From treasure hunts within an abbey to engaging art tours in the cultural quarter, these are the best travel experiences.
Dubbed the «playground of Europe,» this petite, mountainous nation provides a range of Alpine activities, from skiing and sledding on pristine slopes to venturing along vast networks of biking and hiking trails. However, Switzerland offers much more than just stunning landscapes. Here are 10 exceptional ways to enjoy all it has to offer.
See water turn into wine in Zürich
For unique celebrations, Zürich’s Münsterhof Fountain serves wine from a special device connected to the fountain’s well. Normally, it’s one of over 1,200 public water fountains in the city, most of which provide drinkable water around the clock. Explore many of these fountains, some of which date back to the 15th century, on the «Water in Zürich» city tour.
Wander through a beautifully preserved medieval town.
Situated roughly 40 miles from the famous Rhine Falls, the old town of Stein am Rhein received its inaugural Wakker prize for its outstanding preservation of historic buildings and architectural heritage. Marvel at the Rathaus (town hall) and the half-timbered houses decorated with vibrantly painted facades and oriel windows. At the Museum Lindwurm, gain insight into Swiss life and work during the 19th century.
Admire the decorative signs in Appenzell.
Known as Tafeens, these beautifully crafted, traditional store signs are a common sight throughout the town. The most intricate ones are found hanging from the entrances of hotels, shops, and restaurants along Hauptgasse and Marktgasse streets.
Take a hike through one of Europe’s lushest valleys.
The Simmental House Trail winds its way through charming Swiss villages, passing by wooden chalets and grazing cattle. Along the way, discover the history of the 15th-century houses built by affluent farmers who bred and exported the famous Simmental cattle, known for their high milk and beef production and calm disposition.
Hop aboard an iconic Swiss train and witness the wonders of Swiss engineering.
The Brienz Rothorn Railway, a historic steam rack railway, has been running daily since 1892, traversing Alpine meadows and the striking blue waters of Lake Brienz. The journey begins in the wood carving village of Brienz and concludes at Rothorn Kulm, reaching an elevation of 7,362 feet. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of 693 mountain peaks on clear days. Another exceptional journey is on the train to Rochers-de-Naye, which provides breathtaking vistas of Lake Geneva and the Swiss and French Alps.
Encounter Charlie Chaplin’s legacy in Lausanne.
The Photo Elysée museum showcases the historical photographic archives of Charlie Chaplin, the English comic actor, filmmaker, and composer famous for his work in the silent film era. Plateforme 10, a new cultural complex in Lausanne, houses this esteemed photography museum alongside the Vaud Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA) and the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (MUDAC), which is the sole institution focused on design in western Switzerland. On Saturdays, visitors can enjoy free admission to MCBA, explore its collection of over 10,000 artworks, and engage in cultural activities, guided tours, and interactive workshops.
Take a tuk-tuk tour in Geneva
In a hurry? Consider taking a tuk-tuk tour in Geneva for a swift yet comprehensive exploration of the city. This electric tuk-tuk service is a recent addition to Switzerland’s diverse range of sustainable transportation options. Let a local guide show you around as you visit nearby wineries, savor rich fondue, and admire Geneva’s iconic architecture.
Plan a spiritual journey to Einsiedeln.
Discover the rich history of the 10th-century Einsiedeln Abbey, one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites, and gain insight into the lives of contemporary monks on the Monkstrail scavenger hunt. Search for clues within the Chapel of Grace, home to the Black Madonna, and the stables of the «Cavalli della Madonna,» where monks have bred horses since the Middle Ages. Listen to the choir’s heavenly voices as they perform the Salve Regina prayer in the chapel daily at 4:30 p.m. or opt for a guided tour of the monastery’s library.
Explore the Swiss-Italian region
Discover the Swiss-Italian region of Ticino for a unique touch of Mediterranean culture. Walk along Lugano’s Via Nassa, where you’ll find antiquarian bookshops, fashionable boutiques, and luxurious jewelry stores. Stock up on fresh, seasonal produce at the market on Via Pessina.
Families will enjoy Swissminiatur, an open-air miniature museum in Melide. The one-hour tour takes visitors around 1:25 scale models of Switzerland’s most iconic buildings and landmarks. In nearby Morcote, explore the arcades of historic patrician homes, lakeside gardens, and protected heritage sites like the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso and the Tower of Capitano.
Eat your way through central Switzerland
Savor the culinary delights of central Switzerland on the Marbach food trail in Entlebuch, nestled within the country’s first UNESCO biosphere reserve. Here, you can taste regional specialties crafted from fresh, local ingredients, including delicious cheeses and meats. Hop on a gondola ride and meet alpine dairy farmers along the way, all while taking in breathtaking panoramic views between bites.