Things to See and Do in Switzerland: A Guide to Nature, Hidden Gems & Unforgettable Experiences

When you think of Switzerland, you likely picture snowy peaks, wooden chalets, and chocolate so rich it melts in your hands. But beyond the postcards lies a country full of surprises—where serene lakes meet thundering waterfalls, where hiking trails pass through flower-carpeted valleys, and where traditions blend beautifully with modern adventure. If you’re planning your trip and wondering about the best things to do in Switzerland, this guide will take you beyond the surface into seasonal experiences, hidden gems, and natural wonders that define Swiss travel.

Nature & Outdoor Activities in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of those rare places where nature feels both wild and curated. You don’t need to be a mountaineer to enjoy its breathtaking landscapes—many of the top things to see in Switzerland are easily accessible and perfect for slow exploration.

Hiking & Scenic Spots

For hikers and lovers of the outdoors, Switzerland is a dream. The Swiss Alps provide endless possibilities—from gentle walks with panoramic views to more rugged alpine hikes.

• The Eiger Trail near Grindelwald is ideal for dramatic mountain views beneath the legendary Eiger North Face.
• The Five Lakes Walk in Zermatt offers reflective lakes with views of the Matterhorn at every turn.
• Lauterbrunnen Valley is often referred to as a real-life fairytale with 72 waterfalls, cliffside chalets, and alpine meadows.

Another natural marvel is the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. Whether you admire it from a high vantage point or walk along its edge, it’s a humbling, unforgettable experience.

Winter Sports & Activities

When winter arrives, the mountains transform into world-class playgrounds. Whether you ski like a pro or are simply in it for the snow-capped views, you’ll find plenty of winter thrills.

• Verbier, St. Moritz, and Davos offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe, with powdery slopes and upscale resorts.
• For something quieter, Grindelwald is perfect for snowshoeing, sledding, or simply enjoying the cozy alpine atmosphere.

If you’re seeking the best things to do in Switzerland in winter, a day on the slopes followed by fondue by the fire is hard to beat.

Lakes & Boat Tours

The lakes of Switzerland are serene, sparkling, and stunningly scenic. Many are framed by mountains and dotted with charming towns, making them perfect for cruising, swimming (in summer), or just relaxing on the shore.

• Lake Geneva offers vineyard views and the option to explore from Lausanne to Montreux by boat.
• Lake Lucerne is surrounded by dramatic peaks and offers vintage paddle-steamer rides.
• Lake Blausee, though smaller, is crystal clear and deeply tranquil—one of Switzerland’s most photogenic spots.

For something truly powerful, head to Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. You can take a boat ride that brings you right to the roaring base of the falls—an exhilarating way to experience Switzerland’s wild side.

Unique Experiences & Hidden Gems in Switzerland

Beyond the mountains and lakes, Switzerland offers a number of unique and local experiences that make your visit unforgettable. From scenic rail journeys to cheese-filled villages, this is where Switzerland’s charm really shines.

Train Journeys Through the Alps

Some of the top things to see in Switzerland are best enjoyed through a train window.

• The Glacier Express takes you on an eight-hour panoramic journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing alpine villages, icy peaks, and deep valleys.
• The Bernina Express, a UNESCO-listed railway, connects Switzerland to northern Italy with unforgettable views over bridges, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

These trains aren’t just transportation—they’re part of the experience, and a must for scenic travel lovers.

Traditional Swiss Villages

While cities are lovely, Switzerland’s soul lives in its villages.

• Appenzell is known for its colorful facades, traditional cheese-making, and deep-rooted customs. It’s an excellent stop for those interested in folk culture and artisanal food.
• Mürren, a car-free village perched above Lauterbrunnen Valley, offers stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down.

These villages feel like time capsules—authentic, peaceful, and impossibly picturesque.

Cultural Experiences Worth Seeking Out

If you’re looking to dive deeper, Switzerland has some cultural offerings that might surprise you.

• Visit a Swiss chocolate factory like Maison Cailler or Lindt Home of Chocolate and take a guided tasting (yes, you’ll leave with a full heart and a full belly).
• Discover Swiss watchmaking in Geneva or La Chaux-de-Fonds, where you can learn how these intricate timepieces became world-famous.
• In winter, explore Switzerland’s magical Christmas markets—Zurich, Basel, and Montreux offer some of the most festive in Europe, complete with mulled wine, handmade gifts, and twinkling lights.

Seasonal Highlights in Switzerland

Each season in Switzerland brings its own unique beauty and experiences. Knowing when to visit can enhance your trip in ways you hadn’t imagined.

Spring & Summer (April to August)

Spring is lush, colorful, and perfect for hikes, wildflowers, and lake cruises. Summer adds alpine festivals, outdoor concerts, and warm evenings by the lake. It’s the ideal season for hikers, cyclists, and anyone who wants to enjoy Switzerland’s outdoors at its liveliest.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is quieter but deeply beautiful. Think golden forests in the Alps, fall foliage hikes, and the wine harvest in Lavaux, where vineyard terraces overlook Lake Geneva. It’s a cozy, romantic time to visit, and a favorite among photographers.

Winter (December to March)

Switzerland in winter is postcard-perfect. Snow blankets the mountains, ski resorts buzz with energy, and towns come alive with Christmas markets, sledding, and hot chocolate by the fire. It’s the season of alpine magic.

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Switzerland

To make your trip smoother and more affordable, here are a few practical tips:

• Best Time to Visit:
  May to September for hiking and lakes, December to March for snow and winter sports.
• Swiss Travel Pass:
  Consider this all-in-one ticket if you plan on using public transport. It includes trains, boats, buses, and even discounts to museums and attractions.
• Budget Tips:
  Switzerland isn’t cheap, but you can save by shopping at supermarkets (Coop, Migros), staying in guesthouses or mountain huts, and using city passes for public transit and discounted entries.
• Language & Culture:
  Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Locals appreciate politeness and punctuality, and most speak at least some English.

Staying Connected in Switzerland with Voye Global

Whether you’re navigating train routes through the Alps, checking weather conditions before a mountain hike, or sharing panoramic views from a lakeside village, having reliable internet access is essential in Switzerland. With Voye Global’s eSIM for Switzerland travel, staying connected is effortless and worry-free. There’s no need to hunt for local SIM cards or rely on spotty Wi-Fi—just scan, activate, and enjoy seamless 4G/5G coverage across cities, mountain resorts, and rural towns. Voye Global offers flexible data plans tailored for travelers, making it easy to explore Switzerland with maps, travel apps, and translation tools always at your fingertips.

Why Switzerland Is a Dream Destination?

There’s a quiet elegance to Switzerland. It doesn’t need to shout to impress—it simply lets nature, tradition, and quality speak for themselves. Whether you’re exploring a glacier trail, riding a scenic train through flower-filled meadows, or sipping wine by a mirror-like lake, Switzerland invites you to slow down and savor.

It’s not just a trip; it’s a timeless experience. And if you’re searching for the best things to do in Switzerland, you’ll find that the magic lies not just in the views—but in the peaceful, unforgettable way they make you feel.