19 Breathtaking Places To Explore In Switzerland

This landlocked European country boasts charming cities, top ski resorts, and idyllic mountain scenery with cuckoo-clock houses and bell-adorned cows. From my many visits, here are my all-time favorite places…

1. Lake Geneva

This is one of Europe’s largest alpine lakes! I discovered it was truly breathtaking with vast, shimmering waters set against the Alps, elegant lakeside cities, an imposing château resting on its shores and picturesque promenades lined with fine Belle Époque buildings. I was also very taken with its peaceful and sophisticated vibe! 

• Location: Southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (to enjoy boat tours, swimming, and the lakeside promenades).
• Activities on offer: Boat tours, swimming, walking along lakeside promenades, and wine tasting at nearby vineyards.
• Accommodation: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, Grand Hotel du Lac, and Hotel d’Angleterre Geneva.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Hotel Angleterre – I loved its incredibly scenic lakeside setting, the historic building which dates back to the mid-19th century and its fun Leopard Bar, which pays homage to the novel “The Leopard” by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. 

2. Zurich

This is the country’s largest city! I also thought it was very attractive with a picturesque Old Town lined with striking medieval buildings, historic landmarks, quirky cafes, upscale boutiques, fine restaurants and a really picturesque location on Lake Zurich surrounded by the distant Swiss Alps! To me, it felt both cosmopolitan and sophisticated but lively at the same time!

I found it nestled in the northern part of the country, right along the shores of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, about 30 km (19 miles) from the German border and surrounded by the Swiss Alps in the distance. I found out from the tourist office that it was once a Roman settlement and later a key center of the Swiss Reformation, is now it’s a global hub for finance, culture, and innovation with a population of around 430,000.

I flew into Zurich Airport from London and stayed for a fun long weekend, and found out the place really came alive during the summer! I explored the historic Old Town (Altstadt) and discovered landmarks such as Grossmünster and Fraumünster, shopped in the luxury boutiques of Bahnhofstrasse (an exclusive shopping street), enjoyed panoramic views from Uetliberg Mountain, relaxed by and swam in the sprawling Lake Zurich, visited the world-class museum Kunsthaus Zürich, and went clubbing in Zürich West.

• Location: Northeastern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring and Fall (for mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for city exploration).
• Activities on offer: Visiting museums, exploring the old town, shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, and boat trips on Lake Zurich.
• Accommodation: Baur au Lac, The Dolder Grand, and 25hours Hotel Zurich West.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

• Staying at the 4-star 25hours Hotel Langstrasse – I loved its funky and Insta-worthy design, its eco-friendliness and sipping on a highball cocktail served in frozen glass while gazing at awesome city views from the rooftop bar! 

3. Lucerne

I thought this city was very picturesque! I discovered truly breathtaking scenery here with a magical mix of medieval, baroque, and Swiss chalet styles, a striking Old Town with cobbled streets lined with colorful frescoed buildings, deep-blue alpine lake with fjord-like inlets, a fine lakeside promenade and a breathtaking mountain backdrop! 

I found it located in the centre of the country, at the foot of the Swiss Alps, about 50 km (31 miles) south of Zurich. Founded in the 8th century, it was historically a key trade and political centre but now it’s a major tourist destination with a population of around 82,000 people. 

I took an hour’s journey on the Swiss Rail system (SBB) from Zurich to Lucerne and stayed for two days. I walked across the historic Chapel Bridge and saw its iconic Water Tower, admired the baroque beauty of the Jesuit Church, visited the Lion Monument carved into rock and explored the medieval Musegg Wall which had really well preserved towers.

I also squeezed in scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, and took a fun but vertigo-inducing ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus – the alpine views were breathtaking!

• Location: Central part of the country​.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for boat rides and hiking around Mount Pilatus and Rigi).
• Activities on offer: Boat cruises, hiking Mount Pilatus or Rigi, visiting the Swiss Transport Museum, and exploring the Chapel Bridge.
• Accommodation: Hotel des Balances, Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern, and Art Deco Hotel Montana.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Dining at the Restaurant Da Luni – I loved the trendy but cosy vibe and dining on their creative Potato Muffins with Avocado Sauce which I washed down with a divine Prosecco Strada di Guia! 

4. Swiss National Park

This is Switzerland’s oldest national park! I thought it was strikingly beautiful with its pristine alpine landscapes, sprawling green meadows, and ancient forests, all set against the stunning backdrop of rugged mountain peaks. I absolutely loved how it felt like a wild, untouched wilderness – it was a place where I truly immersed myself in nature!

I found it nestled in the Engadine Valley in the eastern part of the country, in the canton of Graubünden. It is based between the towns of Zernez, S-chanf, and Scuol, near the borders with Italy and Austria. I found out it was established in 1914, spans over 170 square kilometres and is home to wildlife such as ibex, red deer, marmots, chamois, and many species of birds. 

• Location: Eastern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (to explore hiking trails and experience the park’s biodiversity).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, wildlife viewing, nature photography, and exploring alpine meadows.
• Accommodation: Hotel Parc Naziunal Il Fuorn (inside the park), Hotel Piz Buin Zernez, and Hotel Crusch Alba.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Seeing the dramatic limestone cliffs and the pretty Spöl River, which featured crystal-clear waters and a series of small, beautiful waterfalls on the 14 kilometers long Val Trupchun Trail (which took me 6 hours to complete).

5. Chateau de Chillon

I absolutely adored this scenic historic castle! I thought this medieval castle was truly exquisite with majestic towers and spires that rose dramatically against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps but it was its location on a small island of Lake Geneva that really took my breath away – it actually looked like something out of a painting! I also really loved how it exuded a romantic vibe, complete with medieval grandeur and a touch of intrigue – I felt like I was stepping back in time.

I discovered it located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, just outside the town of Montreux, nestled between the lake and the foothills of the Alps. I found out from my guide that it dated back to the 11th century but now functions solely as a museum and tourist attraction.

I visited when I stayed in Geneva (having flown in from Heathrow to Geneva Airport) and from there it was a scenic 1 hour and 15 minutes drive and I stayed for two hours. I explored the Great Halls which had very impressively preserved medieval frescoes, strolled through the underground dungeons made famous by Lord Byron, admired the Chapel which was home to impressive 14th-century paintings, and enjoyed stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from the castle’s towers.

• Visitor Center Address: Av. de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux
• Best time to visit: Summer (to enjoy lake views and guided tours in pleasant weather).
• Activities on offer: Guided tours, exploring historical exhibits, photography, and walking along Lake Geneva.
• Accommodation: Hotel Victoria in Montreux, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, and Hotel Bon Rivage.
• Map Location and Directions
• Chateau de Chillon Website

My highlights…

• Seeing Lord Byron’s name carved into a pillar of the dungeon after he visited in 1816. 

6. Zermatt

I was a huge fan of this picturesque mountain resort! I personally found it breathtaking – the collection of postcard-pretty wooden chalets, charming car-free streets, and the stunning alpine backdrop were all dominated by the majestic Matterhorn Mountain, which towered dramatically over the town. It felt like a scene out of a storybook!

I loved how it felt both chilled and lively at the same time with a mix of cosy bars and restaurants, a buzzing après-ski scene and outdoor adventures galore. I found it tucked away in the Swiss Alps at the foot of the Matterhorn, in the canton of Valais, near the Italian border. It’s actually a historic mountain resort town which gained popularity in the mid-19th century with the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865 and today it has a population of around 5,800 residents.

I took a direct 3.5 hour train journey from Zurich during the winter and I stayed for an idyllic three days. I rode the year-round Gornergrat Railway and saw truly breathtaking Matterhorn views, skied the world-class slopes of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, snowshoed the Rotenboden to Riffelberg trail and explored the lively main street of Bahnhofstrasse which was lined with luxury boutiques, traditional Swiss shops, cozy cafés, gourmet restaurants, and stylish hotels. 

I also visited the Matterhorn Museum and learnt all about the mountain’s history, and enjoyed gourmet dining at the high-altitude restaurant Chez Vrony.

• Location: Southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter and Summer (for skiing in winter and hiking in summer).
• Activities on offer: Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain climbing, and exploring the Matterhorn Museum.
• Accommodation: The Omnia, Hotel Monte Rosa, and Mont Cervin Palace.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Having a fun night while sipping on a ‘Saurer Apfel’ shot and listening to DJ Alex Frost live at the Broken Bar, one of the most legendary nightclubs in the Alps! I loved seeing the famous historic wine barrel located behind the bar!

7. Bern

I thought the Swiss capital was a real gem! I loved its medieval Old Town which featured sandstone arcades, a striking clock tower, fine historic architecture, attractive covered arcades, whimsical fountains, cobbled streets, world-class galleries, fantastic urban swimming, and traditional architecture, all framed by Alpine views and the winding Aare River. 

I really liked its very charming and laid-back vibe – it had a feel of medieval elegance but also with a relaxed, small-town feel. 

I took a train from Geneva which took 1 hour and 45 minutes and I stayed for a weekend. I explored the UNESCO-listed Old Town which had pretty medieval arcades, admired the famous Zytglogge clock tower’s animated figures, visited the Federal Palace to see Swiss government in action, strolled along the Aare River to see stunning city views, and discovered Einstein’s legacy at the Einstein Museum which I found was located inside the Bern Historical Museum.

• Location: Central part of the country​.
• Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (to enjoy the historic old town and outdoor events).
• Activities on offer: Walking tours of the old town, visiting the Zytglogge clock tower, exploring museums, and attending festivals.
• Accommodation: Hotel Bellevue Palace, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern, and Hotel Savoy Bern.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Dining at the trendy Michelin-starred restaurant Noumi – I loved the open kitchen and their innovative menu, I opted for the avocado tartar with crispy rice and hokkaido pumpkin.

8. Wengen

I thought this car-free Swiss mountain village was very picturesque! I found it had postcard-pretty traditional Swiss chalets, panoramic views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger mountains, bright green alpine meadows, and charming streets, all set against the backdrop of stunning waterfalls and the picturesque Lauterbrunnen Valley. I loved how peaceful and slow-placed it was, as well as its cosy vibe! 

I found it nestled in the Bernese Oberland region, perched on a sunny plateau above Lauterbrunnen Valley at an altitude of 1,274 meters (4,180 feet), and stunning views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger mountains.

It’s actually a historic Swiss alpine village dating back to the 13th century, and I found out from the tourist office that it became a popular tourist destination in the 19th century with the rise of mountain tourism and the construction of the Wengernalp Railway. It’s home to a population of around 1,300 residents, but this significantly increases during the ski and hiking seasons.

I took a 3 hour train journey from Zurich and stayed for three days. I took a ride on the year-round Wengernalp Railway and stunning views of the Jungfrau, skied the world-famous Lauberhorn slopes, rode the Jungfraujoch Railway to the highest railway station in Europe, enjoyed panoramic views from the Männlichen Cable Car, and sampled the relaxed but vibrant après-ski scene which consisted of cozy mountain restaurants, chalets, and bars.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for skiing and the annual Lauberhorn downhill race).
• Activities on offer: Skiing, hiking, paragliding, and riding the Wengen-Männlichen cable car.
• Accommodation: Hotel Regina Wengen, Hotel Belvédère, and Beausite Park Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Going for a Bio herb sauna and a Kneipp foot pool while gazing at incredible mountain views at Silberhorn Hotel.

9. Lake Oeschinen

I thought this lake was a stunning hidden gem! I thought it was very striking with its vibrant turquoise waters framed by towering alpine peaks, rolling green meadows, and the rustic Oeschinen Alpine Inn. I felt very tranquil and remote and I felt very immersed in unspoilt nature! 

I discovered it nestled in the Bernese Oberland region, near the town of Kandersteg. It was located at an altitude of 1,578 meters (5,177 feet), surrounded by the Oeschinenhorn and other towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. It became part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, having been recognized for its outstanding natural beauty.

I accessed it from Kandersteg via a scenic cable car journey and I spent a day exploring. I hiked around the lake and saw panoramic mountain views, took a boat ride on the gorgeously clear waters, explored the nearby Oeschinenhorn and Blüemlisalp peaks, enjoyed swimming in the cool alpine waters as it was summer, and then visited the Oeschinen Alpine Inn for a hearty Austrian meal accompanied by breathtaking mountain views. 

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking, swimming, and boat rides on the clear waters).
• Activities on offer: Swimming, hiking, tobogganing, and boat rentals.
• Accommodation: Berghotel Oeschinensee, Blümlisalp Hotel, and Chalet-Hotel Adler in Kandersteg.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights…

• Dining on a delicious Rösti which was a traditionally made large, crispy potato pancake at the Oeschinen Alpine Inn – I also washed it down with a warming Schümli Pflümli (a Swiss plum schnapps). 

10. Interlaken

I thought this popular Swiss resort town was just heavenly! I thought it was a stunning gem with its breathtaking backdrop of snowcapped mountains sprinkled with waterfalls, glacial lakes, and lush green alpine meadows and charming streets lined with traditional Swiss buildings and an adventurous yet relaxed vibe. 

It was located in the Bernese Oberland region, tucked away like a jewel between Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and the Jungfrau mountain range. It’s positioned about 80 kilometers southeast of Bern and I saw it served as a gateway to the Jungfrau Region. It was first established in the 12th century as a small farming village, but now it’s a popular tourist destination with a population of around 5,500 residents. 

I took a hour’s train journey from Bern and stayed for two days. I went paragliding over the lakes, hiked the scenic trails around Harder Kulm and saw gorgeous mountain views, visited the picturesque Hohematte Park, took a boat tour on Lake Thun, explored the charming Aare River promenade, visited the nearby Jungfraujoch, and discovered the famous revolving restaurant in the Schilthorn.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for adventure sports like paragliding, hiking, and boat trips).
• Activities on offer: Paragliding, hiking, boating on Lakes Thun and Brienz, and skydiving.
• Accommodation: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage, and Hotel Interlaken.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

11. St Moritz

This is one of the world’s most historic ski resorts! I personally thought it was a real beauty with a breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped peaks, the serene Lake St. Moritz, and elegant streets lined with charming Swiss chalets and luxury hotels all set within a picture-postcard alpine landscape. I really enjoyed its upscale, glamorous vibe – it was where luxury met nature! 

I found it was located in the Engadine Valley in the eastern part of the country, in the canton of Graubünden, at an altitude of 1,856 meters (6,089 feet) above sea level. It’s been a premier destination for winter sports since the 19th century, hosting two Winter Olympics (1928 and 1948), and today it has a population of around 5,200 residents. I found out that long been a favorite destination for royal dynasties, politicians, billionaires, and celebrities due to its luxury, prestige, and exclusivity! 

I took a direct train from Zurich which took 3.5 hours and I stayed for an awesome three days. I skied at the world-class resorts of Corviglia, enjoyed ice sailing and ice skating at St. Moritz Lake, dined at the luxurious Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, experienced the stunning alpine scenery on the incredible Bernina Express, learnt all about the town’s rich cultural heritage at the Segantini Museum and explored its health resort status by squeezing in as many spas, thermal pools and saunas as I could!

• Location: Southeastern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for world-class skiing and luxury resorts).
• Activities on offer: Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, attending luxury events, and enjoying spa resorts.
• Accommodation: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, and Suvretta House.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Dancing to uplifting house music played by DJ Bob Sinclar and sipping on a Negroni Sbagliato cocktails at the famous King’s Social House.

12. Brienz

I was completely charmed by this picturesque Swiss village! I thought it was a very attractive spot with its very scenic lakeside setting, traditional wooden houses with intricate carvings, and a heavenly Alpine setting complete with towering mountains and lashings of greenery! I really liked its very tranquil, quaint and slow-paced vibe too. 

It was located in the Bernese Oberland region of the country, situated on the northern shore of Lake Brienz, nestled between the Brienz Rothorn mountain and the picturesque village of Interlaken (about 25 kilometers east of Thun).  It was a historic Swiss village of around 3,500 residents and has been a popular destination since the 19th century. 

I took a 20 minute train journey from Interlaken and I stayed for two days. I explored the Swiss Woodcarving Museum and learnt about the village’s famous craft, took a scenic boat ride on Lake Brienz, hiked up to the Brienz Rothorn and saw truly breathtaking mountain views, visited the stunning Giessbach Falls and the hugely atmospheric Grandhotel Giessbach which was located nearby, and strolled through the charming village taking in all the pretty sights.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking and exploring the Brienz Rothorn railway).
• Activities on offer: Boat trips on Lake Brienz, visiting the Brienz Rothorn railway, wood carving workshops, and hiking.
• Accommodation: Grandhotel Giessbach, Hotel Brienz, and Brienzerburli Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights… 

• I loved exploring the pretty and romantic streets of Brunngasse – I loved seeing the chocolate box pretty houses which were wood-carved and dated back to the 18th century.

13. Villars-Sur-Ollon

I was in awe of this upscale mountain resort! I thought it was just divine with its picturesque alpine setting, stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif, traditional chalets and buildings with Swiss charm all surrounded by towering Alpine peaks. I really liked that it had a peaceful and relaxed vibe but with an alpine charm and a touch of luxury! 

I discovered it was located in the Vaud Alps of the western part of the country, about 120 kilometers northeast of Geneva and 60 kilometers southeast of Lausanne. It sat at an altitude of 1,250 meters (4,100 feet) and has been a popular destination for skiing and summer tourism since the late 19th century with a permanent population of around 3,000 residents. 

I took an hour’s direct train from Lausanne and stayed for three days. I skied on the slopes of the Villars-Gryon ski resort, walked the popular Bretaye Snowshoe Trail, enjoyed panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, explored the charming streets lined with traditional Swiss chalets, and indulged in the wellness and spa treatments at the Villars Alpine Resort.

• Location: Southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for skiing and enjoying snow-covered landscapes).
• Activities on offer: Skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and visiting the nearby Glacier 3000.
• Accommodation: Chalet RoyAlp Hotel & Spa, Alpe Fleurie, and Hotel du Golf.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Dining at the ultra-chic Le 1913 Michelin starred restaurant – I loved the Insta-worthy decor, the incredible mountain views and my divine dishes of truffle ravioli and Tarte Tatin which was a caramelized upside-down apple tart! 

14. Grindelwald

This is one of Switzerland’s most famous ski resorts! I thought it was a stunning mix of traditional Swiss chalets, sublime views of the towering Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, and a picturesque setting of sprawling meadows and alpine forests. I loved that it had a cozy, traditional Swiss atmosphere mixed in with an adventurous vibe. 

I found it located in the Bernese Oberland region, nestled at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains (around 20 kilometres from Interlaken). It’s a historic Swiss village and has been a cherished tourist destination since the 19th century with a population of around 3,800 residents.

I took a 30 minute train journey from Interlaken and stayed for an idyllic three days. I skid at the Grindelwald-First ski resort, snow-shoed from First to Grosse Scheidegg, took the Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe‘, enjoyed the breathtaking Grosse Scheidegg views, and visited the charming Grindelwald Museum.

I also managed to squeeze a cable car ride and saw superb panoramic mountain views and took adrenaline-filled rides on the fun First Flyer and First Glider.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Winter (for skiing and ice-climbing, or Summer for hiking and mountain biking).
• Activities on offer: Skiing, ice climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and taking the Eiger Express gondola.
• Accommodation: Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald, Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, and Aspen alpin lifestyle hotel Grindelwald.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights… 

• Traveling through the 7-kilometer long tunnel which went directly through the Alpine rock on the train journey. 

15. Basel

I thought this city was a jewel! I thought it had a charming medieval Old Town, really stunning Rhine River views, fine historic buildings, art galleries and museums. I really liked its cosmopolitan and eclectic vibe – it mixed a really delightful old-world charm with contemporary creativity and a lively cultural scene thrown in for good measure!

Divided in half by the Rhine River, I found it located in the northwestern part of the country on the banks of the Rhine River, near the borders of both Germany and France. It’s the country’s third-largest city and serves as a key cultural and economic hub in the region with a population of around 180,000 residents. I found out from the tourist office it was one of the oldest cities in the country having been founded by the Romans.

I took an hour’s direct train journey from Zurich and stayed for a relaxing three days. I explored the Basel Minster cathedral, strolled through the charming Old Town which was home to cobble-stoned medieval streets and houses, enjoyed contemporary art at the renowned Kunstmuseum gallery and Fondation Beyeler, strolled along the scenic Rhine River promenade, and visited the Tinguely Museum where I saw the fine works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. 

• Location: Northwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Spring and Fall (for art festivals, mild weather, and cultural events).
• Activities on offer: Exploring museums, walking along the Rhine River, visiting the Basel Zoo, and attending art festivals.
• Accommodation: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, Hotel Basel, and The Passage Hotel.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Trying the heavenly home-made cakes and pastries in the Bonne Maman Basel cake shop – my favourites were the unique Chai and the delicious quince cupcakes. 

16. Lake Constance

I really enjoyed visiting this large, picturesque freshwater lake! I discovered a beauty spot with breathtaking, sparkling waters surrounded by rolling hills, quaint lakeside towns and well-preserved historic buildings all set against the backdrop of the Swiss and German Alps as well as a very tranquil vibe!

I found it located in central Europe, bordered by Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, stretching across these three countries, with the Swiss Alps to the south. I found out from locals that it’s been a centre of trade and culture since the Roman era and has many fun recreational activities on offer.

I took a two hour drive from Zurich and I stayed for a very lovely three days. I went paddle boarding on the lake, explored the medieval Konstanz Cathedral, took a scenic boat tour to the Mainau Island which had beautiful gardens, visited the 18th century Meersburg Castle which had panoramic lake views, strolled through the historic town of Lindau and saw its charming harbor, and cycled along the picturesque Bodensee-Radweg path. 

• Location: Northeastern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for boating, cycling along the shores, and visiting nearby towns).
• Activities on offer: Boating, swimming, cycling along the lake, and visiting nearby towns like Konstanz.
• Accommodation: Hotel Bad Horn, Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand, and Hotel Heiden.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights… 

• Seeing views of all three countries – Germany, Austria, and Switzerland – while cycling along the Bodensee-Radweg path!

17. Seebergsee

This scenic mountain lake was a hidden gem! I loved the scenery here – I found beautiful, clear waters, snow-capped peaks, rolling green meadows, and a charming alpine chalet near the lake. It felt as far away from the hustle bustle as I could get and I loved its tranquil and zen-like vibe! 

It was located in the Bernese Oberland region, nestled in the Simmental Valley near the town of Boltigen, at an altitude of about 1,515 meters (4,970 feet). 

I drove 1.5 hours from Zurich and stayed for a very scenic day. I squeezed in hiking trails which took me around the lake, I also explored the nearby Simmental Valley which had sublime vistas, and visited the charming alpine village of Boltigen.

• Location: Western part of the country
• Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking and enjoying the stunning alpine scenery).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, picnicking, photography, and exploring the surrounding alpine trails.
• Accommodation: Nearby options include Hotel Landgasthof Schönbühl, Hotel Alpenblick in Bern, and Hotel Moosegg.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Going on the Seebergsee Circular Hike which started in the parking area near the Zwischenflüh in the Diemtigtal Nature Park and took me past surrounding mountains, including the rugged peaks of the Bernese Alps as well as lush meadows, dense alpine forests, and past small streams before arriving at Seebergsee.

18. Jungfraujoch

Known as the “Top of Europe,” this is the highest rail station in the whole of Europe! I thought it was breathtaking – it had stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks and huge glaciers. To me, it felt awe-inspiring and exhilarating with a very unique blend of adventure and an otherworldly atmosphere! 

I discovered it located in the Bernese Alps, tucked away between the mountains of Jungfrau and Mönch, at an altitude of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet). It was accessible via the Jungfrau Railway which I found started from Kleine Scheidegg, and is situated about 12 kilometers southeast of Grindelwald and Wengen. Its construction was completed in 1912, making it both a historical landmark and popular tourist destination. 

I took a 30 minute Jungfrau Railway journey from Kleine Scheidegg and once there I spent a day exploring. I enjoyed seriously breathtaking views from the Sphinx Observatory, explored the very unique and Insta-worthy Ice Palace which was home to stunning ice sculptures, viewed the incredible Glacier Plateau from various viewpoints, visited the Alpine Sensation exhibition, took in the views from the Top of Europe terrace, and went snow tubing which was a lot of fun!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (to experience the “Top of Europe” viewpoint and glacier walks).
• Activities on offer: Glacier walks, visiting the Ice Palace, riding the Jungfrau Railway, and enjoying panoramic views.
• Accommodation: Eiger Guesthouse, Hotel Silberhorn Wengen, and Hotel Alpenruhe Kulm.
• Map Location and Directions
• Jungfrau Railway Website

My personal highlights… 

• Riding the dramatic high-speed lift to the top of the observatory which took us through the Eiger mountain for 117 meters (384 feet)!

19. Spiez

This is my choice for a charming under-the-radar gem! I found this town incredibly charming, with its traditional wooden houses featuring alpine-style architecture, many adorned with vibrant flower boxes. Its idyllic location on the edge of Lake Thun, framed by vineyards and mountains, added to its picturesque beauty. I was also very taken with its quaint and quiet village atmosphere. 

I found it nestled in the Bernese Oberland region, on the northern shore of Lake Thun, surrounded by the Alps (around 30 minutes from Thun by car). It dates back to the Middle Ages and has a population of around 13,000 residents today. 

I took a one hour train journey from Bern and stayed for a very relaxing two days and explored the historic Spiez Castle which also had an interesting museum and views of Lake Thun, strolled along the attractive lakefront promenade, went wine-tasting in Spiez Vineyard, took a boat trip on beautiful Lake Thun, and visited the impressively preserved Church of Spiez. 

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for boat rides, castle visits, and vineyard tours).
• Activities on offer: Boat tours, visiting Spiez Castle, wine tasting, and hiking through nearby vineyards.
• Accommodation: Belvédère Strandhotel, Hotel Eden Spiez, and Strandhotel Seeblick.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Tasting an iconic glass of Chasselas (a Swiss white wine) at the rustic Spiez Vineyard – the mountain and lake views were also incredible!

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