Switzerland Travel Guide
Looking to hike some of the world’s most beautiful mountain landscapes, stroll through colorful old towns, and dine on some fondue? Then Switzerland is the perfect place for you! Visit the Bernese Oberland, a hikers paradise filled with towering mountains, alpine meadows, historic cogwheel trains, and quaint villages. Or, relax at Switzerland’s gorgeous cities and stock up on some famous Swiss chocolate.
Switzerland Stats
Official Languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh
Population: 9 million
Capital City: Bern
Currency: Swiss franc
Power Outlet: Types C and J
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15 Great Hikes to Do in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
The Bernese Oberland is a hiker’s paradise. Alpine trails crisscross their way through the towns, valleys, and the mountain peaks of this gorgeous place. Take your pick from short, easy, family-friendly trails to cliff walks to thrilling trails. Here are 15 of the best hikes to do in the Bernese Oberland. All of the hikes […]
20 Amazing Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is an idyllic mountain village tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The mighty Matterhorn dominates the skyline, creating one of the most unique alpine landscapes in Europe. Explore the hiking trails, journey up higher into the mountains by cable car and train, stroll the scenic streets of Zermatt, and go skiing all year long. […]
One Day in the Jungfrau Region: Jungfraujoch & the Eiger Trail
Combining Jungfraujoch and the Eiger Trail is one of the best ways to spend one day in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland. If you move fast, you can also add on the Panorama Trail, which runs between Kleine Scheidegg and Männlichen. We did this same itinerary and it was our favorite day of our 3 […]
Switzerland Itinerary
Whether you have one, two, or even three weeks, learn how to plan the perfect Swiss itinerary. In this article, we list five sample itineraries for Switzerland. These range from 7 to 21 days, with suggestions on how to use the Swiss Travel Pass and public transportation.
How to Plan an Epic Switzerland Itinerary for 7 to 21 Days
Switzerland By Region
Bernese Oberland
Located in central Switzerland, the Bernese Oberland is home to some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in all of Europe. For many visitors (ourselves included), this region is the highlight of a trip to Switzerland. The alpine views, the cozy, charming villages, and the soaring cable cars create a magical destination.
15 Great Hikes to Do in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
The Bernese Oberland is a hiker’s paradise. Alpine trails crisscross their way through the towns, valleys, and the mountain peaks of this gorgeous place. Take your pick from short, easy, family-friendly trails to cliff walks to thrilling trails. Here are 15 of the best hikes to do in the Bernese Oberland. All of the hikes […]
20 Amazing Things to Do in the Jungfrau Region of the Bernese Oberland
Towering mountains, alpine meadows, soaring cable cars, historic cogwheel trains, scenic walking trails, quaint villages and hamlets…this is the Jungfrau region of the Bernese Oberland. The Bernese Oberland is one of Switzerland’s most popular destinations for tourists. The massive mountains of Mönch, Eiger, and Jungfrau dominate the landscape. Charming villages like Mürren and Gimmelwald cling […]
Bernese Oberland Travel Guide: Focus on the Jungfrau Region
The Bernese Oberland, this is where mighty, snow-capped mountains tumble down into lush, green valleys. Waterfalls spill over the cliffs, cows and their musical bells wander the fields, charming villages dot the hillsides, and hiking trails connect small hamlets and towns. Located in central Switzerland, the Bernese Oberland is home to some of the most […]
Everything You Need to Know to Visit Schilthorn and Birg
Schilthorn is one of the highest peaks in the Jungfrau region and it is one of the best places to go for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. While you are here, enjoy the view as you dine at Piz Gloria, learn a little James Bond history at Bond World, and add on the thrilling […]
How to Hike the Eiger Trail: A Step-By-Step Trail Guide
If you are looking for a short but sweet hike in the Jungfrau region of the Bernese Oberland, the Eiger Trail is a great one to consider. This point-to-point hike follows the north face of the Eiger mountain. Along the way, you get jaw-dropping views across the Lauterbrunnen Valley to Mürren and also down to […]
Jungfrau Itinerary: 1 to 7 Days in Murren, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch & Interlaken
The Jungfrau region of Switzerland can seem like a confusing place to visit, particularly to first time visitors. With its unique geography, complicated network of trains and cable cars, and long list of hiking trails and small towns to visit, it may seem like an overwhelming task to plan a trip here. But it doesn’t […]
Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn: Which One Should You Visit?
If you are planning a visit to the Bernese Alps and only have the time, or the money, for Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn, which one should you visit? Both are extraordinary experiences, offering panoramic views of the Alps with a few unique differences. Both also come with a big sticker price. In this article, get an […]
Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe | How to Visit & Is It Worth It?
A trip up to Jungfraujoch is one of the most popular things to do in the Bernese Oberland. Stand on one of the highest points in the Swiss Alps, walk through an ice cave, play in the snow, get panoramic views over the Alps, and hike out to Mönchsjochhütte. In this guide, we cover what […]
One Day in the Jungfrau Region: Jungfraujoch & the Eiger Trail
Combining Jungfraujoch and the Eiger Trail is one of the best ways to spend one day in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland. If you move fast, you can also add on the Panorama Trail, which runs between Kleine Scheidegg and Männlichen. We did this same itinerary and it was our favorite day of our 3 […]
Schynige Platte to Faulhorn to First Hike: Step-By-Step Trail Guide
The hike from Schynige Platte to Faulhorn to First is a big day hike in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, but what a spectacular day. A scenic ride on a cogwheel train, alpine lakes, rustic mountain huts, snow-covered trails, cows and their musical bells, and some of the best views of Swiss Alps…these are just […]
The Mürren Via Ferrata: One of Switzerland’s Most Thrilling Experiences
Does the idea of dangling 600 meters (2000 feet) above the Lauterbrunnen Valley floor interest you? How about walking across a tightrope, with nothing below you except a rushing river? Or how about walking across a wobbly, narrow, suspension bridge? If you said yes to all of these questions, then put the Mürren via ferrata […]
Walking from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg on the Panorama Trail
The walk from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg is one of the most popular hikes in the Jungfrau region. This easy, mostly downhill trail offers spectacular views of both the Lauterbrunnen Valley and the mountain peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. This hike is suitable for all ages and ability levels. It’s perfect for families, travelers […]
Walking the Northface Trail in Mürren, Switzerland
The Northface Trail in Mürren has a little bit of everything…stunning mountain views, small hamlets and chalets tucked away amidst the mountains, flower-filled alpine meadows, and pastures filled with cows and their musical bells. This is an easy walking trail that is done as a loop from Mürren. Along the way, you are treated to […]
Where to Stay in Jungfrau, Switzerland: Best Towns & Hotels
If you are making a decision about where to stay in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, you have a lot of options. On a map, the Jungfrau region can look very confusing. With its mountains and valleys, cliffside villages and bustling towns, not to mention its complex transportation network, it can feel overwhelming trying to […]
Lucerne & Zürich
Lucerne and Zürich are two neighboring cities in central Switzerland. They are a joy to visit and make a good home base for exploring the sights in this part of Switzerland.
How to Visit Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus in One Perfect Day
Lucerne (also spelled Luzern) is a gorgeous Swiss city that sits at the foot of the Alps. This is the perfect kind of town to explore in one day. The city center is compact with just a few key places to visit. The best things to do are to wander the old town, eat, drink, […]
One Perfect Day in Zürich, Switzerland: (+ Walking Tour & Map)
Zürich, with its colorful old town and handy public transportation network, is a great city to add on to your tour of Switzerland. Wander the picturesque old town, dine on fondue, go shopping, and take a boat tour of Lake Zürich. Here are the best things to do with one day in Zürich. Interesting Facts […]
Zermatt & the Valais
Zermatt is an idyllic mountain village tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The mighty Matterhorn dominates the skyline, creating one of the most unique alpine landscapes in Europe.
12 Epic Day Hikes in Zermatt (+ Trail Stats, Photos & Map)
One of the best ways to explore Zermatt is on foot. Hiking trails climb high into the mountains above Zermatt, past Swiss hamlets, through scenic valleys and rocky gorges, and to some of the best viewpoints of the Matterhorn. The network of cable cars and trains takes you up into the mountains, so for the […]
20 Amazing Things to Do in Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is an idyllic mountain village tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The mighty Matterhorn dominates the skyline, creating one of the most unique alpine landscapes in Europe. Explore the hiking trails, journey up higher into the mountains by cable car and train, stroll the scenic streets of Zermatt, and go skiing all year long. […]
Complete Guide to the Hörnlihütte Hike (Map, Trail Stats & Photos)
The Hörnlihütte (Hörnli Hut) is a lodge built at the base of the Matterhorn. For thrill seeking rock-climbers, the Hörnlihütte marks the start of the ascent up to the peak of the Matterhorn. Even if you do not wish to stand on top of the Matterhorn, simply hiking to and from the Hörnlihütte makes for […]
How to Climb the Breithorn: Photos, Trail Stats & What to Expect
Climbing to the summit of Breithorn is one of Zermatt’s most adventurous experiences. Standing at a height of 4,164 meters (13,660 feet), Breithorn is one of the highest peaks in the area and it is one of the easiest 4,000+ meter peaks to summit in the Alps. Thousands of hikers come to Zermatt to summit […]
How to Hike from Furi to the Gorner Gorge to Zermatt
Walking from Furi to Zermatt is a nice, easy hike to do while in Zermatt. This mostly downhill walk takes you through several Swiss hamlets, through the Gorner Gorge, and into Zermatt. In this guide, we cover how to hike from Furi to Zermatt and add on the Gorner Gorge along the way. Furi to […]
How to Visit Gornergrat and Hike to Riffelsee & Riffelberg
For one of the best views of Matterhorn, it’s hard to beat Gornergrat. A scenic, cogwheel train takes you from Zermatt to this alpine paradise. Once at the top station, you can simply enjoy the sweeping views of the Matterhorn and the Swiss Alps from the restaurant and terraces. Or, you can add on the […]
How to Visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise …and is It Worth It?
Does a trip to the highest cable car station in Europe sound thrilling to you? How about having 360° views across the Alps? If so, then put Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on your Swiss to-do list. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is an alpine wonderland of ski slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings, and a unique view of the […]
How to Visit Sunnegga, Blauherd, and Rothorn (Best One Day Itinerary)
Riding the series of lifts to Rothorn is one of the best things to do in Zermatt. Rothorn is one of the highest viewpoints in Zermatt, and from here you get a spectacular view of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains. On the journey to Rothorn, you will pass through two stations, Sunnegga and Blauherd, […]
Matterhorn Glacier Trail: Ultimate Trail Guide (+ Map, Photos & HELPFUL Tips)
The Matterhorn Glacier Trail is one of the easiest and most scenic hikes to do in Zermatt. This point-to-point trail weaves its way between alpine lakes and along the way you get up close views of the Matterhorn. Since it is done one-way and is a mostly downhill hike, this is a great trail for […]
The Five Lakes Trail (5-Seenweg) in Zermatt…Is it Worth It?
While researching the best hikes in Zermatt, the Five Lakes Trail (5-Seenweg) kept popping up at the top of the list. Amazing Matterhorn views, five gorgeous lakes, a mostly downhill walk…it sounded perfect! So, we added it to our to-do list. During our first visit to Zermatt, the cable car to Rothorn was closed for […]
The Ultimate Zermatt Itinerary for 1 to 4 Days
How many days do you need in Zermatt? How do you plan the perfect Zermatt itinerary? The answer to these questions depends on several factors. How much time do you have? Do you want to get out and hike the trails or simply ride the cable cars to viewpoints of the Matterhorn? What time of […]
The Walker’s Haute Route
The Walker’s Haute Route is a 14-day trek from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. It’s a challenging walk through the Swiss Alps. Along the way, you visit Swiss towns and hamlets, cross 10 mountain passes, and have extraordinary views of this part of Europe. It’s a beautiful journey and one of our favorite travel experiences.
Ultimate Guide to the Walker’s Haute Route
In our Guide to the Walker’s Haute Route, we cover the logistics of planning and hiking the Haute Route. Learn how to plan your trek, get an overview of each stage, and get helpful tips.
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 1: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to Argentière
Stage 1 of the Walker’s Haute Route is the shortest, easiest day of the entire trek. It’s a mostly flat walk between Chamonix and Argentière and for most of this stage, you are either walking through town or through an evergreen forest. If you spent any time in Chamonix or Argentière prior to starting this […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 2: Argentière to Col de Balme to Trient
After an easy, somewhat unexciting walk from Chamonix to Argentière, the hike gets to be a lot more interesting on this stage. It also gets a lot more challenging. Stage 2 of the Walker’s Haute Route is the first time you really get to test out your legs and enjoy the alpine views for which […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 3: Trient to Fenêtre d’Arpette to Champex-Lac
Stage 3 of the Walker’s Haute Route is the most challenging stage yet, but also one of the most rewarding. A massive, steep climb takes you up to the top of a mountain pass, Fenêtre d’Arpette, and along the way, you will have fantastic views of the Trient Glacier. It is a hard hike, and […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 4: Champex-Lac to Le Châble
After two long, strenuous climbs and steep descents offered by the last two stages of the Walker’s Haute Route, Stage 4 provides a much needed day of recovery. Although you will still end up hiking roughly 14 km (8 miles), Stage 4 is much less challenging and one of the easiest days of the entire […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 5: Le Châble to Cabane du Mont Fort
Hopefully you are feeling well rested, as Stage 5 of the Walker’s Haute Route includes one of the largest climbs of the entire route. Beginning in the valley in Le Châble, you will work your way up into the high alpine mountain ranges where you will spend the night. Be prepared for wild changes in […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 6: Cabane du Mont Fort to Cabane de Prafleuri
On very tired legs we started Stage 6 of the Walker’s Haute Route. Today’s hike is a quintessential day on the Haute Route. In about 7 hours, you will cross several cols, hike past glacial lakes, and enjoy views of spectacular alpine scenery. In fact, Stage 6 is the most scenic day yet. This is […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 7: Cabane de Prafleuri to Arolla
Stage 7 is one of our favorite stages of the Walker’s Haute Route. This is a beautiful walk from start to finish. Today’s trail covers a wide variety of landscapes, from glacier-covered mountains, a lovely milky-blue lake, forested hills, and wide open grasslands. In terms of difficulty, today’s stage is relatively easy. You will have […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 8: Arolla to Les Haudères
Stage 8 is both the easiest and shortest of the 14 stages that make up the Walker’s Haute Route and it is a great chance to catch your breath and rest your legs before heading into the final stretches of the Haute Route. Beginning in Arolla, you will hike up and over hillsides, passing through […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 9: Les Haudères to Lac de Moiry
Stage 9 of the Walker’s Haute Route starts in Les Haudères or La Sage and from these two villages, it is a challenging hike up to Col du Tsaté. From Col du Tsaté, it is an easier and scenic downhill walk to Lac de Moiry. There are beautiful views as you look out over high […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 10: Lac de Moiry to Col de Sorebois to Zinal
Having completed a segment of Stage 10 on yesterday’s hike, we found ourselves with another short day today. However, that did not make it easy. Today’s hike finds you crossing over another mountain pass as you hike from Lac de Moiry to Zinal. As is the same for other days of the Walker’s Haute Route, […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 11: Zinal to Forcletta to Gruben
Stage 11 of the Walker’s Haute Route is another challenging mountain climb and descent. Yet, it is a great and rewarding hike with beautiful views over the Turtmanntal valley, the glacier-capped mountains of Weisshorn and Bishorn to the south, and the Rhone Valley and Bernese Alps to the north. This is one of the most […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 12: Gruben to Augstbordpass to St. Niklaus
Today’s stage marks the beginning of the end of the Walker’s Haute Route. With only three stages to go, things once again ramp up in both alpine views and physical challenge in terms of the trail. Opening up to Mattertal valley and passing through a large hamlet, Stage 12 has little shortage in excellent views. […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 13: St. Niklaus to the Europahütte
As you enter one of the final stages of the Walker’s Haute Route, you will most likely be sore, a bit fatigued, and growing tired of massive mountain ascents and descents. Plus, the anticipation of seeing Zermatt and the Matterhorn grows. The good news is that Stage 13 of the Haute Route features the final […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stage 14: Europahütte to Zermatt
From bridges, caves, hamlets, and impressive views of the finish line, the final stage of the Walker’s Haute Route has it all. Every step brings you closer to the end goal of Zermatt, a beautiful town that’s renowned for its skiing and hiking. Enjoy the views along the way, as they only get better the […]
Walker’s Haute Route Stages: An Overview of All 14 Stages
The Walker’s Haute Route is a multi-day trek from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. On this walk, hikers will cross 10 mountain passes, walk through small towns and through rugged, remote landscapes, and get to experience a less touristy side of the Swiss Alps. There are several routes that take hikers from Chamonix to Zermatt. […]
Walker’s Haute Route: 21 Important Things to Know & FAQ
The Walker’s Haute Route is one of the most rewarding and memorable multi-day walks in Europe. On this journey, hikers will cross 10 of the highest mountain passes in the Alps, while walking from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. It’s an extraordinary journey but not without its challenges. With 14 stages, multiple variations to the […]
How To Book Your Walker’s Haute Route Accommodations
Along the Walker’s Haute Route, there are a variety of accommodation types, from mountain huts to 5-star hotels, from dormitories to apartments, and from shared bathrooms to private bathrooms. You will have the opportunity to experience a combination of all of these since you will be staying in a new place at the end of […]
How To Plan Your Walker’s Haute Route Experience
The Walker’s Haute Route is a 14-stage trek from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. It is a tough yet rewarding experience through the French and Swiss Alps that crosses 10 mountain passes and offers incredible scenery along the way. It is a beast of a trek! It took us 13 days, averaging 16 km (10 […]
Lake Geneva & Fribourg
Lake Geneva and the Fribourg canton are located in western Switzerland. Visit the picturesque city of Lausanne and day trip to Gruyères.
Top Ten Things to do in Lausanne, Switzerland
Sitting on the shore of Lake Geneva is Lausanne, a charming city that is located in French-speaking Switzerland. With a colorful old town and numerous world-class museums, this is a delightful city to add to your tour of Switzerland. With one day in Lausanne, you have enough time to visit the highlights. If you have […]
Hiking the Gastlosen Tour, Switzerland: Stats, Map, & Photos
The Gastlosen is a chain of limestone mountains that look very similar to the Dolomites of Italy. For 11 km, the trail loops around these magnificent, jagged mountains and you are treated to sweeping views of Switzerland. This is a gorgeous hike. A chair lift lops off the first big climb (and the final descent), […]
Day Trip to Château de Chillon, Montreux, & Vevey, Switzerland
Château de Chillon (Chillon Castle) is a medieval castle that is located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. This makes a fantastic day trip from Lausanne or Geneva and you can easily add in visit to Montreux and Vevey. In this article, learn how to plan your day trip to Château de Chillon. Interesting […]
10 Wonderful Things to do in Gruyères, Switzerland
Located in the idyllic, rolling hills of French-speaking Switzerland sits Gruyères, a picture-perfect medieval town. Cheese, chocolate, and beautiful cobblestoned streets attract visitors all year round. With one day in Gruyères, you have enough time to visit the town and add on another nearby destination, whether it is a chocolate factory, a scenic funicular ride, […]
10 Best Day Trips from Lausanne, Switzerland
Lausanne is a beautiful city that is located on Lake Geneva in French-speaking Switzerland. One day is all you need to visit the highlights of Lausanne, but with more time, it makes a great home base to explore western Switzerland. Here are 10 wonderful day trips from Lausanne. Best Day Trips from Lausanne 1. Cruise […]
Lugano & the Ticino Canton
Located on the southern, sunny side of the Swiss Alps, it feels as if you left Switzerland and entered Italy. Visit beautiful Lake Lugano, visit the Bellinzona castles, and even day trip to Lake Como, Italy.
10 Best Day Trips from Lugano, Switzerland
Lugano is a beautiful city that is located in southern Switzerland. One day is all you need to visit the highlights of Lugano, but with more time, it makes a great home base to explore southern Switzerland and northern Italy. Here are 10 great day trips from Lugano. Best Day Trips from Lugano 1. Cruise […]
How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Lake Como from Milan or Lugano
Lake Como is a wishbone-shaped lake nestled in the foothills of the Alps. This is where the rich and famous vacation in luxurious villas and visitors flock to the colorful lakeside towns. It is one of Italy’s most scenic destinations and easily visited from Milan and Lugano, Switzerland. If you are planning a day trip […]
How to Visit Ponte dei Salti, Verzasca Valley, Switzerland
Ponte dei Salti is a medieval-style bridge that is located in the Verzasca Valley in southern Switzerland. It looks like something right out of a fairytale, this double-arched bridge that spans a crystal clear, aquamarine river. Right around the corner is the tiny town of Lavertezzo, and with its stone buildings and church, complements the […]
Lugano, Switzerland: What to Do, Where to Eat & Where to Stay
Surrounded by mountains and lining the shore of an enormous lake, Lugano is a city with a beautiful setting. Located in the Italian-speaking Ticino canton of Switzerland, this city is a wonderful blend of Italian, Swiss, and Mediterranean influences. Yes, you may be in Switzerland, but it looks and tastes a lot more like Italy. […]
Europe Travel Inspiration & Practical Info
30 Popular Tourist Attractions in Europe & How to Visit Them
From world class museums and ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural wonders, Europe boasts a diverse array of attractions that attract millions of visitors every year. Here are 30 of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe and how to visit them.
One Week in Europe: 25 Epic Itineraries
Do you dream of visiting world-class cities like Paris, Barcelona, or Venice? Or would you rather hike the Alps, go on a scenic train ride, explore the beautiful beaches and coastal towns in southern Europe, visit fairytale towns and castles, island hop in Greece, or go on an unforgettable road trip in northern Europe?
In this article we list 25 ways to spend one week in Europe.
10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries for Your Next Trip
Europe is a joy to explore. With world-class cities, medieval towns, historical sites, the snowcapped Alps, gorgeous beaches, and some of the world’s most delicious food, you have the perfect ingredients for your next vacation. If you want to spend 10 days in Europe, we have ten amazing itineraries to share with you. In this […]
12 Things You Should Know about Renting a Car in Europe
Having a car provides a lot of freedom and convenience when traveling through Europe. You can travel at your own pace, stop frequently to take in the view, and get to some places that are difficult to reach with public transportation. However, there are some things to know about renting a car in Europe. Knowing […]
30 Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe (+ Map and Photos)
It is no secret that Europe is filled with beautiful places to visit. With its grand cities, fairytale-like towns, soaring mountain ranges, and gorgeous beaches, there is a seemingly endless list of gorgeous places to explore. Whether you are planning your next trip to Europe, or just trying to figure out where to travel to […]
7 Things to Know When Planning Your First Trip to Europe
If you are planning your first trip to Europe, it can be an overwhelming experience. Where should you go? How much will it cost? How many places can you visit? Does this sound familiar? We get emails every day from people who want advice planning their first trip to Europe. And we see the same […]
Best Hikes in Europe: Our 20 Favorite Day Hikes
Europe is one of our favorite places to go hiking. There’s no better way to explore the dramatic and varied landscapes here, from the snow-capped Alps to coastal trails to the remote, volcanic interior of Iceland. In this guide we list 20 of the best hikes in Europe, 20 amazing ways to explore this beautiful […]
Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In Our Camera Bag
Do you want to know how we capture the images that you see on our website? Here is our photography gear guide, with links and explanations of our photography gear and accessories. At the end of this post, we offer tips and tricks on how to take better photographs while traveling. Photography Gear Guide The […]
Top Experiences in Switzerland
Bernese Oberland. For many visitors, the Bernese Oberland is the highlight of a trip to Switzerland. Towering mountains, alpine meadows, soaring cable cars, historic cogwheel trains, scenic walking trails, quaint villages and hamlets…this is what most people think of, when they think of Switzerland.
Jungfraujoch. A trip up to Jungfraujoch is one of the most popular things to do in the Bernese Oberland. Stand on one of the highest points in the Swiss Alps, walk through an ice cave, play in the snow, get panoramic views over the Alps, and hike out to Mönchsjochhütte.
Schilthorn. Schilthorn is one of the highest peaks in the Jungfrau region and it is one of the best places to go for panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. While you are here, enjoy the view as you dine at Piz Gloria, learn a little James Bond history at Bond World, and add on the thrilling Cliff Walk in Birg.
Spend some time in Bern. Enjoy the humble and medieval city of Bern! With its pretty river views, quaint streets, and cozy shops, this city is a delight to wander. Enjoy Bern’s museums, see Einstein’s home, and climb to the top of the 13th century Zytglogge tower to look out over the city.
Lucerne. Lucerne is a gorgeous Swiss city that sits at the foot of the Alps. The best things to do are to wander the old town, eat, drink, shop, and enjoy the views of the lake.
Mt. Pilatus. Mt. Pilatus is a jagged mountain that overlooks Lucerne. Cable cars and a cogwheel railway whisk visitors to the top, where you can go hiking, ride Switzerland’s longest summer toboggan, and take in the view from a handful of viewpoints.
Zürich. Zürich, with its colorful old town and handy public transportation network, is a great city to add on to your tour of Switzerland. Wander the picturesque old town, dine on fondue, go shopping, and take a boat tour of Lake Zürich.
Zermatt. Zermatt is an idyllic mountain village tucked away in the Swiss Alps. The mighty Matterhorn dominates the skyline, creating one of the most unique alpine landscapes in Europe. Explore the hiking trails, journey up higher into the mountains by cable car and train, stroll the scenic streets of Zermatt, and go skiing all year long.
Visit St. Moritz. This small resort city surrounded by large mountains and gorgeous lakes. Enjoy the city’s fine dining and exquisite shopping, paddle board on Lake St. Moritz, or look down on the city from the top of a mountain.
Lausanne. Sitting on the shore of Lake Geneva is Lausanne, a charming city that is located in French-speaking Switzerland. With a colorful old town and numerous world-class museums, this is a delightful city to add to your tour of Switzerland.
Gruyères. Located in the idyllic, rolling hills of French-speaking Switzerland sits Gruyères, a picture-perfect medieval town. Cheese, chocolate, and beautiful cobblestoned streets attract visitors all year round.
Geneva. Geneva is a common gateway into Switzerland for many travelers. It’s a large and bustling city, yet ancient architecture, old cathedrals, and cobblestone streets still remain. Explore the city’s old town, sail on Lake Geneva, and savor Swiss fondue at local restaurants.
Visit the Appenzell District. Visit the quaint and historical villages in the Appenzell District, set amongst green pastures and soaring mountains. Here, you will be able to experience traditional Switzerland, taste freshly-made Appenzell cheese, and admire remnants of the Middle Ages.
How Many Days Do You Need in Switzerland?
At minimum, plan on spending 7 days in Switzerland. This gives you just enough time to visit Lucerne, Bern, or Zürich and then spend a few days in the Swiss Alps.
With 10 days in Switzerland, you have enough time to tour Lucerne, Zürich, the Bernese Oberland, and Zermatt.
With even more time, you can add on Lugano, Lausanne, St. Moritz, or spend more time in the Swiss Alps.
If you only have a few days in Switzerland, we recommend visiting Lucerne and day tripping into the Jungfrau region from here.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
You can visit Switzerland all year round.
The best time to visit, in my opinion, is during the summer months, especially if you want to go hiking. Many of the hiking trails do not open until the end of May or early June, and then close in October, when the snow begins to fall. So, if you are a hiker, the best time to visit is during the summer months.
Summer is peak season, especially in the Bernese Oberland. It will be more crowded and expensive to visit at this time, so you will need to make your hotel reservations far in advance (ideally 4 to 6 months before your visit). But the weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, and the days are long.
If you want to hike the trails and have lower crowds, plan your visit for the end of September to early October.
But Switzerland certainly does not lose its charm during winter months! Swiss cities are filled with Christmas celebrations and markets, and Switzerland has some of the best snow sports in Europe. Meanwhile, the Bernese Oberland is a snow-covered wonderland. Ride the cable cars to Schilthorn and Jungfraujoch for spectacular views, go skiing, and spend the evenings in a cozy hotel with views of the snow-capped mountains.
Most of the trains and cable cars operate year round, although some will close for a short period of time for maintenance, either during the winter, spring, or fall months.