent five idyllic days at the trendy (and beautiful!) 4-star La Couronne Hotel & Spa. I took a journey on the Gornergrat Railway, hit the slopes at the luminescent Glacier Paradise, browsed Bahnhofstrasse’s glamorous shops, and tucked into a gourmet Caramelised Valais pear dessert at elegant Chez Vrony.
Location: Southern Switzerland| Size: compact resort village | Vibe: iconic, alpine-chic, and awe-inspiring
My highlights…
- Sipping on a zingy ‘Saurer Apfel’ shot the iconic Broken Bar – I had a lot of fun partying to DJ Alex Frost’s eclectic beats, and spotting the huge 17th-century wine barrel hidden behind the bar.
7. Bern
Bern won me over right away — its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was gorgeous with sandstone arcades, cobbled streets, playful fountains, and striking architecture, all set against alpine views and the curve of the Aare. What I really liked was the mix of history and laid-back charm that made the city feel both elegant and welcoming.
After a 1 hour 45 minute train from Geneva, I settled into the Old-Town located 4-star NH Bern The Bristol and filled my weekend with Bern highlights — the quirky Zytglogge clock tower, the grand Federal Palace, riverside strolls along the meandering Aare, and the fascinating Einstein Museum inside the Bern Historical Museum.
Location: West-central Switzerland| Size: compact capital city | Vibe: refined and storybook-pretty
My personal highlights…
- Dining at the trendy Michelin-starred Noumi, I loved watching the modern open kitchen in action and tucked into their innovative avocado tartar with crispy rice and Hokkaido pumpkin.
8. Interlaken
I found Interlaken to be just heavenly — nestled between two sparkling glacial lakes and backed by snowcapped peaks, crashing waterfalls, and green alpine meadows, its streets of old Swiss chalets felt impossibly charming. I personally thought it struck the perfect balance between adventure hub and peaceful retreat.
I reached it in just an hour from Bern and spent two action-packed days here — soaring while paragliding, hiking the spectacular Harder Kulm, relaxing in flower-filled Hohematte Park, cruising the glacial Lake Thun, strolling the Aare and capping it all with a Spaghetti “Vegetariana” at the Schilthorn’s revolving restaurant. In winter, it’s a popular base for nearby ski resorts, framed by snow-covered roofs and alpine views.
Location: Central Switzerland | Size: small resort town | Vibe: adventurous, scenic, and alpine-fresh
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the 4-star Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken – I loved the spa and wellness area where I indulged in an Alpine herbal steam infused with locally sourced arnica, edelweiss, and mountain pine!
9. Villars-Sur-Ollon
I was actually in awe of upscale Villars-sur-Ollon — tucked into a peaceful alpine setting with postcard-ready chalets and beautiful views of iconic Mont Blanc, it felt both elegant and wonderfully laid-back. I couldn’t get enough of the heady mix of charm and understated luxury.
After taking an easy one-hour train from Lausanne I spent four days at the charming 4-star Villars Lodge — skiing Villars-Gryon’s pristine slopes, snowshoeing the peaceful Bretaye Trail, strolling the chalet-filled streets, admiring captivating alpine views, and indulging in a mountain mineral body wrap at the stylish Alpine Resort.
Location: Vaud Alps, western Switzerland | Size: small resort village | Vibe: elegant, outdoorsy, and quietly upscale
My personal highlights…
- Dining at the ultra-chic Le 1913, a Michelin-starred gem, I adored the Insta-worthy décor, the gorgeous mountain views, and earthy truffle ravioli followed by a perfectly caramelized Tarte Tatin.
10. Basel
Basel was a jewel — I found a city of charming medieval streets, fine historic buildings, and stunning Rhine River views, yet also brimming with cosmopolitan energy, contemporary creativity, and a lively cultural scene. I adored its mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge art and design.
Divided by the Rhine, it was easy to reach on an hour’s direct train from Zurich, and I spent three relaxing days at the elegant 4-star Hotel Märthof Basel. From the red sandstone Basel Minster and cobbled Old Town to the world-class Kunstmuseum, avant-garde Fondation Beyeler, and the lively Rhine promenade, one day ended at the intriguing Tinguely Museum gazing at whimsical works by Jean Tinguely.
Location: Northwestern Switzerland | Size: medium-sized city | Vibe: cultured, creative, and quietly sophisticated
My highlights…
- Stopping by the Bonne Maman Basel cake shop, I loved the unique Chai and tart-sweet quince cupcakes, with the warm spice aroma of cinnamon and cardamom in the air!
11. St Moritz
I found St. Moritz to be absolutely breathtaking — this legendary upscale ski resort, beloved by royals and A-listers, had it all — snowy peaks, the glassy Lake St. Moritz, and chic streets lined with chalets and luxury hotels. What I loved most though, was the mix of natural alpine beauty and effortless glamour.
From Zernez, I drove 40 minutes into the stunning Engadine Valley and spent three days in glamorous St. Moritz, staying at the chic 4-star Art Boutique Hotel Monopol. The resort is beautiful, but firmly luxury-priced, especially in high season. I skied Corviglia, skated and ice-sailed on the frozen lake, rode the iconic Bernina Express, admired Segantini’s alpine art, dined at opulent Badrutt’s Palace, and relaxed in St. Moritz’s legendary spas.
Location: Upper Engadine Valley, southeastern Switzerland | Size: compact resort town | Vibe: glamorous, polished, and alpine-luxe
My highlights…
- Partying at the iconic King’s Social House – I lost myself to DJ Bob Sinclar’s uplifting house music with a bubbly Negroni Sbagliato in hand!
12. Lake Constance
I really enjoyed my trip to Lake Constance — a large, picturesque freshwater lake with sparkling waters framed by green hills, quaint lakeside towns, and historic buildings set against the Swiss and German Alps. I loved how serene it felt — and the picture-perfect landscapes made it even more special.
I drove two hours from Zurich to the Swiss-German border and spent three beautiful days at the Instagrammable 4-star Hotel Bora HotSpaResort. I spent my time paddle-boarding, visiting medieval Konstanz Cathedral, cruising to the enchanting Mainau Island, exploring the romantic Meersburg Castle and cycling the well-marked Bodensee-Radweg – the lake views were just so restorative!
Location: Central Europe at the meeting point of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria | Size: ~536 sq km | Vibe: relaxed, scenic, and gently elegant
My favourite highlights…
- Cycling along the Bodensee-Radweg — I crossed Germany, Austria, and Switzerland all in one ride, with the fresh lake breeze in the air!
13. Wengen
Wengen like something out of a storybook — I discovered a car-free Swiss mountain village of postcard-perfect chalets, emerald alpine meadows, and charming streets framed by dramatic waterfalls and panoramic views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. I loved its peaceful, slow-paced atmosphere with a cozy alpine vibe.
I took the train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen and then the Wengernalp Railway up to Wengen, where I spent three days at the trendy 4-star Braunbär Hotel & Spa. I rode the famous Jungfraujoch Railway to Europe’s highest station, soared high up on the thrilling Männlichen Cable Car, and sipped on Apfelschorles in cozy chalets and mountain bars. During the winter it’s home to excellent skiing on the legendary Lauberhorn slopes and a lively apre-ski scene!
Location: Bernese Oberland, central Switzerland | Size: small alpine village | Vibe: serene, old-school alpine, and postcard-perfect
My highlights…
- Enjoying a Bio herb sauna infused with juniper and a soothing Kneipp foot pool while gazing at the incredible mountain views at Silberhorn Hotel.
14. Grindelwald
Grindelwald wowed me with its breathtaking beauty — one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts, with traditional chalets, sprawling meadows, and alpine forests all set beneath the towering Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. I was totally taken in by its cozy Swiss atmosphere mixed in with a strong adventurous spirit!
I took a three hour train from Zurich Airport to Grindelwald (with a stop at Bern) for a five-day stay at the stunning 4-star Bergwelt Grindelwald – Alpine Design Resort. I skied the pristine Grindelwald-First slopes, snowshoed the panoramic First–Grosse Scheidegg trail. I also soaked up the fine alpine views from the cable cars, explored the charming Grindelwald Museum, and even tried the adrenaline-filled First Flyer and First Glider rides.
Location: Bernese Oberland, central Switzerland | Size: large alpine village | Vibe: dramatic, outdoorsy, and classic-Swiss
My favourite highlights…
- Traveling by train through the 7-kilometer tunnel carved into the Alpine rock, I listened to the steady clatter of wheels against the rails before emerging to seriously Insta-worthy mountain views
15. Brienz
I was completely charmed by Brienz — a picturesque Swiss village with a scenic lakeside setting, traditional wooden houses carved with intricate detail, and a heavenly alpine backdrop of towering peaks and lush greenery. I was won over by its tranquil, quaint, and slow-paced vibe.
I took a 20-minute train from Interlaken and spent two days at the romantic 4-star Grandhotel Giessbach. From the Swiss Woodcarving Museum and a cruise on emerald Lake Brienz to hiking the majestic Brienz Rothorn, gazing at the cascading Giessbach Falls, and strolling the picture-perfect village streets.
Location: Bernese Oberland, central Switzerland | Size: small village | Vibe: peaceful, storybook-pretty, and lakeside-serene
My favourite highlights…
- I loved strolling along Brunngasse, often called one of Switzerland’s prettiest streets, admiring the 18th-century wood-carved chalets dotted with red geraniums and purple petunia boxes and the faint scent of pine and woodsmoke in the air!
I couldn’t agree more, Switzerland really is an unbelievable country! Amazing that a country so small has so much unbelievable nature and scenery. Thanks for the tips for spots to check out!
What a great place! I really want to go now, it look likes heaven!
Waaaoooooo!
Wonderful pics!
What a beautiful country, would love to visit one day!
I have to agree with this list, personally I really love Bern, Lucern, Zermatt and the Oeschinensee. You really shouldn’t miss this, when you are in Switzerland.
What a stunning list of places to visit in Switzerland! I have to admit, Switzerland was one of our favorite places to visit, there is beauty everywhere you look!
Some of these places don’t even look real!! Gorgeous post.
Happy travels 🙂
Great Switzerland views!
I went on a road trip to Switzerland last year, obviously I missed out on Zermatt, but I would absolutely like to confirm that Interlaken deserves being on this list. Easily my favourite place of the ones I stayed at on my trip 🙂
Bloody expensive country though, yikes! (And I’m from Norway!)
Gorgeous! Interlaken is on my list. I traveled Switzerland a lot ten years ago, but somehow missed that part!
Hi Tiana, it’s a place on my list too!
Switzerland is overwhelming!
Thanks Walter, will check those out. It’s definitely a photogenic country!
Gorgeous photos, of course, Switzerland looks like one of those destinations where it would be almost impossible to take an unattractive photo, but these are great. The only thing that stops me from adding Switz. to my European must-go list is that it is one of the most expensive countries on planet Earth to visit, so maybe someday when I win that lottery…
Yes shame that beauty comes at a price!
omg they all looks so perfect!
That is very nice post and switzerland is the place I so want to go at least one time in my life . Have number of friends there with their families so I dont’ think so I will have any problem for accommodation there.
Switzerland is one of those places I never got to explore 🙁 But this listing is very inspirational!
Thanks Rebecca! 🙂
WOW! Looks fab! I love the photos!!
Gorgeous! I’m dreaming up schemes to get myself to Switzerland now.
Beautiful post! We were up in the Lauterbrunnen/Wengen area and it is just gorgeous. A few of our own photos to add to yours: http://bbqboy.net/lauterbrunnen-and-the-berner-oberland-switzerland/
Nice blog!
Frank (bbqboy)
I would add Canton Ticino, on the southern part of Switzerland. Great places between mountains and lakes, good food and some sun.
http://www.ticino.ch/en/
I would add Gstaad as well – Beautiful little village with lots to do around
Thanks Raj! 🙂