8 Places to Visit in Switzerland You Should Add to Your Travel List

1. Grindelwald – Experience the Swiss Alps

Location: Bernese Oberland Best For: Mountain scenery, hiking, photography and adventure Experience: Alpine village and mountain excursions

Grindelwald is one of the most popular mountain destinations in Switzerland. Surrounded by dramatic Alpine peaks, green valleys and traditional Swiss scenery, it offers the kind of landscapes many travellers come to Switzerland to see.

The village is also a convenient base for exploring the surrounding Bernese Oberland. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain excursions and winter activities.

For photographers, Grindelwald offers plenty of opportunities to capture traditional Swiss architecture against an Alpine backdrop. It is also easy to combine with destinations such as Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen.

2. Brienz – Relax Beside Lake Brienz

Location: Bernese Oberland, Lake Brienz Best For: Lakeside scenery, photography, nature and relaxation Experience: Peaceful lake and mountain destination

Brienz sits on the shores of Lake Brienz and offers a quieter experience compared with some of Switzerland's more crowded tourist destinations.

The lake's blue-green waters, surrounding mountains and traditional village atmosphere make Brienz an enjoyable place to slow down. A walk along the waterfront is a simple way to appreciate the scenery without following a packed sightseeing schedule.

Brienz is also known for its woodcarving tradition, adding a cultural element to the visit.

3. Lauterbrunnen – Explore the Famous Waterfall Valley

Location: Bernese Oberland Best For: Nature, photography, hiking and mountain scenery Experience: Alpine valley and waterfall sightseeing

Lauterbrunnen is one of the most recognisable natural landscapes in Switzerland. The village sits in a dramatic valley surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls.

Walking through the valley is one of the easiest ways to appreciate the scenery. Instead of simply stopping for a photograph, take some time to explore the village and surrounding paths.

Lauterbrunnen is also an important gateway to the Jungfrau region, making it useful for travellers planning several mountain excursions.

4. Interlaken – Discover Switzerland's Adventure Side

Location: Bernese Oberland Best For: Adventure, sightseeing, couples and families Experience: Lakes, mountains and outdoor activities

Interlaken is located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is one of Switzerland's best-known tourist destinations.

The town itself has plenty to explore, but its biggest advantage is its location. It provides convenient access to several popular destinations across the Bernese Oberland, including Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.

Interlaken is also popular with travellers looking for outdoor activities. Depending on the season, you can choose from hiking and other mountain experiences.

For a first Switzerland trip, Interlaken is a useful base for exploring the surrounding region while still having plenty of restaurants, shops and accommodation options nearby.

5. Lucerne – Explore the City by the Lake

Location: Central Switzerland Best For: History, sightseeing, families, couples and lakeside walks Experience: Historic city and lake destination

Lucerne is one of the most popular cities to include in a Switzerland itinerary. Located beside Lake Lucerne and surrounded by mountains, the city combines historic architecture with a beautiful natural setting.

The Old Town is ideal for exploring on foot. Walk through its historic streets, discover traditional buildings and make your way towards the Reuss River and the famous Chapel Bridge.

Lake Lucerne adds another dimension to the city. You can spend time along the waterfront or use Lucerne as a starting point for exploring nearby mountain destinations.

6. Bern – Walk Through Switzerland's Historic Capital

Location: Bern Best For: History, architecture, culture and walking Experience: Historic city exploration

Bern offers a completely different experience from Switzerland's mountain villages. The country's federal city is known for its historic Old Town, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best way to experience central Bern is on foot. Take your time exploring the old streets, historic buildings, fountains, cafés and local shops.

Bern is particularly worthwhile for travellers who want to understand the cultural and historical side of Switzerland rather than focusing only on mountains and lakes.

7. Weggis – Enjoy the Peaceful Side of Lake Lucerne

Location: Lake Lucerne, Central Switzerland Best For: Couples, relaxation, nature and photography Experience: Lakeside village and mountain scenery

Weggis is a peaceful lakeside town situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Compared with larger destinations, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

The town is surrounded by mountains and provides beautiful views across the lake. It is a good place to take a slower day during a busy Switzerland trip.

Walking along the lakefront, exploring the village and enjoying the mountain scenery are simple ways to experience Weggis.

8. Vitznau – A Scenic Escape on Lake Lucerne`1

Location: Lake Lucerne, Central Switzerland Best For: Lake views, mountain scenery, relaxation and couples Experience: Peaceful lakeside village and mountain destination

Vitznau is another beautiful destination on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Surrounded by mountains and water, the small lakeside village is ideal for travellers who want to experience a quieter side of Switzerland.

One of the highlights of the area is its connection to Mount Rigi, which rises above Lake Lucerne. Vitznau provides access to the Rigi area and is associated with the historic Rigi railway experience.

The village itself is worth exploring at a relaxed pace. Spend some time near the lake, enjoy the views and take photographs of the surrounding mountains.