Discover the Best Places to Visit in Switzerland in Summer 2025

Switzerland is one of the most famous countries in Europe, visited by millions of tourists every year. Many people dream of discovering the gems of the Swiss Alps, walking through breathtaking landscapes, and enjoying the benefits of a clean and well-organized country.

For me, Switzerland is one of my favorite destinations in Europe, and I believe it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves nature, hiking, or skiing.

The Swiss Alps, which cover a large part of the country, attract attention and touch both the eyes and the soul. The charming mountain villages, the beautiful turquoise and green lakes, the dramatic waterfalls, the big lakes surrounded by picturesque towns, and the rocky peaks all create unforgettable views. Also, very few places offer the same level of safety, order, and cleanliness as Switzerland.

Still, many tourists ask the same questions: What are the best places to visit in Switzerland? What should I put on my bucket list? What are the most beautiful spots in the country?

In this article, I’ll show you the most beautiful places in Switzerland that you shouldn’t miss, especially in summer.

The most stunning Swiss locations are easier to reach and explore in the warmer months, so this article focuses on the top summer destinations. I’ve put together a list of the best places in Switzerland to visit in summer, all popular with tourists, and for good reason.

First, let’s look at an overview of the top places to see in Switzerland during summer. Then you’ll find more detailed descriptions of each location. Finally, I’ll answer some of the most common questions that come up when planning a trip to Switzerland.

List of the best places to visit in Switzerland in summer

Let’s see the 20 best places to visit in Switzerland. The order is random, and you’ll find both famous spots and hidden gems on the list.

1. Oeschinensee

At the top of the list is my personal favorite, the Oeschinensee in Kandersteg.

Oeschinensee is an alpine lake with breathtaking beauty in the middle of Switzerland, about an hour from Bern. The bright blue lake is surrounded by high, usually snow-capped mountain peaks.

The lake can be reached from the village of Kandersteg, mostly by cable car. After the cable car ride, there is a short hike down to the lake. If you want to take photos of the lake from above, a steep hiking trail will take you to the best photo spots higher up on the mountainside.

The lake can also be reached on foot, but the road is very steep. Bicycles are not allowed in the area at all, and the terrain is difficult for walking, so we recommend taking the cable car and then walking from there.

2. Blausee

Blausee, or the Blue Lake, is a stunning hidden gem near the road to Kandersteg.

This small, clear lake is famous for its greenish-blue color and is surrounded by lush forests and walking trails.

If you have time, make a quick stop at Blausee on your way to or from Oeschinensee and enjoy the beauty of this lake. It’s just a short walk from the parking area, and it can be visited with a small entrance fee.

3. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is also not far from Bern. It is a small village in the Swiss Alps, best known for its beautiful views. The village is surrounded by huge mountains, giant waterfalls, green alpine meadows, and pretty Swiss wooden chalets.

In winter, the area is a popular ski paradise, but the best photos can be taken in summer, when everything is full of color.

Lauterbrunnen is a perfect place for people who love nature and outdoor adventures. Hiking, climbing, and base jumping are common activities here.

Close to Lauterbrunnen is another famous village, Grindelwald, which also offers many great things to do.

4. Rosenlaui Valley

The Rosenlaui Valley is a true hidden gem in Switzerland, known mostly from social media for its stunning photo opportunities.

It belongs to the village of Schattenhalb, not far from Meiringen and the Aare Gorge. You can reach it by car or bus via a scenic mountain road.

The main highlights of the area include breathtaking views of the Wellhorn mountain across the Rychenbach river (coordinates: 46.688388, 8.161670). You can also visit the Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, the Rosenlaui waterfall, and I found an amazing photo spot by chance: a small bridge right next to the road (coordinates: 46.694143, 8.168717).

If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth spending a few hours here. This valley is truly one of Switzerland’s hidden treasures.

5. Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a charming village in the Bernese Alps, known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities. It lies in a beautiful valley surrounded by high peaks like the Eiger.

Grindelwald is a popular base for hiking, skiing, and climbing. One of the most famous hikes from Grindelwald leads to Bachsee, a beautiful mountain lake with crystal-clear water and great views of the surrounding peaks.

You can also enjoy scenic train rides, mountain cable cars, and adventure sports such as paragliding.

The village itself is picturesque, with traditional Swiss chalets, cozy restaurants, and shops. Grindelwald is a perfect place to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps year-round.

6. Aare Gorge

The Aare Gorge is a natural wonder near Meiringen in central Switzerland. It was formed by the Aare River over thousands of years and is one of the most impressive gorges in the country.

The gorge has tall limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water, and narrow paths, making it an unforgettable place to visit. A safe wooden walkway runs through the gorge, allowing visitors to walk beside the river and admire the amazing rock shapes and deep canyon walls.

There are two entrances to the gorge: one near Meiringen and the other near Innertkirchen. You can start your walk from either side and return the same way, or go one way and take the train back.

It’s a great activity for families, nature lovers, or anyone who enjoys peaceful walks in spectacular scenery.

7. Belvédère am Rhonegletscher

Belvédère am Rhonegletscher is another hidden gem in Switzerland, a scenic viewpoint high in the mountains along the Furka Pass.

The spot became popular on social media thanks to its now-closed but stylish old hotel located right by the road.

You can reach it via the Furka Pass road, but keep in mind that this road is only open in summer. Getting here isn’t easy, it requires a long drive or bus ride through winding mountain roads.

At the viewpoint, you can see the famous hotel building, the valley of the Rhone River, a nearby glacier, and even visit an ice cave carved into the glacier itself.

Because this place is quite remote and far from other major attractions, visiting it takes some planning. But if you have enough time in Switzerland, I definitely recommend making the trip.

8. Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Zermatt and the nearby Matterhorn are among Switzerland’s most popular destinations.

The Matterhorn is the most famous mountain peak in Switzerland and also the most photographed. It is famous not only for its unique shape but also for the Swiss Toblerone chocolate.

Zermatt is a car-free town, so you cannot drive into Zermatt. Instead, you have to leave your car in the village of Täsch, which is in front of Zermatt, and then you can only get to Zermatt by train or taxi. This makes travel plans a bit more complicated, but it’s definitely worth it for the views.

From Zermatt, the best hiking trail with great views is the 5 Lakes Walk, which you can access by mountain lifts, funicular, or train. Also, when visiting Zermatt, it’s worth taking the Gornergrat railway and visiting the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

This area is also home to Switzerland’s highest mountain peak, the Dufourspitze.

9. Lucerne

Lucerne is a charming city with about 80,000 people, located on the shores of Lake Lucerne. It is easy to reach from Zurich and has several interesting sights.

Some key attractions are the Kapellbrücke and Spreuerbrücke bridges. Both cross the Reuss River and date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Close by is the Jesuit Church, built in the 17th century.

If you have time, you can visit the Lion Monument, a sculpture that honors Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution. You can also explore the Musegg Wall, a well-preserved medieval city wall that offers great views.

For nature lovers, a trip to Mount Pilatus or Fronalpstock is a must. Both mountains offer stunning views of the area.

10. Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a spectacular mountain near Lucerne, offering breathtaking views of the city, the lake, and the surrounding mountains from a well-developed viewing platform. You can reach the summit with the Pilatus Cogwheel Train, the steepest cogwheel railway in the world, with a travel time of about 30 minutes one way.

At the top, you’ll find restaurants and walking trails to explore. The panoramic views are truly unforgettable, stretching across the Swiss Alps and the beautiful Lake Lucerne. In winter, the area also offers some snow activities.

Don’t miss this exciting experience if you have the chance — it’s one of the best ways to see the natural beauty around Lucerne.

11. Fronalpstock

Fronalpstock is a famous mountain peak and scenic viewpoint located in the Swiss Alps, near the car-free village of Stoos.

Stoos can be reached in just a few minutes from Schwyz via the Stoosbahn, a modern funicular railway that climbs steeply up the mountainside.

From the village, two chairlifts take you all the way up to Fronalpstock, where you’ll find one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Switzerland. There’s also a mountain hut at the top, it’s a perfect spot to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Many visitors choose to start their trip by taking the lift to Klingenstock, a nearby peak, and then hike the scenic ridge trail from Klingenstock to Fronalpstock. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but it offers some of the most photogenic views in the region and is ideal for creating photos or videos along the way.

The landscape here is truly idyllic, especially in summer, with colorful alpine flowers, grazing cows, deep blue lake views, and dramatic mountain backdrops.

If you’re visiting Switzerland, don’t miss this beautiful day trip. It’s a perfect mix of light hiking, stunning panoramas, fresh air, and peaceful alpine atmosphere.

12. Zurich

Zurich is the biggest city in Switzerland, located on the shores of Lake Zurich. It combines modern life with a rich cultural heritage. In the Old Town, you can wander through cobblestone streets and visit historical sites. A walk along the Limmat River and Bahnhofstrasse, known for its luxury shops, is a must-do experience.

Lake Zurich is perfect for peaceful walks and boat rides. You’ll also find lovely parks like the Arboretum Zurich along the lakeshore. For culture and history lovers, Zurich offers many museums, such as Kunsthaus Zurich and the Swiss National Museum.

In the evening, Zurich comes alive with vibrant restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to relax, try local or international cuisine, and enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

13. Appenzell Alps

The Appenzell Alps, located in eastern Switzerland, are a popular destination for tourists. This region is known for its stunning lakes and high mountains near the town of Appenzell, offering plenty of natural beauty.

The area is ideal for hiking, with both challenging trails and breathtaking views. Two well-known spots are Seealpsee and Fälensee, which are mostly accessible by walking on steep paths. Seealpsee also has a paved road, making it easier to reach.

Säntis is the most famous peak in the area, offering spectacular panoramic views. You can reach Säntis by cable car followed by a short walk.

Another highlight is Äscher, a famous guesthouse built into the side of a cliff, where visitors can enjoy a unique dining experience with beautiful mountain views.

For anyone who loves fresh mountain air and stunning landscapes, the Appenzell Alps are an excellent choice.

14. Lake Brienz

Lake Brienz is located in the heart of Switzerland and is surrounded by tall mountains and green forests. Near the pretty village of Brienz, this alpine lake has clear turquoise water, making it exceptionally beautiful.

You can take relaxing boat rides to enjoy the amazing views around the lake. There are also small lakeside villages to explore. The Lake Brienz area is great for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

A special attraction here is the Brienz Rothorn Railway, an old steam train that takes people up to the top of Mount Rothorn. From the top, you can see wonderful views of the lake and the Swiss Alps.

For a cultural experience, you can visit the Ballenberg open-air museum, where you will find over 100 old traditional houses and farms from different parts of Switzerland.

Whether you want adventure or a quiet break, Lake Brienz is a perfect place to enjoy Switzerland’s natural beauty.

15. Giessbach Falls

Giessbach Falls is a stunning 14-tier waterfall located at the shores of Lake Brienz, and it’s considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in Switzerland.

Its beauty lies not only in its size, but also in the unique experience it offers: a hiking trail leads behind the waterfall itself, giving you a magical close-up view from behind the cascading water.

You can reach the falls by car, parking at Naturpark Giessbach, or arrive by boat across Lake Brienz. From the lakeshore, you can take the Giessbachbahn funicular, a charming historic railway, up to the famous hilltop Grandhotel Giessbach.

The area around the waterfall is perfect for a short walk through the forest while enjoying the peaceful sights.

It’s a great activity if you’re looking for a shorter excursion near Lake Brienz.

16. Lake Thun

Lake Thun is also a beautiful alpine lake, located right next to Lake Brienz. Like its neighbor, it’s a large lake surrounded by charming towns, mountains, and stunning scenery.

The lake is perfect for boat trips, and you can stop at picturesque lakeside towns like Spiez, Thun, and Interlaken. In these towns, you can explore local castles, stroll through historic old towns, and relax in cozy cafés with lake views.

Highlights around the lake are Thun Castle and the St. Beatus Caves, a fascinating network of caves and waterfalls located above the lake’s northern shore.

One of my personal favorite spots is the Aussichtspunkt Beatenberg, a hidden gem viewpoint on the northern side of the lake. You can easily reach it from the Seestrasse road, just follow a small set of stairs next to the road. (One of the photos below was taken from this exact spot!)

If you’re in the area, make sure to stop by Lake Thun for a short visit. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful views and some truly memorable sights.

17. Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a great place to enjoy both history and culture.

The city’s old town is very well-preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has beautiful cobblestone streets, old Gothic buildings, and famous places like the Zytglogge clock tower.

You can visit the Bear Park, where real Bernese bears live — they are a symbol of the city. A walk along the Aare River also gives you beautiful views of Bern.

The city also has great museums, such as the Bern Historical Museum and the Einstein House, which help you learn more about Bern’s history and culture.

18. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, near the French border. Half of the lake belongs to Switzerland, and the other half to France. Two major Swiss cities lie on its shores: Geneva and Lausanne.

Geneva, the third-largest city in Switzerland and the European headquarters of the United Nations, has several famous sights near the lake. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Jardin Anglais, home to the famous Flower Clock, and see the Geneva Water Fountain, which shoots water 140 meters high. You can also visit Saint Peter’s Cathedral, which offers great views from its tower.

Lausanne, although smaller and less known, has its own charm. Its compact Old Town features the impressive Lausanne Cathedral, with wonderful views of the city. Walking around the old streets, you’ll find landmarks like the Palais de Rumine, and from the Sauvabelin Tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the area.

19. Old Villages of Ticino

Discover the Italian charm of Switzerland’s Ticino region, known for its beautiful small Italian-style villages. Places like Sonogno and Foroglio are perfect for a day trip if you want to see some of Switzerland’s hidden gems.

Walk through the pretty stone houses in the mountains, enjoy the magical waterfalls, and taste delicious Italian food.

Ticino is special because it mixes Swiss and Italian cultures, giving you a unique and rich experience on your trip.

Don’t forget to visit Lugano, the main city in Ticino. It has a warm Mediterranean feel and amazing lake views.

20. Rhine Falls

Rhine Falls, the biggest waterfall in Europe, is located near Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland.

This amazing natural wonder is 150 meters wide and drops about 23 meters, creating a powerful and impressive view.

Visitors can get very close to the falls by walking on panoramic platforms or by taking boat trips that go near the crashing water. In summer, some boat tours even go to a rock in the middle of the falls where you can climb and enjoy the view up close.

The area around the falls is full of green trees and peaceful walking paths, making it a great place for hiking, picnicking, or taking photos.

There are also restaurants and cafés nearby, as well as a castle, Schloss Laufen, which gives you another great viewpoint. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just want to enjoy nature, Rhine Falls is a must-see during your visit to Switzerland.

So, these were the top 20 destinations in Switzerland that I think are worth adding to your travel itinerary. I hope this list gave you enough inspiration to help plan your next trip to Switzerland.

General questions for a summer trip to Switzerland

Finally, let’s look at some common questions you might have about your trip to Switzerland:

Is it worth going to Switzerland in the summer?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, Switzerland is one of my favorite summer destinations. I return almost every year to discover new places, hike in the majestic Swiss Alps, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

There’s something truly special about the atmosphere here — the friendly locals, the clean and safe environment, and of course, the delicious food all make Switzerland a joy to visit in the summer.

What is the most beautiful part of Switzerland in summer?

In my opinion, the Bernese Oberland is the most beautiful region in Switzerland. It’s home to incredible sights like Oeschinensee, Lauterbrunnen, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, the Aare Gorge, and the Rosenlaui Valley.

Of course, there are many other amazing places around the country, but this area is especially packed with breathtaking destinations.

What is the prettiest city in Switzerland to visit?

I think Lucerne is the most beautiful city in Switzerland. A walk through its charming old town, with its historic buildings and riverside views, is an absolute must.

Another great option is Interlaken, located between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, a scenic town that’s also perfect as a base for exploring the surrounding attractions.

How to get around the top Swiss destinations

As in most places, it is recommended to travel by car in Switzerland. Parking is available almost everywhere.

However, in some areas, especially mountain villages, cars are not allowed, but alternative transportation options are available. In these cases, you can take a train or a cable car to get there.

Switzerland also has one of the best train networks in the world. So taking the train is definitely a good idea and can make your trip even more relaxing and scenic.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Switzerland has two main high seasons: the winter ski season and the summer hiking season. Both are popular in their own ways.

This article, however, focuses on summer destinations, and for good reason. Personally, I prefer the summer season, when the landscapes are at their most colorful and everything is easy to access.

So if you want to visit Switzerland at the best time, I recommend July, August, or early September. During these months, you can experience the country’s top spots at their very best.

Summer weather in Switzerland

In summer, Switzerland usually has pleasant weather, perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and spending time outdoors.

Daytime temperatures typically range between 18°C and 25°C, but it can get much cooler in the mountains.

The only real downside of a Swiss summer is the relatively frequent rain. It’s smart to plan for it: add an extra day or two to your itinerary in case your plans get delayed by bad weather. Also, pack a rain jacket and waterproof hiking shoes.

Layered clothing is also recommended, as temperatures can change quickly, especially in the mountains. And don’t forget sun protection. The sun can be very strong at higher altitudes, even if it feels cool.

The best things to do in Switzerland in summer

In the summer months, Switzerland offers plenty of exciting activities and sights for travelers:

• Hiking in the Swiss Alps: One of the most popular activities is exploring the breathtaking Swiss Alps. Visitors can embark on picturesque hikes through stunning valleys, verdant meadows, and scenic alpine landscapes. Iconic destinations like the Matterhorn and Jungfraujoch attract adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences.
• Cycling through the countryside: Discover beautiful Swiss landscapes by bike, enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views.
• Visit Switzerland’s most beautiful waterfalls: Explore Switzerland’s stunning waterfalls, such as Staubbach or Rhine Falls.
• Adventure sports: Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From adrenaline-pumping activities like paragliding and mountain biking to leisurely pursuits like swimming in crystal-clear lakes or picnicking in serene alpine surroundings, there’s something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can also try canyoning, rock climbing, or even summer skiing on certain glaciers.
• Boating on Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes: Enjoy peace and beauty with a boat trip on crystal-clear lakes like Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne.
• Cultural programs: Culture lovers will find plenty to indulge in. Switzerland boasts charming villages, historic towns, and vibrant cities rich in cultural heritage. Explore medieval castles, visit world-class museums, or stroll through picturesque old towns to immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture.
• Enjoy Swiss cuisine, cheeses, and chocolate: Don’t miss out on Swiss culinary delights. Taste delicious Swiss chocolates, sample gourmet cheeses, and enjoy traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette at cozy mountain restaurants.
• Train rides for the best views: For a more relaxing experience, take a scenic train journey on the famous Brienz Rothorn Railway or Gornergrat Railway, offering panoramic views of Switzerland’s stunning landscapes.
• Try Swiss thermal baths: Relax and unwind in the warm waters of thermal baths, such as Lavey-les-Bains or Leukerbad.

These activities are sure to make your trip to Switzerland unforgettable!

In Switzerland, you’re almost guaranteed to have a great time. The beautiful landscapes, tasty local food, and many outdoor activities make it a fantastic place to visit. It’s no surprise that Switzerland is one of the most popular destinations for travelers.

No matter where you go, Switzerland promises an unforgettable experience, especially in the summer. It’s one of the best times to visit and enjoy all that this amazing country has to offer.

So, if you loved some of Switzerland’s most beautiful spots on the list, don’t wait—your next Swiss adventure is just a booking away!