Switzerland most beautiful places: 18 must-sees

Dernière mise à jour de cet article le 8 September 2024

Here’s a collaborative article dedicated to the most beautiful places in Switzerland. Between lakes and mountains, Switzerland is a country with a rich diversity of landscapes. But that’s not all this small country on the French border has to offer. In fact, it also offers great cultural diversity, with its four official languages and its French, German and Italian influences. And what can we say about its many culinary specialities, other than fondue and raclette!

Switzerland has a lot to offer. But it remains little-known by the French, who are put off by its high cost. However, all travelers who have visited Switzerland are unanimous in their praise, and return delighted with their stay. The friendliness of the Swiss, the beauty of the landscape, the cleanliness, the safety – everything is there to make your stay unforgettable.

I regularly have the opportunity to spend weekends in Switzerland and share my experiences through articles. This time, I decided to broaden my horizons by soliciting the opinions of travel bloggers. I asked them the question: Where to go in Switzerland? They told me their favorites in French- and German-speaking Switzerland. The result? A unique selection of the most enchanting places to discover in Switzerland. Dive into this rich compilation, the fruit of an exciting collaboration with travelers eager to share their favorite Swiss treasures.

I hope you enjoy this selection of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland, and that it will inspire you to discover this magnificent country yourself. By the way, to make things easier to read, the testimonials are sorted by canton.

18 Favourites in Switzerland

In the canton of Berne

Interlaken

By Kaouthare from the blog Touristissimo

I loved travelling by train in Switzerland, I think it’s one of the most beautiful countries to cross by train after Slovenia. To tell you the truth, I couldn’t take my eyes off the window. Interlaken was the first town I visited on my European rail tour with my Interrail pass, and it was a lovely cultural and natural discovery. It’s true that happiness is cool, especially in summer when it’s very hot.

The city of Interlaken offers everything you need for a great stay in this pretty town. When you stay in a hotel or youth hostel, the bus is free for the duration of your stay, and the same ticket also entitles you to discounts on the cable car, so you can get some height and fresh air at the same time.

There’s plenty to do in Interlaken for young and old alike, from bike rides and hikes to paragliding, bungee jumping and even the wacky Greenfield Festival, a hard rock festival in the middle of the Swiss countryside that has to be seen to be believed. To find out EVERYTHING about the Greenfield Festival click here

most beautiful places to visit e

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The village of Grindelwald

By Rachel and Pamela of the web magazine Les voyageuses du Québec

This mountain village in the Bernese Oberland region is surrounded by some of the region’s highest peaks. No matter where you are, the peaks of the Eiger, Wetterhorn and Mannlichen are sure to take your breath away.

Apart from the main street, which is dotted with sports stores, hotels and restaurants, the village’s surroundings are filled with old wooden chalets that take us straight back decades. For a Quebecer visiting Switzerland for the first time, let’s just say these panoramas had quite an effect on me. From Grindelwald, the possibilities for hiking and winter sports are endless. The air is fresh, the people are smiling and it’s peaceful…

For me, hiking was the main reason I chose to go to Switzerland. Just imagining myself walking in the middle of the Alps made me so excited and full of anticipation. When I finally found myself in the mountains, alone, in the heavy silence of this gigantic nature, I told myself that the thousands of kilometers I’d covered had been worth it 1,000 times over.

If you’re a keen hiker, Central Switzerland, and Grindelwald in particular, is a must on your list of hikes around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re sure to find a trail to suit your level.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

Interlaken is an ideal destination for a Swiss getaway. In fact, some say it’s the best place in Switzerland.

Hiking in the Jungfrau

By Lise of the blog Making The Road

My last experience in Switzerland left me with incredible memories. I discovered the Jungfrau region of the Swiss Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You go there to see glaciers, waterfalls, lakes and animals, ski in winter and hike in summer.

I’ve done several hikes of varying degrees of difficulty, all with magical views around the Jungfrau. A must-do is a visit to the Top of Europe, a place called Jungfraujoch, world-famous for glacier viewing, and a climb to the Schilthorn (James Bond’s summit).

I stayed and hiked in Wengen to visit the Jungfrau. I spent a week there in June, in this car-free mountain village. And I well remember the Eiger Trail hike, which takes you up to the northern base of the mythical Eiger, 3900 meters high. Starting out from Wengen, you can take a traditional little train, with sumptuous views of the glaciers. Then you reach the start of the hike, which is 6 km downhill. You can either walk back up or take the train. At the bottom of the hike is the Alpigen restaurant, which offers a nice comfort break with their delicious homemade apple fritters.

I was also lucky enough togo to the Jungfrau. The most beautiful place I’ve ever seen! An enchanted getaway in Switzerland.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

Bernese Oberland

By Pierre & Alexandra of the blog On holidays again

The Bernese Oberland is certainly one of Switzerland’s most beautiful regions! Spectacular hikes, mountains, lakes and steep valleys lined with waterfalls abound in this little paradise nestled in the heart of the Bernese Alps. This vast region offers a wide range of activities for all seasons.

It was in the Lauterbrunnen Valley that we set down our suitcases. A deep valley with 72 waterfalls (some of them among the highest in Europe) and a landscape so magical that it inspired Tolkien to write his Shire. Admiring this panorama might be enough, but the magic of the Bernese Oberland doesn’t stop there. What sets it apart from the rest of Switzerland are the mythical peaks that surround it like majestic jewels in a crown: the Eiger, the Mönch and the Jungfrau.

We did 3 hikes: the waterfall hike to Lauterbrunnen, the Grauseeli to the Schilthorn and finally the panoramic tour to Schynige Platte. Our big favorite: the Schynige Platte. The summit of this mountain, nicknamed “Top of Swiss tradition”, can be reached effortlessly aboard an old-fashioned cogwheel train. Once at the top, we get out of the train and hear 2 alphorns… in such a setting, it gives you goose bumps! And that’s not all: a breathtakingly beautiful walk awaits us: nature, mountains and a bird’s-eye view of Lakes Thun and Brienz. An intense, rejuvenating and truly extraordinary stay in the Bernese Oberland Find out more on our blog!

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

Is theBernese Oberland the most beautiful place in Switzerland? Yes, it is!

Trek along the ridge path between Brienz and Interlaken facing the Jungfrau

By Moran of the travel blog Rencontre le Monde.

During my three years living in Switzerland, I discovered a passion: trekking. Whether in a tent or in a refuge, it’s always a pleasure in Switzerland! Today I’d like to introduce you to a small, difficult (T5), magnificent trek that can be completed in a day if you’re in a hurry. The trek along the ridge path between Brienz and Interlaken, facing the Jungfrau.

The best way to start is to (park in Interlaken and) take the train to Brienz. Then it’s a train ride up to the Brienzer Rothorn. A magnificent climb before starting the tek. Then it’s off along the ridge path. Up, down, up, up… you get the idea that this is a ridge trail! If the season is right, you can have one side green and the other covered in snow. There’s a breathtaking view of the magnificent Lake Brienz, and then also of Lake Thun. And to your left, you can still see the Jungfrau region. Breathtaking!

To sleep, after having already done 75% of the trek, pitch your tent at Suggiture. It’s a bivouac, so remember to respect nature, and ask about the rules if you’re not used to them.

If, like us, you want to finish on a high note, join us at the end of the trek, the Harder Kulm, in the morning. Here, you can enjoy a Sunday morning brunch with an incredible view. Tested and approved!

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

In the canton of Lucerne

Mount Pilatus, a favorite on the Grand Tour of Switzerland

By Céline of the Globetrekkeuse blog

I criss-crossed Switzerland in a van for almost 2 months, with my then 3-year-old son, and I have to say it was hard to pick just one favorite among all the sumptuous sites we discovered, from Lake Geneva to the Grisons massif, from Lake Maggiore on the Italian border to Lake Constance shared with Austria and Germany…

Mount Pilatus is located in central Switzerland, near the pretty town of Lucerne. At a height of 2130 m, it overlooks Lake Lucerne (another one!), a 114 ^km2 glacial lake on whose shores Switzerland was born.

8 favorites in Switzerland most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland

This is a full-day excursion, starting at the lakeside in Kriens, which can be reached by bus from Lucerne. A gondola lifts us to “Pilu-land” (1026m), a playground for young children, then a second section takes us to Fräkmüntegg (1416m), home to Switzerland’s longest summer toboggan run (1350m). A must with children. To reach the summit, we take a panoramic cable car that offers magnificent views of the lake and valley, then walk 30 minutes to Tomlishorn (2130m), the true summit of Mount Pilatus.

The descent to Alpanachstad is just as fascinating, as it takes us up the world’s steepest cog railway (48% gradient), inaugurated in 1889 and still perfectly operational today, even if electricity has replaced steam!

The cog railway operates from mid-May to mid-November (gondolas in winter), and the complete Kriens – Pilate – Alpanachstad route costs around €70 (free for children under 6).

I also went to Mont Pilate during a weekend in Switzerland. I can only confirm that this place is heavenly and ideal for a family outing. Read more about my weekend in Lucerne.

In the canton of Neuchâtel

The old town of Neuchâtel

By Audrey of the blog Arpenter le chemin

If you think that Switzerland is all about boring cities and expensive mountains, think again: in between, there are some wonderful, accessible little towns and villages that will sweep you off your feet with their human-scale ambience. My latest Swiss favorite is Neuchâtel: a tiny town with a lively historic center, a beautiful view of the Bernese Alps and a relaxing lake.

We start by picking up a map from the tourist office: it details a discovery itinerary on foot, taking in the must-see spots: the Collegiate Church and its sublime view, the Maison des Halles straight out of a fairy tale, the medieval alleyways…

I also loved the street art, both the typically Swiss decorated fountains and the more contemporary art: a successful mix. Another attraction in town: the Suchard chocolate factory. If you love sugar, make sure you stop off for an unforgettable treat at this historic chocolate factory.

For a day out, the old town makes a perfect getaway from Lausanne, Berne or Geneva. And if it’s a hot summer day, don’t forget your swimsuit for the refreshing lake.

pVisitingNeuchâtel is a great way to spend a weekend in Switzerland. My article on Neuchâtel here!

The most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland

Le Saut du Doubs

By Astrid, from the blog Histoires de tongs

I’ve been living on the border between France and Switzerland for about 6 months now, and I’m taking advantage of my time here to visit the surrounding area. If there’s one place I’m particularly fond of, it’s the Saut du Doubs: a superb waterfall straddling the border between the two countries (the river of the same name actually marks the boundary). Although this famous waterfall is often dry in summer, it becomes spectacular with the first autumn rains.

To visit Saut du Doubs, it’s very easy: just park in a dedicated parking lot (which is free of charge) and walk for about 30 minutes along the small road below. You can also take a boat to the site from Villers-le-Lac. Some adventurers even go down by kayak, but I wouldn’t try it myself! Whichever you choose, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it, and won’t regret the detour.

A word of advice: go early in the morning, you’ll be all alone in the world, and it’s much more pleasant to visit the site in these conditions, as it can sometimes be very busy.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

An unusual place to discover in Switzerland!

Spend the night in a trapper’s cabin

By Nathalie of the blog voyageurs sans frontières

It’s an experience we had during our winter roadtrip in Switzerland 3 years ago. Being fond of unusual activities, we were immediately seduced by the idea of spending the night in a real trapper’s hut, lost in the middle of nowhere. So we headed for Le Creux-des-biches, in the canton of Neuchâtel, for what promised to be an unforgettable experience.

It’s already dark, the road is snow-covered, and we’re not at all comfortable when our little rental car makes a few more or less controlled skids! We finally arrive at our destination and are warmly welcomed by our host, who invites us to eat by the fire. It’s the perfect opportunity to chat, get to know each other and enjoy some delicious local delicacies. Then it’s time to visit our tent, and we’re in for a real treat. In this spacious but spartan tent, we have all the comforts we need to spend a lovely night together. The wood-burning stove has already been crackling for several minutes, generously warming our tent, which looks so charming by candlelight (yes, there’s no water or electricity!).

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

The pretty table is set: tonight it’s fondue followed by delicious spelt-flour crêpes – our host is spoiling us! Needless to say, it was one of the best and most romantic evenings of our stay. Imagine enjoying a delicious Swiss fondue with your loved one in a cabin set in the middle of a snow-covered park in complete silence – it was a dream! Despite a few suspicious noises, which we attribute to the local wildlife, the night was as gentle as it was restorative, although punctuated by the regular tending of the fire. And if the magic wasn’t already at its peak, we were lucky enough to spot some deer the next morning, just a few meters from our tent! Le Creux-des-biches certainly lives up to its name, and we left this place more amazed than ever!

Practical info: Jura Bivouac, Le Creux-des-Biches 6, 2340 Le Noirmont, +41 (0) 7 64 67 80 05. Romantic tent: 80 CHF (67€) summer, 150 to 170CHF (125 to 142€) winter.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

Ideal for a weekend in the mountains of Switzerland!

In the canton of Fribourg

Gruyères, medieval town

By Argone, from the blog atasteofmylife

If you’re heading to the county of Fribourg, I’d encourage you to drive just 30 kilometers or so to reach the superb village of Gruyères, at an altitude of around 800 meters. This pedestrianized medieval town overlooks the Sarine valley and offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. As you stroll along its ancient cobblestones, you’re sure to stop off at a chocolate or dairy shop for some gourmet shopping. And don’t forget to visit the castle, which has dominated the area since the 13th century and can be seen from afar. For CHF 12, you can see the knights’ hall, the towers and, of course, the ramparts, not forgetting a multimedia show… and if you come between Easter and October, the garden will no doubt be in full bloom.

If you loved Alien, then you’ll want to check out the museum of artist H.R. Giger, the Swiss visual artist who imagined the well-known terrifying creature; he’s now deceased but leaves this fine collection of “biomechanical” art behind.

Another must-see in Pringy is the Maison du Gruyère, a cheese dairy and museum where you’ll learn everything you need to know about how this Swiss specialty is made. It’s a must for children, too, as it’s great fun and you’ll get to see how it’s made first-hand! But I still prefer to visit the Cailler chocolate factory, I confess ….

And pssst! a good deal: combined tickets are available, including a visit to the castle and one of Gruyères’ other museums, so you can save money. Good to know: the town is closed to traffic, so you’ll need to park in one of the outdoor parking lots.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

If you don’t know which town to visit in Switzerland, I really recommend you come to Gruyères, one of the best places in Switzerland. Here you can discover Swiss gastronomy with fondue and meringues with double cream. You can read all about it in my article on the beautiful town of Gruyères. I fell in love with it!

In the canton of Vaud

Les Coteaux du Lavaux

By Mathilde, from the blog voyager en photos

On the north shore of Lake Geneva, between Lausanne and Vevey, lie the vineyards of the Côteaux du Lavaux, a region of outstanding beauty designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of these terraced vineyards, whose origins date back to the 12th century, offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. It was Cistercian monks who, through hard work, built kilometers of walls to support these vineyards, which are still maintained by today’s winegrowers. The main grape varieties are Pinot Noir and Chasselat, while the vineyards produce three AOC wines: Lavaux, Dézaley and Calamin.

For me, the Lavaux region is at its most beautiful in autumn, when the vineyards take on a sublime golden hue. It’s an ideal place for hiking, and you can make a loop or walk from station to station using Switzerland’s dense rail network.

most beautiful places

to visit in Switzerland

Read my article on the magnificent hike I took in the Lavaux terraces.

The hike from Dent de Jaman to Rochers de Naye

By Sarah, from the blog vents et voyages

The hike to the Dent de Jaman and Rochers de Naye is one of my latest favorites in Switzerland. Starting from the parking lot in the village of Haut de Caux, this day-long loop (1100 m ascent, approx. 6 hrs walk) traverses the enchanting landscapes of the Vaud pre-Alps, and at the finish offers incredible panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks.

It is possible to climb only the Rochers de Naye, but the additional ascent of the Dent de Jaman allows you to enjoy the scenery from a different angle, and often on much less popular paths.
It should be noted, however, that the direct route from the Dent de Jaman to the Rochers de Naye takes a fairly vertiginous path, secured by stairs and a handrail, but which can be tricky for children and people sensitive to vertigo. In my opinion, however, this path over the Col de Baunodon is one of the prettiest sections of the loop, with magnificent views of the Gruyère region on one side and the most beautiful view of Lake Geneva on the other.

Finally, if hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take the cogwheel train up to the Rochers de Naye from Montreux. An original experience that will delight young and old alike!

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

And if you’re in the canton of Vaud, why not visit Lausanne?

Lake Geneva

By Seb, from the blog les globe bloggers

For a first visit to Switzerland, I think Lake Geneva has all the ingredients for a superb experience, whether you’re a culture or nature traveler.

Along the Vaud Riviera, sublime cities such as Lausanne and Montreux are set against a breathtaking natural backdrop of turquoise waters and whitewashed mountain peaks. City trip enthusiasts can discover vibrant, beautiful cities with fascinating museums (such as the astonishing Musée de l’Alimentation or the Musée Jenisch), an ancient historical heritage (Château de Chillon, for example) and a more recent one (Freddy Mercury’s studio).

Nature aficionados won’t have to go far from the cities to find beautiful natural nuggets, in addition to Lake Geneva itself. The mountains are omnipresent, of course, as are the superb panoramic views from the Pleiades in Vevey, but there are also local curiosities such as the Lavau terraces, vineyards overlooking the lake and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To make matters worse, we spent this week on the shores of Lake Geneva without a car. The public transport network is so well-developed and efficient that a personal vehicle becomes superfluous. Even seasoned hikers can reach the most remote corners by bus, and leave from a different starting point. A dream come true!

Read the full story of this visit to Switzerland’s Lac Léman on our blog, along with all the practical information.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

To round things off, if you’re looking for ideas of towns to visit around Lake Geneva, I’ve written an article with 7 towns to visit around Lake Geneva, on the French and Swiss sides. A great idea for a summer vacation in Switzerland.

In the canton of VALAIS

Sunrise in Verbier, a magical moment filled with emotion

By Christel from the blog Jet-lag-trips

To discover a corner of Switzerland worth visiting, you’ll have to get up early. Very early, in fact. Before the sun. A challenge for night owls, but I guarantee you won’t have any regrets, because when the sun rises over Verbier, you’ll be waiting for it at the summit of Mont Fort, over 3300 metres above sea level, and take my word for it, even if temperatures are more often than not below 0°, it’ll give you one hell of a workout! The scenery is truly magnificent, a marvel of nature that you’ll witness first-hand. Between the blazing colors of the sky and the first rays of the warming sun, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the most beautiful peaks in the Alps (Matterhorn, Dent Blanche, Grand Combin, Mont-Blanc).

One of the many activities to be enjoyed every Thursday from July 9 to August 13, as well as on Saturdays July 18, July 25, August 1 and 15, which you can read about on this travel blog. Of course, after all this excitement, you’ll be treated to a Swiss breakfast at the Gentian Igloo.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

A magnificent spot in Switzerland!

The village of Champéry

By Benoît from the blog des Yeux plus Grands que le Monde

I discovered the pretty Swiss village of Champéry in 2017 when I went hiking around the Dents Blanches. Champéry is the starting point for a number of highly-rated hiking trails in the Valais region, much to my delight! A few days spent in the village and I fell in love with it!

Champéry, a village at the very bottom of the Val d’Illiez, nestles between the Dents du Midi and the Dents Blanches at an altitude of 1050m. Surrounded by these magnificent mountains, forests and torrents, and still adorned by sumptuous wooden chalets, Champéry is also a ski resort in the Portes du Soleil domain, considered one of the largest in the world.

If you can feel the mountain air here, with its leisurely pace, it’s just not possible to get bored in this little town. The sheer number of activities available in Champéry and within a 1-hour radius is just insane! Are you looking for outdoor activities? Hiking, mountain biking, downhill mountain biking and scootering, via ferrata, swimming, accrobranche and, of course, skiing!

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

This small village of just 1,500 souls also boasts all the facilities you could wish for: ice rink, indoor and outdoor pool, escape game, numerous restaurants, cable car and events all year round!

And my favorite part was undoubtedly the connection with the locals, who give their all to bring their village to life and make it unforgettable! In Champéry, volunteers work hard all year round for the Maxirire, Bike & Sound, Rock the Piste and music festivals, and they often host crazy international events: the Youth Olympic Games, the Downhill Mountain Bike World Cup…

… Champéry? At least once a year, until I can put my bags down!

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Overnight stay at Hospice du Grand-Saint Bernard in winter

By Romain of the blog Les Pieds sur Terre

We’re heading for the Grand-Saint-Bernard pass in Switzerland’s Valais region, on the border with Italy’s Val d’Aosta. For centuries, it has been a crossroads for merchants, pilgrims, soldiers, brigands and smugglers… Located at an altitude of 2,500 m, it was here in the 11th century that Saint-Bernard de Menthon founded a hospice to help travelers in distress. It was also here, in the 17th century, that the canons of the hospice came up with the idea of using their robust dogs to come to the aid of those shipwrecked in the mountains – the famous Saint-Bernard dogs.

Nowadays, it’s mainly pilgrims heading for Rome on the Via Francigena, hikers on foot, skis or snowshoes, and tourists in cars that pass through the pass as the seasons and snow fall. It’s precisely in winter that spending a night here takes on a unique dimension, out of time, with the canons, cut off from the world. To get there when the snow is there, generally from November to April, you’ll have to go up on snowshoes or cross-country skis to be welcomed by the canons. But it’s well worth the effort, and you won’t be disappointed. Read more about the pass, the hospice and ski touring in this article.

If you’re not too keen on winter activities, summer roaming or just parking your car at the pass, you can also spend one or more nights here. I also had the opportunity to sleep there as a pilgrim in summer, during my crossing of the Valle d’Aosta on the Via Francigena. More info here

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit

The legendary Haute Route of the Alps from Chamonix to Zermatt

By Michael from the blog un tour dans le sac

Chamonix-Zermatt: the high Alpine road by trail

Are you looking for a physical challenge to match your muscular legs? La haute route des Alpes is sure to satisfy your desire for vertical drops, distances to cover, high-altitude passes to cross and valleys to criss-cross. Between 10 and 15 days’ walking, 225 kilometers in length, trails ranging in altitude from 2000m to 3000m… This trek is considered one of the most demanding in Europe. But it’s more than just numbers. Above all, it’s an exceptionally beautiful trail through the Swiss Alps.

Chamonix Zermatt: a breathtaking mountain landscape

The trail begins in Chamonix, France. But from the second stage of the route to the end, you’ll be in Switzerland, in the canton of Valais. And during the hike, there’s no shortage of points of interest: Grand Combin, Mont Blanc de Cheilon, Pigne d’Arolla, Dent Blanche, Weisshorn… It’s almost as if all the mythical peaks in the area have come together on this trail. You’ll also have the chance to observe magnificent glaciers like Trent. And if all that wasn’t enough, you’ll be able to admire magnificent lakes like Lac du Grand Désert and Lac de Moiry.

Ah, I forgot Switzerland’s most mythical peak… On the final stage, you’ll be greeted by the Matterhorn. A photogenic mountain with a pyramid shape recognizable among all the peaks of the Alps.

Small villages with character

If there are peaks, there are valleys. And if there are valleys, there are villages! And that’s just as well: the small Swiss villages are the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat, a good night’s sleep and a chance to recharge your batteries on the high Alpine road. Champex, Zinal, Grüben… all these villages have their own typical character and attract like magnets. On arrival, Zermatt is a must-see in Switzerland. The town is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful mountain resorts. An authentic place where the car has no access. And just as well: you arrive on foot!

Here’s a great suggestion for a vacation in the Swiss Alps! By the way, check out my article on my Zermatt getaway.

us beautiful places to visit in Switzerland

In the canton of Basel

Basel or Basel

By Jennifer from Moi, mes souliers blog

At first glance, there’s nothing so exciting about crossing the Swiss border into France or Germany to reach Basel, but when you take the time to get lost, to step out of the commercial arteries and tame it, Basel is one of Switzerland’s true jewels, and a cultural capital in its own right.

On these same banks evoked in Victor Hugo’s letters entitled Le Rhin, Basel is divided, linked by bridges or cute little water cabs that guide us from one side of the river to the other. Its sloping alleys, university buildings, small boutiques and restaurants, as traditional as they are modern, are worth a slow visit.

Pass through the Spalentor, a vestige of the destroyed city walls of yesteryear, then admire Basel’s red sandstone cathedral and city hall with a hipster coffee in hand from the Markthalle.

Art lovers won’t want to miss the Kunstmuseum or the annual Art Basel festival, with its worldwide impact. At the end of winter, the agglomeration is bursting with energy thanks to its famous Basler Fastnacht carnival, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Easy to explore on foot, with affordable addresses despite the Swiss franc, Basel is a little-known gem for travelers. Put it on your Swiss bucket list!

In conclusion about the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland

Many thanks to the 18 travel bloggers who generously contributed to this article. I hope it sparks your curiosity to explore or revisit Switzerland. If you’re hungry for more surprises about this Alpine gem, don’t miss our in-depth article on 101 surprising things to know about Switzerland.

Which Swiss nugget catches your eye? What’s your favorite Swiss landscape? For me, the Rhine Falls are my favorite destination. Find out why in the article. I also really enjoyed my weekend in Lucerne.

Switzerland is a tourist destination par excellence. Indeed, there are so many places to discover, each more beautiful than the last. What’s more, it’s very easy to travel to Switzerland. If you have any questions on this subject, I invite you to find out how to get to Switzerland.

Switzerland’s most beautiful places to visit