Top places to visit in Switzerland

Lake Zurich featuring a lake or waterhole, a garden and cycling

Zürich

Why visit Switzerland Things to do in Switzerland Where to go in Switzerland

Best time to go to Switzerland What to eat in Switzerland Saving tips for your trip

Top reasons to visit Switzerland

World-Class Ski Resorts: Switzerland's Swiss Alps are a skier's paradise, with top-notch slopes and stunning mountain views.
Serene Escape at Lake Zurich: Enjoy the tranquility of Lake Zurich, where you can relax, swim, and indulge in boating activities.
Glamorous St. Moritz: Experience luxury and winter sports in the glamorous mountain resort town of St. Moritz.
Iconic Chillon Castle: Explore the medieval fortress of Chillon Castle, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva.
Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures: Discover central Switzerland's breathtaking views, picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley, and charming towns for an unforgettable outdoor vacation.

Top things to see and do in Switzerland

Switzerland is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse range of activities. Whether you're a skiing enthusiast, a business traveler, or simply looking to relax by a picturesque lake, Switzerland has something for everyone. The Swiss Alps offer world-class ski resorts, perfect for those looking to hit the slopes. Lake Zurich provides a serene escape, with opportunities for boating and swimming. St. Moritz is a luxurious mountain resort town, known for its glamorous atmosphere and winter sports. And no visit to Switzerland would be complete without a visit to the iconic Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Matterhorn: Majestic and awe-inspiring, Matterhorn is a mountain that offers an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts. With its stunning ski slopes, picturesque hiking trails, and breathtaking glaciers, it is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The serene beauty of nature combined with the thrilling activities like biking and snowboarding make it an unforgettable destination. Be sure to catch the mesmerizing sunrise over the mountain peaks and indulge in a relaxing spa session amidst the snow-capped scenery.
Lake Brienz: Nestled amidst mountains, Lake Brienz is a romantic getaway that captivates with its tranquil beauty. The crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush scenery, create a picture-perfect setting. Explore the charming waterfalls and take a leisurely canoe ride to discover hidden gems. The remnants of ancient ruins add a touch of history to the hilly landscape. Enjoy boating on the serene lake, try your hand at fishing, or simply relax on the beach, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this idyllic destination.
ETH Zurich: Located in the heart of Zurich, ETH Zurich is an institute that offers a unique blend of cultural and educational experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city with its lively zoo, captivating museums, and lively music scene. Explore the diverse wildlife and art exhibits, or catch a performance at the beautiful lakeside theater. Embark on a biking adventure through the urban landscape, discovering the architectural wonders of the city. ETH Zurich is a hub of knowledge and creativity that promises an enriching experience for visitors.

Best places to visit in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a wide range of outdoor adventures. Experience the stunning views of central Switzerland, explore the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley, and visit the beautiful towns for a truly unforgettable outdoor vacation.

Zürich: Zürich is a vibrant city with a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Start your outdoor adventure with a visit to the Zurich Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural scene by exploring its numerous museums and historical sites. For a relaxing experience, take a stroll along Lake Zürich and soak in the picturesque views. Don't forget to indulge in the local café culture and enjoy live music performances. With its perfect mix of history, shopping, and outdoor activities, Zürich is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable outdoor holiday.
Geneva: Geneva offers a unique outdoor experience with its stunning lake and breathtaking natural parks. Start your day by exploring the beautiful Lake Geneva, where you can enjoy water activities or simply relax by the shore. Dive into the city's rich history by visiting its museums and monuments. Geneva also boasts a vibrant business and shopping scene, making it a perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. Indulge in the local cafes and restaurants to savor the city's culinary delights. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities, Geneva is an ideal choice for an outdoor holiday.
Lucerne: Lucerne is a picturesque city nestled between a stunning lake and majestic mountains. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature by taking a boat tour on Lake Lucerne or embarking on a sightseeing journey through the mountains. Explore the city's rich history and culture through its museums and historical sites. Lucerne also offers excellent shopping opportunities, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Take a leisurely walk through the city's charming streets and enjoy live music performances in the evening. With its breathtaking landscapes and cultural charm, Lucerne is a perfect destination for an unforgettable outdoor holiday.

Seasonal travel trends of Switzerland

The popularity of Switzerland shows no change throughout the year. The most popular time to visit is between June and August, with a seasonal peak in July. The off-peak tourist season is from October and December, with October typically being the quietest month.

Check out the month-by-month weather chart for Switzerland to help you plan your next trip. With a monthly average of 66.2 degrees Fahrenheit, you can expect the hottest temperatures in July. The coldest month, on average, is January. The most rainfall typically happens in May. Regardless of when you visit Switzerland, every season has a reason to stay.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness
January	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
February	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
March	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
July	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
August	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
September	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
October	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
November	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny
December	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy

Local eateries in Switzerland

Immerse yourself in the diverse and flavorful food culture of Switzerland. From hearty mountain cuisine to delicate Swiss chocolates, there is something to satisfy every palate. Taste the rich and creamy flavors of traditional Swiss cheese fondue, where you can dip crusty bread and vegetables into a bubbling pot of melted cheese. Indulge in the tender and juicy cuts of steak at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, a highly rated steakhouse. For a taste of European Austrian cuisine, head to Bains des Pâquis, a popular restaurant known for its delectable dishes. Whether you're looking for a casual pizzeria or an upscale dining experience, Switzerland offers a delightful culinary journey for all food enthusiasts.

Switzerland vacations

Switzerland is a small country, but it’s rich with history and scenery. As both a global financial hub and a wilderness paradise, Switzerland welcomes travelers who love culture, history, and nature. Book your flight and hotel together with Orbitz’s vacation packages and find the Swiss city that suits you.

Zurich

Zurich is world-famous for banking and commerce, and it’s a great place to explore if you crave a cosmopolitan travel experience. Leoneck Swiss Hotel offers amenities like in-room tablet computers, refrigerators, electric kettles, and Wi-Fi. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from landmarks like the Swiss National Museum, the Kunsthaus Zurich, and Zurich Town Hall, and it’s close to the tram line for easy access to all parts of the city.

Geneva

Geneva feels both global and local, all at once. It’s a good place to shop for Swiss watches or savor a square of Swiss chocolate, but it’s also home to international organizations like the United Nations and the Red Cross. Hôtel Les Armures gives you a taste of Genevan luxury, with rooms boasting Egyptian cotton bedlinens, rainfall showerheads, and 24-hour room service. It also puts you within a short walk of Rue du Rhône, a famous shopping street where the best high-end wares from Switzerland and around the world are bought and sold.

Lucerne

The picturesque town of Lucerne, ringed by mountains and sitting on the edge of a lake, is an indispensable part of any Swiss Alps vacation package. At the perfectly-situated Hotel Sonnenberg, enjoy your in-room espresso maker while admiring the stunning alpine view. On a Switzerland family vacation? Take the kids to the onsite playground or miniature golf course.

Basel

found 20 hours ago

Happened upon this gem while searching for places to stay near San Pelligrino. Had planned on visiting the spa in San Pelligrino, but ended up not needing it as the spa here is absolutely amazing - everything you could ever want! There are few food options besides the ones on the hotel, so I suggest you book half board versus paying a la carte for dinner as we did.

Reviewed on May 26, 2016

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Saving tips for your trip

Avoid the peak season from June to August when planning your trip to Switzerland to save money. Consider visiting in the less popular season from October to December. Combine your flight, hotel, and car bookings as a bundle to get a discounted price. Locally, you can access inexpensive affinities such as hiking in the beautiful Swiss mountains, exploring the museums and cultural sites in cities like Zurich, and enjoying the scenic lakeside views and outdoor activities.