Best things to do in Switzerland

• Capital: Bern
• Language(s): German, French, Italian, Roman
• Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)
• Dial Code: + 41

The Ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide: Where Alpine Dreams Meet Chocolate Fantasies

Welcome to Switzerland — the land of snow-dusted peaks, luxury watches, ridiculously punctual trains, and more chocolate than your sweet tooth could ever dream of. Nestled in the heart of Western Europe and bordered by Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein, Switzerland is the kind of place that seems too picture-perfect to be real. But spoiler alert: it is real, and it’s spectacular.

Whether you're planning your first Alpine adventure or coming back for another round of mountain magic, this Switzerland travel guide has everything you need to know — from jaw-dropping sightseeing spots to must-try activities and the best places to visit across the country. Buckle up. Switzerland isn’t just a destination, it’s a lifestyle.

Things to Know Before You Go

Switzerland is a federal republic made up of 26 cantons (think of them as tiny, beautiful provinces), with Bern serving as the de facto capital. Even though it’s relatively small — around 41,285 square kilometers — this country punches way above its weight. With around 9 million people, it manages to stay super efficient, super clean, and super scenic.

One fun fact? Switzerland hasn’t been involved in a war since 1815. That’s right. While the rest of Europe was playing Risk, Switzerland was perfecting chocolate-making and inventing the Red Cross. Neutral? Yes. Boring? Absolutely not.

Oh, and Switzerland didn’t even join the United Nations until 2002 — talk about fashionably late.

Languages, Culture, and Cheese (Very Important)

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. So if you’re feeling linguistically inadequate, don’t worry — so is everyone else. Just smile, say “Grüezi,” and keep moving.

Despite the language mix, Swiss culture is united by a love of precision, cleanliness, democracy, and cheese fondue. Each region has its own vibe — from the German-speaking north to the Mediterranean-influenced south — making it feel like you're visiting multiple countries in one trip.

Places to Visit in Switzerland: Top Attractions You Can’t Miss

Zurich – Switzerland’s Cool Capital of Cool

Zurich isn’t the official capital (that’s Bern), but it is the country's largest city and economic powerhouse. Think luxury shopping, sleek architecture, a buzzing nightlife, and a lake so clean you could probably drink from it.

Top things to do in Zurich:

• Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse (one of the world’s fanciest shopping streets)

• Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich

• Explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt)

• Visit Kunsthaus Zurich for a dose of culture

Geneva – Diplomacy, Lakes, and Jet D’Eau

If Zurich is Switzerland’s brain, Geneva is its charming, multilingual heart. Home to the second-largest United Nations office and the Red Cross, Geneva is where the world’s problems come to get fixed — and where you come to admire the lake views and the giant water fountain (Jet d’Eau).

Top attractions in Geneva:

• Visit the United Nations Headquarters

• Stroll around Lake Geneva and catch the Jet d’Eau in action

• Explore the old town and Saint Pierre Cathedral

• Learn about humanitarian history at the Red Cross Museum

Lucerne – The Storybook Swiss Town

If you’ve ever wanted to walk through a postcard, Lucerne is your town. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and centered around a glistening lake, this medieval beauty is one of the most photogenic places to visit in Switzerland.

Things to do in Lucerne:

• Cross the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge)

• Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus

• Take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne

• Snap a selfie with the famous Lion Monument

Zermatt – The Home of the Mighty Matterhorn

You know that mountain on the Toblerone box? That’s the Matterhorn, and it lives in Zermatt. This no-car town is a skier’s paradise in the winter and a hiker’s dream in the summer.

Top sightseeing in Zermatt:

• Ride the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views

• Go skiing, snowboarding, or hiking depending on the season

• Visit the Matterhorn Museum

• Eat fondue. Lots and lots of fondue.

Interlaken – The Adventure Capital

For thrill-seekers and lovers of outdoor fun, Interlaken is the place to be. Nestled between two glacial lakes and surrounded by the Bernese Alps, this town is a hub for adrenaline and jaw-dropping scenery.

Best things to do in Interlaken:

• Paragliding over the lakes

• Take a scenic train to Jungfraujoch, “Top of Europe”

• Try canyoning, kayaking, or skydiving

• Chill with a hot chocolate if jumping out of planes isn’t your thing

Lausanne – Art, Wine, and Olympic Spirit

Lausanne is a hidden gem perched on the northern shores of Lake Geneva. It’s home to the International Olympic Committee, stunning vineyards, and some seriously good food.

Top attractions in Lausanne:

• Visit the Olympic Museum

• Wander through the Old Town and Lausanne Cathedral

• Sip local wines in the nearby Lavaux vineyards (a UNESCO site)

• Enjoy lakeside walks and sunsets

Food, Glorious Food: What to Eat in Switzerland

Switzerland’s culinary game is strong. Beyond the world-famous cheese and chocolate, there’s rösti (crispy potato heaven), Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (creamy veal dish), and raclette (cheese melted to perfection).

Trust us — sightseeing is even better with cheese in one hand and chocolate in the other.

Getting Around: Trains, Trains, and More Trains

Switzerland’s public transport is so efficient, it’ll ruin you for every other country. The Swiss Travel Pass gives you access to trains, buses, and boats, and the views are nothing short of cinematic. Expect to see glacial lakes, green valleys, and mountain peaks through every window.

Final Thoughts: Why Switzerland Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

From its jaw-dropping scenery and luxurious cities to its thrilling adventures and chocolatey goodness, Switzerland is a dream destination for travelers of all stripes. Whether you're planning to climb mountains, explore medieval towns, or just eat your weight in fondue, this country offers endless things to do and unforgettable places to visit.

So pack your hiking boots, grab a rail pass, and let the Alps welcome you to one of Europe’s most breathtaking and fascinating destinations. Switzerland isn’t just a travel destination — it’s a full-on fairytale.