Top 10 Scenic Places To Visit In Switzerland

Switzerland is a dream come true for photographers, offering landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale. From alpine valleys and lakes to historic cities with medieval charm, the country is filled with Instagram-worthy spots waiting to be captured. Whether you’re a budding photographer or a seasoned pro, Switzerland’s natural beauty, fascinating cultural landmarks, and endless scenic viewpoints are a visual feast. Every corner of this picturesque destination offers unique frames that celebrate nature’s elegance and human craftsmanship. Here are Switzerland's top ten must-capture locations to make your trip an unforgettable, photograph-filled adventure.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen Valley

The Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland is a sight straight out of a fairytale. Nestled in the Bernese Alps, this valley is renowned for its cliffs, picturesque alpine meadows, and, most famously, its 72 waterfalls cascading down rocky mountainsides. Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, is gorgeous. Here, lush greenery and air provide the perfect contrast against snow-capped peaks, creating a frame that captures the essence of Switzerland’s untouched beauty.

Places to Visit

The Lauterbrunnen Valley itself is a collection of picturesque villages and natural wonders. Begin by exploring the main village of Lauterbrunnen, nestled at the foot of towering cliffs and the iconic Staubbach Falls. Ascend via cogwheel railway to the car-free village of Wengen, offering stunning views and access to hiking trails. Take a cable car up to Mürren, another car-free village perched on a cliff, providing panoramic vistas of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Descend to Stechelberg, at the valley's end, the gateway to the Schilthorn cableway and a peaceful area for walks. Don't miss Gimmelwald, a charming, traditional farming village accessible by cable car from Stechelberg or Mürren. Each village offers a unique perspective of the valley's dramatic beauty and access to various hiking trails and viewpoints.

Nearby Places to Visit

The Lauterbrunnen Valley, with its dramatic cliffs and numerous waterfalls, is nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering easy access to other stunning destinations in the Jungfrau Region. Nearby you can explore the charming car-free village of Wengen, perched high above the valley, accessible by cogwheel railway. Visit the bustling adventure hub of Interlaken, situated between two lakes and offering activities like paragliding and canyoning. Take a scenic train journey to the "Top of Europe" at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. Discover the picturesque village of Grindelwald, at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Explore the stunning Oeschinensee, a pristine alpine lake near Kandersteg.

How to Reach

The most common way to reach the Lauterbrunnen Valley is by flying into Zurich Airport (ZRH). From Zurich Airport, there are excellent train connections to Interlaken Ost (approximately three hours). In Interlaken Ost, you will need to change to a regional train that takes you directly to Lauterbrunnen (approximately 20 minutes). The train journey itself is incredibly scenic.

Best Time to Visit Lauterbrunnen Valley

The ideal time to visit is generally during the late spring to early autumn (May to September).

Zurich

Zurich blends old and new, with medieval architecture standing side-by-side with modern buildings and cityscapes. The old town, or Altstadt, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings, offers historical charm with every step. For photographers, the Limmat River’s reflections of city lights at night are unmissable, and iconic landmarks like the Grossmünster Church add a timeless appeal to every frame. For a more contemporary take, the trendy Zurich-West district offers a mix of urban art and modern designs, making it ideal for street photography.

Places to Visit

Explore the picturesque Old Town (Altstadt) with its winding cobblestone streets, medieval guild houses, and iconic Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches. Stroll along the elegant Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping avenues. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Zurich, take a boat trip, or relax on its shores. Visit the Lindenhof, a historic hilltop offering panoramic views of the city and the Limmat River. Immerse yourself in art at the Kunsthaus Zürich, home to an impressive collection. Discover the unique exhibits at the National Museum Zurich, showcasing Swiss history and culture. Explore the trendy Langstrasse district with its vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurants.

Nearby Places to Visit

Zurich's central location in Switzerland makes it an excellent base for exploring other captivating destinations. Take a short train ride to the charming medieval town of Rapperswil on Lake Zurich. Visit the powerful Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, the largest waterfall in Europe. Explore the picturesque city of Lucerne with its iconic Chapel Bridge and stunning lake and mountain scenery. Discover the historic town of Baden with its thermal springs and Roman ruins. For those seeking alpine beauty, the stunning Swiss Alps are within easy reach by train for day trips.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Zurich is generally during the late spring to early autumn (May to September). The weather is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city on foot and enjoying outdoor activities by the lake.

How to Reach

The most convenient way to reach Zurich from Delhi is by taking a direct flight or a flight with a single layover to Zurich Airport (ZRH). Several major airlines operate flights between Delhi and Zurich. The flight duration for a direct flight is approximately nine hours. Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, the city centre is easily accessible by train in about 10-15 minutes.

Lake Lucerne

Surrounded by mountains, Lake Lucerne is often considered one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes. This beautiful lake reflects the colours of the sky and changes with the shifting sunlight throughout the day, offering fresh perspectives and photographic opportunities each hour. A classic boat ride on Lake Lucerne provides an ideal vantage point to capture the full range of scenic beauty with the Swiss Alps towering majestically in the background.

Places to Visit around Lake Lucerne

Explore the charming city of Lucerne itself, with its iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower. Take a scenic boat trip on the lake, visiting picturesque towns like Weggis and Vitznau. Ascend Mount Rigi, known as the "Queen of the Mountains," for panoramic views. Ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, the "Dragon Mountain." Experience the breathtaking views from Bürgenstock, a luxurious resort with walking trails and the Hammetschwand Lift. Discover the historical and cultural sites around the lake, easily accessible by boat or train.

Nearby Places to Visit

Lake Lucerne's central location in Switzerland provides opportunities for day trips to other notable areas. The vibrant city of Zurich is just an hour away by train. Explore the charming town of Interlaken, the adventure capital, nestled between two other stunning lakes. Journey to the Bernese Oberland region and visit the impressive Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Discover the historic city of Bern, Switzerland's capital, with its well-preserved medieval architecture. The possibilities for exploration within a few hours of Lake Lucerne are abundant.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is pleasant for boat trips, hiking, and exploring the surrounding mountains. Late spring sees blooming landscapes and fewer crowds, while summer offers warm, sunny days perfect for enjoying the lake. Early autumn provides stunning fall colours and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

How to Reach

The most common way to reach Lake Lucerne from India is by flying into Zurich Airport (ZRH). From Zurich Airport, there are frequent and efficient train connections to Lucerne (the main gateway to Lake Lucerne), with a journey time of approximately one hour.

Alternatively, you can take a train from other major Swiss cities like Bern or Interlaken. Once in Lucerne, the lake and its surrounding areas are easily accessible by train, bus, and the extensive network of scenic boats operating on Lake Lucerne itself.

Enroute The Grand Tour Of Switzerland

The Grand Tour of Switzerland offers a visual feast that takes you through the country’s diverse landscapes, from lakes to snow-dusted peaks and charming Swiss villages. The route covers 1,600 km and passes many of Switzerland’s iconic sights, including mirror-like lakes, forests, and majestic glaciers. You’ll find charming places like Gruyères, known for its medieval architecture, and Andermatt, with its classic alpine village charm. This tour is a dream for travel photographers, with every bend in the road revealing a new, awe-inspiring landscape.

Places to Visit on the Grand Tour

Key destinations along the route include the vibrant city of Zurich and its lake, the charming medieval town of Lucerne and its stunning lake region, the dramatic Interlaken nestled between two lakes and the gateway to the Jungfrau Region, the majestic Swiss Alps with iconic peaks like the Matterhorn (best viewed from Zermatt, a detour), the Italian-speaking Ticino region with its Mediterranean flair, the vineyard-covered slopes of the Lavaux region (UNESCO World Heritage), the cosmopolitan city of Geneva and its lake, and numerous picturesque villages, historic castles, and stunning viewpoints throughout the journey.

Nearby Places to Visit (Along the Route)

From Interlaken, a side trip to the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe is highly recommended. While in the Valais region, a visit to the car-free village of Zermatt for iconic Matterhorn views is a popular extension. From the Ticino region, a short trip across the border to Lake Como in Italy is possible. The beauty of the Grand Tour is its interconnectedness, making numerous smaller towns and natural wonders easily accessible along the way.

Best Time to Undertake the Grand Tour

The ideal time is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is pleasant for driving or taking public transport, and the scenic landscapes are at their most vibrant. Mountain passes are typically open, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Harder Kulm

If you’re looking for a panoramic view, Harder Kulm offers an incredible perspective over Interlaken and its two surrounding lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. The Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, perched at the top, is a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with sweeping views of the Bernese Oberland. The platform here gives photographers an elevated vantage point of the entire region, capturing the Alps in their full grandeur with Interlaken nestled peacefully below.

Places to Visit

The iconic Two Lakes Bridge, a viewing platform with a glass-bottomed section, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Interlaken nestled between the turquoise waters of Lake Thun and the deep blue of Lake Brienz, with the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains as a stunning backdrop. The charming Panorama Restaurant, resembling a fairytale castle, offers delicious Swiss cuisine with unparalleled views from its terrace. For families, there's a Panorama Playground. You can also enjoy the Alpine Wildlife Park located near the funicular station, home to ibex and marmots. In the summer months, experience traditional Swiss folklore shows at the restaurant.

Nearby Places to Visit

From the summit, you can gaze upon the Jungfrau Region, beckoning exploration. The town of Interlaken itself, situated below, offers various activities and access to boat trips on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Nearby, you can explore charming villages like Wengen and Grindelwald, or venture further to the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley with its numerous waterfalls.

Best Time to Visit

The operating season is generally from mid-April to the end of November. During this period, the weather is pleasant for enjoying the views and outdoor activities. Visiting in late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the best conditions with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. Evenings are particularly special for witnessing breathtaking sunsets over the lakes and mountains.

How to Reach Harder Kulm

Reaching Harder Kulm from Interlaken is straightforward and enjoyable. The most popular and fastest way is via the Harderbahn funicular, a historic railway that takes you from the valley station (a short walk from Interlaken Ost railway station) to the summit in just 10 minutes, offering scenic views during the ascent.

Alternatively, for the more adventurous, there are well-marked hiking trails leading up to Harder Kulm, taking approximately three hours depending on your fitness level. Cars cannot directly access Harder Kulm; parking is available near the Interlaken Ost station.

Engelberg

Engelberg is a small mountain town that feels worlds away from bustling city life. Engelberg is an ideal spot for nature photographers, surrounded by towering peaks and lush alpine meadows. The hiking trails here offer beautiful viewpoints and lead to tranquil lakes and cosy alpine huts that look beautifully framed against snow-capped mountains. Engelberg's sense of calm and raw natural beauty makes it an inspiring place to capture on camera.

Places to Visit

The prominent Engelberg Abbey, a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, is a historical and cultural highlight. Ascend Mount Titlis via a series of gondolas, including the revolving Rotair cable car, to experience year-round snow, the Titlis Cliff Walk suspension bridge, and the Glacier Cave. Explore the scenic Trübsee, a beautiful mountain lake offering boating and hiking opportunities in summer and a snow park in winter. For adventure enthusiasts, the Fixed Rope Park provides thrilling climbing experiences. The Alpenrösli Adventure Playground and the summer toboggan run at Brunni are perfect for families.

Nearby Places to Visit

The picturesque city of Lucerne on Lake Lucerne is just a short train ride away, offering its iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower. The Stanserhorn, with its unique rotating cable car, provides another fantastic panoramic view. Day trips to the Jungfrau Region (Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen) are also feasible, though they involve a longer journey.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the alpine scenery. Winter (December to April) transforms Engelberg into a popular ski resort with reliable snow conditions on Mount Titlis.

How to Reach Engelberg

The most convenient way to reach Engelberg from India is by flying into Zurich Airport (ZRH). From Zurich Airport, there are frequent and efficient train connections to Engelberg, usually requiring a change in Lucerne, with a total journey time of around two hours.

Alternatively, you can also fly into Geneva Airport (GVA) or Basel Airport (BSL), although the subsequent train journeys to Engelberg will be longer.

Bern Clock Tower (Zytglogge)

The Bern Clock Tower, or Zytglogge, is a striking landmark in the heart of Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. This historical clock tower dates back to the 13th century and is a beloved symbol of Bern’s medieval charm. The Zytglogge offers a sense of stepping back in time with its intricate astronomical clock and medieval architecture. Capturing the tower during the clock’s hourly show, when it animates with a display of medieval figures, adds an extra element of magic to your photos.

Things To Do at the Zytglogge

Witness the captivating figure show that animates every hour, featuring a jester, bears, a rooster, and Chronos (the god of time). Take a guided tour inside the tower to learn about its history, its intricate clockwork mechanism dating back to the 15th century, and enjoy the panoramic views of Bern's Old Town from the upper levels. Marvel at the astronomical clock face and understand its historical significance in timekeeping. The tower itself is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a must-see landmark in Bern.

Nearby Places to Visit

The Zytglogge is centrally located in the heart of Bern's UNESCO-listed Old Town, making it within easy walking distance of numerous other attractions. Explore the charming arcaded walkways (Lauben) filled with shops, cafes, and fountains. Visit the impressive Bern Minster, a Gothic cathedral with stunning views from its tower. Discover the quirky Zytglogge Fountain and other beautiful fountains throughout the Old Town. Learn about Swiss history at the Bern Historical Museum. See the famous bear enclosure at the Bärengraben (Bear Park). Stroll along the banks of the Aare River, which surrounds the Old Town.

Best Time to Visit

The Zytglogge can be enjoyed year-round. However, the late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the best weather for exploring Bern's Old Town and enjoying the views from the Zytglogge.

How to Reach

Reaching the Zytglogge is very easy as it is situated in the centre of Bern's Old Town, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

• By Air: The most common way to reach Bern from India is by flying into Zurich Airport (ZRH) or Geneva Airport (GVA). From either airport, there are excellent and frequent train connections to Bern Hauptbahnhof (main train station), with a journey time of around one hour.

• By Train: Bern is well-connected by train to other major Swiss cities. From Bern Hauptbahnhof, the Zytglogge is a short walk or a quick tram ride.

• Within Bern: Once in Bern's Old Town, the Zytglogge is easily accessible on foot as it's a prominent landmark. Public transport within Bern is efficient if needed.

Matterhorn

No trip to Switzerland is complete without a visit to the Matterhorn. The iconic, pyramid-shaped peak is one of the most photographed mountains in the world, and for good reason. You can take in the mountain from Zermatt, where the clear air and high altitude provide stunning views that make every shot unforgettable. The mountain glows with a golden hue at sunrise and sunset, perfect for creating dramatic, high-contrast photos. For a closer experience, try the Gornergrat Railway, which takes you to panoramic viewpoints that reveal the mountain's grandeur.

Places to Visit Around the Matterhorn

The majestic Matterhorn, straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, is best experienced from the charming, car-free village of Zermatt on the Swiss side. From Zermatt, numerous viewpoints offer stunning perspectives, including the Gornergrat Bahn, a cogwheel railway offering panoramic vistas, and the serene Riffelsee lake, famous for its reflections of the Matterhorn. Ascend to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn) for close-up views and year-round snow activities. Hike to viewpoints like Stellisee and Höhbalmen for iconic photo opportunities. On the Italian side, Breuil-Cervinia provides a different perspective and access to hiking trails.

Nearby Places to Visit

While the Matterhorn region is a destination in itself, nearby areas offer further exploration. Zermatt is nestled in the Valais Alps, with easy access to other picturesque valleys and hiking trails. A scenic train journey can take you to other charming Swiss towns like Visp and Brig. Slightly further afield, the Aletsch Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking natural wonder.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit for hiking and general sightseeing is generally from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are typically open.

How to Reach

The Matterhorn itself is a mountain and not directly reachable by car. The primary access point on the Swiss side is Zermatt, a car-free village.

• By Air: The closest major airports are Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA). From either airport, take a scenic train journey to Visp and then change to a smaller cogwheel train to Zermatt (total travel time from Zurich is approximately four hours; from Geneva, it's around half hour more.

• By Train: Switzerland's efficient railway system provides excellent connections to Zermatt from all major cities. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the Alps.

• By Car (to Täsch): Private vehicles are not allowed in Zermatt. If driving, you must park in the nearby village of Täsch and take a shuttle train to Zermatt (a short 12-minute ride)

Glacier 3000

Located near Gstaad, Glacier 3000 is a unique alpine experience, offering year-round snowy landscapes. The highlight here is the “Peak Walk by Tissot,” the only suspension bridge in the world that connects two mountain peaks, offering views of iconic mountains like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. In winter, Glacier 3000 transforms into a wonderland, perfect for capturing winter sports and landscapes blanketed in snow. The glacier’s rugged beauty and crystal-clear blue skies provide photographers with a truly unique and otherworldly landscape to capture.

Places to Visit

Glacier 3000, perched high in the Vaudois Alps, offers a unique array of experiences. Brave the Peak Walk by Tissot, the world's first suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. Enjoy year-round snow activities, including skiing and snowboarding on the glacier (typically until early May). Ride the thrilling Alpine Coaster, Europe's highest toboggan run (open in summer). Take a Glacier Walk for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, and Matterhorn. Experience a dog sled ride or a snow bus tour on the glacier (upon request). For panoramic dining, visit the Restaurant Botta at 3,000 m, designed by renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta.

Nearby Places to Visit

Glacier 3000 is easily accessible from several charming Swiss destinations. The sophisticated resort town of Gstaad is a short bus ride away. Explore the picturesque village of Les Diablerets, located at the foot of the glacier. The towns along Lake Geneva, such as Montreux and Vevey, are also within easy reach by train and bus, offering a contrast of lakeside scenery and culture.

Best Time to Visit

The ski season typically ends in late April or early May. The summer season, with the Alpine Coaster and hiking, generally begins in late May or June.

How to Reach

• By Air: Fly into Geneva Airport (GVA), which is the closest major international airport. From the airport, take a train to either Gstaad or Les Diablerets (approximately three hours).

• By Train/Bus: From Gstaad or Les Diablerets, take a PostBus to the Col du Pillon, the valley station for the Glacier 3000 cable car. The cable car then whisks you up to the summit station in about 15 minutes.

View From The Titlis Rotair

The Titlis Rotair is the world’s first rotating cable car, providing a 360-degree view of the snow-capped Alps. The constantly shifting views create a dynamic photography experience as you ascend to the top. You’ll find sweeping views of snow-dusted mountains, glaciers, and serene valleys at the peak. From the suspension bridge, you can capture the vastness of the landscape, adding depth and scale to your shots. The experience of gliding over pristine snow with panoramic alpine views is both thrilling and visually captivating.

Places to Visit via Titlis Rotair

This world's first revolving cable car offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view during its five-minute ascent from the Stand station to the summit (Klein Titlis) at 3,020 meters above sea level. As you rotate, you'll witness breathtaking vistas of deep crevasses, pristine snowfields, and rugged rock faces. Upon reaching the summit station, you'll have access to further attractions like the Titlis Cliff Walk (Europe's highest suspension bridge), the fascinating Glacier Cave, and the thrilling Ice Flyer glacier chairlift. The Panorama Restaurant at the summit also offers incredible views.

Nearby Places to Visit (En Route to Titlis)

The journey to Titlis involves several stages from Engelberg. You'll first take the TITLIS Xpress gondola which stops at Trübsee, a beautiful mountain lake offering activities like boating and hiking in summer and a snow park in winter. The onward journey takes you to the Stand station, the interchange for the Titlis Rotair. Engelberg itself, at the base, is a charming alpine village with the historic Engelberg Abbey as a key attraction.

Best Time to Experience Titlis Rotair

The cable car runs year-round, except during a maintenance period (typically in November). The views are stunning in all seasons.

How to Reach Titlis Rotair

To experience the Titlis Rotair, you first need to travel to Engelberg.

• By Air: Fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH). From the airport, take a direct train to Engelberg (approximately two hours).

• By Train: Engelberg is well-connected by train from Lucerne (around 50 minutes).

• From Engelberg: Once in Engelberg, follow signs to the Titlis valley station, a short walk or free local bus ride from the Engelberg railway station. Purchase a ticket that includes the TITLIS Xpress and the Titlis Rotair. The journey involves taking the TITLIS Xpress gondola to Stand station, where you'll then board the Titlis Rotair for the final ascent to the summit.

This story was first published on October 26, 2024; and it has since been updated.