Switzerland's majestic snow-capped peaks and charming villages dripping with fairytale charm are impossible to match. With its tranquil lakes, alpine beauty, glaciers, mountain ranges, and lush green environs, it's no surprise that about 12 million tourists visit this breathtaking country each year. Aside from this, world-class facilities and a wide range of sports, such as hiking, paragliding, skiing, and tubing, are tucked among the mountainous landscapes and lakes. Here’s a list of the must-visit breathtaking places in Switzerland.
10 Lake Geneva
The largest lake in Europe, Lake Geneva, is located on the northern portion of the Alps between the southwest of Switzerland and the southeast of France. Lake Geneva has a surface elevation of 371 meters and a surface size of 580 kilometers. A medieval old town, cafes, a Gothic cathedral, tranquil gardens, and the gorgeous snow-capped Alps at a distance surround the lake. Most of Lake Geneva's public beaches are open to the public and free of charge. There are also various lodging options near the lake, ranging from the most luxurious to affordable yet charming hotels and lodges.
- Cost: Approximately $2,244 per tourist for seven days
9 The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is located near Zermatt, a picturesque village with many world-class resorts, carriage rides, restaurants, and hotels. It is famous for being Switzerland's most legendary peak and one of the highest summits in the Alps. This renowned hill rises to 4,478 meters on the border with Italy, and its four hillsides face the compass points. Hotels to stay at include Hotel Firefly, Hotel Mont Cervin Palace, CERVO Zermatt, and more. Other activities to enjoy in The Matterhorn include skiing and biking.
- Cost: Average price for a tour in Zermatt costs $177 per day
8 Interlaken
The wonderland of Interlaken is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and it is surrounded by the towers of the Monch, Jungfrau, and Eiger peaks. Interlaken piques the interest of adrenaline enthusiasts with its varied sports like hiking, abseiling, climbing, skiing, paragliding, and many more. There are over 45 mountain railroads, ski lifts, chairlifts, and cable cars for guests.
- Cost: Average price for a solo traveler is $1,748 per week and around $180 per day
7 Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch is a saddle rich with scenic views and adventure and is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Great Aletsch Glacier, Europe's longest glacier, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A rail trip is an excellent way to reach "The Top of Europe." This location has an observation terrace 11,723 feet above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and major ski resorts. The Berghaus Hotel is a popular choice here, with a regular $118 per night that includes skiing and hiking activities.
- Cost: From Interlaken to Jungfraujoch is $256.69 per ticker
6 St. Moritz
St. Moritz is one of the world's finest mountain resorts, set in a 1,800-meter-high alpine valley with crystal-clear lakes, rocky peaks, glaciers, and alpine woods. It should be on everyone's list of things to do in Switzerland. With lavish hotels and superb restaurants, this town hosted the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948. It is divided into two sections: St. Moritz Dorf and Lake Moritz, where tourists find inexpensive hotels. Visitors can enjoy a variety of snow sports in the winter and water sports and glacier skiing in the summer.
- Cost: Average price for a 7-day trip per solo traveler is $1,943
5 Lucerne
It's no wonder that Lucerne is a famous tourist destination in Switzerland because of its glistening clean lake surrounded by mountain ranges, magnificent bridges, antique buildings, blossoming flowers, and historical old town. The Chapel Bridge is a municipal feature that houses various 17th-century artworks. Away from the strenuous excursions in the mountains, strolling through town is a less adrenaline-filled activity. Visitors can take a 1-hour boat for $19 per person to explore the entire city from a fresh perspective.
- Cost: Average travel cost per week in Lucerne is $2,379 for two people
4 Bern
Bern, Switzerland's capital city, oozes old-world beauty and is located on the banks of the Aare River. It also serves as Switzerland's UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medieval old town. Visitors can take a tour of the country's highest cathedral and climb to its tower for panoramic views of adjacent sites. Bern has many museums and historical places, including the most extensive collection of artworks by prominent artists in Zentrum Paul Klee and Kunstmuseum. Bundesplatz, a parliament square, is where tourists can find several marketplaces and breathtaking views of Renaissance-era parliament structures.
Cost: Average rate for a week of the trip to Bern is $2,774 for two people.
3 Zurich
Zurich is notable for being the largest city in Switzerland, with 87.88 km2. The city serves as Switzerland's worldwide center, making it an excellent destination for walking tours. Zurich also features an Old Town with several restaurants, lovely streets, galleries, and a wide range of stores. The city also has over 100 art galleries and 50 museums, including the Swiss National Museum, for people interested in learning more about Switzerland's culture and history. A rail ride to Uetliberg Mountain will provide visitors with a panoramic view of the entire city.
- Cost: Average rate for a week of the trip to Zurich is around $2,953 for two people.
2 The Rhine Falls
Flowing in Rheinfallquai, 8212 Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland is the fascinating Rhine Falls which drops around 23 meters and 150 meters wide. Visitors can have the most iconic views of the falls through a boat ride. Different boat tours offer specific services for Rhine Falls viewing; the most extended trip takes from 30 to 75 minutes cruise which costs $9 per adult and $5 per 6 to 16 years old. Nearest lodges include Rooms-Zimmer, Zak Neuhausen, Hotel Park Villa, Hotel 2B, etc.
- Cost: Lodges near Rhine Falls ranges from $97 to $155 per night
1 Swiss Grand Canyon
The Swiss Grand Canyon, also known locally as Ruinaulta, is located in eastern Switzerland. This abyss is surrounded by densely forested cliffs, vast grasslands, and mountain ranges. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts will find the Swiss Grand Canyon a sanctuary. The most popular activities here between May and October include white water rafting, kayaking, canyoneering, etc. Places to stay near Ruinaulta include Arena Flims, Hotel & Restaurant Fidazerhof, Hotel Adult, Hotel Cresta, and so on.
- Cost: Approximately $3646 for two people per week