6 Best Places to Travel in the Swiss Alps (2024)

The Swiss Alps

Switzerland is relatively small, but in spite of this, it is bursting at the seams with natural attractions and boasts some of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

With more than two hundred peaks higher than 3,000 meters above sea level, many of the best places to visit in Switzerland are dominated by glaciers and soaring alps.

1) Matterhorn and Zermatt

The Matterhorn, a mountain rising to 4,478 meters, straddles Switzerland and Italy, flaunting a near-perfect pyramid shape. It’s among Europe’s highest peaks, and is also a stunning icon in the Swiss Alps.

At the base of the legendary Matterhorn is the village of Zermatt. The mountain resort attracts tourists year-round from all over the world. Zermatt offers a host of stunning vantage points from which to admire and photograph the Matterhorn, which is a site unlike any other. The alpine playground also provides a host of things to do any time of year.

Discover stories of triumph and tragedy at the Zermatlantis Matterhorn Museum and Mountaineers’ Cemetery. There are also numerous outdoor activities to enjoy in the area. You can explore a glacier, ski mid-summer, hike some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking trails, or climb one of Europe’s highest mountains.

Discover a range of travel options, including aerial tramways, funiculars, and Europe’s highest open-air rack railway, within the Swiss Alps. These innovations enable everyone to experience the iconic peaks, making the Alps accessible beyond just avid explorers.

There are many ways to experience Zermatt – though the most exciting that we recommend is through the eyes of a Matterhorn helicopter tour!

2) Jungfrau Region

At an altitude of 3,454 meters, the Jungfrau region is one of the most exceptional alpine wonderlands in the world. Nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage site between the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, this is another top Swiss destination. Explore amazing hiking trails around Jungfrau, and nearby spots like Wengen, Murren, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen.

The biggest highlight of the Jungfrau region is getting to the top. 

For over a hundred years, the Jungfrau railway has ascended to Europe’s highest-altitude railway station. The steep nine-kilometer journey from Kleine Scheidegg includes a seven-kilometer tunnel completed in 1912. Mid-tunnel stops provide breathtaking vistas of the Alpine glacial marvels through mountain-built windows.

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier extending into Italy, France, and Germany. You can also delve into an enchanting frozen realm at the Ice Palace.

3) The Swiss National Park

The Swiss National Park, located in the Western Rhaetian Alps is part of the worldwide UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. 

Covering over 170 square kilometres; the park has over 80 kilometres of hiking paths and nature trails. The first national park was established in the Alps over a century ago, although thankfully, little has changed. 

A pristine wilderness of forests, lakes, and alpine mountains, the park is also home to an abundance of wildlife. 

The marked trails, mandatory to follow, showcase unique rock formations and pristine forests found nowhere else. Have your binoculars ready for glimpses of chamois, marmots, red deer, and ibex—the park’s prominent wildlife and some of the best fauna to see when traveling in the Swiss Alps.

There are a total of twenty-one hiking routes through the park. The park visitor centre in Zernez has park maps and guides. You can also book a guided hike for around CHF 35. The park closes in winter during the time of year that is part of wildlife conservation and protection practices. 

4) Lugano

The Monte Carlo of Switzerland. Lugano, in southern Switzerland’s Italian speaking Ticino region, will have you thinking you landed in the Mediterranean.

The stunning scenery and relaxed vibe of Lugano City attract celebrities and travelers alike. It nestles by a glacial lake, surrounded by the San Salvatore and Brè Mountains

The main square, Piazza della Riforma has all the charming character you expect from any of Italy’s most enchanting cities and towns flanked with pastel coloured Italianate architecture.

Discover the allure of Piazza della Riforma, adorned with pastel Italianate buildings, at Lugano’s heart. Alongside chic shopping streets and vibrant lakeside eateries, Lugano boasts an especially renowned status as one of Switzerland’s scenic cities.

5) Interlaken

Explore Interlaken, the adventure hub in the heart of the Swiss Alps! Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this stunning town presently offers thrilling activities like hiking, day sledding, and paragliding.

6) Lucerne

Lucerne is a beloved Swiss destination and is a surprisingly effortless day trip from Zurich. It offers historical charm, stunning landscapes, and upscale shopping. The German-speaking city sits by Lake Lucerne, surrounded by Mount Rigi and Pilatus panoramas.

In Lucerne, the gateway to central Switzerland, you have a world of options. In Lucerne, the gateway to central Switzerland, a world of options awaits. Enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise or explore the heights of Pilatus or Rigi. Wander through the car-free Altstadt (Old Town) and indulge in luxury shopping at its upscale stores.

We have put together an excellent 2 Days in Lucerne Itinerary to help you plan your stay. 

In sum, Lucerne is a top spot in Switzerland for a reason—it’s stunning all year round! Nestled at the start of the Alps, it’s perfect for exploring Central Switzerland. Plus, its proximity to Zurich makes it an ideal stop, even for a short visit.