Switzerland, travel guide

Do you dream of discovering Switzerland and its breathtaking landscapes? We invite you to explore 12 must-see natural wonders in Switzerland. No matter the season, Switzerland welcomes you to a variety of adventures: winter sports at renowned resorts, hikes through alpine meadows, lake cruises, cultural tours, and gourmet getaways in regions famous for their wine and cheese. This country, rich in mountains, lakes, glaciers, and forests, promises every visitor an unforgettable experience.

We’ve selected 12 exceptional natural sites for you that reflect Switzerland’s linguistic and cultural diversity. Discover Alpine gems, peaceful lakes, and hidden wonders, while learning the best ways to enjoy them. Ready for an adventure?

Follow the guide!

Must-see Alpine gems

Switzerland, surrounded by France, Italy, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany—famous for its majestic mountains—offer breathtaking views and a wide variety of activities. Discover four must-visit Alpine destinations in Switzerland.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Zermatt, a charming ski resort and picturesque Alpine village, offers the perfect setting for exploring the Matterhorn, Europe’s most iconic mountain. The Matterhorn, rising to 4,478 meters, is a Swiss symbol and a haven for nature lovers. Admire its pyramid-shaped silhouette from exceptional vantage points such as the Gornergrat terrace, the Matterhorn Glacier, or the Rothorn.

Adventurers can climb its slopes via the Hörnli Ridge—the most popular route among mountaineers—or explore the Matterhorn Museum, which details its history and ascents.

The Jungfraujoch: The Roof of Europe

The Jungfraujoch is the highlight of your trip to Switzerland, offering the highest viewpoint accessible by public transportation. Located at an altitude of 3,454 meters, it is home to Europe’s highest train station and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Alps. The ride on the cogwheel train, passing along the north face of the Eiger, is an unforgettable experience.

At the Jungfraujoch, don’t miss the Ice Palace, with its ice sculptures, or the Sphinx, an observatory offering a commanding view of the Aletsch Glacier—Europe’s longest glacier and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Interlaken Region and the Mountain Lakes

Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, offers landscapes of serene beauty. Enjoy boat cruises on the lakes, admire the surrounding castles, or relax on the natural beaches.

Interlaken is also the perfect starting point for discovering nearby peaks, such as Harder Kulm, offering magical views of the lakes and Alps, or Schynige Platte, enveloping you in a field of alpine flowers.

The Swiss National Park in Graubünden

The Swiss National Park, the country's oldest and largest nature park, is located in the western Rhaetian Alps, in the canton of Graubünden. Covering 174.2 km², it provides a habitat for exceptional flora and fauna, which can be explored via 80 km of hiking trails. See deer, ibex, marmots and golden eagles, and discover a variety of landscapes such as the Macun lakes, the Margunet viewpoint and the Val Trupchun valley.

The Swiss National Park is a prime destination for those seeking to reconnect with unspoilt nature.

Lakes of serene beauty

Switzerland, home to some of Europe’s largest and most magnificent lakes, is brimming with exceptional natural sites. We invite you to discover four lakes that stand out for their color, diversity, and undeniable charm.

Lake Geneva, between vineyards and castles

Lake Léman, also known as Lake Geneva, is the largest natural lake in Western Europe, with a surface area of 580 km², divided between France (235 km²) and Switzerland (345 km²).

This lake is characterized by a variety of landscapes, from the Lavaux vineyards—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to the snow-capped peaks of Mont Blanc. It is also surrounded by numerous castles that bear witness to the region’s history and culture, such as the castles of Chillon, Yvoire, Prangins, and Ferney-Voltaire. Visitors can explore Lake Geneva through scenic cruises, visits to nearby cities such as Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, or Vevey, or by enjoying water sports such as sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.

Lake Lucerne: a landscape steeped in myth

Lake Lucerne, or Vierwaldstättersee, is a glacial lake located in the heart of Switzerland, surrounded by the cantons of Lucerne, Nidwalden, Obwalden, and Uri. Its crescent shape and its arms stretching into the Alpine valleys are flanked by majestic mountains such as the Rigi and the Pilatus.

This lake is steeped in myths and legends closely tied to Swiss history, such as the Rütli, where the first cantons swore an oath of unity against the Habsburgs, and the legend of William Tell. Visitors can explore Lake Lucerne by boat, visit its castles and museums, or take a rack-and-pinion railway to admire the view from the mountaintops.

The Mountain Lakes of Oeschinen and Brienz

Lakes Oeschinen and Brienz, located in the Bernese Alps near Interlaken, are true natural treasures. Lake Oeschinen, at an elevation of 1,578 meters, offers an exceptional panorama with its deep blue waters and is surrounded by impressive mountain peaks. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is perfect for hiking, skiing, ice fishing, or a boat ride.

Lake Brienz, for its part, is renowned for its emerald-green waters and lies at an elevation of 564 meters. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A boat ride lets you admire the picturesque villages that line its shores, and the St. Beatus Caves offer a natural spectacle of stalactites and stalagmites that’s not to be missed.

Lake Thun and its turquoise waters

Lake Thun, located between Thun and Interlaken, is known for its turquoise-blue color and covers an area of 48.3 km². Its surroundings—featuring snow-capped peaks, forests, vineyards, and castles—offer an idyllic setting for water sports enthusiasts.

Cruises on the lake offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, while the shores of the lake are home to charming towns and villages to explore. Schadau Castle, with its 19th-century architecture and romantic lakeside park, is a must-see.

Lesser-known natural wonders

Switzerland, a country renowned for its famous mountains and lakes, is also home to hidden gems, perfect for explorers and nature lovers keen to discover new horizons.

Below, discover four lesser-known but equally fascinating natural sites.

The Rhine Falls, a natural power

The Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfalls in terms of volume, are located on the border between Switzerland and Germany, near Schaffhausen. They were formed as a result of the Rhine’s course changing 15,000 years ago, when the river had to carve its way through a layer of hard limestone.

The spectacle is breathtaking: across a width of 150 meters, hundreds of cubic meters of water plunge from a height of 23 meters with a deafening roar. A rock stands in the midst of this tumult, a millennia-old witness to this force of nature. You can admire the Rhine Falls from several vantage points or get up close by boat, heading toward the base of the rock or the castles lining the river.

Lauterbrunnen Valley and its 72 waterfalls

The Lauterbrunnen Valley, located in the Bernese Alps near Interlaken, is a glacial valley known for its 72 waterfalls cascading down vertical rock faces, some of which are as high as 400 meters.

The Staubbach Falls, a source of inspiration for the poet Goethe, are among the most famous. The valley offers hiking trails where you can admire these spectacular waterfalls and visit picturesque villages such as Wengen, Mürren, and Gimmelwald. The St. Beatus Caves, with their stalactites and stalagmites, and the cog railway leading to the Jungfraujoch—nicknamed the “Roof of Europe”—are also attractions not to be missed.

The Aare Gorge, nature's sculpture

Near Meiringen, in the Aare Mountains, lie the Aare Gorges, carved by the Aare River into the limestone. They plunge to a depth of nearly 200 meters and narrow to just one meter wide at their narrowest point, offering a striking contrast between the dark rock and the turquoise water.

Footbridges and tunnels allow visitors to explore the gorges on foot, offering an immersive experience amid the power of the water and the surrounding wilderness.

The Aletsch Glacier: A Journey Back to the Ice Age

The Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps at 23 kilometers long, with an area of 86.6 km² and a thickness of 800 meters, is located in the canton of Valais. Surrounded by the peaks of the Jungfrau, the Mönch, the Fiescherhorner, and the Aletschhorn, it is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site for the natural beauty it represents.

Many vantage points, such as the Bettmerhorn, the Eggishorn, and the Moosfluh, offer spectacular panoramic views of the glacier, revealing its unique bluish color and impressive crevasses. A guided hike across the glacier, led by an expert, allows you to explore a world of ice, rocks, alpine flora, and forests.

Visiting Switzerland - Conclusion

Are you tempted by a getaway to Switzerland, this multi-faceted nation offering breathtaking panoramas? Then you've made an excellent choice. Indeed, Switzerland abounds in impressive natural treasures, from majestic mountains and peaceful lakes to towering glaciers and spectacular gorges.

This article has highlighted 12 exceptional natural sites that reveal the richness and splendor of Switzerland. Whether you're passionate about sports, culture, gastronomy or simply looking for a relaxing break, Switzerland is sure to meet your expectations. Don't delay, plan your trip to Switzerland now and discover its hidden gems!

Switzerland - FAQ

What's the most beautiful place to visit in Switzerland?

This is a difficult question to answer because Switzerland's beauty is subjective and depends on individual tastes. However, here are a few must-see destinations that offer breathtaking scenery:

• The Swiss Alps: The Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, Matterhorn... These iconic mountains offer breathtaking panoramic views and numerous outdoor activities (hiking, skiing, mountaineering).
• The lakes: Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, Lake Lucerne… These crystal-clear bodies of water are perfect for relaxing, sailing, or simply admiring the surrounding scenery.
• Historic towns: Lucerne, Bern, Geneva… These cities combine medieval charm with modern architecture, offering a blend of culture and history.

When is the best time to visit Switzerland?

The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you want to do:

• Summer (June-August): The temperatures are mild, the days are long, and there are plenty of outdoor activities. It's peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.
• Autumn (September-October): The fall colors are beautiful, the temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are thinning out.
• Winter (December-February): The ski resorts are lively, the snow-covered landscapes are enchanting, but the days are shorter.
• Spring (March-May): Nature is coming to life, flowers are blooming, and temperatures are starting to rise. It’s the perfect time of year for nature lovers.

What documents do I need to enter Switzerland?

For citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, no special formalities are required. A valid form of identification is sufficient. For nationals of other countries, entry requirements may vary. We recommend consulting the official website of the Swiss authorities or the Swiss embassy in your country to find out the specific entry requirements.

What are the best seasons to visit Switzerland and its natural wonders?

The best time to visit Switzerland depends on your interests. Winter, from December through March, is perfect for those who love skiing, snow, and Christmas markets. For those who prefer hiking, enjoying the flowers, and attending music festivals, summer—from June through August—is recommended. Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) offer pleasant weather, magnificent scenery, and a rich cultural scene in Swiss cities.

How do you get around Switzerland's many nature reserves?

In Switzerland, trains and cars are the two main options for exploring natural sites. Trains are environmentally friendly and punctual, serving most of the country's nature parks and mountain lakes. The car, on the other hand, offers greater freedom but involves tolls and parking charges.

What equipment and precautions do you need to enjoy the Swiss landscape to the full?

For the best experience, it’s essential to pack appropriately for the activity and the season. For camping, bring a tent, a sleeping bag, a camping stove, food, and water. For skiing or hiking, pack warm, waterproof clothing, appropriate footwear, a helmet, goggles, and poles. Follow safety guidelines, protect yourself from the sun, stay hydrated, and stay on marked trails to avoid hazards related to electricity, cold, snow, or the mountains.

What activities and attractions are not to be missed near Switzerland's natural wonders?

Switzerland, with its mountains, lakes, glaciers, forests, and waterfalls, offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Be sure to go skiing, sledding, hiking, or paragliding in the Swiss Alps, with famous resorts such as Zermatt, Davos, Grindelwald, and Verbier. Admire Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Western Europe, and explore the surrounding towns and villages such as Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, and Vevey. Visit the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the activities on offer, such as the suspension bridge, the panoramic train, and the glacier museum. Finally, explore the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, and enjoy a boat cruise, a bike ride, or a visit to Laufen Castle for a spectacular view of this natural wonder.

To find out more about Switzerland, visit the official website.