15 Stunning Swiss Cities You Must Visit

We have traveled to Switzerland four times and have visited all of the best cities in Switzerland. Some on multiple occasions.

Switzerland is known for its breathtaking landscapes in the Swiss Alps, its world-class ski resorts, and impeccable spas; however, it is also home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world. In this article, we will explore the 15 best cities in Switzerland that any traveler should visit.

15 Most Beautiful Cities in Switzerland To Visit

From its medieval cities of Lucerne and Gruyeres to the boutique shops of Zürich, Switzerland’s cities are something to remember. We made our first visit to Switzerland in 1999 when we went snowboarding in the small town of Gstaad. Our love for Swiss cities only deepened over our three additional visits and a cumulative three months spent in the country. Here are our favorite cities in Switzerland, complete with top attractions and compelling reasons to visit.

1. Zürich, the Cultural Hub

Zürich is the largest city in the country and arguably the most beautiful. Nestled on the shores of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, Zürich enchants with the steeples of its old town churches lining the pristine waterfront.

As the financial capital of Switzerland, Zürich boasts upscale attractions, including one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world; nevertheless, it is the vibrant old town center that captivates visitors. Key attractions include the iconic cathedrals, Lindt Home Chocolate, and the trendy Zürich West neighborhood.

Take a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of its charming old town and marvel at the stunning sunset over the spires of the city’s cathedrals. We recommend spending at least three days in Zürich to enjoy its many fascinating museums, including the Swiss National Museum, while getting lost in the narrow streets of Altstadt.

• Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich, hike into the mountains, and savor fine Swiss cuisine.

2. Basel, the Cultural Haven

Basel is a cultural haven, boasting an impressive array of museums, art galleries, and the beautiful Rhine River. Sharing borders with France and Germany, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the countryside and is known as the cultural capital of Switzerland.

Basel’s unique and beautiful architecture seamlessly combines modern structures with the historic Altstadt (Old Town) that spans across the Rhine. The Basel Minster, the largest cathedral in the city, overlooks the idyllic banks of the river.

3. Lugano, the Mediterranean Escape

Located near the Italian border, Lugano offers a stunning lakeside setting infused with Mediterranean flair. Known as the “Little Rio of Switzerland,” it is the star attraction of Ticino Canton, with mountains framing its long beach and waterfront path along the pristine Lake Lugano.

Engage in a boat tour on Lake Lugano or rent a paddle boat to indulge in breathtaking waterfront views. Lugano rivals nearby Lake Como in beauty and luxury, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sunshine.

4. Locarno, the Festival City

With a rich history, vibrant film festival, and stunning views of Lake Maggiore, Locarno stands out as a cultural hotspot. Visitors can get lost in its charming cobblestone streets or sip espresso at Switzerland’s largest square, Piazza Grande.

Famous for hosting numerous festivals, including the highly anticipated Locarno Film Festival, it also offers a funicular ride up to the 14th-century church, Santa Maria della Misericordia.

5. Belinzona, Ticino’s Capital

Belinzona, the capital of Ticino, may be smaller but is a popular stop in the country due to its three majestic castles—The Bellinzona Castles. Castle Grande, prominently located near the main square, stands proud over the town.

If time allows, consider hiking all the castles connected by scenic trails that weave through vineyards and rolling hills. The return hike is only a couple of hours, and for more adventure, visit Piotta to access the Piora via the Ritom Funicular, a steep incline railway built in 1921.

6. St Moritz, The Birthplace of Winter Tourism

St. Moritz, a premier winter tourist destination, has been welcoming visitors to its slopes since the 1800s. Widely recognized for its world-class resorts, it offers both summer and winter activities, such as hiking and skiing.

The ski trails here span more than 250 km, while the hiking trails total around 580 km, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Winter sports lovers flock to St. Moritz to revel in its winter wonderland, but don’t miss out on its breathtaking summer vistas.

7. Interlaken, the Adventure Capital

Interlaken is a haven for adventure seekers, featuring a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding. As one of the larger cities in the Jungfrau region, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the Bernese Oberland.

Take a cogwheel train ride up to the Harder Kulm, situated 1322 meters above sea level, for unparalleled views of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Here, you can relish in local traditions, like enjoying a delightful cheese fondue.

8. Zermatt, the Mountainous Retreat

Zermatt serves as the gateway to the iconic Matterhorn mountain, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration. This small yet popular town is car-free, nestled at the base of the Matterhorn, and offers numerous attractions, from the highest cable car to extensive hiking trails.

9. Montreux, the Musical City

Renowned for its famous music festival, Montreux is among our favorite places to visit in Switzerland. Overlooking Lake Geneva, the lavish Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic provides a glamorous base for diving into the vibrant musical culture of the area.

Stroll along the waterfront or visit the enchanting Château de Chillon, a 12th-century castle that offers a touch of fairytale charm along the shores of the lake.

10. Geneva, the Cosmopolitan City

Geneva stands as Switzerland’s second-largest city, located on the picturesque Lake Geneva. Known as a global center for diplomacy, with the United Nations headquarters here, it also features a wealth of cultural attractions including the Grand Theatre and the Opera House.

Don’t miss the Red Cross headquarters, the insightful International Museum of the Reformation, and the stunning Jet d’Eau fountain.

11. Lucerne, the Picturesque City

Lucerne captivates visitors with its stunning Chapel Bridge, the emotive Lion Monument, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. This charming city, located on Lake Lucerne, features many medieval buildings lining its lush waterfront.

The Chapel Bridge, dating back to the 14th century, is the oldest covered bridge in Europe, making Lucerne a top destination for travelers.

12. Bern, the Historic Capital City

As the capital city of Switzerland, Bern is rich in history and culture. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town sparks fascination with its iconic Zytglogge clock tower, a celebrated landmark in the city.

Bern’s medieval architecture and cobbled streets create an unforgettable atmosphere, while the Aare River offers stunning views of the town’s picturesque surroundings.

13. Lausanne, the Vibrant City

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is celebrated for its stunning scenery and vibrant cultural scene. The impressive Lausanne Cathedral illustrates the city’s architectural beauty, while the Olympic Museum pays tribute to the history of the Olympic Games.

Known for its youthful atmosphere, thanks to its prestigious university, Lausanne is also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore vineyards and indulge in water sports.

14. Chur, the Ancient City

Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland, offering a unique blend of ancient charm and modern allure, situated in the scenic Graubünden canton surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes. The well-preserved Old Town features winding cobblestone streets and medieval buildings.

Visitors can enjoy Chur’s vibrant cultural scene through numerous art galleries and festivals, while the renowned Bernina Express train provides breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, making Chur an unmissable gem.

15. St. Gallen, the Abbey City

St. Gallen, located near Lake Constance, is a hidden treasure boasting the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its baroque architecture and extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.

The charming old town, lined with beautifully preserved houses and colorful oriel windows, adds to St. Gallen’s allure for art lovers and those seeking to explore the surrounding Appenzell countryside.

FAQs About The Best Cities in Switzerland

Which City of Switzerland is Beautiful?

The most beautiful city in Switzerland is Zürich, which harmoniously blends natural beauty with urban sophistication.

What are five major cities in Switzerland?

Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, and Lausanne represent the five major cities of Switzerland.

What is the number one city in Switzerland?

The number one city in Switzerland is Zurich, offering diverse attractions and a unique blend of natural and urban beauty.

Is Zürich or Geneva better to visit?

While both cities have their unique charms, many may prefer Zurich for its larger array of cultural and recreational activities.

Why We Love All These Switzerland Cities

Switzerland is a year-round destination that beckons visitors to enjoy its crystal clear waters and mountain vistas in warmer months, as well as snow sports and luxury accommodations in winter. Its urban centers are conveniently close to the great outdoors, often surrounded by stunning mountains and views. Plan your next visit to any of these stunning Swiss towns for an unforgettable experience.