Visiting Switzerland brings you up close to a place where the air is fresh, the people are subdued, and the outdoor and cultural sights are plentiful. This landlocked country is known for the beauty of its Swiss Alps, the stunning azure waters of its pristine lakes, and its modern city centers of culture. Expect to hear a variety of languages in this melting pot of people with German, French, and Italian heritage. Here are 10 top attractions to visit during your tour of Switzerland.

1. The Matterhorn

The iconic peak of the Matterhorn is a must see for tourists visiting the area. Located along the border of Switzerland and Italy, this stunning mountain has captivated visitors for years. Instead of making a commitment to climbing it, one suggestion is to visit the nearby village of Zermatt and simply take some scenic shots of its silhouette.

2. Lake Geneva

In the northern section of the country closer to the French border, you’ll be able to find Lake Geneva. You can take in the gorgeous scenery around the lake, or you can participate in a brisk walk along some of the footpaths in the surrounding park. There’s a large fountain in the middle of the lake and families of ducks and geese that call it home. You’ll also be rewarded with a beautiful backdrop of the snow-capped Swiss mountains.

3. Historic Bern  

You’ll also want to visit Switzerland’s quiet capital city, Bern. Instead of focusing on some of the modern sights around the town, look for the historic center, which dates back to the 12th century. Walking around the old cobblestone sidewalks and seeing buildings that lined the streets centuries ago will instantly transport you to the past.

4. Chateau de Chillon

While not as prolific as some of its other European neighbors like France and Germany, Switzerland does have its share of medieval castles to tour. In Montreux, you’ll find Chateau de Chillon. Overlooking the waters of Lake Geneva, this castle offers visitors a glimpse of what life was like during the height of the middle ages.

5. Chapel Bridge

If you want to check out another example of historic architecture, try Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge. Take a leisurely walk along the bridge as you go from the new part of the city to its preserved historic area. It straddles the Reuss River and offers a prime vantage point for stunning sunsets and scenic city landscapes. There is also a selection of beautiful paintings hanging along its rafters for you to scan as you make your way along the bridge.   

6. Jungfraujoch

If you want to get to the top peaks of the Swiss Alps, but you don’t have the stamina to climb the Matterhorn, try taking a tour up to the Jungfraujoch Observatory. You can take an easy train ride up to this highest rail station in Europe. During the cold weather months, the area features ice sculptures and a gorgeous ice palace for visitors to enjoy.

7. Swiss National Museum

Once you’re ready to come back down to the valley, try visiting the Swiss National Museum in Zurich. This attraction is great for a rainy day or any other type of weather that has you wanting to stay inside and keep warm. You can learn about some of the culture and customs of the people of this land. Get a complete overview of the importance of this tiny country in European history.

8. Galerie Gmurzynska

If you’re looking for a place to view some unique examples of international modern art, try the Galerie Gmurzynska, which has locations in Zurich, Zug, and St. Moritz. You can check out some of their permanent collection pieces or traveling exhibitions from artists around the world. Before you go, be sure to link up with the Galerie Gmurzynska twitter page to get the latest collection update.

9. Gornergrat Railway

You can enjoy incredible views from the peaks of the Gornergrat mountain by taking the rack railway of the same name. Open throughout summer, fall, winter, and spring, the railway connects tourists from the small village of Zermatt to the highest peak on the top of the mountain. The railway is also a historic piece of transportation, built in 1898 as one of the first electric railways in the country.  

10. Zytglogge

Switzerland is known for its charming cuckoo clocks adorning the walls of many of its residents. You can see the king of these types of clocks in downtown Bern at the Zytglogge, which translates to clock tower. This historic clock has been running since medieval times. Visitors get a thrill when they wait for the hour to strike and the clock’s performance to begin.

A trip to Switzerland will give you plenty of options in outdoor activities, cultural insights, historic enrichment, and more. Visit some of the top sights to get a better understanding of the people, the lifestyle, and the joy of this beautiful country.

All photos cc. 

Landesmuseum photo Wikimedia Commons: Roland zh

Galerie Gmurzynska's St. Moritz https://www.instagram.com/gmurzynska/