Must See Places in Switzerland
There are many places to visit in Switzerland, it is hard to list them all. But if you get the chance, here are some of the places that you should not miss. Even if you have to come back (and you will want to, again and again) make an effort to see these beautiful places.
Zürich
One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Zürich is a favorite tourist destination. When you visit the city, make sure to take a tour of the Grossmeunster church, a magnificent example of the Romanesque architectural style. Do yourself a favor and walk up the steps up to the top of one of the spires for a breathtaking view of the old city, and Lake Zürich. Speaking of the lake, another thing you must do while in Zürich is take a cruise on Lake Zürich. You have several options in types of boats, and each will give you an unforgettable experience. From Buerkliplatz tours leave every half an hour. I recommend the paddleboat tours myself.
Bern
Travelling west from Zürich you will reach Bern, the city of clocks. It is imperative that while in Bern you take some time and visit the beautiful clocks such as Zytglogge. You will not be disappointed, especially if you are there to witness the display of marching mechanical figures that begins 4 minutes before the hour. Another thing that Bern is known for is fountains. Take a stroll through the city and visit these intricate pieces of art. If you are interested in wildlife, make sure to visit the Bear Pit near the Nydeggbrucke bridge.
Geneva
As you reach the western edge of Switzerland you will encounter Geneva. While in this spectacular city, make sure to visit the mausoleum of the Duke of Brunswick. It is one of the most beautifully ornate monuments in Europe and is located on the Quai de Mont Blanc on the Square des Alpes. Although technically in France, Genevan's mountain is a must see for anyone visiting Geneva. Take the Mont Salve cable car to the summit and you will have an unforgettable view awaiting you.
For the romantic in all of us, take a walk out along the Pont des Berges to Ile Rousseau, and have lunch at the pavilion there. If you like the outdoors you might consider taking some time to swim at Les Bains des Paquis. Another little restaurant I enjoy is nearby, the Buvette des Bains. Are you interested in chess, perhaps? Then spend an afternoon at the Parc des Bastions and participate in a live chess tournament on a massive scale.
Interlaken
As you tour through Switzerland, take a trip to the mountain town of Interlaken. The mountain is the main attraction here, and thousands come to see Jungfraujoch each year. Take the railroad up the mountain for an extraordinary view while you travel, but beware this is the most expensive train ride in Switzerland. When you get on board you will agree it is worth the cost. Inside Jungfraujoch mountain, make sure to visit the Ice Palace, an entire interior structure sculpted of frozen water. Bring a jacket for your tour though, it's very cold! While up on the mountain take the ten minute trek out the Sphinx Observatory and take a tour to see the latest in astronomical observations made in Switzerland. For one of the best views available of the Swiss countryside be sure to visit Schilthorn, a mountain observation area that allows you to see much of the country surrounding it.
Zermatt
The most famous of symbols of Switzerland, the Matterhorn, can be found here. It is probably the most photographed mountain in Europe. In order to see the best view of the mountain, take a cogwheel up to get a higher vantage point, and while you're there have lunch at the restaurant at the top of Sunnegga. It's an experience you will not soon forget. Another popular destination is the glacier grotto at Klein Matterhorn, where you can see ice sculptures of superb quality. I love stopping to have a drink at the ice bar located within the grotto. The gondola ride up the Matterhorn to Schwarzsee will take twelve minutes, but it's an experience that cannot be passed up, especially if you are a mountain climbing enthusiast, since Schwarzsee is the starting place for those that scale the massive peak.
At Rifflehorn make sure to take a night sled ride complete with a fondue dinner, an exhilarating and delicious experience. While in Zermatt take a mountain excursion by going up the Gornergrat. The train ride is beautiful, and you will also be able to visit the Gornergrat Glacier.
Lucerne
Lucerne is the second-most popular destination for tourists visiting Switzerland. Lucerne itself is surrounded by water, since not only does it sit on Lake Lucerne, but it also is split in two by the River Reuss. All along the river you will find elegant bridges, the most beautiful of which is KapellbrŸcke, the Chapel Bridge. I recommend seeing this spectacular bridge along with your camera, since you will be able to take some great photographs.
Lucerne at its heart is a medieval city, and still retains much of its buildings from that era. Explore the Old Town of Lucerne and you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. My favorite place in Lucerne is the Lowendenkmal, the Sleeping Lion. This monument to Swiss bravery in the service of the French royal family is carved right into the rock face. It is a solemn reminder of those that died protecting King Louis XIV, and isn't far from Hofkirche.
The Hofkirche is considered by some to be the most beautiful renaissance church in Switzerland. Right behind the church is a lovely little neighborhood that looks like it has been plucked out of the Swiss countryside and plopped into the city proper. Before leaving the city make sure to take the walk up the hill to Chateau Gutsch, a recently closed hotel. From the terrace there you will be able to fully view the breathtaking expanse of Lake Lucerne.
Lugano
The center for the Italian culture in Switzerland, Lugano is a lovely place to sky and sight see. The architecture of the city is reminiscent of Venice or Rome. An excellent example of this is the Piazza Riforma, the center plaza in town. If you go on a Tuesday or a Friday you will able to experience the open air farmer's market as the local farmers sell their produce in the square. The best way to see the city is from the train known as "La freccia rossa." Starting at the Piazza Manzoni this round trip journey takes 40 minutes and circles the entire city, a distance of about ten kilometers. With your ticket you can get on and off the train in order to see the sights in town, or take the trip without stopping. Either way you will have an excellent view of this marvelous city.
For a lovely view of the lake take a stroll through the Parco Civico Villa Ciani planted in the Italian style. The sunniest place in Switzerland is Monte Bre, accessible by a funicular train up the slope. For a lovely view of Lugano I recommend taking the train up to San Salvatore and having lunch with the valley below you. There are several lovely trails for running and hiking in this area as well.