Quick answer: In Switzerland, don’t miss the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe”, the Matterhorn at Zermatt, Lake Lucerne, and a scenic rail journey like the Glacier Express.
Switzerland is a greatest-hits reel of the Alps — snow-capped peaks, mirror lakes and the world’s most scenic trains. Here’s what to prioritise.
Top things to do in Switzerland
| Attraction | Why go |
|---|---|
| Jungfraujoch | Europe’s highest railway station, with glaciers and ice palace. |
| Matterhorn / Zermatt | The iconic pyramid peak above a car-free alpine village. |
| Lucerne | Lake town with the medieval Chapel Bridge and Mt Pilatus. |
| Interlaken | Adventure hub between two lakes — paragliding, canyoning. |
| Glacier Express | Eight-hour panoramic train from Zermatt to St Moritz. |
| Lauterbrunnen | Valley of 72 waterfalls beneath sheer cliffs. |
| Rhine Falls | Europe’s most powerful waterfall, near Schaffhausen. |
| Lake Geneva & Chillon | Lakeside castle and the vineyards of Lavaux. |
| Bern | UNESCO old town and the Swiss capital’s arcaded streets. |
How to plan your Switzerland trip
Buy a Swiss Travel Pass — the train, boat and many cable-car network is the best way to get around, and it’s gorgeous in itself. Base in Interlaken or Lucerne for the Bernese Oberland, Zermatt for the Matterhorn.
Best time to visit
June–September is best for hiking and lakes; December–March for skiing. See the best time to visit index.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Switzerland?
Seven to ten days covers the Bernese Oberland (Jungfrau), Zermatt and Lucerne with a scenic-train leg.
What is Switzerland best known for?
The Alps, scenic trains, pristine lakes, chocolate and watches — plus outstanding hiking and skiing.
Is Switzerland expensive to visit?
Yes, among the priciest in Europe — see our Is Switzerland expensive? breakdown for ways to save.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.