Curator’s statement
If you want to spend time in the majestic Swiss Alps but aren't sure where's best for you, no worries! Switzerland is loved by all sorts of travelers for its amazing hospitality, smooth train travel, top-notch skiing and, of course, just how beautiful it is. You can go just about anywhere in Switzerland and have a fabulous time, but I've compiled some of the best places for different kinds of travelers below no matter who you are and what you're looking for.
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Where to stay in Switzerland
Things to do in Switzerland
For Solo Travelers: Zurich
Switzerland's most populous city is where many visitors start off, but they usually continue on to other destinations in the country and skip all Zurich has to offer. It's easy to get around via the famous Swiss public transportation, there are many museums like Beyer Watch & Clock Museum placed on Bahnhofstrasse, the most popular shopping area in the city, and you can check out lovely parks like the city's largest, Rieterpark. Solo travelers can also enjoy the city's nightlife scene at various bars and nightclubs (they're not world-famous for it, but they have it!). Plus, if you happen to be visiting during August and love electronic music, stay for Street Parade.
For Honeymooners: Lucerne
Lucerne's a quaint city, known for its charming wooden St Chapel bridge, nearby Mt Pilatus, but I recommend Lucerne for honeymooners because of something just outside Lucerne. Burgenstock is an incredible luxury resort high above Lake Lucerne, equipped with top-notch spa facilities and exquisite rooms and suites. If all else somehow fails, they have their own movie theater. Most hotels can't say that!
For a Family: Grindelwald
Grindelwald is, personally, one of my favorite places in all of Switzerland! Placed a couple hours from Zurich in Bernese Oberland, Grindelwald is drop-dead gorgeous. The whole family can enjoy taking in the scenery through various hikes, gondolas, and parks for the kids like at the top of Mannlichen and Bort Adventure Playground. It's also the perfect base to stay while exploring nearby Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Murren. You can easily spend a week doing the region in depth!
For the Adventurous: Interlaken
As you can likely tell from the name, beautiful Interlaken is situated between two lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Interlaken is often called The Adventure Capital of Europe due to the popularity of thrill activities like paragliding, skydiving, canyoning, and rafting among others, and it's easy to include in your itinerary less than five hours from many destinations like Zurich and Lauterbrunnen.
For the Ultra-Luxury Guest: Andermatt
Andermatt's a small village that comes to life in wintertime when people come to ski. And in contrast to charming chalet-style chalets and palaces, enter The Chedi Andermatt, the most famous accomodation there. For the ultimate luxury-seekers who love a modern and sleek vibe, The Chedi warrants a visit by itself. Spend the day exploring Andermatt or doing snow activities in the wintertime and come back in the evening to glitz and glamor whether it's the spa, your suite, or multiple dining options onsite.
For the Icon-Seeker: Zermatt
When you think of Switzerland, one of the images that flashes across your vision is the amazing Matterhorn. AKA: Zermatt's name to fame! The car-free village has drawn everyone from Swiss visitors to international tourists here for decades, and it's easy to see why. The landscape is unlike anything else in the nation, and you can spend all day exploring, hiking, and skiing it. You'll have a blast no matter what here, but for the most unique experience, visit and stay at 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, one of the highest hotels in Europe.
Places to eat & drink in Switzerland
The Japanese: Michelin-star restaurant inside The Chedi Andermatt
The Restaurant: Brunch, lunch and dinner inside The Chedi Andermatt
Widder By The Lake: For a stunning view of Lake Zurich as you dine
Bebek: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine in Zurich
Saltz Restaurant: Lunch and dinner inside The Dolder Grand
Barry's Restaurant Bar & Lounge: Swiss cuisine in Grindelwald
Bäckerei-Konditorei-Café Ringgenberg: Cafe and bakery in Grindelwald
La Cucina: Italian cuisine in Lucerne
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, The Best Of Switzerland In 2 Weeks.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Switzerland.