Switzerland is a magical country with high snowy mountains and serene green landscapes. Whether you’re going to visit Switzerland or are planning to take a vacation there, you can find something for everyone to do.
Switzerland offers a variety of activities, meaning you can mix it up on your vacation from thrilling adventures to relaxing spa days. Discover just some of the top things to do when visiting Switzerland.
Go on a magical journey on the Eiger Express
Enjoy snowy mountain views on the little red train of Eiger Express. Fueled by hydropower, this little train takes you to the heart of Eiger up to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest train station at 3454m! You can float above a beautiful Swiss landscape that will have you in awe, spotting vibrant green forests and adorable log chalets as you make your way up.
When you reach the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, you instantly enter a magical icy landscape. Prepare for temperatures to drop while you marvel at the stunning view from the Sphinx observation deck. You can explore the Ice Palace, an ice tunnel wonderland, and see France and Germany in the distance!
Catch a thrill in Ticino’s valleys
Ticino, in southern Switzerland, is an Italian-speaking town with a vast array of lakes and hidden valleys. You can soon lose the crowds in the hidden valleys and step into a magical, tranquil paradise with jewel-colored rivers and deep-green woodland. These hidden valleys are perfect for hiking or biking during the day on a variety of trails to challenge you. On your adventure in the valleys, you can see granite hilltop hamlets and stunning views. Afterward, you can relax on the gorgeous terrace of a rustic tavern to enjoy a drink and some tasty Swiss food.
Take in magnificent scenery at Swiss National Park
To view the Alps as they would have been before masses of tourists flocked to the mountains, you can visit the Swiss National Park. You can see snowy, untouched mountains that stretch toward Italy. As you wander around the park, you will be delighted by panoramic views from crystal-blue streams and high moors to glaciers and glistening lakes.
Nature has been left untouched, with no trees chopped and no animals hunted since the park began in 1914! It truly is a magnificent nature-filled experience.
Experience different cultures in Bern
Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and has a laid-back vibe where you can unwind in alfresco cafes. Situated on a sharp bend of the turquoise Aare River, you can have the best of both worlds with bustling city life surrounded by serene nature landscapes. Gorgeous hills and the frosty Alps create the perfect backdrop to city life on crisp, clear days.
You can marvel at the medieval cobblestoned heart of the city and spot the Zytglogge clock while enjoying unique boutiques, delicious dining, and stunning parks.
Visit Geneva for a beautiful shopping experience
The city of Geneva is a beautiful, cosmopolitan city that’s nestled in the western tip of Switzerland. With the backdrop of the Alps and the Jura mountains, Geneva is an ideal place for a unique shopping experience and a hike around the famous crystal waters of Lake Geneva.
Delve into Swiss culture and find quirky trinkets, ornaments, and products in independent stores. Geneva is the ideal place to find high-quality men’s jewelry too, as it’s famous for providing unique and stylish watches. Explore the wonderful blend of French and Swiss culture by wandering through the old town with cobblestone streets, charming squares, and a quaint cathedral.
Indulge in Swiss chocolate, such as Lindt, and taste gorges Swiss and French wines, where many come from the Lavaux vineyards. You can even retreat to a peaceful nature landscape at Geneva Lake with stunning waterfront views and various activities to partake in, such as paddleboarding.
Relax at the thermal spas
If you’re feeling the urge to unwind and pamper yourself, then visiting a thermal spa is a wonderful way to relax. You could head to Leukerbad to unwind in the largest spa resort in the Alps. There are 10 thermal baths to use as well as a Japanese-style hot bath, whirlpool baths, and a cold-water pool. This is the best thermal spa to go to if you want to spend some time alone or with the family, allowing you to feel luxury and escape the bitterly cold weather of the mountains.
However, there are even more thermal spas to choose from to suit your personal preferences and needs, ensuring you have the ultimate luxurious and relaxing experience.
Hop aboard the Glacier Express
Hop aboard another magnificent, magical train journey on the Glacier Express. You can travel from valley to mountain peaks swiftly, letting you soak up the stunning Alpine scenery in comfort.
Cross over the Furka, Oberalp, and Bernina passes on the eight-hour ride between Zermatt and St Moritz. Feast your eyes on serene landscapes from luscious meadows, vibrant forests, and flowing crystal-blue rivers to magnificent canyons, towering castles, and icy glaciers. This train ride is truly the most epic way to explore what Switzerland has to offer.
Marvel at the gorgeous Rhine Falls
Experience the biggest waterfall in Europe known as Rhine Falls. These waterfalls are an ideal day out if you’re vacationing in or around Zurich. You can marvel at the power of the water that cascades down gorgeous rocks and vivid greenery.
Stand on a viewing platform that is so close to the waterfall you can touch the water or take a boat ride that takes you to a rock right in the center of the falls for a thrilling experience. There’s also a large and small castle on either side of the falls to enhance the beautiful natural scenery.
If you are planning to take a vacation to Switzerland, try these top things to do to explore everything Switzerland has to offer. You can create a mixture of activities for a jam-packed adventure vacation that everyone will love.