20 Famous Lakes in Switzerland That Are Absolutely Surreal

20 Famous Lakes in Switzerland That You Must Visit

Switzerland, often called the “Land of Lakes,” is blessed with turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks and charming alpine villages. Beyond chocolates and watches, Switzerland lake tourism is one of the top reasons travellers flock here. Whether you want to cruise past vineyards, hike to hidden mountain lakes, or relax by the shores, these beautiful lakes in Switzerland promise unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into 20 of the most famous lakes in Switzerland that should be on your travel list.

Check out: Switzerland travel guide

Key Takeaways

• Switzerland is home to more than 1,500 alpine lakes, each offering a unique blend of beauty, adventure, and culture.
• The best lakes in Switzerland include Lake Lucerne, Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Brienz, known for their scenic views and water activities.
• Many lakes near Interlaken and Lucerne are perfect for boat rides, hiking, and lakeside picnics.

20 Beautiful Lakes in Switzerland

1. Lake Lucerne – A Classic Swiss Beauty

Lake Lucerne

• Location: Central Switzerland
• Best For: Boat rides, scenic mountain views, and cultural heritage

One of the most famous lakes in Switzerland, Lake Lucerne, is known for its irregular shape and picturesque surroundings. Locally called Vierwaldstättersee, it is encircled by charming towns and majestic peaks.

Things to Do:

• Rent a boat to explore hidden coves and visit Rütli Meadow, the birthplace of Switzerland.
• Take the cogwheel train up Mt. Pilatus for breathtaking views.
• Enjoy lakeside dining or sunset cruises for a romantic evening.

2. Lake Geneva – The Grandeur of the Alps

• Location: Shared by Switzerland and France
• Best For: Wine trails, castles, and city escapes

Lake Geneva is one of the top lakes in Switzerland, bordered by vineyards, medieval towns, and the elegant city of Geneva.

Things to Do:

• Stroll along the lakeside promenades of Montreux and Vevey.
• Visit Chillon Castle for a glimpse into medieval history.
• Take a scenic train ride from Geneva to Montreux with stunning Alpine views.

3. Lake Lugano – Where Switzerland Meets Italy

lake lugano

• Location: Ticino, on the Swiss-Italian border
• Best For: Italian charm, lakefront dining, and warm weather

Situated on the Swiss-Italian border, Lake Lugano offers a Mediterranean flair with palm trees, gelato shops, and chic boutiques. You can visit Monte Brè for panoramic views or enjoy a lakeside meal at Lugano’s Piazza della Riforma.

Things to Do:

• Visit Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Hike up Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore for panoramic views.
• Indulge in lakeside cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants.

4. Lake Thun – The Jewel of Bernese Oberland

• Location: Near Interlaken
• Best For: Castles, sailing, and historical landmarks

Located near Interlaken, Lake Thun combines adventure and peace in perfect balance. You can go sailing, swimming, or explore fairytale castles like Oberhofen and Spiez. It’s among the best lakes in Switzerland for spring and autumn visits.

Things to Do:

• Explore the 900-year-old Schloss Thun.
• Walk through Thun’s Old Town and waterfront cafes.
• Visit Schadau Park’s botanical gardens along the lakeshore.

5. Lake Brienz – The Turquoise Treasure

lake Breinz switzerland

• Location: Interlaken Region
• Best For: Boat rides, waterfalls, and museums

Next to Lake Thun, Lake Brienz is known for its surreal turquoise colour and peaceful vibes. Take a cruise to the Giessbach Falls, or explore the traditional Brienz village, famous for its woodcarving heritage. It is one of the most photogenic lakes near Interlaken.

Things to Do:

• Visit Reichenbach Falls and the Aare Gorge.
• Explore the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum for Swiss culture.
• Take a cruise across the lake to enjoy panoramic mountain views.

6. Lake Zurich – The Urban Retreat

• Location: Zurich City
• Best For: Boating, nightlife, and city breaks

A blend of city and nature, Lake Zurich is perfect for a quick escape within Switzerland’s financial hub.

Things to Do:

• Take a tram ride along the lakefront.
• Enjoy a picnic on the Lützelau island.
• Try paddleboarding or sunset cruises.

7. Lake Oeschinensee – An Alpine Paradise

lake Oeschinensee Switzerland

• Location: Bernese Oberland
• Best For: Hiking, fishing, and ice sports

Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Oeschinensee is one of the most spectacular alpine lakes in Switzerland.

Things to Do:

• Go ice fishing between January and March.
• Hike around the lake or take a rowboat ride.
• Try the summer mountain coaster for added adventure.

8. Lake Walensee – The Hidden Gem

• Location: Glarus and St. Gallen
• Best For: Hiking, waterfalls, and peaceful getaways

Surrounded by limestone cliffs and alpine meadows, Lake Walensee is a must-see for nature lovers.

Things to Do:

• Hike along the Seerenbachfälle Falls trail.
• Visit charming lakeside villages.
• Take a relaxing cruise across the calm blue waters.

9. Lake Blausee – The Enchanted Blue Lake

• Location: Bernese Oberland
• Best For: Photography, picnics, and family visits

Known for its surreal blue colour, Blausee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.

Things to Do:

• Enjoy a picnic in the surrounding forest park.
• Rent a small boat to explore the lake.
• Dine at the on-site restaurant famous for its fresh trout.

10. Lake Bachalpsee – The Mirror of the Alps

• Location: Jungfrau Region
• Best For: Hiking and photography

A favourite among hikers, Bachalpsee reflects the snow-covered peaks of the Bernese Alps.

Things to Do:

• Take the easy Bachalpsee hiking trail from Grindelwald.
• Capture stunning photos of the Eiger North Face.
• Relax by the lakeside for a picnic lunch.

11. Lake Constance – The Border Lake

• Location: Shared by Switzerland, Germany, and Austria
• Best For: Cruises, cycling, and water sports

One of Europe’s largest freshwater lakes, Lake Constance, is a paradise for sailing and cultural exploration.

Things to Do:

• Visit the town of Konstanz.
• Take a cruise or cycle along the 270-km shoreline.
• Explore the Lake Constance Trail (Rundwanderweg).

12. Lake Riffelsee – The Photographer’s Dream

• Location: Zermatt
• Best For: Matterhorn views and sunrise photography

A tranquil alpine lake that perfectly reflects the Matterhorn peak, which is an icon of Switzerland lake tourism.

Things to Do:

• Capture sunrise reflections of the Matterhorn.
• Explore the surrounding alpine trails.
• Ride the Gornergrat cogwheel railway.

13. Lake Maggiore – The Italian-Swiss Fusion

• Location: Ticino
• Best For: Scenic cruises and Mediterranean charm

Lake Maggiore blends Italian style with Swiss serenity.

Things to Do:

• Cruise from Locarno or Ascona.
• Take the Centovalli narrow-gauge train.
• Walk along Riviera del Gambarogno.

14. Lake Schwarzsee – The Black Lake of Fribourg

• Location: Canton of Fribourg
• Best For: Boating, swimming, and mineral baths

Though smaller, Schwarzsee (Lac Noir) is popular for its warm, mineral-rich waters.

Things to Do:

• Rent a boat for a serene afternoon.
• Swim or enjoy the lakeside trails.

15. Lake Seealpsee – A Hidden Alpine Gem

• Location: Appenzell Region
• Best For: Hiking and rustic charm

This lake, surrounded by steep peaks, is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland.

Things to Do:

• Hike from Wasserauen Train Station.
• Row across the lake in a small boat.
• Stop for coffee at Seealpsee Berghaus.

16. Lake Champex-Lac – The Peaceful Getaway

• Location: Valais
• Best For: Lakeside relaxation and biking

A quiet lakeside village surrounded by pine forests — perfect for a digital detox.

Things to Do:

• Try stand-up paddling.
• Go biking around the lake.
• Enjoy coffee and croissants at lakeside cafes.

17. Lake Caumasee – The Emerald Jewel

• Location: Flims
• Best For: Swimming and sunbathing

Fed by underground springs, Caumasee’s turquoise water makes it ideal for a summer visit.

Things to Do:

• Swim or rent paddleboards.
• Relax at the on-site café with mountain views.

18. Lake Neuchâtel – The French-Swiss Charmer

• Location: Western Switzerland
• Best For: Vineyard tours and boating

Nestled in the Jura foothills, this is the largest lake entirely within Switzerland.

Things to Do:

• Take boat tours between charming lakeside towns.
• Walk through vineyards and marshlands.
• Go swimming in summer.

19. Lake Crestasee – The Hidden Forest Lake

• Location: Grisons
•  Best For: Hiking and nature photography

A small but scenic lake created by the Flims Rockslide, ideal for peaceful retreats.

Things to Do:

• Trek through forest paths to Ruinaulta Gorge.
• Capture wildlife photography.
• Enjoy dinner at the lakeside restaurant.

20. Lake Bannalpsee – The Untouched Marvel

• Location: Nidwalden
• Best For: Hiking and solitude

An artificial lake surrounded by towering peaks, Lake Bannalpsee is one of the lesser-known Swiss lake destinations.

Things to Do:

• Hike along the lakeside trails.
• Take a cable car from Oberrickenbach.
• Watch cows grazing in alpine meadows.

Conclusion: Discover the Lakes That Define Switzerland

Switzerland’s lakes are not just water bodies, they are reflections of its timeless alpine beauty and serenity. Whether you’re planning a lake holiday in Switzerland or a romantic escape through our Switzerland honeymoon packages, these 20 lakes promise landscapes that will stay with you forever. Plan your next getaway with Pickyourtrail’s Switzerland tour packages and experience the charm of the Alps, one lake at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which are the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland?

Lake Lucerne, Lake Geneva, Lake Brienz, and Lake Oeschinensee are among the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.

2. Can you swim in Swiss lakes?

Yes! Many Swiss lakes, such as Lake Zurich, Lake Neuchâtel, and Caumasee are perfect for swimming during summer.

3. Which lakes are best near Interlaken?

Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are the two major lakes near Interlaken, both offering boat rides and scenic mountain views.

4. What is the best time to visit the lakes in Switzerland?

April to October is ideal for exploring Switzerland’s lakes, with pleasant weather for cruises, hiking, and lakeside picnics.

5. How can I plan a lake-focused trip to Switzerland?

Browse Pickyourtrail’s Switzerland tour packages to customise your itinerary and include the top lakes in Switzerland along with cultural, adventure, and honeymoon experiences.