Most Beautiful Places in Switzerland – Top Scenic Spots to Visit

What are the most beautiful places in Switzerland? This country is famed for sapphire lakes reflecting snow-capped peaks and villages tucked into green alpine meadows. Beyond its chocolate and cheese, the most beautiful places in Switzerland are about landscapes that linger in memory — sunset-lit glaciers, autumn-gold vineyards, and remote valleys untouched by time.

Thanks to an exceptional transport network, you can glide past glaciers by train, skim lakes by boat, or soar into the Alps by cable car. Whether hiking wildflower trails in summer or skiing pristine slopes in winter, the journey is as stunning as the destination.

1. Zermatt & the Matterhorn

At the foot of Switzerland’s most famous peak lies the postcard village of Zermatt, a car-free, alpine haven where time seems to slow down. The Matterhorn dominates the skyline like a jagged crown, drawing climbers, skiers, and photographers from around the world.

In winter, the pistes seem endless; in summer, hiking trails crisscross wildflower meadows and glacier-fed streams. Yet it is not just about the outdoors Zermatt also excels in high-end hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and spa indulgence with a view.

Why go: To see one of the world’s most iconic mountains up close from a hot tub, train, or ski slope.

Fun fact: The shape of the Matterhorn inspired the design of the Toblerone chocolate bar.

2. Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lauterbrunnen is a magical valley with green fields, steep cliffs, and tall waterfalls. It is one of the most beautiful places in the Swiss Alps. Staubbach Falls, which drops nearly 300 meters, is the most famous. There are quiet walking paths through the valley, and you can take funiculars and trains up to Mürren and Wengen peaceful villages with amazing views.

This area is perfect for hiking and taking photos, especially in spring and summer when the valley blooms with wildflowers. Everything here feels calm, natural, and full of life.

Why go: To enjoy peaceful walks, stunning waterfalls, and charming mountain villages high above the valley.

Fun fact: Lauterbrunnen inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings after he visited the valley in 1911.

3. Lucerne

Lucerne blends tradition and beauty in a way few places can. Sitting on the edge of a deep-blue lake and surrounded by mountains, this city has an almost magical feel. Its famous Chapel Bridge, with a tower in the middle, crosses the Reuss River and leads you into the colorful Old Town, full of painted buildings, little squares, and fountains.

You can cruise on the lake, ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, or explore the Swiss Transport Museum. In every season, Lucerne has something new to offer — spring flowers, summer sunsets, autumn walks, or snowy rooftops.

Why go: A perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and mountain adventure all in one walkable city.

Fun fact: Lucerne's Chapel Bridge was originally built in 1333 and is one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe.

4. Interlaken

Set between the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s top spots for outdoor fun. Known for its stunning alpine backdrop, the town draws adventure lovers with options like skydiving, paragliding, and canyoning. But it’s not all about the thrill — there’s plenty to enjoy at a slower pace.

Take a boat ride across the lakes, hop on a mountain train to explore nearby villages like Lauterbrunnen, or simply unwind with a picnic by the water. Interlaken also offers lively streets lined with shops, cafés, and green parks perfect for watching the colorful paragliders drift down from the sky.

Why go: To enjoy everything from extreme sports to quiet lake views, all set against the dramatic beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Fun fact: In the 1800s, Interlaken was a popular retreat for spa-goers and writers seeking calm and inspiration.

5. Thun

Thun is often missed by tourists rushing past, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a lively town at the lower end of Lake Thun, with a relaxed, local atmosphere. A castle sits proudly above the town, with great views of the rooftops and the lake beyond.

The Aare River flows right through the center, with wooden bridges, surfers riding the current, and cafés lining the banks. The Old Town has two-level streets, which means shops above and below — a quirky but charming setup. Everything feels fresh and real.

Why go: To experience a genuine Swiss lakeside town with history, views, and a laid-back pace.

Fun fact: Thun’s raised sidewalks in the Old Town are called “Hochtrottoirs” and are unique in Switzerland.

6. Lavartezzo

Lavartezzo is a hidden gem tucked away in Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. The village itself is small, with stone houses and narrow paths, but what draws people here is the Verzasca River. Its bright green water flows over smooth rocks, creating natural pools where people swim and relax in summer.

A centuries-old arched stone bridge, Ponte dei Salti, crosses the river and adds to the fairy-tale feel. Unlike busier spots, Lavartezzo remains peaceful, especially on weekdays, making it perfect for a quiet escape.

Why go: To swim in crystal-clear water, enjoy slow moments, and see a traditional Swiss village that feels untouched.

Fun fact: The river’s clear, emerald waters are so transparent that some visitors mistake it for a painting.

7. Foroglio

Tucked away in the wild and quiet Bavona Valley, Foroglio is a tiny stone village that feels frozen in time. Traditional granite houses with wooden balconies line narrow paths, and colorful flowers bloom beside old stone walls. A stunning waterfall crashes down the cliffs nearby, filling the air with a soft roar.

There are no busy roads or modern distractions — just pure alpine beauty. Foroglio invites you to slow down, take peaceful walks, and enjoy the stillness of nature. It’s the kind of place where you leave your phone in your pocket and simply enjoy the moment.

Why go: To escape into a peaceful mountain village that feels untouched by time, surrounded by nature at its best.

Fun fact: The Bavona Valley has no power lines — even today, locals use solar panels and candles instead of electricity.

8. Lugano

Lugano feels more like Italy than the rest of Switzerland — and that’s part of its charm. Palm trees line the waterfront, gelato shops dot the streets, and locals speak Italian. Set on a sparkling lake and surrounded by soft, green hills, Lugano offers a slower, sunnier vibe.

You can ride a funicular to Monte Brè for sweeping views or walk through Parco Ciani, one of Switzerland’s prettiest parks. It’s also a cultural hub, with art museums, music festivals, and elegant villas.

Why go: For a taste of Italy blended with Swiss style — complete with lakeside walks, sunshine, and easy-going beauty.

Fun fact: Lugano is home to Switzerland’s largest open-air jazz festival, attracting international musicians every July.

9. Bernina Express

The Bernina Express isn’t just a train, it's a window into Switzerland’s soul. Running from Chur to Tirano, it crosses 196 bridges and passes glaciers, alpine lakes, and picture-perfect villages. The ride is smooth and silent, but the scenery is dramatic. Snow-covered peaks turn to sunny valleys in just a few hours.

The panoramic windows make it feel like you are gliding through a postcard. It’s not a rush — it’s a journey that invites you to slow down and take it all in.

Why go: To see some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes without hiking boots or ski poles — just sit back and watch it all unfold.

Fun fact: The route includes the Landwasser Viaduct, an engineering marvel that curves 65 meters above a gorge.

10. Chillon Castle

Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is a striking sight, with the towering Alps framing its backdrop. This historic fortress has been standing for nearly a millennium, offering visitors a step into Switzerland's medieval past. As you wander through its grand halls, explore the secretive dungeons, and stroll through its peaceful courtyards, you'll feel as though you’ve been transported to another era.

The panoramic views from the castle are simply unforgettable, with each window offering a unique glimpse of the lake and surrounding mountains. At dusk, the castle takes on a magical glow as the sun sets over the water. Easily accessible from Montreux, whether on foot, by bike, or by boat, a visit to Chillon feels like a journey into history.

Why go: To visit one of Switzerland’s most picturesque and historically significant castles, with scenic views and fascinating architecture.

Fun fact: In 1816, Lord Byron stayed at Chillon Castle and wrote the iconic poem, “The Prisoner of Chillon,” inspired by its dungeon.

11. Swiss National Park

Established in 1914, it is Switzerland’s only national park and the oldest in the Alps. Inside, there are no hotels or restaurants, and visitors must stick to marked trails, preserving the park's natural beauty. As you hike through lush forests, across rocky valleys, and over meadows, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, one where nature reigns supreme.

It’s a place where wild animals roam freely — marmots, ibex, and eagles are common sights. For those who seek true isolation and the raw beauty of nature, this park offers an unparalleled experience.

Why go: To explore a peaceful, unspoiled part of Switzerland, offering over 80 kilometers of hiking trails amidst diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Fun fact: The park has very strict rules to preserve its ecosystem — even picking a pinecone is prohibited.

12. St. Moritz

St. Moritz stands as one of the world’s most famous snow capped towns, known for its style, donning history, and normal excellence. It’s where winter tourism started in the Alps, and the town has twice facilitated the Winter Olympics. Amid the colder months, guests come for world-class skiing, snow-covered view, and high-end resorts.

When the snow softens, the locale changes trails open for climbing and cycling, whereas the lake becomes a center for water sports and summer occasions. With high-end shops, fine feasting, and shocking mountain views, St. Moritz is a year-round goal that combines nature with luxury.

Why go: It’s the culmination of open air enterprise and upscale unwinding, with daylight nearly all year and extraordinary mountain views.

Fun fact: The town is domestic to the world as it were common ice bobsleigh track, which has been in utilize since 1904.