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 an elegant long – and magical – summer weekend. I strolled romantic Montreux’s flower-lined promenade, explored quaint Lausanne’s old streets, cruised the spectacular glacial lake, sipped on aromatic Lavaux wines, soaked in the wellness-focused Évian-les-Bains’ thermal spas, rode to the towering Rochers-de-Naye mountain (and saw seriously stunning alpine views!), and even caught the spectacular lakeside Montreux Jazz Festival!
- Location: Southwestern part of the country (straddling the border between Switzerland and France) and bordered by Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux.
- Size: Covering 580 km² (224 mi²)
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Hotel Angleterre, I loved its lakeside setting and the Leopard Bar where I sipped on a warming Williamine Pear Brandy cocktails. The staff told me that it paid homage to the “The Leopard” novel by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa.
2. Zurich
I found Zurich to be both cosmopolitan and sophisticated yet lively at the same time! It was the country’s largest city and a global hub for finance, but it was also very attractive with its quaint Old Town filled with medieval buildings, quirky cafés, fine restaurants, and its dreamy 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 Altstadt’s cobbled streets and admired landmarks such as the twin-towered Grossmünster and gothic Fraumünster, browsed the luxury boutiques of upscale Bahnhofstrasse, and swam in the cool, sparkling waters of huge Lake Zurich.
I also took a ride up the breathtaking Uetliberg Mountain, explored the world-class Kunsthaus Zürich, danced at the industrial-chic Hive Club in buzzy Zürich West and lounged around in the famous Badi Bars at sunset (the trendy Rimini Bar was my favorite)!
- Location: Northeastern part of the country (along the shores of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River).
- Population size: around 448,600
- Map Location and Directions
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 while gazing at incredible city views from the rooftop bar!
3. Lucerne
I thought Lucerne was just dreamy — founded in the 8th century, it had a wonderful mix of medieval, baroque, and Swiss chalet styles, a colorful frescoed Old Town, a deep-blue lake with fjord-like inlets, and a gorgeous mountain backdrop that was seriously photogenic! I came back on a separate trip and it was just an hour on Swiss Rail from Zurich and based myself for three dreamy days at the beautifully located 4-star Seehotel Kastanienbaum.
From strolling the flower-decked Chapel Bridge and its medieval Water Tower to gazing at the Baroque Jesuit Church, the moving Lion Monument, and the fortified Musegg Wall’s towers, my day 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 part of the country (a foot of the Swiss Alps, around 50 km (31 miles) south of Zurich).
- Population size: around 83,000
- Map Location and Directions
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 which I washed down with a crisp Prosecco Strada di Guia!
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 is.
I just have to mention as a strict conservation zone, no off-trail hiking, camping, or pets were allowed here — so it’s best for those who enjoy structured hikes and guided nature trails rather than open exploration.
- Location: Eastern part (in Graubünden, between Zernez, S-chanf, and Scuol by the borders or Italy or Austria).
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: over 170 square kilometres
- 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 Château 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: western Switzerland, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva near Montreux.
- Map Location and Directions
- Chateau de Chillon Website
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 favorite Swiss gems — the whole place had a magical, storybook feel, from the car-free streets lined with charming wooden chalets to the Matterhorn dominating the skyline. I loved how it managed to be both relaxed and energetic at the same time, with a mix of cozy bars, gourmet restaurants, and plenty of après-ski fun, not to mention all the outdoor activities right 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 gawped at Matterhorn views on the winding Gornergrat Railway, hit the slopes at the luminescent Glacier Paradise, snowshoed from Rotenboden to Riffelberg, browsed Bahnhofstrasse’s glamorous shops and cafés, and tucked into a gourmet Caramelised Valais pear & dried pear purée dessert at elegant Chez Vrony.
- Location: Southern part of the country (In the Swiss Alps, at the Matterhorn’s foot in Valais near the Italian border).
- Population size: around 5,800
- Map Location and Directions
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 chic 4-star Swissôtel Kursaal 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: Central part of the country (on an Aare River peninsula, about 125 km southwest of Zurich and 155 km northeast of Geneva).
- Population size: around 137,000
- Map Location and Directions
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 on a paraglider, 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 part of the country (in the Bernese Oberland region around 80 kilometers southeast of Bern).
- Population size: around 5,610
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the 4-star Bergwelt Grindelwald, Alpine Design Resort, I loved the chic contemporary design, the gourmet dining, and 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: southwestern part in the canton of Vaud in western Swiss Alps, above the Rhône Valley.
- Population size: around 1,669
- Map Location and Directions
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, my day ended perfectly at the intriguing Tinguely Museum gazing at its whimsical works by Jean Tinguely.
- Location: northwestern part of the country on the banks of the Rhine River, near the borders of both Germany and France.
- Population size: around 177,595
- Map Location and Directions
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 my previous stop in Zernez I drove 40 minutes deeper into the idyllic Engadine Valley and based myself for three days at the stylish 4-star Art Boutique Hotel Monopol. I just have to mention this wasn’t a cheap place by any means (especially during high season) and I found luxury pricing on everything from ski passes to lattes.
I hit the world-class Corviglia’s slopes, ice sailed and skated the spectacular frozen lake, took the historic Bernina Express through jaw-dropping peaks, admired Segantini’s ethereal art, dined at the opulent Badrutt’s Palace, and rounded it off with St. Moritz’s legendary spas.
- Location: Engadine Valley in the eastern part of the country, in the canton of Graubünden
- Population size: around 5,000
- Map Location and Directions
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 on the sparkling lake, visiting medieval Konstanz Cathedral, cruising to the enchanting Mainau Island, exploring the romantic Meersburg Castle, wandering Lindau’s pretty harbor, and cycling the well-marked Bodensee-Radweg soaking in the gorgeous lakeside views at the same time!
- Location: Northeastern part of the country (I found it bordering this country as well as Germany, and Austria)
- Size: around 63 kilometers (39 miles) long
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Cycling along the Bodensee-Radweg — it was amazing to see I got to see 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 year-round winding Wengernalp Railway and saw stunning Jungfrau views, took 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 I found it was known for its excellent skiing on the legendary Lauberhorn slopes and lively apre-ski vibe.
- Location: Central part of the country (in the Bernese Oberland region)
- Population size: around 1,300
- Map Location and Directions
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: Central part of the country (Bernese Oberland region around 20 kilometres from Interlaken)
- Population size: around 3,800
- Map Location and Directions
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. Lake Oeschinen
Oeschinen Lake was a stunning hidden gem — its vibrant turquoise waters framed by towering peaks, rolling green meadows, and the rustic Oeschinen Alpine Inn made it feel wonderfully remote and unspoilt. The tranquil atmosphere and how immersed in nature I felt made it feel even more special!
I took the train from Interlaken to Kandersteg and based myself for three days at the beautiful 4-star Waldhotel Doldenhorn. A cable car carried me up to the lake, where I hiked where I gazed at mountain views, cruised its shimmering, clear waters, swam in the cool alpine lake, and admired the towering Oeschinenhorn and Blüemlisalp peaks. I just found out that cable car only ran from May to October, so off-season visits would mean a long, steep hike up.
- Location: Central part of the country, Bernese Oberland region, near the town of Kandersteg
- Size: 1.115 km² (0.43 sq miles)
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Dining on a delicious Rösti which was a traditionally made large, crispy potato pancake at the Oeschinen Alpine Inn – I also washed it down with a warming Schümli Pflümli (a Swiss plum schnapps).
16. 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: Central part of the country (in the Bernese Oberland region of the country)
- Population size: around 3,090
- Map Location and Directions
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 petunias boxes and the faint scent of pine and woodsmoke in the air!
17. Seebergsee
Seebergsee was another hidden gem — a scenic mountain lake with clear waters, rolling green meadows, and snow-capped peaks, complete with a rustic alpine chalet that made it feel wonderfully remote. I really enjoyed its peaceful, almost zen-like atmosphere, far removed from the bustle.
I made a 1.5-hour drive from Zurich into the Simmental Valley for a perfect day trip of hiking around Seebergsee, venturing onto trails with breathtaking alpine panoramas, and visiting the village of Boltigen. I just have to mention that the access roads were narrow and winding, and I heard from locals that the winter or early spring snow may block the last stretch, requiring a longer hike in.
- Location: Western part of the country (in the Bernese Oberland region, near the town of Boltigen)
- Size: 15 acres across
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
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Hiking the Seebergsee Circular Trail from Zwischenflüh, I passed pine-scented forests, wildflower meadows, and tinkling cowbells before reaching the emerald lake shimmering beneath the Bernese Alps!
18. Jungfraujoch
Known as the “Top of Europe,” Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe and I thought it was absolutely breathtaking — with panoramic views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks and vast glaciers that gave it an exhilarating, almost otherworldly feel.
I took the Jungfrau Railway from Wengen through Kleine Scheidegg and spent the day at Jungfraujoch — admiring the panorama from the Sphinx Observatory, exploring the glittering Ice Palace, stepping onto the Glacier Plateau, visiting the Alpine Sensation, and enjoying the terrace views before capping it off with snow tubing. I have to admit, it wasn’t cheap — the ticket alone cost around CHF 200 (€210) return, but honestly, the views made it worth every cent!
- Location: Central part of the country (in the Bernese Alps in between the mountains of Jungfrau and Mönch)
- Map Location and Directions
- Jungfrau Railway Website
My personal highlights…
- Riding the dramatic high-speed lift through the heart of the Eiger for 117 meters, I shot up to the observatory’s summit in seconds, my ears popping as the mountain walls blurred past!
19. Spiez
Spiez was a wonderful under-the-radar gem — an impossibly pretty town on the glacial Lake Thun with traditional alpine-style houses draped in flower boxes, vineyards tumbling down the hillsides, and the Alps rising in the background. It had a quaint, quiet village feel, there was no nightlife or glitzy shopping here but I personally think that’s what made it feel especially charming!
I reached Spiez in an hour from Bern and spent three days at the beautifully located 4-star Belvédère Strandhotel and spent it discovering the gothic Spiez Castle, the medieval Church of Spiez, the charming lakeside promenade, wine-tasting in the vineyards, and heading out on a serene Lake Thun cruise.
- Location: Central part of the country (Bernese Oberland region, on the northern shore of Lake Thun around 30 minutes from Thun by car).
- Population size: around 12,810
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
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Sipping an iconic glass of crisp Chasselas at the rustic Spiez Vineyard – I cherished its delicate floral notes while admiring the breathtaking mountain and lake views at the same time!
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! 🙂