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Top Places to Visit in Switzerland: The Ultimate Travel Guide (2024)

Looking for ideas on where to go in Switzerland? From the picturesque Alpine peaks of the Bernese Oberland to the lush green vineyards of Valais, and from the fairytale-like town of Lucerne to the city of Zurich – there are so many incredible places to visit in Switzerland. Even though it’s one of Europe’s smallest countries, this landlocked nation has enough attractions and activities to fill a week long vacation. With everything from snow-capped mountains, medieval castles and ancient monasteries, the top 5 places to visit in Switzerland all offer something different. Whether you prefer quiet villages with panoramic views or busy cities with lots of culture, there is a perfect place for you to explore in Switzerland.



Switzerland on Your Travel List?

Our newest guide includes recommended luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants you don't want to miss, and suggested cultural sights on our list of top places to visit in Switzerland.


Zürich

The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich is the best place to start your visit to the country. In fact, with an abundance of attractions and activities, it could be the only place you need to see. While the city’s old town is filled with Medieval architecture, modern skyscrapers are also present. And, if you visit in the summer, you can enjoy a wide range of cultural festivals. The highlights of Zurich include the Zurich Lake, which is surrounded by parks; the Gherkin, a futuristic looking building that houses offices; and the Zurich Opera House, which is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for opera lovers. You can also visit the Zurich’s iconic Swiss National Park, which is filled with alpine scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and climbing.





Zürich Top Hotels



Renowned for warm hospitality for over 650 years, the Hotel Storchen enjoys a unique position in the heart of Zurich. It has its own boat pier directly at the Limmat River, and is within walking distance of all cultural attractions.


Rooms: 64 newly designed rooms


Restaurant:

  • La Rôtisserie: Seasonally finely tuned swiss creations by Stefan Jäckel, who has earned a Michelin star in 2022






Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at The Dolder Grand. Enjoying a privileged location in natural surroundings above Zurich, next to the cog railway station.


Rooms: 173 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • The Restaurant: Fine Dining Chef Heiko Nieder has received many international awards and his gourmet restaurant currently has 2 Michelin stars and 19 Gault Millau points.

  • Saltz Restaurant: International Cuisine with local sourced products, currently awarded 14 Gault Millau points






Uniquely located in its own private park in the heart of Zurich with views over Lake Zurich and the Alps, the 5-star Baur au Lac offers elegant and luxurious rooms and suites.



Rooms: 119 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • The Restaurant Pavillon: Seasonal and modern interpretations of classic haute cuisine. Awarded with 2 Michelin star and 18 points by Gault Millau

  • Baur's Brassiere & Bar: Classics of European cuisine, but also fans of vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Modern chic meets international guests in an elegant but warm ambience

  • Baur au Lac Terrace: Light and seasonal dishes, the finest pastry and scrumptious ice-cream sundaes. Zurich's most exclusive place to spend hot sunny days and lush evenings






Zürich's Fine Dining - Exclusive Restaurants


1. Kronenhalle

Kronnenhalle is the perfect choice if you're seeking a historical Swiss restaurant with art. Centrally located on Bellevue Platz, it's one of Zürich's most renowned restaurants, having welcomed guest such as Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Richard Strauss, and many more. With impeccable Swiss hospitality, this eatery serves excellent Swiss specialties. It's interior hides works by Chagall, Mirò, Braque, and Matisse, making it a culinary and artistic hotspot for all.





2. Lasalle Restaurant & Bar

The LaSalle Restaurant & Bar is a part of the Schauspielhaus complex and was constructed as a glass cube with the historic Schiffbau hall as a backdrop. Most of the meals are inspired by French or Italian cuisines. Fish and seafood are prominent on the menu, and the selection is altered to take into account seasonal items.





3. Sonnenberg Restaurant

Experience Swiss cuisine with an impeccable view of Lake Zurich. Even though it doesn't fall under the fine dining experiences, the Restaurant Sonnenberg does not disappoint with its haute cuisine with a French touch and friendly service.







What To Do in Zürich


While in Zurich you should visit Lake Zurich, The Harbor, The Old Town and take the train up to Uetlibertg to catch a beautiful view of the area. Don't forget Zurich's famous shopping street: Bahnhofstrasse, which features all your favorite designer shops.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:





 


Lugano

The fairytale-like Swiss town of Lugano is a great place to visit in Switzerland if you want a quick getaway from the city. Just a 2-hour train ride from Zurich, this Swiss border town is perfect for a weekend trip or a day trip from the city. There are many attractions such as the Swiss Art Museum, the Santa Maria degli Angioli Church, and the Museo Hermann Hesse. There's plenty to see in this charming town. But, Lugano is really best known for its lakeside location and tranquil atmosphere. Here you can find wide avenues, parks, and stunning views of the Swiss Alps.



Lugano Lake Top Hotels



Guests at this boutique hotel can look forward to superb views of the lake Maggiore as well as extensive lush grounds, which ensure privacy. The guest rooms are of the highest quality, and all boast stunning views. A relaxing spa is also available.

Rooms: 28 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • Il Ristorante di Villa Orselina: Mediterranean Flavors

  • La Pergola Restaurant: Healthy Italian and grilled dishes






The Eden Roc Hotel sits on the shores of Lake Maggiore and entices visitors with its 10,000-square-meter Mediterranean Garden of Eden and palm-lined shoreline. It has its own Marina and is close to many interesting places.

Rooms: 95 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • Restaurant La Brezza: Refined gourmet cuisine. Awarded 1 Michelin star and 17 Gault Millau Points

  • Restaurant Eden Roc: Fresh cuisine with what the region has to offer. Awarded 15 Gault Millau Points

  • Restaurant La Casetta: Homemade pasta dishes and grilled specialties

  • Restaurant Marina: Something for everyone's taste







Stay in the center of Lugano in the stunning 5-star Splendide Royal with its turn-of-the-century character is Lugano's most fashionable hotel, Established in 1887 located on Lugano's lakeside main street.

Rooms: 93 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • I Due Sud Restaurant: Flavors of Southern Italy combined with those of Southern Switzerland. Awarded with 1 Michelin star and 16 Gault et Millau points

  • La Veranda Restaurant: Classic and Mediterranean cuisine. Awarded 14 Gault et Millau points








What To Do in Lugano


While visiting Lugano, you should take a boat tour of the stunning lake, visit both Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore for the spectacular views, and visit the Plazas and the many breathtaking parks.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:









 

Geneva

Known as the "Switzerland of America", Geneva is the second-largest city in Switzerland, as well as the country's main center for international organizations such as the UN and the Red Cross. With a population of around 200,000, Geneva is smaller than Zurich and ideal for a city break. The best things to do in Geneva include:

  • Visiting the famous and world-renowned Swiss-made watches in the Jura Mountains.

  • Strolling along the Rhone River.

  • Visiting the UN and Red Cross headquarters.

  • Exploring the Cornichon neighborhood, which is filled with art, architecture, and museums.

While Geneva is a great city to visit in Switzerland, it's also a great base to explore other nearby places, such as the gorgeous town of Lausanne or Lake Geneva, one of the best places to visit in Switzerland.


Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for history lovers. The largest lake in the country and shared by Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva is home to the famous Swiss city of Geneva as well as Lausanne, which is located in Switzerland. With a varied landscape, Lake Geneva is a great place to explore by boat, car, or even by foot. You can visit the French town of Evian-Les-Bains, rent a boat and explore the French and Swiss shores, or hike the Alpine Path to see panoramic views of the lake.




Geneva's Top Hotels


Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva, Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues offers the perfect base to enjoy a memorable family holiday. Geneva's first hotel dates back to 1834. Today the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues offers 71 bedrooms and 44 suites; Il Lago, a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant, plus a trendy rooftop restaurant.

Rooms: 115 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • Il Lago: Italian Specialties. Michelin starred Restaurant

  • IZUMI: Japanese-fusion Nikkei cuisine





The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva, the historic and prestigious boutique luxury hotel, Completely renovated in 2017, melds landmark elegance with contemporary style in the city's heart and on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Rooms: 75 rooms and suites


Restaurants:





The luxurious Woodward sits on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering panoramic views of Mont Blanc. Pierre-Yves Rochon, a world-renowned architect, carefully reimagined the hotel, originally built-in 1901 by French architect François Durel in a post-Haussmann style.

Rooms: 75 rooms and suites


Restaurants:





What To Do in Geneva


Geneva is rich of many parks, interesting neighborhoods, lookouts, festivals and of course Lake Geneva. We suggest you explore all the typical landmarks Geneva has to offer.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:




 

Interlaken

If you're looking for the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer, Interlaken is one of the most popular destinations. Located in the Bernese Oberland region, Interlaken is one of the most famous Swiss tourist towns. Interlaken is an iconic Swiss town that is best known for its incredible views of the nearby Alps – particularly the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch mountains – as well as its outdoor activities and adventure sports, such as hiking, rafting, paragliding, and via Ferrata (a form of rock climbing on vertical or overhanging rock faces that relies on a rope belay).



Interlaken's Top Hotels


The Stunning Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa enjoys a privileged and picturesque location in Interlaken, between 2 beautiful lakes at the foot of the eternally snow-capped Jungfrau.

Rooms: 216 rooms and suites


Restaurants:

  • La Terrasse Brasserie: Swiss dishes and international classics

  • Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori: Fresh Italian Cuisine





Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, located only 350 feet from Grindelwald Train Station, the Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof offers panoramic views of the Eiger mountain, an indoor pool, and gourmet cuisine.


Rooms: 56 rooms and suites

Restaurants:


  • Restaurant Schmitte: Swiss dishes and international classics

  • Restaurant Gaststubli: Local delicacies and fondue chinoise and cheese fondue.



The breathtaking Beatus Wellness & SPA Hotel in Merligen - Interlaken is located right in a large park on the shore of Lake Thun. It offers a salt-water outdoor pool, an indoor pool, alpine Mediterranean cuisine and parking.


Rooms: 71 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Orangerie Restaurant & Bar: Alpine Mediterranean Cuisine

  • Wellness Café Le Palmier: Light Vitalità cuisine.






What To Do in Interlaken


Besides cruising on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, there are endless outdoor activities in and around Interlaken. Plenty of parks and peaks to hike and small villages to discover. How about winter sports? Or taking in the phenomenal views via paragliding?


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:




 


Bern

The Swiss capital and one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, Bern is a great place to start your trip to Switzerland. The city has been the Swiss capital since 1848 and is also the country's fourth-largest city, with a population of almost 350,000 people. The city of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its medieval architecture, as well as its many museums and landmarks, such as the Swiss Parliament, the Swiss Clock Tower, the Bear Garden, and the Bern Minster. Bern is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland for culture, history, and nature. It's a great base for exploring nearby places, such as the Swiss Alps, or heading to the fairytale-like villages of Interlaken, Gruyères, or Yvoire.



Bern's Top Hotels


One of the premier hotels in Bern, the Schweizerhof Bern offers ultimate luxury and comfort, as well as the most exclusive spa in town.

Rooms: 99 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Jacks Brassiere: Fresh French Cuisine

  • Sky Terrace: Seasonal and Traditional Swiss Dishes.





This stunning traditional 5-star palace hotel occupies an elegant Art Nouveau building dating from 1913, located in the heart of Bern next to the Federal Parliament. The Bellevue Palace has the most amazing views to the Bernese Alps and the river.


Rooms: 130 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Brasserie VUE: French Culinary Classics

  • NOUMI BAR & GRILL: Variety of Worldwide cuisine.






What To Do in Bern


The city of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its medieval architecture and many museums and landmarks. Take a stroll through all the enchanting neighborhoods and the surrounding areas with their beautiful parks.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:



 


Lucerne

The beautiful city of Lucerne is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland. One of the most picturesque Swiss cities, Lucerne is also home to many attractions, including the world-famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Transport Museum. You can also explore the nearby mountains and the Rhine Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe. If you have more time in this beautiful city, you can visit the Swiss Open-Air Museum, which showcases Swiss architecture from the 16th to 20th centuries. For a full-day trip, you can also visit the nearby town of Rothensee, which hosts one of the largest and most popular Oktoberfest celebrations in Switzerland.



Lucerne's Top Hotels



The Park Hotel Vitznau offers an unparalleled, luxurious residence experience. Elegance and comfort combine to provide a 5-star stay. Your stay will be unique in terms of luxury.

Rooms: 48 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Restaurant focus ATELIER: Seasonal French Cuisine: Awarded 18 Gault Millau points, 2 Michelin stars

  • Restaurant PRISM: Casual Fine Dining with Asian Flavors

  • Grill Restaurant and See Terrace: Variety of grilled and fresh cuisine. Awarded 14 Gault Millau points





Starting high above Lake Lucerne, your Bürgenstock Resort experience is enhanced by contemporary design, award-winning dining, and two spa worlds with sweeping vistas.

Rooms: 102 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Restaurant Spices Kitchen & Terrace: Oriental Cuisine; awarded 16 Gault & Millau points.

  • Parisa Restaurant: Persian and Middle Eastern Cuisine.

  • The Oak Grill Restaurant: Alpine Grilled Delights; awarded with 14 Gault & Millau points

  • Restaurant Osteria Alpina - Terrazza: Italian Gourmet Dishes

  • Verbena Restaurant & Bar: Balanced and healthy enjoyment – awarded with 14 Gault Millau points

  • Brasserie Ritzcoffier: French Classic Cuisine

  • Restaurant Taverne 1879: Swiss Specialties





The Schweizerhof Lucerne is situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne and a short walk from the city center of Lucerne. Even if you don't stay here, we recommend a stop at the popular Sun Terrace for a light meal and stunning ambiance.

Rooms: 101 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Restaurant Gallerie: Local, Fresh and Seasonal Cusine

  • Restaurant Pavillion: Variety of Local and Exotic Dishes

  • Sun Terrace: Amazing Ambience and Original Chef Creations





What To Do in Lucerne


You definitely want to cruise on Lake Lucerne, visit Mount Pilatus via the world's steepest cogwheel railway, climb Mount Rigi, stroll the old town, and enjoy the breathtaking views and shores of Lake Lucerne.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:




 


St. Moritz

The Swiss Alps are the undisputed highlight of any trip to Switzerland. But where should you visit in the Alps? We suggest the quaint Swiss town of St. Moritz. St. Moritz is one of the best places to visit in Switzerland in winter when it becomes a mecca for skiers and snowboarders. If you're not a fan of winter sports, don't worry, as the town is just as beautiful in summer when the snow has melted, and the lake is in full flow. St. Moritz is also home to the Engadine Museum, one of the best museums in Switzerland; the Swiss Ski Museum; and an array of luxurious hotels and casinos open all year round.



St. Moritz's Top Hotels



Having a rich and intriguing history, Grand Hotel Kronenhof is one of the most beautiful alpine Hotels. Pontresina's Grand Hotel Kronenhof is located in the very center of the town and has been in operation since 1848.

Rooms: 112 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Grand Restaurant: Swiss culinary specialties combined with international creations

  • Le Pavillion: Variety of delicious cheese fondues, fine pizzocheri or fresh oysters

  • Gourmet Restaurant Kronenstübli: Masterpieces of Italian-Mediterranean and French cuisine; awarded 16 Gault Millau points





Hotel Schweizerhof St. Moritz is situated in the center of Sankt Moritz and offers gorgeous rooms with superb lake views.

Rooms: 82 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Restaurant Acla: Local, Swiss Cusine

  • Segantini Saal : Variety of Local Cuisine

  • Fandetta: Fondue Specialties





Hotel Waldhaus am See sits on the shores of the St. Moritz Lake, providing a magnificent vista of the surrounding Engadin Mountains. Lake St. Moritz is just a 15-minute walk away, and free ski shuttles are available.

Rooms: 50 rooms and suites


Restaurants:


  • Restaurant Waldhaus am See: Homestyle Swiss Cooking

  • Fondue Parlour: Fondue and Raclette specialties






What To Do in St. Moritz



St. Moritz is a perfect destination for all that enjoy the challenging ski trails and the charming town of St Moritz at high altitudes in the Swiss Alps. St Moritz is near several quaint villages and towns in the Engadine region and an incredible national park, all of which are well worth visiting. Lakes and mountain bike paths are available for outdoor enthusiasts and many other outdoor activity options.


For all that are interested in additional cultural activities, we recommend you check out the following sights:











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