Switzerland, located in the heart of Europe, is a dream destination that attracts visitors with its breathtaking scenery, beautiful towns, and rich cultural history. If you're an adventurer, a history buff, or someone looking for peaceful leisure, Switzerland presents a little to all. From the towering heights of the Swiss Alps to the peaceful shores of its crystal-clear lakes, the nation is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Fancy skiing down beautiful slopes, wandering along scenic pathways, or simply admiring the panoramic views from a summit.
Switzerland is not plainly about environmental beauty; its cities are as attractive. Explore Zurich's cosmopolitan setting, Bern's medieval charm, and Basel's creative allure. Each city is a rich mine of museums, historical sites, and thriving neighborhoods. Don't miss a ride on the vintage Swiss trains, where every route promises spectacular beauty.
And before you get confuse on where to start on, heres a list of best things to do in switzerland.
11 fun things to do when in Switzerland
- Marvel at the beauty of Jungfraujoch
- Take on the iconic swiss train
- Try paragliding at Interlaken
- Experience Swiss culture at Zurich
- Plan a cruise ride on Lake Geneva
- Discover Lucerne and its beauty
- Stomach all the infamous swiss culinary
- Get adventurous at Lauterbrunnen Valley
- Take a leisurely walk vineyards of Lavaux
- Try the notable cheese from the charming town of Gruyères
- Have fun skiing at Zermatt
Marvel at the beauty of Jungfraujoch:
Begin your Swiss vacation at Jungfraujoch, also known as the "Top of Europe." This high-altitude beauty, sitting between the towering peaks of Jungfrau and Mönch, offers an unforgettable experience. The journey itself is thrilling, with a cogwheel train passing through tunnels built into the rock. As you rise, incredible sights of mountains covered in snow and spreading glaciers appear before you.
Once at Jungfraujoch, see the Ice Palace, which is entirely made of ice, and take a stroll on the Aletsch Glacier, the biggest glacier in the Alps. Do not miss the Sphinx Observatory, which offers a breathtaking 360-degree vista. The pure beauty and majesty of Jungfraujoch make it worth a visit.
Take on the iconic swiss train:
Swiss trains are famous worldwide for running like clockwork. So traveling on Switzerland's railroads allows you to combine two things the nation is famed for: breathtaking beauty and strict timekeeping.
You can take modern intercity trains or ancient cogwheel rails over mountains. Either way, you can kick back, relax, and take in the scenery on a memorable day trip. This is considered as the one of the funniest things to do in Switzerland. Do not miss upon the fun!
Try paragliding at Interlaken:
Interlaken, located in between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is Switzerland's adventure center. Among its numerous thrilling activities, paragliding stands out as a must-do. Nothing beats the sense of flying like a bird, with the majestic Bernese Oberland scenery spreading beneath you.
Whether you're an experienced paraglider or a beginner, Interlaken provides pair flights with skilled pilots that promise a safe and exciting experience. As you fly through the skies, take in the breathtaking views of green lakes, lush meadows, and towering hills. It's an adventure that'll get your heart racing and leave you wanting more.
Experience Swiss culture at Zurich:
Zurich, Switzerland's biggest city, combines old-world beauty with modern improvement. Stroll around the Altstadt (Old Town), filled with tiny, twisting alleyways, antique buildings, and lively cafés. Visit the Swiss National Museum to learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
For art aficionados, the Kunsthaus Zurich is a must-see, with an astonishing collection of paintings ranging from the Middle Ages to modern pieces. After a day of cultural discovery, relax on the banks of Lake Zurich or take a leisurely boat trip to see the city's breathtaking cityscape. Zurich's combination of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it an intriguing destination.
Plan a cruise ride on Lake Geneva:
Lake Geneva, one of Europe's biggest lakes, provides a peaceful getaway from all the activity of city life. The best way to discover the beauty of the ocean is to take a leisurely sail. As you glide over the crystal-clear waves, take in the gorgeous vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the lovely villages that border the coast.
Visit Montreux, famous for its annual Jazz Fest and the fairytale Chillon Castle. The ancient fortification, built on a rocky edge, provides insight into Switzerland's rich history as well as jaw-dropping views surrounding the lake. Whether you select a paddle steamer or a modern boat, a cruise on Lake Geneva is sheer delight.
Discover Lucerne and its beauty:
Lucerne, with its beautifully preserved medieval buildings and stunning lake views, is a hidden jewel in the heart of Switzerland. Begin the journey with a walk across the Chapel Bridge, one of Europe's oldest wooden bridges, decorated with colorful flowers and ancient paintings.
Make sure to see Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. Both provide stunning views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne. The peaks can be reached through cogwheel train, cable car, or, for the more daring, hiking. The route is as breathtaking as the destination, with each bend exposing new aspects of Switzerland's natural glory.
Stomach all the infamous swiss culinary:
No vacation to Switzerland is complete without experiencing its culinary pleasures. Start with an iconic Swiss fondue, dipping bread into a bowl of melted cheese for a warm and delightful experience. For something sweet, consider Swiss chocolate, which is known for its velvety feel and rich flavor. Visit a chocolatier to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how this delicious delicacy is created.
Don't forget to try raclette, a meal in which cheese is melted and scraped upon potatoes, pickles, and onions. To sample Switzerland's multicultural influence, try Rösti, a crunchy potato dish, or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy veal dish from Zurich. Switzerland's gastronomic scene is a lovely adventure unto itself.
Get adventurous at Lauterbrunnen Valley:
Lauterbrunnen Valley, with 72 waterfalls and beautiful green meadows, is an adventurer's paradise. Go canyoning in the exciting gorges, where you may drop down waterfalls, slip over boulders, and dive into crystal-clear pools. It's a wet and crazy journey that will get your heart racing.
Skydiving above the valley offers a unique pleasure. The feeling of free-falling with the breathtaking Swiss Alps as a backdrop is nothing short of incredible. Whether you're falling from the skies or exploring the canyons, Lauterbrunnen Valley provides an adrenaline sensation unlike any other.
Take a leisurely walk vineyards of Lavaux:
The sloping vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World legacy site, provide a rare combination of natural beauty and cultural legacy. These vineyards stretch along the northern coasts of Lake Geneva and produce some of Switzerland's best wines.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the picturesque vineyards, stopping at small wineries to taste regional delicacies. The views of the vineyards tumbling down to the lake, with the Alps in the backdrop, are breathtaking. Lavaux is a feast for both the sights and the tongue.
Try the notable cheese from the charming town of Gruyères:
Gruyères, known for its famous cheese, is a quaint medieval village that seems like a step back in time. Roam down the cobblestone streets, see the majestic Gruyères Castle, and discover the town's history and stories.
A visit to the Maison Cailler chocolate factory is a must for chocolate enthusiasts. Discover the chocolate-making process and enjoy a selection of delectable samples. Gruyères has a perfect balance of history, culture, and gastronomic pleasures.
Have fun skiing at Zermatt:
For skiers, Zermatt is a piece of paradise. Nestled at the foot of the known Matterhorn, this charming town provides world-class skiing options. With almost 200 miles of slopes to suit all ability levels, Zermatt is a playground for both novice and experienced skiers.
However, skiing is not the only attraction. Try snowboarding, ice climbing, or even paragliding for an adrenaline thrill. After a day of exciting activities, relax in one of Zermatt's snug mountain huts with a cup of hot chocolate or a traditional Swiss fondue. Zermatt's combination of excitement and tranquility makes it an inviting destination.
Conclusion
Switzerland, the home of chocolate, cheese, and excellent landscapes, has something for all kinds of tourist. The Swiss nation has plenty for all, whether you're an adrenaline addict looking for the next rush or a nature lover looking for peaceful mountain views. Ready to discover the top things to do in this Alpine paradise? Let's get going!
