Visiting Switzerland
Switzerland is a dream destination for travelers, offering breathtaking natural landscapes, charming villages, and rich culture. It is the 6th most visited country in western Europe and for good reason! Located in Europe it is easy to get to and to travel around especially with its world class rail system. From the Swiss Alps, incredible chocolate and cheese, vibrant cobblestone streets and warm hospitality you will be blown away by all this vast country has to offer!
where to visit Switzerland
The great part about Switzerland is that each region has its own unique character and attractions, making Switzerland a country to visit time and time again (I’ve already been twice- and still have so much more to explore!). From from the modern cities of Zurich and Geneva, to Rhine falls the largest waterfall in Europe, to the Swiss Alps, to the medieval city of Bern, the skiing of St. Moritz, and the iconic Matterhorn. That is just the tip of the iceberg of all this country has to offer! Wherever you decide to go you will not be disappointed! This is just a list of the top places I have been in Swizterland.
Must visit places
Zurich
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a blend of modern vibrancy and rich history, making it a top destination for travelers. Strolling through the old town reveals cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and landmarks. The city is also famous for shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. It sits on Lake Zurich which is a great place to catch the sunset or take a boat ride. Zurich is the largest city and also the most tourist visited city in Switzerland! (personally visited in 2024)
Lucerne
Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities, known for its medieval charm and stunning lake and mountain scenery. Its iconic Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden structure adorned with paintings, and the Lion Monument, honoring Swiss Guards lost during the French Revolution, reflect Lucerne’s rich history. Nearby Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi offer spectacular views and hiking opportunities. (Visited in 2024)
bern
Bern, Switzerland’s capital, offers visitors a unique mix of historical charm and cultural appeal. Its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features cobblestone streets, historic fountains, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower. It also has the Einstein Museum, Bear Park and the Rosengarten with panoramic views. (Visited in 2024)
Rapperswil
Known as the “Town of Roses,” Rapperswil is famed for its rose gardens, which bloom in spring and summer. The picturesque Rapperswil Castle provides stunning views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding Alps. The town has medieval history, cobblestone streets and historic buildings making it a great day trip from Zurich.(Visited in 2024)
St. Moritz
St. Moritz, nestled in the Swiss Alps, is one of the world’s most glamorous and historic ski resorts, renowned for its luxury and scenic beauty. It has fine dining, luxury shopping, incredible winter sports and stunning scenery. It is a stop on the Bernina Express scenic train. (Visited 2023)
Heidiland
Heidiland, located in Eastern Switzerland, is a scenic region inspired by Johanna Spyri’s famous “Heidi” stories. Heidi’s Village in Maienfeld is an open-air museum that recreates the fictional world of Heidi with an old-fashioned farmhouse and exhibits on traditional Alpine life. (Visited 2024)
Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is a scenic train journey that traverses the breathtaking landscape of the Swiss Alps. Stretching from Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland, it covers a distance of 122 kilometers, offering an unforgettable experience. Passengers are treated to panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes as the train winds its way through steep valleys and tight curves. It is not only one of the top scenic train rides in Switzerland but in the world! (Visited 2023)
My experience
I’ve been to Switzerland twice and to different places and though these are some of the top places I’ve been I still have so much more to explore in Switzerland. My first trip into Switzerland was part of a day trip from Italy on the Bernina Express during the wintertime while I was pregnant. The next trip was the following year with our baby during the summertime while celebrating our 5 year anniversary! It was Cal’s first international destination so will always hold a great place in our hearts. Other top destinations I cannot wait to check out include Interlaken, Zermatt, Geneva, Lugano, Brienz and so much more. Trust me and put Switzerland to the top of your travel bucket list- you won’t regret it!