We went to Switzerland expecting jaw-dropping mountain views and delicious chocolate (and yes, we got plenty of both). But what really surprised us were all the unique, adventurous, and offbeat experiences tucked into this tiny country. If you’re planning a trip and want to go beyond the usual tourist checklist, here are 25 unforgettable things to do in Switzerland.
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1. Ride the Glacier Express
One of the most scenic train rides in the world—8 hours of panoramic Alpine bliss between Zermatt and St. Moritz. Packing a set of compression packing cubes like these keeps your bag tidy for a long day of train travel.
2. Walk the First Cliff Walk in Grindelwald
A metal pathway clinging to the side of a cliff, with views over the Eiger and surrounding peaks. Not for the faint of heart!
3. Explore the Underground Fortress of Sasso San Gottardo
Hidden deep in the Gotthard Pass, this former military bunker is now a fascinating museum.
4. Soak in the Thermal Baths at Vals
A spa day in a stone-and-glass architectural masterpiece nestled in the Alps.
5. Visit the Aletsch Glacier
The largest glacier in the Alps, with epic hikes and surreal views.
6. Cruise on Lake Lucerne
Board a vintage paddle steamer for a relaxing cruise with dramatic mountain backdrops. You can book a scenic Lake Lucerne sightseeing cruise to take it all in.
7. Wander Through Lauterbrunnen Valley
72 waterfalls, alpine meadows, and villages that look straight out of a fairy tale. A floating waterproof phone pouch like this one keeps your phone safe for photos near the spray of the falls.
8. Try Night Sledding in the Jungfrau Region
Zoom down snowy trails under the stars—an unforgettable winter thrill.
9. Ride a Cable Car to Mount Titlis
Experience snow year-round, walk through an ice tunnel, and brave the Titlis Cliff Walk.
10. Explore Old Town Bern
UNESCO-listed with medieval towers, arcaded streets, and the famous Zytglogge clock tower.
11. Go Paragliding Over Interlaken
If you’re up for it, this is the ultimate way to see the Alps. You can reserve a tandem paragliding flight over Interlaken with an experienced pilot.
12. Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne
A must for families and tech lovers—interactive exhibits, trains, planes, and more.
13. Eat Fondue in a Mountain Hut
Cozy up with bubbling cheese in an authentic alpine setting. After all that rich cheese, a portable water flosser like this one helps keep your teeth fresh on the road.
14. Discover the Lauterbrunnen Trummelbach Falls
10 glacier-fed waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible by tunnel lift.
15. Take the Bernina Express to Italy
Cross glaciers and viaducts on this scenic route from Chur to Tirano.
16. Hike the Five Lakes Trail in Zermatt
Stunning reflections of the Matterhorn in crystal-clear alpine lakes.
17. Explore Zurich West
Trendy shops, creative spaces, and repurposed industrial buildings. Don’t miss the Viadukt Market.
18. Visit the Château de Chillon
A lakeside castle near Montreux that looks straight out of a fantasy novel. You can book a Château de Chillon entrance ticket to explore it at your own pace.
19. Try Tobogganing on the Longest Summer Run
Over 3 km of alpine coaster thrills in places like Pradaschier.
20. Tour the Lindt Home of Chocolate
See the world’s tallest chocolate fountain and indulge in tastings.
21. Ride the Gelmerbahn Funicular
One of the steepest open-air funiculars in Europe—like a rollercoaster with mountain views.
22. Attend the Montreux Jazz Festival
Held every July on Lake Geneva’s shores, it’s one of Europe’s top music events.
23. Stroll Through Appenzell
A colorful village known for cheese, folk traditions, and hiking.
24. Take a Sunrise Hike to Harder Kulm
Above Interlaken, it offers jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. A pair of supportive walking sneakers like these makes the early climb far more comfortable.
25. Swim in the Aare River in Bern
Join locals in this iconic summer tradition of floating down the turquoise waters.
More Than Mountains and Chocolate
Switzerland is full of surprises—beyond the postcard-perfect scenery lies a world of adventure, culture, and offbeat charm. Whether you’re riding a glacier train or sipping wine by a castle, these unforgettable things to do in Switzerland prove it’s so much more than just snow and sweets. For more planning help, check out our Swiss Currency Guide and Zurich Itinerary.
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