The 15 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in 2025

If you have the amazing opportunity to head to Switzerland, you're in for a complete treat. With dozens of beautiful towns, villages, and a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, you'll have your choice of where to explore.

But that's also the tricky part, isn't it? Deciding where exactly to go to!

From international cities with bustling street corners to snowy ski lodges with the best fondue you've ever had... it's a tough choice to make.

Below, we'll share the best places to visit in Switzerland, whether you prefer the city life or are looking for something more adrenaline-fueled.

Andermatt, Switzerland

In the middle of the country, you'll find the snowy mountain town of Andermatt.

This small town is perfect for travelers looking for world-class skiing, hiking, and jaw-dropping views like the Devil's Bridge and the Schöllenen Gorge.

For centuries, Andermatt was actually a strategic military location along a trade route main artery. Napoleon's army passed through the area in 1799 during one of his military campaigns!

If Andermatt sounds like the ultimate mountain experience, that's because it is. It is one of the snowiest places in all of Switzerland and is a popular luxury destination for the alpine inclined.

Basel, Switzerland

Near the borders of France and Germany, Basel is home to Switzerland's oldest university, the University of Basel, founded in 1460.

This large city is buzzing with energy. From its robust art scene to its beautiful old town and Rhine riverfront, anyone looking to experience Switzerland's culture will have a great time in Basel.

Bellinzona, Switzerland

Bellinzona is in the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland (in the south), making it a sunnier, warmer destination than the stereotypical snowy peaks we all recognize.

A medium-sized town today, there are a lot of historical sites to see here. Bellinzona is home to three medieval castles that are all impressively well-preserved. In fact, they're now UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Travelers can explore the castles, get a delicious drink in the old town, and experience a unique fusion of Swiss and Italian culture.

Bern, Switzerland

In the western part of the country, Bern is Switzerland's capital. This medium-sized city is easy to access and a popular destination for foreigners.

Like several other places in Switzerland, Bern also has UNESCO World Heritage. Its historic old town is cherished with its famous Zytgologge clock tower, Aare River, and Bear Park.

Fun fact, it is said that Bern is named after a bear that the founder, the Duke Berthold V of Zähringen, hunted. Bonus fun fact, Albert Einstein lived in Bern when he was in the process of developing his Theory of Relativity!

Fribourg, Switzerland

Fribourg is a medium-sized town in the west that is known for its bilingualism. Multiple languages are spoken across Switzerland. In Fribourg, French and German can be found all over town, sometimes mixed and matched by the locals who live there.

If you are attracted to medieval history, Fribourg's old town delivers. It is one of the most well-preserved medieval spaces in Switzerland with over 200 Gothic buildings. Some date back to the 12th century!

Grindelwald, Switzerland

This small town was one of the first Swiss Alpine places to attract international attention due to its early railway in 1890.

Located in central Switzerland, Grindelwald is popular for its stunning mountain views, as well as its hiking. It also gives train travelers an insane ride, as it has access to the highest railway station in Europe: Jungfraujoch.

If you love hiking and exploring the outdoors, this is an excellent choice for you. The famous Eiger Trail will offer some of the most incredible mountain views you've ever seen.

Kandersteg, Switzerland

Another charming Alpine town, Kandersteg offers incredible views, scenic hiking trails, and a glacial lake with breathtaking turquoise waters.

For anyone with a background in the Scouts, Kandersteg has an international scout center where Scouts gather from all over the world to connect and learn about the outdoors.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Many people think that New Zealand was the inspiration for Rivendell (Lord of the Rings), perhaps because that's where the movie was filmed, but Lauterbrunnen was!

Lauterbrunnen, a small village in the center of the country, is home to 72 waterfalls, including one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, Staubbach Falls.

This town's dramatic scenery gives you a once-in-a-lifetime trip, whether you find yourself waterfall chasing and hiking, or simply enjoying the view with a hot cup of cocoa.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. Nestled against Lake Lucerne, this medium-sized city has a ton to see and do.

One of the most famous attractions is the Kapellbrücke, one of Europe's oldest covered wooden bridges (pictured above).

Lucern is also home to the Lion Monument, a sculpture carved directly into a rock face.

With its picture-perfect old town, lake, and easy accessibility, Lucerne is a great option for a stress-free Swiss trip (say that 5 times fast!)

Lugano, Switzerland

Another Swiss city with Italian influence, Lugano is heavily influenced by Milanese culture. In fact, it was part of the Duchy of Milan before becoming part of Switzerland, though this was back in the early 16th century.

A medium-sized city, Lugano is perfect for a non-snowy getaway. You'll enjoy the Mediterranean vibes, views of Monte Brè, and spending a relaxing day on the lakefront.

Montreaux, Switzerland

Located on Lake Geneva, Montreaux is a medium-sized town that offers an interesting piece of musical history to its visitors.

Deep Purple's Smoke on the Water was inspired by an unfortunate event that took place in Montreaux In 1971. A fire occurred at a casino during a Frank Zappa concert, causing billowing smoke to float across the lake's waters.

Today, this lakeside retreat offers a relaxing experience, but there's plenty to do if you're partial to the Rock and Roll way of life 😜

Mürren, Switzerland

A small village in the Alpine Bernese Oberland, Mürren is a must for snow fanatics. With tons of wintry hiking, snow-capped mountain views, and options for mountainous excursions, this is a great, less-traveled place to add to your list.

The 1969 James Bond movie, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, was filmed in Mürren. Today, there is a Bond-themed revolving restaurant there, paying homage to its Hollywood history.

Oberhofen Castle, Switzerland

While not a town, Oberhofen Castle has to make the list. On the edge of Lake Thun, this historic castle was built by the Habsburgs in the 13th century.

With a Turkish-style smoking room, Middle Eastern-inspired decor, and a ton of classically Swiss architecture, this romantic castle is a fascinating blend of styles.

While visiting, you can enjoy a fairytale setting with lakeside gardens and even a museum that displays what life was like for the aristocrats of yesteryear.

Thun, Switzerland

At the foothills of the Bernese Alps, you'll find the lakeside town of Thun.

A medium-sized town, Thun has a lot of historical beauty to offer its visitors. From a 13th-century castle to its covered wooden bridges, Thun is picture-perfect.

Like many European cities, you'll be able to stroll through the streets of its old town, taking in the views and stopping for a pastry or two before hitting the lake and enjoying the mountainous views.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Near the Italian border, Zermatt is home to The Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world.

This small, snowy town offers a unique experience for travelers, especially those who are sustainability-minded. Zermatt is car free! Only small electric taxis are allowed. You can get around by foot, bike, or one of the many horse-drawn carriages throughout town.

Without the noise and dust of cars, Zermatt is extremely clean and peaceful, making it a truly restful getaway.