Switzerland offers an unusual mix of cities, lakes, mountains, villages and scenic rail routes. The best itinerary depends on whether you want culture, hiking, winter sports, food or panoramic landscapes.

15 Places to Consider

1. Zurich: Urban culture, museums, shopping and Lake Zurich.
2. Geneva: Lake Geneva, international institutions and museums.
3. Lucerne: Historic old town, lake scenery and mountain access.
4. Bern: Preserved old city and Swiss capital heritage.
5. Interlaken: A base for exploring the Bernese Oberland.
6. Zermatt: Matterhorn views and mountain activities.
7. Jungfrau region: Alpine villages and high mountain rail experiences.
8. Lausanne: Lake Geneva scenery and cultural attractions.
9. Montreux: Lakeside setting and access to the Vaud Alps.
10. Lugano: Italian-speaking Switzerland, lake views and Mediterranean atmosphere.
11. St. Moritz: Engadine scenery and mountain sports.
12. Grindelwald: Alpine landscapes and hiking.
13. Rhine Falls: Switzerland’s famous waterfall near Schaffhausen.
14. Appenzell: Traditional villages and mountain landscapes.
15. Swiss National Park: Protected Alpine nature and hiking.

How to Choose

Switzerland Tourism lists destinations across regions including Zurich, Bern, Lucerne-Lake Lucerne, Valais, Ticino and Graubünden. Match destinations to your route and season.

Continue with our Switzerland travel guide and Switzerland regions guide.

Official resource: Switzerland Tourism.

Imran Siddiqui

See Full Bio