Top 7 cities and towns in Switzerland and how to get there

Switzerland, nestled in the heart of Europe, is famous for its Alpine towns, lakeside resorts, and bustling cities, making it a dream destination for travelers.

This guide covers 7 of the best cities and towns in Switzerland and how to get there for your next unforgettable trip.

1. Zürich: Modern meets medieval

Zürich, Switzerland's largest city and financial hub, blends modern living with a beautifully preserved Old Town (Altstadt). Stroll the historic streets, explore museums, and try traditional Swiss cuisine like cheese fondue.

Must-see: Museums like the Swiss National Museum and landmarks such as the Grossmünster Cathedral.

How to get there: Zürich is home to Zürich Airport, the largest international airport in Switzerland, making it a top entry point. The Zürich Hauptbahnhof (main train station) connects you to the rest of Switzerland.

Cathie Thurtle, iVisa travel expert: "Swiss trains are famous for their comfort and efficiency, and second-class tickets are perfectly fine for most travelers."

2. Lucerne: Lakeside wonder

Lucerne, with its storybook charm, is set against the backdrop of Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne. Its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and iconic Chapel Bridge make it a must-visit destination.

Must-see: Wander the Old Town, cross the Chapel Bridge, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Lucerne.

How to get there: Direct trains from Zürich run frequently, making it ideal for day trips or short stays. Lucerne is also the departure point for the GoldenPass Line scenic train.

3. Bern: Cobblestone charm

As the capital city of Switzerland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bern is rich in history and culture. Its medieval Old City remains beautifully preserved, with highlights like the Zytglogge (astronomical clock tower) and charming cobblestone streets.

Must-see: The Zytglogge clock, Bear Park, and the Federal Palace.

How to get there: Bern is easily accessible from Zürich, Lucerne, and Interlaken by train in under an hour. The city also has a regional airport for domestic flights.

4. Interlaken: For outdoor enthusiasts

Interlaken is an adventure hub set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the Bernese Alps as a dramatic backdrop. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers skiing, hiking, and paragliding.

Must-see: Take a Lake Brienz cruise and explore the Jungfrau region, home to Grindelwald and Europe’s highest train station.

How to get there: Interlaken is just under an hour by train from Bern and is included in the GoldenPass Line route.

5. Zermatt: Ski-paradise

Zermatt, a car-free mountain town, is home to the iconic Matterhorn and is perfect for hiking and skiing. It’s also known for luxury stays and charming Swiss chalets.

Must-see: The Matterhorn, Gornergrat Railway, and skiing in winter.

How to get there: Zermatt is only accessible by train. Travel via the Matterhorn Gotthard railway from Visp or Brig.

6. Montreux and Geneva: International blend

Located along the shores of Lake Geneva, these two cities blend nature, history, and culture beautifully. Montreux is known for the Château de Chillon and the Lavaux vineyards, while Geneva hosts the United Nations headquarters and CERN.

Must-see: Château de Chillon, UN headquarters, and the Lavaux vineyards.

How to get there: Geneva has a major international airport, while Montreux can be reached by scenic train from Geneva in under an hour.

Cathie recommends:

Cathie recommends: "Geneva Airport has a unique setup with two exits—one for France and one for Switzerland. After collecting your luggage, double-check the signs to make sure you're leaving on the correct side, especially if you’re continuing your trip within Switzerland."

7. Lausanne: The hearts of sports

Lausanne, located on the slopes of Lake Geneva, offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps and a rich cultural heritage. The city is also home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters.

Must-see: The Olympic Museum, medieval Lausanne Cathedral, and the scenic lakefront promenade.

How to get there: Direct trains run frequently from Geneva Airport, taking about 45 minutes.

Do you need a Schengen Visa or ETIAS to visit Switzerland?

If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you'll need a Switzerland Schengen Visa before traveling.

Travelers from visa-exempt countries will soon require a Switzerland ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) starting mid-2025.

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