15 Best Things to do in Switzerland

15 Best Things to do in Switzerland in 2024

You are in for a memorable adventure if you are planning a trip to Switzerland. You can explore the snow-capped mountains, charming villages; try different local cuisines and so much more. No matter your preference there is something you can get to enjoy in Switzerland during your trip.

Whether it is your first time visiting Switzerland or if your fifth time there is a new experience you can try. No matter the season whether it is winter you can go skiing in the Alps, in summer you can enjoy different outdoor activities like hiking or relaxing at the beach.

Therefore, if you planning a trip to Switzerland that is good idea. As you plan your trip it is important to remember you need Switzerland visa from Dubai. It is essential travels documents you need to obtain in advance for you to be allowed enter Switzerland from Dubai.

01 Things to do in Switzerland

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1. Explore the Swiss Alps

If you are nature lover, a trip to explore the Swiss Alps should be on top of list of things to do in Switzerland. Tourists from all over the world visit the Swiss Alps during winter season for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing experience.

There are also different activities which you can do as you explore the Swiss Alps include visiting the renowned Swiss National Park. It is the only national park in Switzerland. At the park, you will enjoy the scenery of the lush green valleys, crystal-clear alpine lakes and the grandeur of snow-capped peaks. There are hiking trails in the park leading to the hidden gems and panoramic viewpoints.

If you are visiting during summer or warmer months, you can go for adventure in the mountains. Among the activities you can do during summer include mountain biking, paragliding, and white-water rafting. If you don’t like thrilling experiences, you can graze sheep with the locals or enjoy the serene alpine meadows.

2. Visit the Matterhorn

A trip to the Matterhorn is worth it. It is not just a mountain. It holds spiritual significance of the Swiss Alps and also special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Hence, you can’t miss to include a visit to Matterhorn in the list of best things to do in Switzerland.

You can get clear view of this mountain from the village of Zermatt. For a closer view you can follow the hiking trails which lead to the mountain base from the village. The view of the mountain and the reflection of its towering form in the mirror-like waters of Lake Riffelsee are unforgettable.

You should not be worried how you can get closer view of the mountain even if you are not a climber. There are different ways to see the mountain up close. Among the ways is taking a cable car ride to Trockener Steg. When you get to this mountain ridge, you will get to catch spectacular views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

3.Take Train ride

One the best ways to explore Switzerland different breathtaking and diverse landscape is taking a train ride. The train network in Switzerland is efficient and extensive. You can use the trains to get to different parts in the country. Besides, the ride itself is an experience.

Glacier Express train ride which takes 8 hours is among the trains journey which you should take and will get to the heart of the Swiss Alps. For the 8 hours you will get to enjoy the views of the historic Alpine villages, deep valleys and snowy mountains.

The other amazing train journey is The Bernina Express. It is exciting way to see the Italian and Swiss Alps. The route has been recognized and listed as UNESCO World Heritage route and navigates through the Bernina Pass, crossing dizzying viaducts, winding through tunnels and dramatic landscapes.

Another route to take is GoldenPass Line which connects Lucerne and Lake Geneva. The journey takes you past the rolling hills of the Emmental region and the attractive cities of Interlaken and Montreux.

4. Go Paragliding

Paragliding is among the thrilling activities you can enjoy in Switzerland. The elevation of the mountains in Switzerland makes it the best spot for paragliding in the world. Even if you are terrified of the heights you should beat that phobia when paragliding in Switzerland. It is a safe and exciting activity. You will ride down slowly enjoying the landscape views.

The best places for paragliding in Switzerland are Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Zermatt. It is easy to find a company offering the experience because there are many of them. You should ensure it is licensed company.

5. Explore Lucerne

Located the shores of Lake Lucerne central Switzerland, Lucerne is one of the towns to explore in Switzerland. There many things you can do in this town among them enjoying delicious local cuisines in any of the world-class restaurants in town. You can also get to explore different historical sites to learn about the country history and catch the gorgeous views of landscape.

One of the must visit places in Lucerne is medieval old town center. Visit medieval walls of Museggmauer and the 700-year-old Chapel Bridge to learn about the city history. You will also catch the stunning views of Reuss River.

There are also other different things you can do in Lucerne including visiting the Rosengart Collection where you will see different artists work such as Picasso and Klee. Visit Richard Wagner Museum known for composer turned museum. Go shopping international brands in Lucerne’s old town and boutiques.

If you appreciate nature, you may take a trip on Lake Lucerne and experience stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the water. Alternatively, consider a day trip to nearby Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi for hiking or mountain riding.

Beyond that, Lucerne's central location makes it an ideal base for visiting the rest of Switzerland. From here, you can take picturesque train rides like the GoldenPass Line or the Wilhelm Tell Express.

6. Visit the Jungfraujoch

Also known as the “Top of Europe”, Jungfraujoch at elevation of over 11,000 feet is among the places you can miss to visit in Switzerland. You can get to Jungfraujoch by taking cogwheel train. From the peak you get to enjoy stunning views of various landmarks and attractions. If you want full experience you should take around 3-4 hours visit.

The trains ride to Jungfraujoch is itself an experience. The ride starts from Kleine Scheidegg, will take 20 minutes to ascent through tunnels and across viaducts and the ride will procced gradually until you get to the highest railway station in Europe. After you will arrive at Jungfraujoch you will get to the observation deck where will get to admire the beauty of the surrounding.

Aletsch Glacier is the perfect site for panoramic view of the greatest glacier in the Alps. Then enter the complex, which includes the Sphinx Observatory and the delightful Ice Palace.

Other activities you can do in this place include snowing tubing or take glacier guided tour. You can enjoy a meal at the restaurants or cafes while enjoying the view. Among the dishes to try is traditional Swiss fondue or authentic Indian food.

7. Discover the Old Towns

The best way to understand Switzerland history and culture is to tour different old towns or cities among them Bern, Zurich, Geneva, and Bellinzona. As you discover these cities, you will get a glimpse into Switzerland’s history. These cities are where you can find the bustling squares, tourist-friendly things to do and charming architecture. It is also the best way to get authentic taste of Switzerland.

Bern Switzerland capital city is one top of the old town to explore. It features old buisling built in 12th century and the old town is recognized and listed as UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take leisure walk along the cobbled streets. Among the main tourist attractions are popular medieval Clock Tower, Cathedral of Bern and Bern Historical Museum.

For old and new Switzerland culture experience, you should tour Zurich. You can explore the old town where there are busy markets, pretty squares and narrow alleys. Among the places to visit include 12th-century cathedrals and vibrant Bahnhofstrasse shopping street where you can find gift shops, shops selling high-end brands and trendy cafes.

The other city to explore in Switzerland is Geneva. Among the places to visit is St. Peter’s Cathedral, Maison Tavel, giant Mur des Réformateurs and Museums.

8. Enjoy Swiss Chocolate and Cheese

Swiss chocolate and cheese is among the two culinary delights you can’t miss to enjoy in Switzerland. The quality and craftsmanship in preparation of Swiss chocolate is what make it renowned globally.

Hence among the best things to do in Switzerland is to enjoy sampling Swiss chocolates. You can take chocolate walking tour where you get to different joints selling chocolates and taste chocolate delicacies they are selling.

If you love cheese you are equally in for a treat! You can sample different handmade cheese in different places in Switzerland. Among the best place to taste delicious cheese are Alpine areas. They prepare the cheese using cow milk. The cows are grazed in lush mountain pastures where they eat nutritious pasture. If you get the chance, visit one of the classic cheese dairies in the countryside. You will see the cheese-making process firsthand and taste fresh samples.

Another dish you ought to try for authentic Switzerland cuisines experience is fondue. The dish is prepared using melted cheese and traditionally eaten on crusty bread. You can order Fondue at any restaurant especially in the Alpine region. It is served as the main course and goes best with a dry white wine! Try it as a supper with loved ones or after skiing.

Moreover, Switzerland has a number of cheese and chocolate festivals all year round! The Swiss Cheese Festival takes place in May in Gruyères, and the Salon du Chocolat takes place in Zurich every March.

9. Take a Boat Ride on Swiss Lakes

There are a number of lakes in Switzerland which you can explore by taking a boat ride. You can take day trip where you will get to the tranquility and sightseeing. No matter which part of Switzerland chances are you will find a late and each offers unique experiences.

For instance you can take a boat ride at Lake Geneva. It is the largest alpine lake in Europe and is located between the Swiss and French Alps. While cruising in the lake you will catch stunning views of the villages, vineyards, lakeside towns, and historic landmarks like Chillon Castle. If you want a relaxing boat ride you can take choose boat ride in Lake Lucerne. Not only will it be relaxing but also enjoy spectacular views of the towering mountains.

If you are visiting Zurich, you can take bot ride at Lake Zurich. Other lakes where you can enjoy boat ride include Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Both lakes are found the Bernese Oberland region.

10. Visit Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is among the historical sites to visit in Switzerland. The castle is situated the shores of Lake Geneva near Montreux, and the fortress was constructed during middle Ages. The castle offers a glimpse into the Switzerland’s history.

There are different building inside the castle among them you can explore are halls, courtyards, and towers. More so, stroll through haunting underground dungeons and admire the intricate Gothic architecture. You can take also take a walk the garden and promenade along the lake, which provide expansive views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps.

Although Chillon Castle is open year-round, its hours vary depending on the season. Every visitor is required to pay an admission fee. You can book a guided tour or take self-guided audio tours in a number of languages. Both provide a wealth of information about the castle's historical significance in Switzerland.

11. Discover Rhine Falls

Ranked as the largest waterfall in Europe, Rhine Falls is a landmark to visit in Switzerland. The fall is situated along the Switzerland/Germany border in the north near Schaffhausen. You can book a guided tour from Zurich which includes transportation.

The waterfall is the main attraction and you can get clear visa from the viewing platforms. You will get to witness the waterfall thundering cascades reaching 23 meters high. The whole experience is exciting as you feel the sheer force of nature and the mist on your face.

If you are visiting during summer months, you can get close to the waterfall by taking a boat ride. You can also take the nearby pathways which gets you close to the waterfall.

Schloss Laufen which is 1000-year-old castle is the first place you will arrive before heading to the waterfall. The castle has been repurposed into a tourism destination for falls enthusiasts. There are numerous shops, eateries, and cafes within. While dining or shopping for mementos to remember your trip, take in the vista.

12. Explore the Swiss Riviera

Located between the lakeside towns of Lausanne to Montreux, Swiss Riviera is another place to visit in Switzerland. The river cradles the northern shore of Lake Geneva. While exploring the river, you will come across hillside vineyards and sprawling historic villages. You can also engage into various outdoor activities and other luxury experiences.

The highlight when exploring Swiss Riviera is Montreux. Among the places you can explore in this traditional resort town include Chillon Castle and Old Town. The town is popular because of the annual Jazz Festival.

Lausanne is another place to visiting located at the eastern end of the Swiss Riviera. Among the places to visit in Lausanne include art galleries, museums, sculpture gardens of Olympic Park, and theaters.

There are several reasons why Swiss Riviera is popular and among them is the production of wine and vineyards. Therefore, you should not miss to take a tour of the Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Another activity you can participate into is enjoying various water sport activities at Geneva Lake or you can enjoy the stunning views of the cobalt-blue lake. You may even ride a classic paddle boat around the Swiss Riviera.

13. Attend a Music Festival

If you love music then you should not miss to attend music festival hosted in Switzerland. It doesn’t matter your preference music genre. It is a fun and exciting experience you should not miss when you are visiting Switzerland. Besides enjoying the music you will get a chance to see the Swiss culture from a different perspective.

Among the music festival you should strive to attend is Zurich Openair. The festival is held in August and it is a 5-day event. Here you may get to meet your favorite start artists in any of the 3 stages. The other music festival to attend is held in July named Verbier Festival. You should purpose to attend this festival for a relaxing experience in the mountain resort while jamming to international classic music.

If you are planning to visit Switzerland in June, you are in for entertainment. You can attend several music festivals among them Montreux Jazz Festival. The festival is set along Geneva Lake.

The other festival hosted in June is OpenAir St. Gallen. The festival is one of the biggest and most established music festivals in Switzerland and attracts tourists from all over the world.

14. Visit the Christmas Markets

If you are visiting Switzerland during holiday season, the best things to do is explore the Christmas markets. At the markets you can buy different items among them delicious treats, unique gifts and traditional handcrafted items.

The cities with the best and famous Christmas markets are Montreux, Zurich and Basel. It is so much fun to visit these markets even the kids get something to do like enjoys rides and street food.

The decorations at the markets make the atmosphere magical. Live performances in Christmas markets, such as musicians and carol singers, enhance the joyous atmosphere. The stores are decorated with beautiful Christmas décor and sparkling lights, which instantly puts you in the mood for the holidays! While you shop, try some roasted chestnuts, sip mulled wine, and pick some hand-painted ornaments.

15. Go Hiking

If you love nature, one of the best things to do in Switzerland is go for a hike. Some tourist spends weeks hiking in different parts of the country. While hiking, you will get to the hard of the Switzerland beautiful nature. Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities to try when you are visiting Switzerland in summer season. You will get to explore different landscapes across the country.

It is mot you be experienced hiker, there are trails for even starters. For example if you are a beginner, you can take the Aare Gorge Trail. It is easy clear trails and leads to dramatic gorge near Meiringen. Another hiking trail to consider is the Champlönch – Il Fuorn Trail inside the Swiss National Park. It is a nature walk path that leads to historic chateau-style hotel and restaurant.

The other hiking trail to consider taking is Lavaux Vineyards Trail. It is a moderate hiking trails and leads to the lush countryside overlooking Lake Geneva. While hiking you will come across charming villages and terraced vineyards

If you are experienced hiker and looking for a challenge, you should consider taking the Rhine Gorge River Hike also called Swiss Grand Canyon. For breathtaking views, you should follow the path from the Rhine Gorge overlook down into the gorge and along the river.

During the winter, certain hiking trails become cross-country ski trails, providing a unique opportunity to appreciate Switzerland's beauty. It's an amazing sensation to glide across snowy landscapes surrounded by pristine forests and mountains.

02 FAQ’s

1. What is there to do in Switzerland in the winter?

If you are visiting Switzer during winter season the best things you can do are skiing, dog sledding, and riding on St. Bernina Express, exploring Christmas market shopping, trip to chocolate factory.

2. What is Switzerland famous for?

There are a number of things which makes Switzerland famous. In the list include invention and creation of products like Cellophane, Velcro, and the Swiss Army Knife. Other things which make Switzerland famous for tourist include the edible chocolate gold and huge number of tourist attractions.

3. Which is the best month to visit Switzerland?

You can explore any part of Switzerland between April to June, and September to November months. The weather is pleasant during these months hence suitable for outdoor activities.