Best Things to Do in Switzerland 2026

Take the state-of-the-art Eiger Express gondola or the historic cogwheel train of the Jungfrau Railway to the Top of Europe (Europe’s highest railway station at 3,454 m). Stand on the Aletsch Glacier, explore the Ice Palace tunnels, and take in the view from the Sphinx Observatory.

Ride the Gornergrat Railway for a front-row view of the peak, or take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car to the highest mountain station in Europe as no trip is complete without experiencing the world’s most photographed mountain’s scenic elegance.

Walk across the 14th-century Chapel Bridge, then take the Golden Round Trip involving a boat cruise and the world's steepest cogwheel railway up to Mount Pilatus.

Valley of 72 Waterfalls, a place so beautiful and breathtaking. Hike to Staubbach Falls or head inside the mountain to see the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacial waterfalls hidden within the rock face.

Experience the Glacier Express, the world's slowest express train, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges. It is a perfect option to enjoy a 5-course regional meal with floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the Rhine Gorge.

Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfall is located near the town of Schaffhausen. Take a yellow boat to the Middle Rock to stand in the heart of the thundering water, or walk the platforms at Schloss Laufen for a bird's-eye view.

This UNESCO World Heritage site features 800 hectares of terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva. Walk the trail between St-Saphorin and Lutry, stopping at local Caveaux (wine cellars) to taste the region’s famous Chasselas white wine.

The First mountain in Grindelwald is the ultimate playground for adventure seekers. Walk the First Cliff Walk by Tissot, then zoom down the mountain on the First Flyer (zipline) or a three-wheeled Mountain Cart.

Located in Zurich, this is a modern pilgrimage site for chocolate lovers. Pose with the world's largest chocolate fountain (over 9m tall) and sample unlimited Swiss pralines during the interactive tour.

The variety of things to do in Interlaken has given it the reputation of being the adventure capital of Switzerland From paragliding and skydiving with panoramic mountain views to hiking scenic trails and cruising across crystal-clear lakes, it offers thrilling outdoor experiences year-round.

Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich is one of the most prestigious shopping avenues in the world. The street is lined with flagship boutiques of Swiss watch manufacturers, international fashion houses, jewellery boutiques and department stores.

Zurich transforms after dark into Switzerland's nightlife capital. From the rooftop bars with panoramic lake views to the energetic nightclubs pulsing with electronic beats, the city has everything that appeals to any taste buds.

• Cheese Fondue: The ultimate social ritual of melted Gruyère and Vacherin cheese. While available year-round, it is best enjoyed in Winter (Dec–Feb) inside a cozy, wood-paneled "Stübli" or a high-altitude mountain hut.
• Basel Roasted Flour Soup: A must-try if you visit during the Basel Carnival (Fastnacht) in February. It’s a rich, smoky soup that is traditionally served at 4:00 AM to kick off the festivities.
• Raclette: Another melted cheese marvel, traditionally scraped over boiled potatoes and served with gherkins. In Autumn (Sept–Oct), look for it at local harvest festivals and "Alpabzug" (cattle descent) celebrations.
• Rhubarb Tart (Rhabarberwähe): The first fruit of the season. These tangy, custard-filled tarts appear in bakeries across the country starting in late April.
• Rösti: The golden, crispy potato pancake that is Switzerland’s unofficial national dish. Originally a farmer's breakfast in Bern, it is now a year-round staple often topped with a fried egg or creamy mushroom sauce.
• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: A decadent dish of sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce. It is the signature taste of Zurich and a perfect hearty meal after a day of city sightseeing.
• Viande Séchée (Air-Dried Beef): A true Alpine traditional winter staple but now a year-round delicacy hailing from the Canton of Valais. This premium beef is seasoned with a secret blend of salt, herbs, and spices, then air-dried in the crisp mountain breeze for up to 16 weeks until it develops a deep red color and rich, savory aroma.
• Älplermagronen (Alpine Macaroni): The Swiss version of mac-and-cheese, layered with potatoes, onions, and served with a surprising side of apple sauce. It is the best "fuel" during the Summer Hiking Season (Jun–Aug).
• St. Galler Bratwurst: The king of Swiss street food. Best enjoyed at a summer festival or outdoor market. In St. Gallen, it is considered a "crime" to eat this sausage with mustard—try it plain with a fresh "Bürli" bread roll.

• Swiss Army Knives: A Victorinox knife is a symbol of Swiss utility. Many flagship stores in Interlaken and Geneva offer custom engraving to make it a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
• Swiss Chocolate: Beyond the famous Lindt and Toblerone, visit Läderach for FrischSchoggi (fresh bark) or Sprüngli for Luxemburgerli (macarons).
• Precision Timepieces: From world-famous luxury brands like Rolex and Omega on Zurich's Bahnhofstrasse to affordable, colorful Swatch designs, a Swiss watch is the ultimate investment piece.
• Swiss Cowbells: Available in all sizes, these traditional bells are believed to keep away evil spirits. Look for authentic, hand-cast bells in mountain towns like Appenzell or Grindelwald.
• Handcrafted Woodwork: Traditional cuckoo clocks and hand-carved Brienz wooden animals are timeless gifts that showcase legendary Swiss craftsmanship.
• Appenzell Embroidery: Known for its intricate hand-stitchery. A set of hand-embroidered linen handkerchiefs or a tablecloth from the Appenzell region is a piece of Swiss heritage.
• Sigg Water Bottles: The original Swiss aluminum bottle. In 2026, look for the Limited Edition Swiss Heritage designs that are eco-friendly and virtually indestructible.
• Trauffer Wooden Cows: These are the iconic, hand-painted wooden cows with the red leather collars. They have been made in the Bernese Oberland for generations and are the "must-have" toy for children.
• Swiss Paper Cuttings (Scherenschnitte): This traditional folk art involves intricate silhouettes of alpine life (cows, chalets, mountains) cut from a single sheet of black paper. Authentic framed pieces or high-quality laser-cut cards make beautiful wall art.
• Swiss Music Boxes: For a premium gift, look for Reuge music boxes from Sainte-Croix. They are mechanical masterpieces that play classical Swiss melodies with incredible precision.